om his youth when he and his homeboys would hit the ground to dodge bullets and sparks that grazed the concrete just a few feet away from their faces. But growing up in the 'hood on the east side in Oklahoma City during the 1970s and 1980s was not the only danger. Being biracial, he also faced the dangers of racism. Though he grew up in the 'hood, he ultimately moved on to receiving his graduation hood after earning his Ph.D., and now finds himself often working in the affluent 'hoods of Oklahoma City as a successful business owner and realtor. Dr. Smith brings us along in his memoir, "Journey Through the Hoods" to inspire, motivate, and to remind us all that it's less about where you've been, and more about the lessons you learn along the way.