The Sidebar by NYABJ: Recent Episodes
New York Association of Black Journalists (NYABJ)
The Sidebar by NYABJ is a show about the world of media, through the lens of Black media-makers.
Each episode will feature honest conversations with journalists, content creators, advocates, trailblazers and new voices alike - talking about what it really takes to keep our communities informed and engaged.
Subscribe now to join us as we look behind the figurative curtain for insights - straight from the source.
The Sidebar is a production of the New York Association of Black Journalists (NYABJ), the Greater New York chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the world’s largest organization for journalists of color.
For more information, visit www.nyabj.org.
In honor of Disability Pride Month, The Sidebar's JEWEL BENTON interviews journalist TYRESE ALLEYNE-DAVIS for a conversation about journalism, adaptive sports, representation, and perseverance. While Tyrese is not defined by his disability, he is adding to the representation of disabled journalists and storytellers in media. He also shares why networking, community, mentorship, and documenting his journey through YouTube remain meaningful parts of his path.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
. From starring in two TV shows to earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Moore reflects on a multifaceted career defined by incredible triumphs, challenging hurdles, and profound resilience. Tune in to hear how this veteran entertainer turned her setbacks into setups for success.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month, The Sidebar's KIZZY COX interviews soca superstar and Kes the Band frontman KES on his two-decade journey in music and the evolution of soca from a niche carnival soundtrack to a genre with growing global reach. Kes discusses the band's signature genre-blending sound, the lessons he drew from reggae, dancehall and pop music, and milestone moments like their sold-out shows and NPR's Tiny Desk concert. Kes also shares why he believes soca is on the cusp of a major breakthrough, celebrates Trinidad and Tobago's outsized cultural influence on the world stage and what's next for his career.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
WHITAKER joins host LISA DURDEN for a wide-ranging conversation celebrating Black Music Month and the enduring impact of hip-hop culture.A pioneering rapper, actress, entrepreneur, and educator, Yo-Yo reflects on her path from emerging artist to hip-hop icon, sharing lessons from a career that has spanned decades. She discusses her creative process, memorable collaborations, the significance of earning her doctorate, and why it's important to honor the artists and innovators who helped shape the culture. ---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
author and speaker who encourages young people to pursue careers in aeronautics.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, The Sidebar's LISA DURDEN had an informative discussion with therapist DR. LASHAWN PAUL (“The Social Work Diva”) and psychiatrist DR. TOLU OLUPONA about mental health in the Black community and addressing the racial and gender disparities in mental health care, access, and treatment.In this episode, Dr. Paul and Dr. Olupona discuss the importance of maintaining good mental health, early intervention, and prevention. They also explore several critical topics, from unpacking the cultural stigma surrounding mental health to finding a culturally competent mental health clinician. ---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar, hosted by SHAMEIKA RHYMES, the focus is on women's health, particularly menopause and its impact on women's lives. Guest DARLENE THOMAS, a health and wellness consultant (Maven Clinic, Respin), shares her expertise on menopause, discussing its stages, symptoms, and how it affects women both physically and emotionally. She emphasizes the importance of understanding menopause as a transition rather than a decline, advocating for lifestyle changes, community support, and self-care to manage symptoms. The conversation also notes the challenges women face in balancing careers, caregiving, and personal health, and stress during this stage of life. Darlene encourages women to track their symptoms, seek supportive communities, and focus on one lifestyle change at a time to improve their well-being.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
CTO of D9 Resume Exchange and KAMIKA DILLARD, Tech Strategist and Founder of Fail Forward Coaching. Together, they offer practical guidance and forward-looking strategies for media professionals facing layoffs or preparing for potential career pivots.As journalism organizations across the country and around the world continue to undergo staff reductions, this discussion serves as both a resource and a rallying point. Panelists share insights on staying competitive in the job market, leveraging networks, reframing career narratives, and building resilience in uncertain times.(Note: This episode was recorded on February 10th, 2026. The intro mistakenly noted that this was recorded in January. An updated version of the episode with a corrected intro will be uploaded.)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with GLORIA ANDERSON, a New Jersey-based Speech-Language Pathologist and Augmentative Communication Specialist whose work istransforming lives. As an ASHA-certified clinician with experience at specialized institutionslike Kohler Academy, Gloria brings a unique perspective shaped by her multifaceted journeyas an entrepreneur, mother, and dedicated speech pathologist. Join us as we explore her career path, the challenges and triumphs of balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, and her passion for giving voice to those who need it most.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
deliver fresh perspectives on the year’s top headlines in news, politics, sports, and music. Tune in to hear the future of media as they tackle the topics shaping their world with professionalism and style. For more information on First Take and opportunities to support the next generation of journalists, visit www.nyabj.org.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar, DAWN KELLY sits down with host JEWEL BENTON for a compelling conversation about member-organizations like NABJ and its local chapters, entrepreneurship, careers, community, and more. The Nourish Spot co-founder reflects on how growing up during the civil rights movement shaped her path, shares insights from her wide-ranging work in public relations, and offers life lessons on relationships, courage, resilience, and trusting yourself as an entrepreneur.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar, media pioneer ALLISON DAVIS sits down with hosts JEWEL BENTON and LISA DURDEN for a compelling conversation about news, media, and community. She shares how she found herself at the center of multiple turning points in American journalism, her stint in the Black Panther Party, what it meant to be “unmanageable” as a young Black woman producer, the growing crisis of trust in news, and her advice for the next generation of journalists trying to tell our stories and survive in 2026 and beyond. ---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, host MICHAEL RAY sits down for a energetic conversation with multi-faceted media maker (and fellow Sidebar contributor) LISA DURDEN. Her journey began at Seton Hall University and in the grassroots world of local access television, but her sharp wit and uncompromising perspective quickly propelled her to one level after another over the years. This interview explores her incredible resilience, her accomplishments as an award-winning producer and documentarian, and illustrates how she uses her platform to challenge the status quo and amplify marginalized voices while remaining unapologetically authentic.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
