Today we’d like to introduce you to Marjon Parham
Hi Marjon, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey has been a fusion of media, communications, and engineering, shaped by a deep passion for storytelling, advocacy, and strategic engagement.
I began my career in media with The BJ Murphy Morning Show at WGIV 103.3FM in Charlotte, North Carolina, which paved the way for co-hosting The Marj & Ray Radio Show on WMPZ Groove 93FM. Over the years, I expanded my presence by hosting Hot Topics with Ms. Marjon on iHeartRadio and currently serve as a radio personality on WHFR 89.3FM. Additionally, I am the host and executive producer of Michigan Liberation’s Respect the Roots Podcast, a platform that amplifies voices on critical social issues, available on Xfinity Comcast Cable, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeartRadio.
Beyond media, I founded Mastermind Communications, LLC, a communications agency specializing in mass media, public relations, marketing, and event planning. Through my agency, I have worked with a range of high-profile clients, including Aerosmith, KISS, Britney Spears, Magic Johnson, and Stevie Wonder. A key highlight of my career has been leading communications for Michigan Liberation’s Clean Slate Initiative, which has helped over 300 individuals expunge their records.
While media and communications are my passion, my foundation is rooted in engineering. I have over 20 years of experience as a Quality Engineering Professional & Consultant, specializing in process optimization, supplier quality, and Lean Six Sigma methodologies. I have worked with industry leaders like Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, General Motors, Caterpillar, Suzuki, and Yamaha, implementing strategic solutions that improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced quality. Currently, I provide consulting services in Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and supplier development for automotive and manufacturing clients.
In my role as Communications Director at Michigan Liberation, I oversee digital media strategies, manage public relations campaigns, and organize large-scale events to drive social impact. I am also deeply involved in community engagement, philanthropy, and advocacy efforts to combat mass incarceration and uplift marginalized communities.
I hold degrees from the University of Southern California and North Carolina A&T State University and am a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. I split my time between Detroit and Atlanta, using my platform to inspire, inform, and empower through media, strategic communications, and community activism.
My journey has been one of resilience, adaptability, and a relentless commitment to impact. Whether through radio, podcasts, engineering, public relations, or activism, I remain dedicated to amplifying voices and driving meaningful change.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all—it’s been a road full of twists, challenges, and resilience. My journey has taken me through multiple industries, from engineering to media and communications, and each transition came with its own set of struggles.
As a Black woman navigating both the corporate world and the media industry, I’ve faced barriers, from having to constantly prove my expertise in male-dominated spaces to overcoming biases that often exist in engineering and media. In my early career as an engineer, I had to assert myself in rooms where I was sometimes the only woman, ensuring my voice was heard while pushing for quality improvements and efficiency in manufacturing processes.
Shifting into media and communications wasn’t easy either. The industry is competitive, and building credibility takes time. I had to work my way up, from co-hosting radio shows to eventually running my own communications firm, *Mastermind Communications, LLC.* There were moments of uncertainty—times when contracts fell through, opportunities seemed scarce, or the weight of entrepreneurship felt overwhelming.
Additionally, my advocacy work with *Michigan Liberation*—particularly in criminal justice reform—has been emotionally taxing. Fighting against mass incarceration and working on campaigns like the *Clean Slate Initiative* exposed me to heartbreaking stories of injustice, which fueled my passion but also took a personal toll.
On a personal level, my journey with weight loss and health has been another challenge. Undergoing bariatric surgery and battling self-esteem issues was a deeply personal struggle, but I’ve come out on the other side stronger, more confident, and committed to my well-being.
Through it all, I’ve learned that perseverance, faith, and adaptability are key. Every setback has been a setup for something greater, and I remain committed to breaking barriers, amplifying voices, and creating meaningful impact through my work.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I wear many hats, but at my core, I am a communications strategist, media personality, engineer, and advocate dedicated to amplifying voices, creating impactful narratives, and driving change. My work spans multiple industries—media, public relations, marketing, event planning, engineering, and social justice—allowing me to bring a unique, multidisciplinary approach to everything I do.
What I Do & Specialties:
– Media & Communications: I am a radio personality on WHFR 89.3FM, the host and executive producer of Michigan Liberation’s Respect the Roots Podcast, and the founder of Mastermind Communications, LLC, a firm specializing in public relations, marketing, media production, and event planning. I launched Respect the Roots Podcast over three years ago, creating a platform to uplift voices in the fight for justice and equity.
– Public Relations & Marketing: I work with brands, businesses, and nonprofits to craft compelling stories, develop digital campaigns, and execute high-impact events. My client list includes entertainment legends like Aerosmith, KISS, Britney Spears, Magic Johnson, and Stevie Wonder. Additionally, I successfully pitched Michigan Liberation to Essence, and the organization was selected as a Community Vendor at the Essence Festival in New Orleans in both 2023 and 2024.
