Dr. Marlene Mack is a nurturing guide, visionary educator, and inspiring mentor—someone whose life is defined by heart, wisdom, and purposeful encouragement. For over 25 years, she has devoted herself to uplifting young minds through her One Step Ahead Learning and Performing Arts Center (OSALC) in East Orange, New Jersey, creating a space where children flourish academically while exploring creativity and self-expression. Today, she extends her reach even further through the One Step Ahead Radio Show on SOS Radio Live, bringing her empowering message to a broader audience and making waves across the airwaves.
Born in Montclair, New Jersey, and raised in Newark, Dr. Mack’s early life was shaped by family, education, and community. From a young age, she demonstrated a dedication to learning and service. She excelled academically at Malcolm X Shabazz High School and went on to South Carolina State University, where she earned her degree in Special Education. While pursuing her studies, she made history as the first student crowned Miss South Carolina State Homecoming Queen for two consecutive years. Her leadership skills were honed through athletics, debate, and involvement in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, laying the foundation for a life committed to guiding, inspiring, and nurturing others.
Marlene’s professional journey began with a simple mission: to provide children with a nurturing, enriching environment where learning and creativity thrive. Transforming her home into an in-home daycare sparked what would become OSALC, a full-fledged learning and performing arts center. Under her leadership, students gain confidence and self-expression through programs like ballet, hip-hop, karate, cooking, science club, sign language, and especially performing arts. Annual productions—ranging from Christmas concerts to Black History Month showcases—allow students to shine, supported by professional-level wardrobe, styling, and coaching. “The arts give children a voice, a way to express themselves beyond words,” she shares.
In August 2025, Marlene took her mission to a new platform with the debut of the One Step Ahead Radio Show every Sunday at 5:30 pm EST on SOS Radio Live. From the very first episode, the show has captivated listeners with its heart-centered approach to personal growth, education, and inspiration. “The response has been overwhelming,” Marlene says. “During and after the show, people share how it has inspired them, uplifted them, and given them practical guidance to navigate challenges in their own lives.”
The show blends wisdom, encouragement, and practical strategies, reflecting the same values Marlene has brought to her students for decades. Through SOS Radio Live, she connects with listeners of all ages, extending the reach of her mentorship beyond the classroom. Her work on the show embodies the SOS mission—amplifying voices, creating community, and fostering growth—demonstrating how media and education can intersect to make a profound impact.
“Every conversation we have on the show is an opportunity,” Marlene shares. “An opportunity to encourage, to enlighten, and to create a ripple effect of positive change.” By combining her expertise in education, the performing arts, and community mentorship, she ensures that every episode is more than entertainment—it’s a vehicle for growth, reflection, and empowerment.
From classrooms and stages to the airwaves, Dr. Marlene Mack continues to leave an indelible mark. Her story is one of dedication, vision, and unwavering belief in the potential of others. Through OSALC, she nurtures young minds; through her radio show, she uplifts hearts and inspires communities. Looking ahead, Marlene’s mission remains steadfast: to empower, educate, and inspire—one meaningful step at a time. Her life and work are a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and purposeful leadership, offering a blueprint for transformation that resonates far beyond the walls of a classroom or the frequency of a radio station.
