Whether you’re battling weight issues, in a career slump, or you just feel like you don’t have control over your life, it’s an overwhelming feeling knowing that you want more for yourself but you’re not sure how to get there. Trust me, I definitely understand this feeling because I’m currently dealing with some of these issues myself.

Along my journey, I discovered some social media personalities that are giving me more inspiration to overcome my current obstacles and get to a better future. These black men offer advice on a range of topics from health and wellness to career advancement. So, let me introduce you to these brothers and continue to propel our lives forward together.

1. Joshua Black (Urban Black Vegan)

Ok, before I go any further, let me admit that I’m not a vegan or vegetarian. However, I am being more proactive in adopting healthier eating habits.

Joshua Black is a seasoned photographer and a vegan. He began as a vegetarian and remained one for over 20 years. However, his venture into vegetarianism wasn’t a healthy one and he became diabetic due to his junk food habits. In July of 2011, he took the extra step and transitioned to a vegan diet. After carefully refining his diet, Joshua was able to conquer his diabetes and cease medication. Joshua’s YouTube channel Urban Black Vegan showcases his vegan journey, including his successes and struggles he faces in maintaining the lifestyle.

He offers practical insight on topics such as grocery shopping, going on a juice fast, community gardens, workouts and vegan protein sources. His sincerity, soulful background music, funky beats and supreme video editing skills will definitely keep you entertained. If you’re trying to make a dietary change to better your health, take a look at his personal testimony.

2. Eric Thomas (ET Hip Hop Preacher)

I was introduced to Eric’s YouTube channel by a mentor and was immediately intrigued. As a motivational speaker, author, educator and pastor, Eric is truly a renaissance man. Through his persona, ET Hip Hop Preacher encourages others to find purpose in their lives, pursue their passions, overcome setbacks and move beyond average.

I appreciate the fact that he weaves his own personal struggles into his presentations, allowing others to capture a more holistic view of his life journey. He also includes a TGIM (Thank God It’s Monday) series to motivate others to begin transforming their lives on the first day of the week. His charismatic personality and transparency will drive you to strive for a better outcome. Checkout the TGIM video below to begin your week with inspiration.

3. Marcus Jennings (SuperHumanYogi)

I discovered Marcus Jennings on Instagram. I was impressed by his movement, technique, and flexibility. I said to myself, “this brother is the truth!” It was refreshing to see black male yoga enthusiasts as they continue to defy the misconception that yoga isn’t embraced by black men other than a few high-profile celebrities.

Marcus found Yoga to be a more gentle way to help him remain active while healing from an Achilles Tendon injury. He learned yoga simply from watching others do it on YouTube. He eventually became a certified instructor with expertise in Basic Hatha, Power/Vinyasa Flow. In addition, the SuperHumanYogi also has a YouTube channel that helps others practice yoga, along with calisthenics and core training. It provides a nice mixture of tutorials for beginners and advanced yogis. To exercise your body and mind, check out his videos like the one below. He earns extra points for playing some R&B songs in the background, too!

https://youtube.com/watch?v=YPfhRil0-Vs

4. Mike Street (Smart Brown Voices)

While searching for digital marketing industry experts of color, I came across Mike Street on Twitter. Mike is a digital marketing and social media expert who is also the founder of the Smart Brown Voices weekly podcast series. The series highlights a variety of black entrepreneurs in industries such as fashion, tech, marketing and hospitality. In addition, it features expert insight on career development and an extensive list of other black podcasts.

After listening to some of his podcasts, I was in awe at the caliber of his guests. I even reached out to one of them on Twitter for career advice, and I received some much-needed wisdom. If you’re also seeking career advice or authentic perspectives on entrepreneurship, I highly recommend you listen to the podcast.

Check out my #Podcast https://t.co/Fn8Hosobz9. Celebrating and educating through diversity. #BlackTwitter16 pic.twitter.com/zFphrSEHLn

— Mike Street (@MrMikeStreet) February 27, 2016

5. Chazz Equanimity (I Am Creatively Zealous)

When I found this brother on Twitter, I was thinking, “this dude is deep.” His profile is filled with phenomenal quotes that explore themes such as nurturing better relationships, establishing self-worth and practicing humility.

Chazz Equanimity is an accomplished author, public speaker and professional consultant. His words certainly inspire me to become a better person and further connect with my spirituality. If you’re doing some soul searching, check out his quotes for some spiritual rejuvenation.

I just hope it’s enough.. 💌

A photo posted by Chazz Equanimity aka “CZ” (@iamczofficial) on Dec 27, 2015 at 6:47pm PST

Darryl Lewis is a digital marketing professional and visual/performing arts enthusiast. His concern about social issues is unwavering, always seeking opportunities to create a positive impact on the people in his community and the world. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Marketing from Stockton University. Follow him on Twitter @dlew4life

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Darryl Lewis

Writing since March 2016 · 2 stories contributed