– Engineering & Quality Consulting: With over 20 years in quality engineering, supplier development, and process optimization, I have worked with global industry leaders such as Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, General Motors, and Yamaha. My expertise in Lean Six Sigma, APQP, and process improvement allows me to drive efficiency and excellence in manufacturing.
– Advocacy & Social Justice: As the Communications Director for Michigan Liberation, I lead campaigns focused on criminal justice reform, mass incarceration, and community empowerment. I had the honor of being featured in the Clean Slate PSA alongside Grammy Award-winning artist John Legend, raising awareness about expungement and second chances.
Beyond that, I continue building relationships in the industry, including attending the Social Justice NOW Film Festival at Sony Pictures, where I worked on forging a partnership with the festival’s owners to further amplify social justice initiatives.
What I’m Most Proud Of:
I’m incredibly proud of the work I’ve done to uplift marginalized communities and create opportunities for others. Seeing someone’s life change because of a campaign I’ve worked on—whether it’s helping a returning citizen clear their record, empowering a small business through strategic PR, or bringing awareness to systemic injustices—fuels my passion.
Another major personal achievement is my journey toward better health. After undergoing bariatric surgery and losing 50 pounds, I’ve embraced self-care and self-love in ways I never imagined. It’s been a transformative experience that has made me even more committed to inspiring others to prioritize their well-being, confidence, and growth.
What Sets Me Apart:
– Multidisciplinary Expertise: Not many people successfully bridge the gap between engineering, media, communications, and social justice. My ability to integrate analytical problem-solving with creative storytelling makes me uniquely equipped to tackle challenges from multiple angles.
– Authenticity & Impact: I’m not just about surface-level branding or media coverage—I believe in creating real, lasting impact. Whether it’s through community organizing, media storytelling, or corporate consulting, my goal is to leave every project, person, or company better than I found it.
– Resilience & Adaptability: My journey has been far from linear, but every challenge has strengthened me. From working in male-dominated industries to launching my own business, I’ve navigated adversity with perseverance and faith.
At the end of the day, I’m a storyteller, strategist, and change agent. My work isn’t just about getting visibility—it’s about creating movements, shaping narratives, and making a difference.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Absolutely! For anyone just starting out—whether in media, communications, advocacy, or any other field—here are a few key lessons I’ve learned along the way:
1. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination
When I started, I was eager to “arrive” at success quickly. But the truth is, the process is just as important as the outcome. Every opportunity, challenge, and even setback is shaping you for what’s next. Be patient with yourself and trust the process.
2. Build Genuine Relationships
Your network is your net worth. Many of my biggest opportunities—whether it was being featured in the Clean Slate PSA with John Legend, pitching Michigan Liberation to Essence Festival, or attending the Social Justice NOW Film Festival at Sony Pictures—came through connections I nurtured over time. Don’t just network for the sake of it—build real, meaningful relationships with people who align with your values and vision.
3. Be Willing to Adapt and Learn
I started in engineering, transitioned into media and communications, and now work at the intersection of advocacy, storytelling, and public relations. That evolution required me to stay open to learning, embrace new skills, and pivot when necessary. Never stop educating yourself, whether it’s through formal training, mentorship, or self-directed learning.
4. Stay True to Your Why
In any industry, you will face challenges, rejection, and moments of doubt. The key to staying motivated is knowing why you started in the first place. My purpose is to amplify voices, advocate for justice, and create impact through storytelling and strategy. Whenever things get tough, I remind myself of that mission. Define your “why” early on and let it guide you.
5. Learn the Business Side of Your Passion
It’s not enough to be talented—you need to understand how to market yourself, negotiate contracts, and build sustainable success. Whether you’re launching a podcast, starting a business, or growing your brand, invest in financial literacy, business strategy, and marketing knowledge.
6. Take Risks and Bet on Yourself
Some of my biggest breakthroughs came when I stepped outside my comfort zone. If you’re waiting for permission or for everything to be perfect, you’ll never start. Go for the opportunity, pitch the idea, and put yourself out there! The worst that can happen is you learn from the experience.
7. Know That Rejection Is Redirection
Not every opportunity will work out—and that’s okay. Early on, I faced doors closing, but each “no” redirected me to something better. Keep pushing forward, and remember that closed doors often lead to open windows of greater opportunity.
What I Wish I Knew When I Started
I wish I had understood that success is nonlinear. It’s okay to pivot, fail, and start over. Every experience—whether good or bad—is a stepping stone to your ultimate purpose. If you stay committed, adaptable, and focused on impact, you will find your place.
To anyone starting out: stay hungry, stay humble, and keep showing up. The right opportunities will find you when you’re prepared to receive them.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theofficialmsmarjon
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theofficialmsmarjon
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjonparham
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theofficialmichiganliberation