, Emmy-award winning producer and content strategist MICHAEL BARBER, and live events marketing production executive GIDEON MONCRIEFFE about their journey to forge their own paths using the skills they've developed in journalism.(Note: This episode was recorded on December 3rd, 2025)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In a year marked by profound instability across media and advertising - including mass layoffs, shrinking newsrooms, and disproportionate job losses among Black professionals - this episode offers a grounding, timely conversation for Black mediamakers and creatives seeking insights, affirmation, and real tools for what comes next.Producer CAROLYN ADAMS sits down with WALTER T. GEER III, Chief Creative Officer of Innovation at VML and co-founder of Blackweek, to talk about the fast-growing economic forum and festival bringing together leading voices from media, tech, marketing, entertainment, finance, art, and beyond to explore all things culture, creativity, and the future of work.He shares how he and his fellow co-founders managed to press forward and host the event for a successful second year in the current climate, the partnerships that helped make it possible, and their vision for the future. They also talk about strategies for navigating layoffs and searching for that next opportunity, the A.I. learning curve, the risk associated with advocacy work, and the importance of trust-building and authenticity in creative spaces.Learn more about Blackweek at www.blackweek.co---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
The Sidebar concludes its fourth dynamic season with interviews featuring the outgoing leadership of the New York Association of Black Journalists. The Sidebar’s JEWEL BENTON sits down individually with the current/outgoing President BONITA SOSTRE, and Vice President, BILL ALLEN, who each served two terms, to discuss their paths to leading the award-winning chapter. They share personal reflections, industry perspectives, advice for the incoming executive board, and a look ahead at what’s next.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
After a seven-year wait, a cornerstone of Black art and culture has returned home. In this episode, The Sidebar's WILL PATTERSON takes us inside the highly anticipated re-opening of The Studio Museum in Harlem.Originally established in 1968 in a rented loft as the first museum dedicated to African-American art, the institution has grown into a powerhouse featuring hundreds of pieces in its permanent collection and a world-renowned artist-in-residence program.Will sits down with Chief Program Officer NATASHA L. LOGAN to discuss the museum’s rich history, the years-long journey of the reconstruction, and how this new architectural marvel will shape the future of their mission and the neighborhood of Harlem at large.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
. In it, she takes back her narrative and legacy after a sex tape scandal led her into seclusion for years. In an inspiring conversation with the Sidebar’s KIZZY COX, Kennedy discusses her life, lessons and the steps she took on her way back into the well-deserved spotlight. ---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
This engaging conversation is led by public relations guru of more than five decades, ANGELO ELLERBEE, who works with legends like Dionne Warwick and Melba Moore, and developed the likes of Lionel Richie, Shabba Ranks, Mary J Blige, DMX, and even Michael Jackson, to name a few. Speaking with The Sidebar/NYABJ’s own JEWEL BENTON, Ellerbee discusses his impactful book "Before I Let You Go", emphasizing the importance of self-improvement, community support, and the challenges faced in the entertainment industry. He shares personal anecdotes about his family, the significance of education and reading, and the need for political awareness and activism. Throughout the discussion, Ellerbee highlights the power of love, encouragement, and the collective strength of the community.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, host LISA DURDEN sits down with VIVIAN COX-FRASER, President & CEO of the Urban League of Essex County, to discuss the impact of grant cuts on educational programs.Mrs. Cox-Fraser highlights the vital work the Urban League provides in the community and shares insights on how funding challenges affect their initiatives. She offers practical advice on overcoming financial setbacks, strategies for staying resilient, and inspiring words for organizations navigating uncertainty.Whether you’re part of a nonprofit, leading a business, or simply interested in how communities adapt in difficult times, this conversation delivers valuable perspective, empowerment, and authentic excellence.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this education-focused episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ to kick off the school year, producer and host MICHAEL W. RAY sits down with DR. SELMA BARTHOLOMEW, a Grenada-born, Harlem-raised educator and New York City mayoral candidate. Dr. Bartholomew’s journey is both inspiring and multifaceted; starting out by earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and physics from Lehman College, pursuing two master’s degrees at Adelphi and Fordham University, and finally achieving a doctorate in pure mathematics. Beyond her academic and professional accomplishments, she brings a deeply personal perspective as a dedicated educator and a resilient cancer survivor. This conversation explores how her background shaped her values and provide insight into her passion for education, equity, and community empowerment.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Before leaving for a brief summer break, The Sidebar would like to present a conversation as part of an unforgettable evening of networking and insight in collaboration with Amazon at the Brooklyn Chophouse in Times Square. Moderated by CBS News New York Meteorologist and NYABJ member TONY SADIKU, panelists explored how vision, purpose, and resilience shape modern leadership.The panel was made up of LONDON KEMP BOYKIN, Director of Global Realty Sustainable Development at Amazon; MARA S. CAMPO, four-time Emmy-winning journalist, Webby-winning content creator, and CEO of Magic by Mara; PRISCILLA OKYERE, Senior Manager of Worldwide Circular Solutions and Waste Reduction at Amazon; and KIESHA CLAYTON, Principal at the Climate Pledge at Amazon.From sustainability to social impact, this conversation delivers practical wisdom and bold inspiration for anyone ready to lead without compromise.(Note: This episode was recorded on July 15th, 2025)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Scroll through social media and you'll soon be bombarded with perfectly curated snapshots of people seemingly living lives much better than yours—better home, career, partner, looks, more talent, you name it! Even after you’ve logged out, you’re left with the feeling that you don’t measure up—a belief that hip-hop artist and meditation expert BORN I (OFOSU JONES-QUARTEY) is countering with his simple yet powerful mantra “You Are Enough.” Speaking with The Sidebar's KIZZY COX, Born I starts with his introduction to Buddhist meditation as a child by his mom, drifting in and out of the practice as he pursued his hip-hop career—and the party lifestyle it entailed. However, as he deepened his spiritual practice, he eventually decided to stop chasing mainstream success. Once Born I embraced coming "from the heart" by rapping about his spiritual evolution, his career reached new heights. In just the past five years, he’s become the voice behind the popular meditation app, Balance, released two albums, written two children’s books, brought his unique brand to the Kennedy Center where he led a guided meditation, followed by a hip-hop performance and is currently one of the meditation teachers featured on Dharma Homies, an online community making meditation accessible to marginalized groups.But he hasn't stopped there! This BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, Born I released his third album Komorebi and a new book for adults, Lyrical Dharma: Hip-Hop As Mindfulness. He’s redefining what a meditation teacher and hip-hop artist can be—and showing how mindfulness can heal.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this packed episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, we begin with our own JEWEL BENTON's conversation with legendary music icon DIONNE WARWICK. The six-time Grammy winner, known for multiple hit singles over her nearly seventy-year career as a singer, actress, and television host, Warwick reflects on the path she’s walked and the wisdom she’s gained along the way. Then we turn to April’s Business Journalism panel, moderated by NYABJ Treasurer DIANE KING HALL. As economic issues like inflation, tariffs, and the rising cost of living increasingly shape public discourse, this panel highlights the journalists who make sense of it all. The New York Times' JORDYN HOLMAN, Financial Times' TAYLOR NICOLE ROGERS, and Bloomberg's QUEENNETTE KARIKARI share how they turn complex financial data into accessible, human-centered stories and how they impact the Black community at large. (Note: This panel was recorded on April 23rd, 2025. You can also watch the panel on Youtube: https://youtu.be/OapiuwjqM7I?si=grodBs18O5LBx0_5)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this second part of our pair of episodes marking Black Music Month, The Sidebar by NYABJ decided to extend it for a few more days to feature the multi-talented TL CROSS. In a deep conversation with our own MICHAEL W. RAY, Cross shares his views on Black music over the years as musician, singer, songwriter, and producer with platinum credentials. He also expands upon his background as a lecturer and educator, as well as founder of the Cross Academy of Performing Arts.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------The New York Association of Black Journalists would like to thank the following sponsors who contributed to our 4th Annual Juneteenth Gala and Awards Show swag bag:Brownkind Bifties Rich Nuts Aluminate Life Hask Beauty Epsom-it Spry Andrew Fitzsimons Cheribe Beauty Tea Forte The Doux Kazmaleje New England Sweetwater Maya Angelou: A Writers JournalKeraniqueBosleyMD
