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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs

Kirt Jacobs is the host and producer of MoxieTalk, a talk show that gives an intimate look into the courage, character and defining moments of today’s most inspiring individuals.
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
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Now displaying: February, 2024
Feb 26, 2024

Jerry Mathers is a distinguished American actor best known for portraying Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver in the iconic television series “Leave It to Beaver.”

Born on June 2, 1948, in Sioux City, Iowa, Mathers’ early introduction to the entertainment world paved the way for his enduring career in the industry.

At a young age, Jerry Mathers displayed an innate talent for performing. His family recognized his potential and supported his interest in acting.

This led him to venture into modeling and commercial work as a child actor, eventually leading to his breakthrough role in “Leave It to Beaver.”

“Leave It to Beaver,” a classic sitcom from 1957 to 1963, became a cultural phenomenon representing American family life in the 1950s and early 1960s.

Mathers’ portrayal of Theodore Cleaver, affectionately known as Beaver, captured the innocence and curiosity of childhood.

His character’s misadventures and life lessons endeared him to audiences of all ages.

Mathers’ performance in “Leave It to Beaver” solidified his status as a child star and left an indelible mark on television history.

His ability to bring authenticity and relatability to his character resonated with viewers, making him a household name.

Following the conclusion of “Leave It to Beaver,” Jerry Mathers continued to appear in various television shows and films.

However, he faced challenges transitioning from his child star image to more mature roles.

He pursued higher education, attending the University of California, Berkeley, while remaining engaged in the entertainment industry.

In the following decades, Mathers embraced his iconic status and engaged in various projects related to “Leave It to Beaver.”

He made guest appearances on television shows, participated in reunions, and even reprised his role in the TV movie “Still the Beaver” in the 1980s.

Beyond his acting career, Jerry Mathers became an advocate for diabetes awareness.

He was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the late 1990s and has since worked to raise awareness about the condition, sharing his own experiences and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices.

Jerry Mathers’ enduring legacy lies in his role as Beaver Cleaver, a character that continues to be celebrated as a symbol of wholesome family entertainment.

His contribution to television history and popular culture remains significant, and his ability to capture the essence of childhood in “Leave It to Beaver” has left an indelible impression on generations of viewers.

Feb 19, 2024

Smokey Robinson, whose real name is William Robinson Jr., is an iconic figure in the music industry, renowned as a legendary Motown singer, songwriter, and record producer.

He was born on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, where he later found fame and contributed significantly to the Motown sound.

Smokey Robinson’s journey into the music world began at a young age. In high school, he formed a singing group called The Matadors, which later evolved into The Miracles.

The Miracles signed with Motown Records in the late 1950s with Smokey as the lead vocalist and songwriter.

As a songwriter, Smokey Robinson displayed an extraordinary talent for crafting heartfelt and poetic lyrics that resonated with listeners.

His compositions often explored themes of love, romance, and relationships, making him a master of capturing universal emotions.

Hits like “Shop Around,” “You’ve Got a Hold on Me,” and “Tears of a Clown” showcased his ability to blend catchy melodies with meaningful lyrics.

His velvety and emotive voice became a signature of The Miracles’ sound, earning them a dedicated following.

Throughout the 1960s and early 1970s, The Miracles achieved a string of chart-topping hits, contributing significantly to the Motown label’s success.

Smokey Robinson’s influence extended beyond his role as a performer. He took on the part of Motown’s vice president, contributing to the label’s growth and success.

In addition to his work with The Miracles, he collaborated with other Motown artists like Mary Wells and Marvin Gaye, further solidifying his impact on the Motown sound.

Beyond his work with The Miracles, Smokey Robinson enjoyed a successful solo career.

He continued to produce hits like “Cruisin'” and “Being with You,” which showcased his ability to evolve with the changing musical landscape while staying true to his distinct style.

Robinson’s contribution to music earned him numerous accolades and honors. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Miracles.

He was also awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions to the music industry.

Smokey Robinson’s legacy as a Motown pioneer, prolific songwriter, and soulful vocalist is indelible.

His music continues to resonate with audiences of all generations, and his impact on the Motown genre and popular music is immeasurable.

He remains a beloved and revered figure, embodying the timeless spirit of Motown and soul music.

Feb 12, 2024

Oksana Masters, synonymous with courage, determination, and moxie, has charted a remarkable journey that defies the odds and inspires the world.

From the challenges of a traumatic childhood to becoming a Paralympian champion, Oksana’s life story is a testament to the power of resilience and the indomitable human spirit.

Born in Ukraine in 1989, Oksana’s early life was marked by adversity. She was born with congenital disabilities attributed to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, leaving her with deformed legs and missing weight-bearing bones. At the tender age of seven, Oksana was adopted by Gay Masters, a single mother who recognized the fire within her daughter’s spirit.

Oksana’s journey took an unexpected turn when she was introduced to adaptive sports.

She possessed an innate athletic prowess and embraced rowing, cross-country skiing, and biathlon. Her relentless determination and fiery spirit earned her a United States Paralympic team spot.

