Check Out Mashup! Nashville’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mashup! Nashville

Hi MashUp!, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
MashUp! began on February 20, 2017, as a grassroots effort inspired by a shared vision of advocacy, resilience, and the belief that every voice deserves to be heard. Founded by Dr. Brian Issac Marshall (he/him), MashUp! was created to address a critical void in services for the Black LGBTQ+ community after the closure of a vital program called “Project UNO.” This gap inspired a group of dedicated community members to come together and strategize ways to ensure an ongoing presence that would uplift and support this marginalized community.

For the first five years, MashUp! operated entirely on volunteer hours, with no major fundraising efforts or grant support. Monthly Community Advisory Board (CAB) meetings became the heartbeat of the organization, where members pooled resources, collaborated, and prioritized grassroots community building. During this time, we focused on creating programs shaped directly by the voices of those we served, ensuring that the needs of the community were at the forefront without being constrained by the stipulations of traditional funding.

The pandemic became a turning point for MashUp!, marking the beginning of a new phase. We were intentional about pursuing funding that aligned with our mission, values, and creative approach to programming. This shift opened new doors, allowing us to secure our first major grants. By 2021, we received our largest grant to date, which propelled our signature program, The Mindful MashUp! Transformation Program, led by Ashley Shelley, LPC-MHSP (she/her), CEO of Melanin and Mindfulness, LLC. This funding enabled us to expand our reach and grow our team with paid staff.

In 2022, we hosted our inaugural Giving Out Loud Brunch, an annual fundraising event that continues to sustain and strengthen our mission. Within a year, we grew from having less than $5,000 in our account to managing an operating budget of over a quarter of a million dollars by 2022.

Today, MashUp! has evolved into a healing hub that not only fosters belonging but also addresses the complex challenges of double discrimination. Our programs and events, including The Wholiness Project, EJR Leadership Institute, and Dining Dialogues, exemplify our commitment to the well-being and empowerment of the Black LGBTQ+ community. Our fiscal responsibility, expertly managed by Chief Accountant, Michelle Emeh, Founder and CEO of MBW Solutions LLC, ensures the sustainability of this impactful work.

With Dr. Marshall at the helm as Executive Director and a dedicated team, including COO, Jerry Ivery, Jr., Esq. (he/him) and Chief Village Keeper, Eric Cox, (he/him), Founder of SIGN UP! Legacy, LLC, MashUp! continues to rise. What began as a grassroots movement is now a thriving organization celebrating eight years of resilience, growth, and unwavering commitment to our community.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Our story is one of resilience. The road has been anything but smooth, but every challenge has strengthened our resolve and deepened our commitment to serving our community.

For the past four years, our premier program, The Mindful MashUp! Transformation Program has been a cornerstone of our impact. By blending therapy techniques with group support, the program has improved mental health outcomes and reduced stress-driven behaviors like smoking and vaping, all while addressing health inequities by providing free access to care. However, in late 2024, we faced a significant setback when we learned that funding for this life-changing program would not be renewed. This loss has created an urgent need for increased financial support to ensure we can continue serving those who rely on us.

In response, we’ve launched a fundraising campaign to sustain and improve our impact. Supporters can contribute through one-time donations or ongoing monthly support, helping us keep programs like The Mindful MashUp! thriving. To join us in this effort, visit mashupnation.org/donate.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At MashUp!, our work centers on creating a thriving and supportive community for Black LGBTQ+ individuals. What sets us apart is our holistic approach—combining dynamic programming, advocacy, and community-building to address the unique challenges our community faces.

One key program is The Wholiness Project, which challenges harmful religious dogma and works to heal the negative association between religion and mental health within the LGBTQ+ community. The EJR Leadership Institute empowers Tennessee’s BIPOC LGBTQ+ individuals through leadership development, networking, workshops, and life coaching, inspiring a new generation of bold, impactful leaders.

We also host Dining Dialogues, a series of educational events that create safe spaces for conversations about sexual health over shared meals, and Timeless Jewels, which fosters community and support for LGBTQ+ individuals of color aged 50 and older.

What we’re most proud of is how our programs come together during our signature annual celebration: MashUp! Weekend 2025, taking place February 21-23. This weekend is a powerful reflection of resilience, unity, and strength as we mark eight years of MashUp! It will feature events like The Giving Out Loud Brunch, where we honor individuals who have significantly advanced the well-being of LGBTQ+ people of color.

Our work is fueled by passion and an unrelenting commitment to uplift our community, and we invite everyone to learn more and join us in creating lasting impact. Visit mashupnation.org/mashup-weekend-2025 to be part of the journey.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson we’ve learned on this journey is that community is essential to our survival. That’s why we refer to everyone connected to us—supporters, participants, and allies—as our MashUp Family. We understand the vital role of a supportive family, whether it’s blood-related or chosen, in helping us navigate life’s challenges and celebrate its triumphs.

We’ve also learned that to continue showing up for our community in the most impactful way, we must prioritize our own well-being. Doing this work requires resilience, and self-care is a cornerstone of sustaining our mission.

Finally, we’ve realized that no matter what obstacles come our way—seen or unforeseen—our supportive network is unshakable. It’s this strength that allows us to live UP! to our collective purpose and keep rising, no matter the challenges. Resilience, connection, and hope are the lessons we carry forward every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mashupnation.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mashup.nation/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mashupfamily/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mashup-nashville
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mashup.nation
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mashup.nation8