June is Black Music Month and as a special treat, "The Sidebar by NYABJ" is releasing not one, but two extended episodes featuring those who have made their impact on Black music. To start, The Sidebar's SONJA D. GRACY has an intensive interview with music management veteran MATTHEW KNOWLES (1:02). While many know him as the father of acclaimed singers Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and Solange Knowles and his work managing Destiny's Child, Gracy goes in-depth with Knowles' other as impactful milestones, which include being the founder of Music World Entertainment amongst other music and entertainment business ventures and as a visiting professor teaching courses on the entertainment industry at a number of colleges and universities.In addition, The Sidebar's LISA DURDEN hosts a candid conversation with the multi-talented, platinum-selling artist SYLEENA JOHNSON (50:20). In an interview that will no doubt leave you inspired, Johnson opens up about her evolution as a singer, songwriter, TV host, wellness advocate, and film producer, and provides insight about owning your artistry, navigating industry challenges, and staying grounded in your purpose. She also shares encouraging words for rising artists and gives insider tips on longevity in the business.Remember that if you liked what you heard, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss Part II, which will be released on July 3rd!---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Audacious, trailblazer stories need enterprising visionaries to tell them. This tie between compelling film and skillful director seamlessly weave together in the novel, five-part, Disney+ docuseries, “Harlem Ice.” Harlem Ice is the delightfully inspiring, feel-good film chronicling the lives of a bevy of black and brown teen girl ice skaters of the “Figure Skating in Harlem” organization. Brooklyn-based documentarian SAMANTHA KNOWLES is the young, African American, award winning, filmmaker phenom appointed to craft this first-of-its-kind adventure. The Sidebar by NYABJ's SONJA D. GRACY talks with Knowles, a DOC NYC 40 Under 40 List 2023 and “NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Directing in A Documentary Series" recipient, about her work on the Harlem Ice film co-produced by Oscar-winning film director Ron Howard and ABC TV broadcaster Robin Roberts. In this podcast, Knowles shares her vision for the docuseries' creative arc that propels the figure skating organization’s ice access beginnings to its ice-skater mentorships of others across the globe. Knowles also divulges why she squarely centers her art on profiling the plight and progress of African Americans.EDITOR'S NOTE: To protect the identities of the young cast members of the documentary, parts of their names have been blanked out.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Please join us for the 4th Annual NYABJ Juneteenth Gala and Awards Ceremony on Thursday June 19th from 6-9pm at the ILA Penthouse and Rooftop Garden. The event will be hosted by CBS News' Vladimir Duthiers and NBC 4 New York's Kay Angram. Get ready to mingle with fellow journalists, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and witness the honoring of outstanding members in the industry. Tickets are on sale at www.nyabj.org, with proceeds benefitting our First Take program. Don't miss out on this unforgettable evening!
The Sidebar by NYABJ host JEWEL BENTON sits down with TAMARA PAYNE, co-author of the National Book Award-winning biography "The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X". As we commemorate the 100th birthday of Malcolm X, we also pay tribute to Les Payne—Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, co-founder of the National Association of Black Journalists, and Tamara’s late father.Payne shares her journey of completing the monumental biography following her father's passing, and reflects on the intertwined legacies of Malcolm X and Les Payne. Don’t miss this intimate conversation about journalism, legacy, and the enduring impact of two visionary Black men.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Please join us for the 4th Annual NYABJ Juneteenth Gala and Awards Ceremony on Thursday June 19th from 6-9pm at the ILA Penthouse and Rooftop Garden. The event will be hosted by CBS News' Vladimir Duthiers and NBC 4 New York's Kay Angram. Get ready to mingle with fellow journalists, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and witness the honoring of outstanding members in the industry. Tickets are on sale at www.nyabj.org, with proceeds benefitting our First Take program. Don't miss out on this unforgettable evening!
In this powerful episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, we dive into the realities of balancing motherhood and journalism. Moderated by The Sidebar's LISA DURDEN, this conversation goes beyond headlines and deadlines to explore the joys, challenges, and lived experiences of mothers who are also journalists, producers, and storytellers.Joining the discussion is ABC News Senior Producer TAIGI SMITH, NBC 4 New York Reporter TRACIE STRAHAN, and journalist and book collaborator JEANNINE AMBER. Together, they unpack everything from their joyous journeys to motherhood to the emotional toll of postpartum depression. These phenomenal women drop gems, offer encouraging words of advice, and share real-world tips and takeaways for navigating both the newsroom and nursery.Whether you're a working mom, aspiring journalist, or simply curious about how motherhood fuels media-making, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a reminder that our stories matter—because we’re shaping how our communities stay informed, empowered, and inspired.(Note: This episode was recorded on May 6th, 2025)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Please join us for the 4th Annual NYABJ Juneteenth Gala and Awards Ceremony on Thursday June 19th from 6-9pm at the ILA Penthouse and Rooftop Garden. The event will be hosted by CBS News' Vladimir Duthiers and NBC 4 New York's Kay Angram. Get ready to mingle with fellow journalists, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and witness the honoring of outstanding members in the industry. Tickets are on sale at www.nyabj.org, with proceeds benefitting our First Take program. Don't miss out on this unforgettable evening!
In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, we go back to our March 2025 panel and uncover the world of sports journalism. New York Association of Black Journalists President BONITA SOSTRE is joined by panelists from all corners of CBS Sports: On-Air Reporter KEIANA MARTIN, Senior Director of CBS Sports' Race & Culture Unit DAVID CUMMINGS, CBSSports.com Basketball Writer JASMYN WIMBISH, and Associate Director/Associate Producer JUSTIN HALEY.Listen in for a candid discussion insight one of the industry's leading sports outlets, filled with stories from the arenas, stadiums, and ballparks near and far that captured in the newsrooms and studios of CBS Sports. (Note: This episode was recorded on March 4th, 2025)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Please join us for the 4th Annual NYABJ Juneteenth Gala and Awards Ceremony on Thursday June 19th from 6-9pm at the ILA Penthouse and Rooftop Garden. The event will be hosted by CBS News' Vladimir Duthiers and NBC 4 New York's Kay Angram. Get ready to mingle with fellow journalists, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and witness the honoring of outstanding members in the industry. Tickets are on sale at www.nyabj.org, with proceeds benefitting our First Take program. Don't miss out on this unforgettable evening!
