S1-E11 The Philip Cooper Interview

On this episode of the 828 Elite Podcast, Roger sits down with Accredited Wealth Management Advisor Pai, who brings over 25 years of investment experience helping high-net-worth individuals, athletes, and entertainers build, protect, and preserve generational wealth. As Director of Sports & Entertainment for Pro Athlete Wealth, Pai shares practical strategies for managing "money in motion"—from NIL deals and professional contracts to bonuses, inheritances, business sales, and other financial windfalls. If you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone looking to make smarter financial decisions, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Get ready to be inspired by Philip Cooper’s powerful story of re-entry, resilience, and purpose. In this episode of the 828 Elite Podcast, we explore how founding Operation Gateway became more than a mission—it became a calling.We take a deeper look at why re-entry programs matter, not just for formerly incarcerated individuals, but for their families, friends, and the entire 828 community and beyond. This conversation highlights the real impact of second chances, the challenges of rebuilding, and the strength it takes to create lasting change.🎙️ Tune in for a meaningful discussion on transformation, community support, and the path forward after incarceration.👍 Don’t forget to like, share, and drop a comment to show your support and help spread this message!

This episode, we’re going all in on Marcus Kirkman—who he is, how he moves, and the real impact he’s making for businesses across the 828 and right here in Asheville.Whether you’re already building your business, trying to get connected, or just getting started and need the right guidance—this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Marcus drops real gems you can apply immediately.Tap in, level up, and get plugged into what’s happening.If you find value in this episode, make sure to comment, share, and spread the word.Thank you for being part of the 828 Elite Podcast family!

❤️ Late Post Alert – Valentine’s 2026 Edition! ❤️In this episode of 828 Elite Podcast, Nina and Roger get into the Valentine's Day spirit with plenty of laughs, stories, and real talk. The conversation covers Roger's disappointment as a loyal New England Patriots fan, his unforgettable (and painful) ice storm fall, and a fun discussion on the dos and don'ts of Valentine's Day gift-giving.Please note that this is a late post, and the episode was originally recorded for Valentine's Day 2026.We hope you enjoy the episode! Be sure to join the conversation in the comments and let us know: What are the best Valentine's Day gifts you've received, and what gifts should people avoid at all costs? We'd love to hear your thoughts!🎙️ 828 Elite Podcast — Highlighting people, stories, and conversations that inspire Western North Carolina and beyond.

Xaveria Baird, born in Asheville, NC, was raised by his grandmother Justine Baird after his mother, Sharyn, struggled with addiction and incarceration. The oldest of two, he grew up in the Shiloh community and found his first passions in basketball and football at Asheville High School, later playing football at Brevard College while studying Early Childhood Education.In 2014, he began working with preschoolers as a teacher’s assistant and soon discovered acting through mentor Jon Menick. With the support of agent Jessica Boswell, he became a professional actor in 2017 with Screen Artist Talent. After losing his mother to cancer in 2018, Xaveria took on a greater role in raising his sister, Zamarii, and deepened his commitment to art and inspiring positive change.

Aiden Hyatt, a recent graduate of Asheville High School, is driven by the dream of becoming a successful model. In this episode of our Youth Voice platform, we explore Aiden’s journey—highlighting the everyday experiences, aspirations, and challenges of navigating the modeling industry as an emerging talent.

In this episode, Nina and Roger dive deep into the world of relationships, asking the question: are marriages becoming “cancel-cultured”? The conversation explores cheating, getting caught, and whether infidelity means the end of a relationship—or if it’s still possible to rebuild and move forward together.

In this episode of our Youth Voice series, we sit down with rising star Elijah Cox — a recent Asheville High graduate and incoming Class of 2029 student at UNC Greensboro. But Elijah isn’t just hitting the books — he’s also the young founder of Chill Cereal Bar, a bold business venture that’s been turning heads across Western North Carolina.Joining him on this entrepreneurial journey is his biggest supporter and partner-in-grind, his mom Patricia, affectionately known as the “Mom-mager.” Together, they share the inspiring story behind Chill Cereal Bar, navigating the highs, the setbacks, and the powerful comeback that’s redefining their brand.Tune in as we explore the hustle, heart, and hustle-again spirit of this incredible mother-son duo — a true powerhouse from the 828!You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll be inspired. We hope you enjoy the conversation!Chill Cereal Bar website: www.chillcerealbar.com

In this episode of the 828 Elite Podcast, we had the incredible privilege of sitting down with the talented and dynamic Maria Young — a proud Western North Carolina native and All-American collegiate basketball player.Maria shares insights from her powerful book, Lost In A Game: The Journey to self Discovery, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the exciting stage productions she’s currently directing. From the court to the creative arts, Maria's journey is one of resilience, purpose, and vision.You don’t want to miss this inspiring conversation — we hope you enjoy the episode!

In this episode, we welcome Joe Greene—entrepreneur, father, author, and cancer survivor. We delve into Joe's powerful journey, including his experience with early detection and colon cancer. Join us as we explore his mission to raise awareness, discuss his current book, and get a preview of his upcoming release. We hope you enjoy the conversation