The Progress Report Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Myrically Survived a 750-Pound Steel Beam Hitting His Head, Talks Music, Recovery & “Living Proof” Aug 08, 2026

Show notes

In a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report, Lalaa Shepard sits down with independent artist Myrically to discuss his incredible journey of survival, recovery, and finding purpose through music. Myrically reflects on the August 2020 construction accident that completely changed his life when a crane malfunction caused a 750-pound steel beam to fall on the right side of his head. The accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury, and Myrically opens up about undergoing extensive therapy and having to relearn how to walk and talk. He also discusses the important role his mother played throughout his recovery, including introducing him to art therapy, which helped him discover a deeper passion for creativity before eventually taking music seriously. Originally born in Federal Way, Washington, Myrically also speaks about living throughout the West Coast before making Denver, Colorado his home, his experiences in Denver’s music scene, and the independent grind behind his career. He explains the meaning behind the name “Myrically,” which combines “miracle” and “lyrical,” and reflects on how much his perspective on life changed following his accident. During the conversation, Myrically discusses working closely with producer Rooftop York, remaining consistent as an independent artist, and collaborations with artists including Trev Rich, Ray Reed, Tana 10 Birdz, Scotty ATL, Dollface Henn, and others. He also speaks about upcoming music with Yung Ralph and Big Moochie Grape, his love for the recording process, and why music continues to serve as a form of therapy for him. Myrically also breaks down his new project Living Proof, the deeper meaning behind its title, his record “Honest Truth,” and why his story and music are ultimately about showing what is possible after tragedy. Living Proof is available now on all streaming platforms. Watch the full interview and stay connected with Myrically for new music and upcoming releases. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myricallymusic/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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T-Bo DaVIP on Bloody Jay Co-Sign, 4 Days in Rice Street Jail, “DaVip” Project & Atlanta Dance Era Aug 08, 2026

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Southside Atlanta artist T-Bo DaVIP joins Lalaa Shepard for a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report to discuss his journey from dancing as a youngster to building his career as an independent artist. During the conversation, T-Bo DaVIP reflects on growing up on the Southside of Atlanta and recalls dancing in Jagged Edge’s “What’s It Like (Remix)” with Jermaine Dupri. He also speaks on being part of Atlanta’s Whoop Rico dance era and shares his perspective on how dancing went from being embraced by everybody in the city to people becoming “too cool” to dance. T-Bo DaVIP breaks down his new 9-track project “DaVip,” which features Bloody Jay and BLE Ambitious, and explains why he created the project with Atlanta’s club and nightlife scene in mind. He also discusses his buzzing single “Oh Wow,” his growing catalog of projects dating back to 2020, and the realities of remaining independent when other artists may have bigger budgets and resources behind them. He also opens up about serving four days in Atlanta’s Rice Street Jail, which inspired his song “901” and his own version of a “First Day Out” record. T-Bo explains how the experience taught him patience, forced him to examine his decisions, and showed him who was truly in his corner. Elsewhere, T-Bo DaVIP discusses receiving co-signs from Atlanta OGs including Bloody Jay and Runway Richy, the responsibility he feels toward younger artists, fatherhood and raising his 7-year-old son, dealing with social media pages being removed or restricted, working with rising artist 1Blocko, the meaning behind his name, and what the word “progress” means to him. Stream “DaVip” and watch the full conversation now! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tbodavip/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1

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Too Short Speaks on Becoming a Father at 52, 20 Years of “Blow the Whistle” & New Album with Lil Jon Aug 03, 2026

Show notes

Hip-hop legend Too Short (Too $hort) joins Lalaa Shepard for an exclusive conversation on Skipping Class, reflecting on his legendary career, fatherhood, timeless records, and his latest album. Too Short breaks down the story behind “BIA BIA” with Lil Jon, explains how moving to Atlanta and building relationships with producers like Lil Jon and Jazze Pha gave his career new life, and reflects on performing music from his catalog at Coalition DJs New Music Mondays with DJ Funky. He also shares how his creative partnership with Lil Jon led to multiple classic records throughout the years. During the conversation, Too Short celebrates the 20-year anniversary of “Blow the Whistle,” explains why the song became one of the biggest records of his career, breaks down its true meaning, and reflects on Lil Jon producing both “Blow the Whistle” and “Shake That Monkey,” including memories from filming the iconic “Shake That Monkey” music video in Miami. Too Short also opens up about intentionally becoming a father at 52 years old, how fatherhood changed his perspective on life, and what it has been like introducing his daughter to his music. Elsewhere in the interview, Too Short discusses collaborating with hip-hop icons including Jay-Z, The Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac, Diddy, and Lil’ Kim, while also reflecting on Oakland culture, his Oakland Ballers Minor League Baseball team, defining what “progress” means to him, and his goal of becoming the first active rapper performing into his 70s. Too Short also discusses his newly released album, ‘Sir Too Short, Vol. 2 (Drink & Smoke)’, executive produced by Lil Jon alongside his late son, Young Slade, continuing a creative partnership that has spanned decades. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tooshort/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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Maleigh Zan on “Such A Time” with Anycia, Living Abroad & Staying True to Herself | Skipping Class Jul 31, 2026