Hair has become a political statement in a society that designates what's professional, appropriate, and beautiful. Decades show patterns of hair discrimination in workplaces and schools, especially when it comes to Black and Brown individuals. As policy advocates shed light on hair as a civil rights issue through legislation, media professionals take on the industry to expand the definition of "good hair." THE SIDEBAR BY NYABJ producer KATHRYN JONES speaks to the CROWN Coalition co-creator DR. ADJOA B. ASAMOAH, KSLA chief investigative reporter and anchor ASHLEY GRAHAM, marketing and content strategist SAMANTHA RODRIGUEZ-LAMPKINS, and beauty editor and branded content expert JAZMINE A. ORTIZ.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
We're dropping an extra special episode of "The Sidebar by NYABJ" this week, featuring students from our annual First Take program. Since 1988, First Take is our seven-week program for high schoolers across the New York City Metro Area to introduce them to various aspects and careers in journalism.Recorded on the final day of the program, the students reflect on what they learned throughout the experience.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Aside from Princess Tiana in Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog,” little Black girls rarely ever get to see princesses that look like them—and princess stories from the Caribbean are rarer still. So when ELDONIE MASON’s 5-year-old niece told her she couldn’t be a princess because they were white with long hair, Mason got to work writing a book with a beautiful Black girl as a princess. The result is “The Adventures of Princess Anyah of Antibarba: The Fishing Expedition” and Sidebar host KIZZY COX spoke with Mason, who’s originally from Antigua, about the importance of telling Caribbean stories, how her company Predestined Media is aiming to bring more Caribbean content to the forefront and how she’s balancing her entrepreneurial ventures with her full-time career as a lawyer in entertainment, business, fashion and estate planning. Her hard work has yielded numerous accolades including the 2025 Caribbean Boss Lady Award from Carib Biz Network for her vision and positive impact in her field.In honor of Women’s History Month, Mason’s dedication to Caribbean culture, Black representation and Black financial literacy serves as an inspiring example of the myriad ways women effect change.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, we go back to our Media Mavericks panel from last December, holding an enlightening discussion on pursuing freelancing opportunities in media and public relations. The panel, consisting of Vice President of Development & Original Production, Scripted ASHLEY MCFARLIN, established hip-hop publicist BEVERLY PAIGE, and freelance communications consultant GABRIELLE PICKENS, was moderated by NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE, with a special introduction by chapter Member-at-Large CYNTHIA HORNER (a media maverick in her own right). Listen in and get inspired to blaze your own path in the wide world of media!(NOTE: This was recorded on December 3, 2024)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Violent and systemic voter suppression has kept communities of color from the voting booth. But perhaps as generations turn to more innovative platforms than years past, voter suppression has taken up a more covert form. The greater accessibility and reach of today’s communication methods allow someone aiming to keep voters from the polls the greater means to do so. Even a casual post on the Internet today can accidentally bring the voter turnout down. A comment by a human-like bot might tell a lie about a candidate. A podcast could exclaim that elections are pointless and all candidates are the same. Or video from a classmate from high school could portray the length of a polling center line. Anti-voting influencers make the polls seem mundane, tedious, and ineffective to those able to cast ballots. Black Voters Matter Fund’s CLIFF ALBRIGHT and Scripps News national news and disinformation correspondent KADIA TUBMAN join The Sidebar by NYABJ’s KATHRYN JONES to discuss the media actors telling Americans to skip the voting booth.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
The year 2024 was one of the most memorable years in recent memory whether it was in news, politics, sports, entertainment, and everywhere else in between. This also applied to The Sidebar by NYABJ, in our third season broaching topics within journalism through the lens of Black mediamakers. From the impact of AI on the industry to navigating romance as a journalist, we covered it all. We also welcomed voices from the worlds of comedy, politics, music, fashion, food, and more.Join host and producer MICHAEL W. RAY as we look back at all of our favorite episodes. Whether you are a loyal listener or just being introduced to The Sidebar, let this episode be your guide to revisit our podcast's most memorable moments of 2024.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Part of what makes the holiday season sensational are the memory-making, sumptuous meals that are part of family-cherished traditions. For this "Food, Love, Feast Holiday" episode to end our third season of The Sidebar, our own SONJA D. GRACY dishes with Celebrity Chef DELILAH WINDER, creator of the "Delilah's Everyday Soul" franchise and author of "Delilah's Everyday SOUL: Southern Cooking with Style cookbook, to learn the secrets behind her soulful cooking!---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar, we revisit October’s PR Power Hour, hosted by TRACEY WOOD MENDELSOHN, President of the Black PR Society of New York. The discussion featured Whit PR founder DREENA WHITFIELD, Dow Jones publicist JADEN JULES, and AVOQ senior associate ARIEL SMITH. From leveraging AI tools and crafting effective press releases to the importance of mentorship, networking, and building strong media relationships, this episode is packed with actionable advice for communications professionals. Whether you're new to the field or looking to advance your career, their stories and strategies will inspire you to take your public relations game to the next level.(NOTE: This was recorded on October 16, 2024)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Join us for our Winter Wonderland Holiday Party on December 11th from 7-9 PM at Manhattan Mirage! Indulge in specialty cocktails, delicious food, an ugly sweater contest and more festive fun! All while enjoying music from our featured DJ, former NYABJ President Vance Lang.We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Visit the link below to purchase your tickets today:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nyabj-winter-wonderland-holiday-party-tickets-1052976229247?aff=oddtdtcreatorSpecial thanks to our event sponsors Doc's Cake Shop (@docs_cake_shop) and ButACake (@butacake)
Good news isn’t always good news. And for audiences fixated on trauma, the news industry provides an on-and-off switch for the consumption of human pain. In a continuation of THE SIDEBAR’s investigation into voluntary trauma consumption, producer KATHRYN JONES speaks with NYU Associate Professor in Media, Culture and Communications KELLI MOORE. MOORE’s research focuses on images of domestic violence, forensics, media’s relationship with legal evidence, and Black screen culture. The associate professor is also the author of book "Legal Spectatorship: Slavery and the Visual Culture of Domestic Violence". Together, we examine what role graphic images play in the public’s lives and what happens when given the option to willingly tune in.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Join us for our Winter Wonderland Holiday Party on December 11th from 7 PM to 9 PM at Manhattan Mirage! Indulge in specialty cocktails, delicious food, an ugly sweater contest and more festive fun! All while enjoying music from our featured DJ, former NYABJ President Vance Lang.We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Visit the link below to purchase your tickets today:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nyabj-winter-wonderland-holiday-party-tickets-1052976229247?aff=oddtdtcreator
The star-studded Urbanworld Film Festival is right around the corner, and NYABJ’s GAËLLE GILLES caught up with Festival Director and Head of Programming KAREN MCMULLEN to discuss the exciting details of the upcoming 5-day event.Karen highlighted standout features of this year’s festival, including the adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s novel "Nickel Boys", the jaw-dropping story of Moses “Shyne” Barrow in "The Honorable Shyne", and many more. Now in its 28th year, the festival continues its legacy of showcasing impactful stories from creators around the world. Don’t miss this episode or the upcoming festival—it’s your chance to experience this world-renowned industry event!---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Join us for our Winter Wonderland Holiday Party on December 11th from 7 PM to 9 PM at Manhattan Mirage! Indulge in specialty cocktails, delicious food, an ugly sweater contest and more festive fun! All while enjoying music from our featured DJ, former NYABJ President Vance Lang.We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Visit the link below to purchase your tickets today:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nyabj-winter-wonderland-holiday-party-tickets-1052976229247?aff=oddtdtcreator
