This episode features American comedy talent Damon Williams—an experienced stand-up comic who has built his name on real work, real stages, and real respect across the industry.

From the legendary days of the Tom Joyner Morning Show and Doug Banks, to working alongside comedy greats like Bernie Mac, Damon has been connected to some of the most influential voices and platforms in the culture. He’s shared stages, built relationships, and earned his place among some of the biggest names in comedy.

A Chicago native with a national footprint, Damon has performed at Martha’s Vineyard showcases, toured the country, and built authentic connections with comedians and entertainers across the world.

He’s not just known in one lane—he’s respected across the culture.

Now he sits down with Sam Sylk for a real conversation about the grind, the journey, the stories behind the scenes, and what it really takes to stay relevant in the game.

Tap in for a real conversation with a real one.

#SamSylkShow

Sam Sylk kicks off On The Mic with comedian and entrepreneur Kelly Kellz, who talks about touring with a stronger team, turning followers into ticket sales, and staying ready for bigger opportunities. They also get into today’s sensitivity around comedy, what’s off limits, and why she stands on being her full self. Kelly shares what’s behind her “I’m Really Her” movement, her lipstick brand, and how faith and gratitude keep her grounded as she levels up.

00:00 Cold Open Banter

00:48 First Guest Energy

01:10 Tour Feels Different

03:46 Followers to Tickets

04:24 Family and Going Live

05:33 Cancel Culture Jokes

07:48 Off Limits Topics

08:55 50 Cent and T.I. Drama

11:50 Working With Tip

13:55 Apartments 2 Surprise

15:14 Stay Ready Mindset

17:37 Gratitude and Rest

19:15 Money Facades Explained

20:55 Entrepreneur Brand Talk

21:50 Red Lip Confidence

22:20 Know Who You Are

22:57 Stop Carrying Others

24:52 No Shrinking Yourself

27:14 Find Your People

27:34 Nothing Forced

29:13 God Is Shifting Me

30:57 Talking To God Real

34:02 Tour Dates And Milestones

36:05 Called Beyond Titles

36:43 Casino Testimony

42:18 Final Shoutouts And Links

Sam Sylk welcomes financial expert and community leader Larese Purnell of CLE Consulting Company and Real Black Friday to talk about his journey from working at 12 and initially pursuing pharmacy to falling in love with business, accounting, and finance. Larese shares how CLE Consulting has grown over a decade, employing nearly 20 people, and why partnership, industry involvement, and strong foundations matter for business survival. He breaks down common mistakes entrepreneurs make—moving too fast, lacking structure, not knowing numbers, and trying to wear every “hat”—and offers guidance on becoming bank/grant ready through credit, cash reserves, planning, and hiring experts. He reflects on lessons from COVID-related setbacks, the mission behind Real Black Friday, the importance of supporting Black businesses with grace, and the pride he finds in family, legacy, and service.

00:00 Mic Check and Setup

01:07 Podcast Intro and Guest Hype

02:25 Brotherhood and Discernment

03:21 Community Work and Giving Back

04:13 Who Is Maurice Parnell

04:55 Early Hustle and Values

06:44 From Pharmacy to Finance

08:11 A Decade of CLE Consulting

09:12 Keys to Business Longevity

11:16 Finding the Right Partner

14:38 Preparation Over Hype

16:31 Know Your Numbers and Build a Team

21:44 Lessons From COVID and Contingency Plans

24:06 Plan for Curveballs

24:31 Real Black Friday Origins

26:03 Childhood Businesses Saved Me

27:38 Why We Doubt Black Business

29:40 Give Feedback Not Dragging

31:30 Bank and Grant Ready Steps

33:48 Proudest Moments Family First

38:44 Losing My Mother Lessons

42:01 The Hidden Cost of Service

44:37 Support the Leaders Too

46:58 How to Follow and Wrap Up