Show notes

“Life can be serious but you have to have fun too” ~ Maleigh Zan Maleigh Zan returns to Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report for an honest conversation with host Lalaa Shepard about her growth over the past two years, the lessons she has learned within the music industry, and the importance of staying true to herself and the community she has built. During the conversation, Maleigh Zan reflects on her new song, “Such A Time,” with Anycia, and discusses how their close friendship and natural creative bond helped bring the collaboration together. She also opens up about the difference between modeling and making music, explaining that music gives her the freedom to express her personality, creativity, and authentic self more fully. Maleigh Zan also shares how traveling and living abroad in London changed her perspective on life, culture, work, relationships, and creativity. She explains why experiencing different parts of the world taught her to slow down, appreciate life, and make more time for fun and meaningful experiences. After releasing a consistent collection of singles, Maleigh Zan is now preparing to release her first full-length project, an upcoming debut EP titled The Summer That Never Ended. She also shares what she wants people to take away from her music and brand: have fun, catch a vibe, live your best life, and remain true to who you are. Watch the full episode and let us know your favorite moment in the comments. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maleighzan/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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Sammie on Being Overlooked, Verzuz, His Mother’s Mental Health & His Final Album Jul 28, 2026

Show notes

“People don’t know if you don’t talk and I got tired of being overlooked” ~ Sammie R&B superstar Sammie returns to Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report, for his first sit-down with Lalaa Shepard since 2018. Since becoming the youngest solo artist to earn a No. 1 hit with his breakout record “I Like It” at just 12 years old, Sammie has continued evolving as an artist, businessman, and father. In this exclusive conversation, Sammie reflects on his journey from child stardom to building an independent career on his own terms. He discusses surviving multiple eras of the music industry, his experiences surrounding the Verzuz era alongside Pleasure P, Ray J, Bobby V, forming RSVP, and thoughts on the Pretty Ricky and B2K Verzuz. He also shares his thoughts on Ray J’s upcoming celebrity boxing match with Orlando Brown, the Millennium Tour, fatherhood, embracing aging, raising both a son and daughter, releasing visuals independently, and the importance of ownership. The conversation also takes a deeply personal turn as Sammie opens up about losing his father, supporting his mother through mental health challenges, creating his FINAL album The Journee, named after his daughter staying inspired after decades in the industry, and why he no longer wants to creates music from a place of pain. He also shares memories of Hardball, working alongside Michael B. Jordan, his admiration for rising star Young Roddy, his thoughts on G-Baby’s unforgettable scene, and closes the interview by defining what “progress” truly means. Watch the full episode now and be sure to subscribe to The Progress Report for more exclusive interviews with today’s biggest artists, producers, executives, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sammiealways/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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ReddLoe Talks “Trenches,” Motherhood, Faith & Her Upcoming Project with Waka Flocka Jul 24, 2026

Show notes

A new episode of Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report, is now available. In this episode, Lalaa Shepard sits down with recording artist ReddLoe for an inspiring conversation about her journey in music, motherhood, faith, personal growth, and staying true to herself. Originally from Indiana, ReddLoe reflects on relocating to Georgia at 13 years old, discovering her sound, auditioning for The Voice and American Idol at a young age, and drawing inspiration from artists like Tupac, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Avril Lavigne, and Nelly Furtado. She also discusses growing up with several brothers, the importance of family support, and why she always knew she wanted a career in entertainment. ReddLoe also shares the story behind her latest single, “Trenches,” explaining how the record is rooted in her real-life experiences and how turning 30 completely changed her perspective. She opens up about becoming more authentic, prioritizing her children, following God’s purpose, and finding peace after leaving the “trenches” behind. The conversation also covers balancing motherhood with music, navigating today’s independent music industry, misconceptions about female artists, social media, her upcoming single “Paranoid,” her forthcoming project with Waka Flocka, and what the word “progress” truly means to her. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reddpebblz_/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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Kocky Ka Explains Why He Chose QC, Clears Up Viral Busta Rhymes Moment, Lil Poppa Passing Jul 23, 2026