In this special episode of "The Sidebar by NYABJ", legendary music producer JAMES "JIMMY JAM" HARRIS and author ANDREA SWENSSON come together to discuss the new book "Deeper Blues: The Life, Songs, and Salvation of Cornbread Harris", which chronicles the life of James "Cornbread" Harris, a pioneering musician and Jimmy Jam's father. Speaking with host MICHAEL W. RAY, Jimmy Jam opens up about reuniting with his father after 35 years of separation and Swensson talks about the process of capturing the story of "Cornbread" Harris. Join us as we explore the powerful themes of reconciliation, family legacies, and the enduring influence of music across generations.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
News doesn’t have a reputation for being cheery. Oftentimes, headlines detail the horrors and hardships of our lives, and audiences are left with reels of human pain and suffering. There’s always news avoidance to filter out the trauma. But not all readers do so. Instead, some eagerly sift through the graphic and gory. Social media’s made trauma retweetable, and news coverage continues to be a main supplier of shareable trauma.In this week’s episode, The Sidebar by NYABJ Producer KATHRYN JONES explores the trauma consumption phenomenon with Axios Local Managing Editor DELANO MASSEY. Together, we investigate trauma news’ role in true-crime passion, civil rights movements, and preserving history.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
With Election Day coming up quickly and the intense focus on the top of the ballot, the stories of those on the down-ballot tend to be overshadowed, baring controversy. "The Sidebar by NYABJ" producer MICHAEL W. RAY decided to shine a spotlight on New York Assemblyman candidate MICHAEL A. REYNOLDS. Reynolds, a long-time resident of Long Island, growing up in Cambria Heights and currently residing with his family in Ronkonkoma, is running for office for the first time. The two had a candid conversation over why and how Reynolds made the decision to enter the race to represent New York State Assembly District 5, what he hopes to accomplish if elected, and the importance of Black voters making their voices heard.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
New York City, haute couture fashion, and the official extravaganza that IS Fashion Week, blitzed the town this week at the Starrett Lehigh Building in Chelsea.NYABJ's SONJA D. GRACY spoke with trailblazing, iconic Supermodel, author, reality-TV show, and ABC-TV Oscars Red Carpet Fashion Correspondent, ROSHUMBA WILLIAMS, who gives the scoop on her modeling career, the emergence of Black models and designers in Fashion Week, and the inevitable and historic connection between fashion, culture, and self-expression.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
We took a brief summer break to relax and celebrate our recognition as the National Association of Black Journalists' 2024 Chapter of the Year. Now, we're back with more episodes to close out the year strong.To kick things off, we're excited to bring you a live panel from April focused on meteorology and weather journalism. NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE led a lively discussion with three New York-based meteorologists: JASON FRAZIER from Fox News, TONY SADIKU from WCBS, and GUY BROWN from NY1. They shared insights into their unique career paths and what it takes to stay ahead in a field as unpredictable as the weather.(NOTE: This was recorded on April 17, 2024)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this insightful episode of "The Sidebar by NYABJ", we have a panel packed with expert advice on honing your interview skills, perfecting your resume, and navigating entry-level positions in both print and broadcast media.NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE is joined by ROBIN TURNER, Vice President of Training, Culture & Community at Dow Jones, and MIKE BOTHWELL, Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at Spectrum News. Together, they share invaluable tips and strategies to enhance your resume and boost your interviewing prowess. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from industry leaders and take your career to the next level.(NOTE: This was recorded on July 23, 2024)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
This summer marks 60 years since "Freedom Summer", a movement which sent 1,000 volunteers, the vast majority of them college students from the North, down to Mississippi to register Black people to vote. The movement was met with massive resistance and violence from white residents and ultimately, three of the volunteers: James Chaney, Michael Schwerner and Andrew Goodman were murdered. The publicity from the murders and the ensuing investigation revealed to the nation what Black Mississippi residents had been enduring for generations. After "Freedom Summer", President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law in 1965.The movement and its enduring impact proved fertile ground ripe for exploration and renowned documentary filmmaker STANLEY NELSON covered it in his 2014 film "Freedom Summer". The Sidebar host and producer KIZZY COX spoke to Nelson about the documentary, the current state of racial progress and politics plus how he’s opening doors for the next generation of filmmakers of color with his company, Firelight Media.---------A special thanks to our amazing sponsors of this year's NYABJ Juneteenth Gala and Awards Show!Art & Soul: HamptonsVIP Smiles - @drcatriseaustinVanilla Mozi - @VanillaMoziThe Winter Brand - @thewinterbrandSAFO Hair - @SAFOHairFloss Beauty - @Floss.BeautyBombas - @bombasTouched24 - @Touched24Owl's Brew - @theowlsbrewTastelli - @drinkTastelli---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
June is Black Music Month, a time to celebrate the rich history and contributions of Black music. In this episode of "The Sidebar by NYABJ," we present our live recording from earlier this month, where we delve into the state of Black music today.Join our host and producer MICHAEL W. RAY as he leads a dynamic discussion with creative director KWASI BOADI, music journalist and media personality BEBE FLIGHT, and freelance music journalist ALLISON HAZEL. Together, they explore the current landscape of Black music, its cultural impact, and their journeys in shaping the musical tastes that spotlight emerging artists.(NOTE: This was recorded on June 18, 2024)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, we're kicking off our two-part Black Music Month series with a special episode honoring the Mother of Black Music Month herself, pioneering radio personality DYANA WILLIAMS.Recently, the New York Association of Black Journalists chose Williams as the namesake of their annual Excellence in Podcast/Radio Program Award, in honor of her incredible career as someone who has set the standard for excellence in media. Known as a "hip hop whisperer," Dyana has a unique talent for helping celebrities from all walks of life present their best selves to the world.In a conversation with The Sidebar's MICHAEL W. RAY, he sits down with Williams to discuss her journey, her impact on the industry, and her ongoing mission to elevate Black music and culture.Finally, for the second half of our series, we invite you to join us for our live-on-Zoom episode recording, "The State of Black Music" on Tuesday June 18th, 2024 at 7pm ET. You can RSVP now for free at https://eventnoire.com/events/the-state-of-black-music---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 3rd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Scholarship and Awards Gala on Wednesday June 19th, 2024 at The Standard High Line, hosted by CBS 2 News anchor Maurice Dubois and national correspondent and CBS Weekend News anchor Jericka Duncan. Proceeds will go to NYABJ's First Take program for high school students interested in a career in journalism. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org.
Back in March, the New York Association of Black Journalists hosted a panel on one of the most crucial and criminally unsung heroes of broadcast journalism: the tech operators and managers that make sure that graphics are prepped, the cameras are ready, the sound is captured perfectly, and so much more. CatchCod co-founder and electronic graphics operator FONDA SANDERS hosted this enlightening panel behind the scenes, joined by fellow veterans in the industry, audio engineer IAN WEST, production specialist ARIEL GONZALEZ, and music and broadcast engineer RICH LAMOTTE, as they discussed how they got into the industry as well as the interesting stories they collected along the way.(NOTE: This was recorded on March 6, 2024)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 3rd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Scholarship and Awards Gala on Wednesday June 19th, 2024 at The Standard High Line, hosted by CBS 2 News anchor Maurice Dubois and national correspondent and CBS Weekend News anchor Jericka Duncan. Proceeds will go to NYABJ's First Take program for high school students interested in a career in journalism. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org.
