Up Close and In Focus

Up Close and In Focus

Discover the secrets to success with Up Close and In Focus, a weekly podcast hosted by Kerry Douglas, a Billboard #1 Gospel CEO, Grammy Award-nominated producer of the 3-year #1 Gospel music label, and acclaimed music and film producer. Each episode features candid conversations with trailblazers from the music, film, and animation industries, revealing the stories and strategies behind their triumphs. Through these inspiring interviews, Kerry uncovers the mindset shifts and life-changing decisions that propelled his guests to follow their dreams and achieve greatness. Empower yourself to transform your own mindset and pursue your passions, no matter where they lead you, drawing valuable lessons from the journey of these industry icons.

Episodes

August 1, 2025

When Marzetta Douglas noticed her children could memorize every word of Cardi B but struggled with the seven continents, she knew something had to change. The mother of two created Hip Hop Boobly, a 3D animated series that transforms learning through music, and it's already taking the world by storm. In this episode, Marzetta reveals how her characters teach everything from math to anti-bullying through catchy songs and interac...

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In this special edition of Up Close & In Focus, host Kerry Douglas brings together an extraordinary lineup of voices for a dynamic, uplifting experience roote...

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In this episode of Up, Close & In Focus with Kerry Douglas, get ready to experience...

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In this moving episode of Up Close and In Focus, Kerry Douglas welcomes gospel powerhouse Wess Morgan for an unfiltered conversation about redemption, purpose, and divine favor. Wess opens up about his journey through addiction at 14 and multiple arrests before becoming one of gospel music's most respected voices with five albums under his belt. As a pastor's kid who struggled publicly while singing in church, he shares how his...

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In this episode of Up Close and In Focus, host Kerry Douglas reunites with gospel artist Cedric Ballard, revealing their 25+ year journey from selling CDs out of car trunks to national success. Ballard shares the inspiration behind his hit single "Blessing Me," written during his lowest moment when God challenged him to find gratitude despite circumstances. The conversation takes an inspiring turn as Ballard details The Heal ...

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Gospel recording artist Lasha' Knox joins Kerry Douglas on Up Close and In Focus to discuss her musical jo...

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A single American Idol performance launched Earnest Pugh's 14-year-old hit "I Need Your Glory" to #1 on iTunes overnight! In this episode of Up Close and In Focus, Kerry Douglas reconnects with gospel star Earnest Pugh as they celebrate his hit going viral again after an American Idol contestant performed it on national television last week. The pair reflect on their 25-year relationship in the music industry and discuss t...

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March 21, 2025 54 mins

While their soul-soothing harmonies filled radio waves across America for three decades, The Family mysteriously stepped away from gospel's center stage - until now. In this episode of Up Close and In Focus, Kerry Douglas sits with the legendary group as they share the untold story behind their extended absence, even as their music shaped generations of gospel listeners. Around the table, Pastor Darrell Blair and D...

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Step into an emotional episode of Up Close and In Focus as host Kerry Douglas sits down with Billboard-charting artist Jokia. She talks about her transformation in the Iraqi desert to dominating both gospel and R&B charts, Jokia's story is one of remarkable faith and determination. She courageously shares her 15-year fertility journey and the profound connection to her role in the “Love Mountain” film, culminating ...

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Join host Kerry Douglas for an intimate conversation with legendary songwriter Percy Bady on Up Close and In Focus. Discover the stories behind chart-topping hits like I Believe I Can Fly and Percy's journey from industry newcomer to music icon. Percy shares his battle with prostate cancer and how it inspired new creations, offering a powerful testament to music's healing force. Get insider insights on the evolving music busine...

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January 6, 2025 51 mins

Get ready for a soul-stirring journey with gospel music titan Ernest Pugh and industry icon Kerry Douglas. These longtime collaborators dive deep, serving up raw truths about their musical odyssey and the unbreakable bond that's weathered every storm. Pugh's impromptu performances will give you chills, while behind-the-scenes stories reveal the heart behind the hits. While honoring their history, Pugh and Douglas offer a gl...

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