In the 2012 London Paralympics, Oksana made her mark as a rower, clinching a bronze medal. However, her unwavering courage and refusal to let challenges define her truly set her apart.

Mere days before her debut, a tragic accident crushed her hopes of Paralympic glory.

Yet, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Oksana embraced cross-country skiing, harnessing her sheer determination to compete again.

The PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Games saw Oksana’s triumphant comeback.

Her performances on the snow and ice were a testament to her unwavering dedication to her moxie that refused to bow to adversity.

Winning not one but two gold medals, she stood on the podium as a symbol of triumph over trials.

Off the field, Oksana’s courageous heart shines as she uses her platform to raise awareness about environmental issues, advocating for a cleaner and more sustainable planet.

Her tenacity extends to empowering others, particularly those with disabilities, reminding them that their abilities far outweigh their limitations.

Oksana’s story embodies the essence of moxie—her fearless pursuit of excellence in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Her courage to embrace vulnerability, harness challenges, and propel herself to unparalleled heights is a lesson in resilience for us all.

With every stroke of an oar, every glide on the snow, Oksana Masters reminds us that the human spirit can achieve greatness when fueled by unwavering courage and unyielding moxie.

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In the tapestry of human triumph, few stories radiate with the brilliance of Aaron Pike’s journey—a journey that weaves together courage, determination, and a spirit that defies limitations. From the confines of a wheelchair to the heights of Paralympic glory, Aaron’s life is a testament to the unbreakable will of the human heart.

Aaron’s story began in 1985 when, at 12, a snowmobiling accident changed his life forever. The accident left him paralyzed from the waist down, presenting challenges that would have overwhelmed lesser souls. But in Aaron, the spark of resilience was ignited.

Determined to reshape his destiny, Aaron plunged into adaptive sports with unwavering resolve. Wheelchair racing emerged as his calling, and he embraced it with an enthusiasm that only the genuinely passionate possess. Like a phoenix rising, Aaron transformed the wheels beneath him into vessels of determination, propelling himself forward with astonishing speed and grace.

The Paralympic stage became the canvas on which Aaron painted his legacy. The London 2012 Paralympic Games saw him competing in wheelchair racing, but he truly shone in the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Paralympics. Transitioning from summer to winter sports, Aaron tackled cross-country skiing with the same tenacity that defined his journey. His performances on the snow were a triumph of willpower, earning him a spot on the podium and a bronze medal.

However, Aaron’s journey is not defined merely by his athletic achievements. His courage extends to inspiring others, especially young athletes with disabilities. As a mentor and role model, he reminds them that their dreams can transcend obstacles. His very existence is a testament to the infinite possibilities of the human spirit.

Beyond the arena, Aaron’s moxie radiates in his advocacy for inclusion, accessibility, and eliminating barriers for people with disabilities. His unyielding commitment to creating a more inclusive world amplifies the impact of his journey, extending far beyond personal triumphs.

Aaron Pike’s life embodies moxie—a life where courage intertwines with determination, where challenges are met with unwavering resolve. His legacy is not merely a tale of athletic success but a beacon of hope for all who face adversity. Through his story, Aaron reminds us that courage and determination can forge a path of triumph in the face of the impossible, lighting the way for others to follow.

Feb 5, 2024

Luke Hancock is an American former professional basketball player. He played in six games for Panionios of the Greek Basket League before tearing a muscle in his calf, ending his career.

After transferring from George Mason University, he played college basketball for the University of Louisville.

While at Louisville, he won the 2013 NCAA championship and was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player, becoming the first substitute ever to win the award (later vacated due to the 2015 University of Louisville basketball sex scandal, then restored after Hancock settled a lawsuit with the NCAA).

On September 30, 2019, the NCAA reinstated Luke Hancock’s MOP status (without an *) in his capacity. This decision did not, however, change the status of the vacated 2013 Louisville Cardinals Division I Championship.

After going undrafted in the 2014 NBA draft, Hancock joined the Orlando Magic for the Orlando Summer League, & the Houston Rockets for the Las Vegas Summer League.

On September 25, 2014, he signed with the Memphis Grizzlies. However, the Grizzlies later waived him on October 13, 2014.

On November 4, 2014, Hancock signed with Panionios of the Greek Basket League. He played in six games before tearing a muscle in his calf. The injury made him realize he needed to prepare for life after basketball, so he retired from the sport, studied to become a financial adviser, and eventually began working in Louisville, Kentucky, for Lamkin Wealth Management.

After basketball, Hancock continued his community involvement in Louisville, most notably with the nonprofit Families for Effective Autism Treatment of Louisville (FEAT).

He first became involved with the organization in 2014 while still attending Louisville.

After returning from his brief professional career in Greece, he started organizing basketball camps for children on the autism spectrum, which he has continued to do ever since.

As of July 2017, Hancock serves on FEAT’s board of directors.

Hancock married the former Kaelyn Gault in October 2019.

In 2019, Hancock joined ESPN as a studio analyst for the ACC Network.

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