The political sphere constantly calls on motherhood as a vehicle toward gains. From the abortion debate to book bans and school shootings to pandemic childcare, the definition of women and female voters as “mothers” inspires political campaigns, PR stunts, journalistic angles, and social media mobilization. The maternal pull on political communication has caused lawmakers, candidates, lobbyists, and analysts to skew the image of motherhood—bringing womanhood and wifehood along with it. Join The Sidebar producer KATHRYN JONES in an examination of the political storytelling of “motherhood.” She speaks to ELISE ANDERSON, the Director of Communications at Vote Mama. Anderson and the Vote Mama crew represent left-leaning candidates and research magnifying the political impact of mothers from school boards to Capitol Hill. Their roster includes senators, representatives, state justices, assemblywomen, and more.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 3rd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Scholarship and Awards Gala on Wednesday June 19th, 2024 at The Standard, hosted by CBS 2 News anchor Maurice Dubois and national correspondent and CBS Weekend News anchor Jericka Duncan. Proceeds will go to NYABJ's First Take program for high school students interested in a career in journalism. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org.
In this panel episode of The Sidebar, NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE moderated a discussion with "Jill of All Marketing Trades" AFRIYIE "FREE" AMANKWAA, JP Morgan Chase Executive Director for Global DEI Communications JILL DAVIS, and Senior Creative Producer SARA KETCHUM, as they revealed how they used their experience in journalism to pivot into a non-traditional journalism path. Learn how they used networking, highlighting certain skills, and other tools and tricks to create a career path that is tailor made to their specific talents.(NOTE: This was recorded on January 17th, 2024)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 3rd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Scholarship and Awards Gala on Wednesday June 19th, 2024 at The Standard, hosted by CBS 2 News anchor Maurice Dubois and national correspondent and CBS Weekend News anchor Jericka Duncan. Proceeds will go to NYABJ's First Take program for high school students interested in a career in journalism. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, our own FEMI REDWOOD speaks with journalist/technologist BASSEY ETIM, co-founder of the "Machines on Paper" newsletter on the growing presence of generative artificial intelligence within the journalism industry.Etim discusses his background in the newsroom through his work as a journalist, a product manager, and an R&D specialist to put together groundbreaking interactive news experiences. The two also discuss best practices to approach AI in the newsroom, and how to adopt the new technology despite initial discomfort to bring stories to the next level.For more information on Etim, you can visit the "Machines on Paper" newsletter at www.machinesonpaper.com.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Looking to build your online brand? NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE moderated a discussion with an all-star panel of content creators, featuring TATIANA LEWIS (@theskincarebarbie), DORISSA WHITE (@dorissatv), JACQUE REID (@jacquereid/@vegansexycool), and SABRINA BROWNE (@thetasteofs). The four discussed how they established their personal brands and balanced providing content that would attract and retain their sizable followings, while remaining true to themselves. (NOTE: This was recorded on November 29th, 2023)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
For Women's History Month, The Sidebar's SONJA D. GRACY spoke with author and historian A'LELIA BUNDLES about Madam C.J. Walker's life and legacy as America's first female self-made millionaire. The conversation comes with a personal connection; A'Lelia is the entrepreneur and philanthropist's great-great granddaughter.They discussed A'Lelia's experiences growing up with connections to Madam Walker, her journey of discovering and sharing her great-great-grandmother's story, and the complexities of Madam Walker's legacy in the context of the Civil Rights Movement. They also touched upon the historical significance of Madam Walker's move from Pittsburgh to Indianapolis in 1910, her contributions to the Harlem Renaissance, and her role as a patron of poets and musicians.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
We're dropping an extra special episode of "The Sidebar by NYABJ" this week, featuring students from our annual First Take program. Since 1988, First Take is our a seven-week program for high schoolers across the New York City metro area to introduce them to various aspects and careers in journalism. Recorded on the final day of the program, the students reflect on what they learned throughout the experience.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists and First Take, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
The Sidebar by NYABJ had their first ever live podcast recording back in February, as we had a spirited discussion of balancing the pursuit and building of love with the oft-unpredictable world of journalism.Moderated by podcast co-creator CAROLYN ADAMS, she was joined by Apartment Therapy Media Executive Lifestyle Director CHARLI PENN, Unknown Intimacy CEO BRENDEN DURELL, relationship coach and TV personality DAMONA HOFFMAN, and University of Louisville professor DR. ARMON PERRY. Whether you’re just starting out on the apps or in a committed partnership, you’ll certainly have something to take away from episode.(NOTE: This was recorded on February 22nd, 2024)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
The NYABJ commemorates Black History Month and the media-makers who have contributed to an illustrious culture. One such pioneer of Black stories, CYNTHIA HORNER, has chronicled the lives of artists, entertainers, and urban extraordinaires for decades. Under her direction, hip-hop and urban entertainment became prominent in the media, and news organizations embraced the authority of Black Americans to control the narrative of their culture. Horner currently acts as the CEO and publisher of Right On! Digital. In a conversation with KATHRYN JONES, Horner recollects on her journey, tracing back to her days speaking to icons such as Prince, Michael Jackson, and Beyonce in the early moments of their careers. ---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of "The Sidebar by NYABJ", our own MICHAEL RAY spoke with veteran writer and producer PAM VEASEY, discussing career which included being head writer for the sketch comedy show "In Living Color" and the showrunner for "CSI: NY" and "CSI: Cyber". She also talked about being behind the scenes of the paradigm-shifting "In Living Color" Live Super Bowl XXVI Halftime Show and its role in re-imaging the Super Bowl halftime show to the spectacle that it is today.But before that, we have a special message from NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE previewing the upcoming events the chapter has in store, including the Black History Brunch and the 3rd Annual Juneteenth Gala. For more information on upcoming events, including how to get tickets, visit linktree.com/NYABJ. ---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Kicking off our third year of "The Sidebar by NYABJ", we were honored to have comedian, actor, Emmy-nominated producer and writer ROY WOOD JR.. Roy took a few minutes out of his schedule to talk about his career and life with our own SONJA D. GRACY and MICHAEL RAY. What came out of it was an insightful conversation that you do not want to skip a second of.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
For our season finale before our holiday break, we leave you with our October panel on how to negotiate salaries and benefits. NYABJ Treasurer JANELLE GRIFFITH leads a conversation with Brunswick Group founder ERROL COCKFIELD and (former) Connecticut Public Radio Investigative Editor and current NABJ Vice President-Broadcast WALTER SMITH RANDOLPH on the do's and don't of the negotiating process. This is a must-listen if one of your New Years resolutions is a higher figure on your paycheck!On behalf of NYABJ and the team at The Sidebar, we'd like to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season and a fruitful new year. We'll be back with more episodes in January, so please subscribe for the latest updates, listen to past episodes, and leave us a great review. See you in 2024!(NOTE: This was recorded on October 26th, 2023)---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Meet one of the driving forces behind UPMIXER's 2023 Holiday Soiree and Starlight Awards, GEORGE "GEO" SAINTEUS. Producer CAROLYN ADAMS talks to the UPMIXER co-founder about the planning of this must-attend event, his entrepreneurship journey, and a Harlem homecoming. For more information about the event and tickets, visit www.holidaysoiree.theupmixer.com.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
