Explore the inspiring journey of Marshay Richmond, also known as Sandyi Cheeks. A dynamic educator, entrepreneur, and podcast host, Marshay is dedicated to service and empowerment, with roots in Carbondale, Illinois, and Indiana.
Marshay Richmond also known as Sandyi Cheeks, a dynamic educator, entrepreneur, and podcast host, has a remarkable journey rooted in passion, perseverance, and purpose. Born in Carbondale, Illinois, and raised in Indiana, she returned to her hometown in 2021, bringing with her a wealth of experiences and a heart dedicated to service.
The Path to Teaching
Sandyi’s journey into education was inspired by a moment of deep compassion. While working in the YMCA’s before-and-after-school program, she encountered a child who confided in her that he misbehaved to make others laugh with him rather than at him. He expressed that his struggles at home went unnoticed, which struck a chord with Sandyi. Motivated to help, she dedicated her time to mentoring him daily, which ultimately inspired her to pursue a degree in Elementary Education.
Determined and focused, she returned to school amid the COVID-19 pandemic with a clear goal: to become a teacher. Today, Sandyi is a certified educator shaping young minds in the fifth grade. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in engagement and relatability. She believes that effective teaching requires meeting students where they are and using multiple strategies—songs, games, activities, writing, and reading—to ensure every child connects with the material.
“Teaching isn’t hard if you know how to relate to the kids,” Sandyi explains. “If you stand in front of them and teach in a boring way, you’ll lose them. But if you make it fun and engaging, they’ll stay with you.”
However, she emphasizes that education is a shared responsibility between teachers and parents. “People act like there’s no money in education, but the real issue is the disconnect between parents and teachers. We need more communication and collaboration because, in a way, we’re sharing custody of these kids.”
Truellaskitchen: A Passion for Cooking
Beyond the classroom, Sandyi has made waves in the culinary world with her catering business, Truellaskitchen, named after her children, Tru and Ella. Specializing in everything from Mediterranean, American, Italian, and Mexican cuisine, Sandyi creates dishes that leave lasting impressions on her clients. From weddings and baby showers to intimate private dinners, she caters to various events with a commitment to excellence.
Her culinary journey began during the pandemic when she took a leap of faith, conducting a survey among friends to gauge interest in her cooking. With a strong turnout and rave reviews, her business took off, and now she is frequently booked for special occasions. What sets her apart from other caterers is her true dedication to customer satisfaction.
“I make sure everything is perfect for my clients,” she says. “I never want to waste anyone’s time or money, so I go above and beyond to ensure they are happy.”
A Voice for Truth: Talking Sh*t With Top Shelf
Adding another layer to her diverse talents, Sandyi is the host of Talking Sh*t With Top Shelf*, a podcast where she candidly discusses trending topics in media and culture. She lives by the motto, “I might be problematic, but I never tell a lie,” striving to bring honesty and raw truth to her listeners.
Her straightforward approach has earned her a loyal fan base, as she believes there is a lack of genuine truth in today’s conversations. “We need more honesty,” she asserts. “People are afraid to speak the truth, but I’m not.”
Overcoming Challenges and Offering Advice
One of Sandyi’s biggest challenges in her entrepreneurial journey has been gaining recognition. She learned early on that the people closest to her were not always her biggest supporters.
“I read an article that said your friends and family won’t be your main supporters, and it shocked me—but it was true. Strangers are the ones who really help you grow,” she shares. “Many people you know won’t believe in you until they see others supporting you.”
Her greatest accomplishment? Graduating college. “I had the biggest smile on my face because I achieved something major despite all the obstacles.”
For aspiring teachers, Sandyi has one crucial piece of advice: “If you don’t truly love what you’re doing, don’t do it. These kids need us, and sometimes, we’re the only parental figure they have.”
For those wanting to start a business, her advice is simple: “Just jump. It’s going to be hard, but passion and dedication will get you there.”
Legacy and Final Thoughts
When asked what she wants to be remembered for, Sandyi’s answer is straightforward: “That I was honest. I give people their flowers while they’re here because they can’t smell them when they’re gone. I try to help everyone. If I see someone doing something, I share their work. I’m as real as it gets.”
Through education, entrepreneurship, and unfiltered truth-telling, Sandyi Cheeks is leaving a powerful mark on her community—one student, one meal, and one podcast episode at a time.
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Marshay Richmond, Sandyi Cheeks, educator, entrepreneur, podcast host, journey, service, Carbondale, Illinois, Indiana, passion, perseverance, purpose
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