Show notes

“I was rapping before singing” ~ Kocky Ka Brooklyn, New York artist Kocky Ka joins Lalaa Shepard of The Progress Report for an all-new episode of Skipping Class. During the conversation, he reflects on growing up in Brooklyn, singing in church, pursuing music after the passing of his father, and why he was rapping long before he transitioned into the melodic sound fans know today. Kocky Ka also explains why he chose to sign with Quality Control (QC) after meeting with several major labels, including Sony and Yo Gotti. He discusses becoming one of the first East Coast artists on the QC roster and talks about how his collaboration “Dark Nights” featuring Meek Mill and Fridayy helped elevate his career. He also clears up the viral Busta Rhymes moment, revealing what really happened after Busta heard one of their records together and how social media created its own narrative. Kocky Ka opens up about using music as therapy, the challenges that come with fame, why he believes he makes uplifting music instead of “sad music,” pays tribute to Lil Poppa, discusses his collaboration with Trae Tha Truth on “Alone,” speaks on his new single “Westside,” and shares what progress means to him. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kocky_ka/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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Diamond The Body Recalls Wack 100 Not Believing in Her, Signing to 1501 & Date Night with BossMan Dlow Jul 20, 2026

Show notes

“I never had a BBL, my a** is real” ~ Diamond The Body Diamond The Body joins Lalaa Shepard for an all-new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report. Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Diamond The Body sits down for one of her most transparent interviews to date. She reflects on beginning her journey as a dancer at just 16 years old before eventually owning her own strip club in Los Angeles during the COVID-19 pandemic. She explains why she stepped away from dancing to pursue music full-time, why she later returned to fund her career, and the financial lessons she learned along the way. Diamond also opens up about becoming one of the most talked-about personalities on Zeus Network’s hit reality series Baddies, sharing what viewers don’t always see on television and how the platform changed both her career and public perception. The conversation continues with her signing to 1501 Certified Entertainment, Carl Crawford’s record label that was once home to Megan Thee Stallion and Erica Banks. Diamond addresses the inevitable comparisons, explains how she stays focused on carving out her own lane, and discusses why her latest single, “I Like to Fight,” has become the unofficial anthem for Baddies fans. She also speaks on collaborating with BossMan Dlow on the remix to “In My Pockets,” clears up the story behind their viral date night, recalls Wack 100 initially not believing in her, discusses her investment mindset, clears up misconceptions about her body, and shares what progress means to her today. Watch the full interview now and be sure to like, comment, subscribe, and let us know your favorite moment from the conversation. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diamondthebodyy/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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Scotty ATL on Surviving a Near-Fatal Accident, Touring with Big K.R.I.T. & Speedy Recovery Jul 13, 2026

Show notes

“The hardest part of going through my accident was having to depend on people” ~ Scotty ATL Artist, entrepreneur, and father Scotty ATL returns to Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report, for one of his most personal interviews yet. During this conversation with Lalaa Shepard, Scotty opens up about the near-fatal tow truck accident that changed his life, his road to recovery, and how the experience strengthened both his faith and his purpose. Scotty discusses his latest project, Speedy Recovery, which features Big K.R.I.T., Akeem Ali, Yung Ralph, and more. He also reflects on his longtime friendship with Big K.R.I.T., touring together while Scotty was on crutches, working with DJ Funky and Coalition DJs, and the determination it took to continue performing while recovering from his injuries. Throughout the interview, Scotty shares the frightening details of the accident, including being struck by a tow truck while changing a tire on the side of the highway, losing five pints of blood, undergoing eleven surgeries, and having to explain everything to his children during one of the most difficult periods of his life. He also explains why the hardest part of his recovery was having to depend on other people. Additional topics include why relationships with DJs remain important in Atlanta’s music scene, practical ways artists can make money while on tour, his acting role in BET’s Vera’s Holiday Flop, unreleased music with Bankroll Fresh and Starlito, why he values the friendships he’s built with fellow artists throughout his career, his plans to give back to communities while on tour, and what the word “progress” truly means to him. Celebrate 10 years of The Progress Report by subscribing for more exclusive interviews, artist conversations, and independent music coverage. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottyatl/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com

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Michael V. Epps on Growing Up in Chicago, Landing The Chi & His Music Journey | Skipping Class Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

Michael V. Epps joins The Progress Report’s Skipping Class for an in-depth conversation about growing up in Chicago, landing his breakout role as Jake on the hit television series The Chi, balancing acting and music, navigating fame at a young age, family support, mental health, and what’s next in his career.

Throughout the interview, Michael also discusses his musical influences, recording process, working with fellow cast members, his New Music Mondays experience, upcoming projects, and what the word “progress” means to him.

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/officialmichaelepps/

https://www.instagram.com/mikflyy/

https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/

https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/

Website:

https://TPRMediaGroup.com

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