THIS EPISODE CONTAINS PROFANE LANGUAGEWhile Thanksgiving has become a more controversial holiday through the years, many people still enjoy getting together with their friends and family on one of the few days of the year when most are likely to be off from work and school. In this episode, we celebrate some traditions surrounding Thanksgiving in many Black homes, from the foods cooked to the language spoken. We begin our conversation with journalists TRE'VELL ANDERSON and jarrett hill, who co-authored the book Historically Black Phrases: From "I ain't one of your little friends" to "who all gon' be there." The book celebrates hundreds of Black phrases while also offering historical and social insight into the value of language. We also spoke with Dr. Psyche Williams-Forson, a scholar of African-American life and a professor and chair of The Department of American Studies at the University of Maryland College Park. She's also authored several books, including Eating While Black: Food Sharming and Race in America. She breaks down the history of soul food while challenging some negative beliefs about African-American cuisine. To learn more about Dr. Williams Forson's work, visit https://psychewilliamsforson.com. To get a copy of Historically Black Phrases, visit https://www.historicallyblackphrases.com.For guidance on how to cover Indigenous communities, visit the Indigenous Journalist Association at https://indigenousjournalists.org.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Over the past few years, there's been an increase in journalists leaving their roles in a traditional newsroom to create their own news content on TikTok, Substack, or a podcast. They are joining what's being called the creator economy: people using various platforms to monetize their content. In this episode, we find out why journalists are leaving secure jobs to create their own content. We also learn about some academic programs helping to transition journalists into the creator economy. We dig into some of the challenges these journalists face. We are speaking with LINDSAY GIBBS, the founder of Power Plays; JEREMY CAPLAN, from the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at The City University of New York; and JAZMIN GOODWIN, a journalist joining the creator economy. Go to www.powerplays.news to subscribe to the Power Plays newsletter. In addition, you can learn more about CUNY's Entrepreneurial Journalism Creators program at www.journalism.cuny.edu/j-plus/entrepreneurial-journalism-creators-program/---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
As digital lures subscribers away, magazine staffers are in full force to revamp the industry. However, fashion media’s cult acclaim is too prominent to shed its print origins. To survive means to embrace new platforms while holding the coveted rules of fashion magazines sacred. In a multi-part series, producer KATHRYN JONES explores the state of lifestyle periodicals. We close our probe with the tales of leading Ebony and Teen Vogue toward digital-first fashion editorials, courtesy of MARIELLE BOBO and TAHIRAH HAIRSTON.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
Every year, magazine readers await the September Issue—a pinnacle of fashion trend forecasts, glamorous editorials, and exclusive cover stories. But is the decline of the print industry a threat to a time-honored tradition? In a multi-part series, producer KATHRYN JONES explores the state of lifestyle periodicals. We start with the historical perspective of O.J. WILLIAMS, magazine veteran in editorial, casting, and production; and JONATHAN MICHAEL SQUARE, visual arts professor and fashion historian. The two summon the impact of fashion media’s finest as a case for the preservation of cult classic magazines and their iconic work.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar, we talk with OLIVIA SANDERS, the host and announcer of African American Day Parade, as it is about have its 54th installment as a celebration of Black culture in New York City. Speaking with host MICHAEL W. RAY, Sanders share her journey, including her experiences as a youth, her perspectives, and the future for the African American Day Parade.---------The New York Association of Black Journalists are proud to march in the 54th Annual African American Day Parade, which will be held on Sunday September 17th on Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard (7th Avenue) between 111th and 137th Streets. The parade's pre-show will be at 11am on 125th Street, followed by the parade which starts at 1pm. ---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar, SONJA D. GRACY talks with legendary journalist, author, and NABJ founding member, DEWAYNE WICKHAM. The NABJ Hall of Fame Inductee, former Capitol Hill correspondent, and last surviving past president of the original NABJ founders' vanguard, discusses his life's legacy leveraging black journalists' presence, perspectives, and power in journalism from the Civil Rights Era to today.
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
With the 2023 NABJ Convention and Career Fair in Birmingham, Alabama, coming up, serious questions come to mind for the hundreds of attendees seeking to advance their journalism careers. What should I say when the interviewer asks if I have any questions about the position? When should I ask about salary or the hiring timeline? And how can I collect freebies without guilt?
As part of our Road to the Convention series, NYABJ invited ALEXANDER QUINCE, Spectrum News' Senior Director of News for Upstate New York, and MIKE BOTHWELL, Spectrum News' Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition, to answer these and other questions as part of a must-listen panel for anyone looking to make the most of their time at the Convention.
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.
This episode focuses on Black media startups and what it takes to make them sustainable. We sit down with data journalist SHERELL DORSEY, who offers candid insights into her process after announcing that her technology news platform, The Plug, would shut down after seven years. Producer and reporter JOYCE PHILLIPE guides the conversation, and the pair discuss the importance of claiming your value, building community as a founder, funding solutions, and knowing when to pivot.
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
In this episode of The Sidebar, host MICHAEL W. RAY talks to VERNON REID, the founder and guitarist of the iconic Black rock band Living Colour,
During this candid and informative conversation, Reid talks about his career, the history of Living Colour, and gives us a masterclass in Black music as a whole.
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, hosts MICHAEL RAY and SONJA D. GRACY talk to GARY HINES, the longtime director and producer of the three-time, Grammy-winning group Sounds of Blackness. Hines discusses the formation of Sounds of Blackness, the group’s new WOKE and Juneteenth Celebration releases, Black Music Month, and their legacy.
In this episode of the Sidebar, we kick off African American Music Appreciation Month and the celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip hop. We embark on a nostalgic journey through time, reminiscing about the momentous impact of hearing "Rapper's Delight" for the first time. Join us as we pay homage to rap pioneers and share personal anecdotes that capture the essence of hip hop's early days. Get ready to groove and explore the rich tapestry of this iconic genre.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 2nd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Gala & Awards Ceremony on Monday June 19th, 2023 at The Water Club, hosted by "Today" anchor Craig Melvin and "CBS Saturday Morning" anchor Michelle Miller. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org. Special thanks to our sponsors, Shinju Japanese Whiskey and Tasmanian Tiger.
NYABJ member and co-founder of the streaming platform Catch COD, FONDA SANDERS, talks with fellow co-founder KENDRA JAMES. In this episode, they talk about their path of joining together and starting a new service for independent content creators to expose and monetize their content to a worldwide audience.For more information on Catch COD, you can visit their website at www.catchcod.net, or follow them on social media at @catch_cod on Instagram/Twitter and CatchCOD on Facebook---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 2nd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Gala & Awards Ceremony on Monday June 19th, 2023 at The Water Club, hosted by "Today" anchor Craig Melvin and "CBS Saturday Morning" anchor Michelle Miller. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar, SONJA D. GRACY talks with filmmaker TONYA LEWIS LEE about her “Sundance Film Festival” award-winning documentary, “Aftershock,” a narrative expose of the black maternal morbidity crisis, and Lee's story-teller distinction she’ll leave on the film industry as a black woman, wife, and mother.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 2nd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Gala & Awards Ceremony on Monday June 19th, 2023 at The Water Club, hosted by "Today" anchor Craig Melvin and "CBS Saturday Morning" anchor Michelle Miller. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org.
