Our Why

In Birmingham, AL it can be quite difficult to be successful if you grew up in a low-income area especially as a young person of color. Many people have lost family members and friends at an early age due to gun violence as well as mass incarceration. This often leads to athletics and education as a way out for many individuals who were born into these complex environments. This is my story and thus the birth of HE Talks, LLC.

HE Talks is a lifestyle brand for Men of Color which amplifies the values of life, legacy, and purpose. The brand includes a podcast, literacy program, monthly Black Male meet-ups, and an annual State of the Black Male Summit. HE Talks is important because we serve as a safe space for Men of Color to discuss mental health, conflict resolution, and professional development. Moreover, we seek to provide resources to our youth and continue to be an outlet of expression.

Our Founder

Hello! My name is Darrell Forte and I am the founder of HE Talks, LLC.

I’m from Birmingham, Alabama and I have the privilege of leading the HE Talks brand in which we discuss life, legacy, and purpose. I am a proud UAB graduate where I majored in African-American Studies and criminal justice. Outside of hosting the podcast, I have worked in the public/civic service sector for over five years.

I am very passionate about helping our young people succeed and I work with several non-profits across the area including The Man Project, Regenerate Society and Urban Young Life. Outside of work and mentoring…I am a certified personal trainer, author, security specialist, and motivational speaker. My hobbies include reading, working out, and traveling.