For media and marketing professionals in women’s sports, dedication is no game. They must be passionate about what they do with what they are met with—undervalued and unfunded coverage. Basketball analyst and host LACHINA ROBINSON and freelance soccer journalist TAMERRA GRIFFIN join The Sidebar producer KATHRYN JONES to discuss their struggles and the moves they make to even the playing field for coverage of women’s sports. ROBINSON hails from ESPN, NBC, and SiriusXM as well as Rising Media Stars, an organization she co-founded to bring more women of color into sports broadcasting. GRIFFIN has traveled around the world, seeing how the power of soccer unites cultures and exploring the inequities athletes and coaches face on and off the turf. Her bylines on ESPN’s Andscape and Pro Soccer Wire examine the intersections between sport and societal issues.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 2nd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Gala & Awards Ceremony on Monday June 19th, 2023 at The Water Club, hosted by "Today" anchor Craig Melvin and "CBS Saturday Morning" anchor Michelle Miller. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org.
In this very special episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, we feature the Winter 2023 fellows participating in First Take, NYABJ's high school journalism program that has opened up the world of journalism to the youths of New York City since 1988. This semester, the students' capstone project was to create a podcast on their experiences in the program. Here's what they shared.-----For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists as well as our First Take program, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org. The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Daytime shows are a valued staple in American culture and, naturally, it's important to people of color that their voices and perspectives are adequately represented in this important media space. Thankfully, members of this community actually do lead the teams behind the production of some of the most recognizable daytime talk shows today.In this episode of The Sidebar, moderated by BONITA SOSTRE, NYABJ President, we feature three members of this elite group of executive producers: JAWN MURRAY, executive producer of the show "Sherri", starring Sherri Shepherd; QUIANA BURNS, the executive producer/showrunner of "Tamron Hall"; and SHANI BLACK, co-executive producer of "The Jennifer Hudson Show".The panelists discuss topics such as how to pitch a story to a daytime talk show, choosing what to feature on any given show, and the importance of building lasting connections and treating people nicely. They also emphasize the importance of networking and being remembered as someone who treated people well, as it will take you further than your talent ever will.---------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.---------Tickets are now on sale for the 2nd Annual New York Association of Black Journalists Juneteenth Gala & Awards Ceremony on Monday June 19th, 2023 at The Water Club, hosted by "Today" anchor Craig Melvin and "CBS Saturday Morning" anchor Michelle Miller. You can buy your tickets today at www.nyabj.org.
In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, we feature advertising mogul and UniWorld Group founder BYRON LEWIS and his wife, journalist SYLVIA WONG LEWIS, founder of Caribbean Life Newspaper (formerly known as Caribbean American News), Auntyland Film Festival, and Narrative Network. The conversation, led by our own CAMILLE DANIELS, focused on how both built their careers, why they pursued what they have created, and how love has helped them at this point in their lives and careers.
Given that food journalism is a field in which the black experience has historically been marginalized, the choice of a career in food journalism wouldn't seem like an obvious one for a person of color, as one might expect. Yet despite the odds, some seemingly intrepid people of color, motivated primarily by their passion and interests, have chosen this career path, made a success of it and are happy to share their war stories and secrets. This episode of The Sidebar features three outstanding food journalists of color, who cover the subject from different angles, including reporting, photography, blogging and podcasting. In sharing their experiences, they address such matters as why it is important to have black journalists in the mix of food journalism; how to develop and pitch food stories plus the dos and don'ts of writing and blogging about restaurants; how to create a unique blog brand; how they recommend a would-be food journalist start their career in the field and so much more. Some of the nuggets of wisdom that our panelists dispense in the episode include the notion that those new to the field should just stick with it when the going gets tough and to always keep in mind that the job "is a marathon, not a sprint"; also that they should read a lot from different places and from different angles and, above all, to believe in themselves and not be afraid to make mistakes. The conversation will be moderated by restaurant entrepreneur ADENAH BAYOH, and the panelists are KAYLA STEWART, the award-winning food and travel writer; JESSE SPARKS, senior editor at Eater and host of the One Recipe podcast; and JENNE CLAIBORNE, a vegan chef, blogger and author of the cookbook Sweet Potato Soul.The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
CARL UNEGBU, a lawyer and a journalist based in New York recently released his newest book "Comedy Goes To Court: When People Stop Laughing and Start Fighting". One of the comedians featured in Carl's book is none other than SUNDA CROONQUIST. Croonqiust has appeared on Comics Unleashed, Premium Blend, and The View. Both go into a deep conversation on the state of comedy and whether or not cancel culture should be cancelled.-------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
By all accounts, sports have long been a pretty big deal in American life and culture and, for media practitioners of color, covering sports can be a rewarding career path, not least because of the important place that people of color occupy in American sports. This episode of The Sidebar features five successful sports journalists of color who possess rather diverse skill sets and wear different hats as they navigate various media platforms while covering the world of sports, such as print, podcast, broadcast, sideline reporting and more. In sharing their experiences, they address such matters as what helped them get their start in their profession, how to build valuable relationships in the industry, how to pitch winning stories to the bosses, how to develop one's skills in the profession, how to apply for internship opportunities and so much more. The conversation was from our Sports Journalism Panel on November 29, 2022. It was moderated by veteran sports reporter RENEE WASHINGTON of ESPN and Fox Sports, and host of "Beyond the Headlines with Renee Washington", and featured panelists DEXTER HENRY of the New York Post; JACKIE RAE from the Long Beach Post; CBS Sports' DAVID CUMMINGS; and JUSTIN WALTERS from PIX 11 News.-------The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
The Sidebar by NYABJ team discuss the first year of the podcast and future plans, as well as what it means to have a platform to share the issues that matter in the Black journalism space. The episode starts with a brief introduction by NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE. The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Salary transparency has become the law of the land in New York City, which now tops the list of most expensive global cities. By requiring employers to include salary ranges on all job listings, the law is being hailed by some as a “transformative step toward wage equity,” but what impact will it have on Black and brown workers trying to keep up with the exorbitant cost of living? In this episode, producer CAROLYN ADAMS explores pay equity, earnings gaps and the pandemic with editor HASANI GITTENS (The City) and economist MICHELLE HOLDER (CUNY John Jay). Plus, we listen in to some taboo money conversations with our fellow Black journalists and media makers at “the ultimate creative homecoming”. For more information on NYC’s Salary Transparency Law, as well as to report violations or discrimination, visit: www.nyc.gov/site/cchr/media/pay-transparency.page#employment-protectThe opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
In this episode, producer and host MICHAEL W. RAY discusses diversity within the literary community and much more with Simon and Schuster's Culture and Diversity Officer AMANDA ARMSTRONG-FRANK, who has spent more than 28 years within the organization serving in numerous capacities.
Born and raised in the Bronx, Amanda takes the challenges presented by the position personally, utilizing life experiences (from both within and externally) to be one of the most effective and successful D.E.I. specialist in her field.
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
In the world of news, Black media makers are taking the world by storm with international coverage.
For media professionals on the international beat, news doesn’t stop at America. From foreign desks to embeds, Black journalists are unapologetically bringing multicultural coverage to the forefront. CNN International anchor and correspondent KIM BRUNHUBER is one such soul. Ever since he made the switch from local to world news, he’s decked his portfolio with stories on foreign policy, human rights, health crises, and conflicts. From villages and cities to disaster sites and Olympic grounds, BRUNHUBER’S passport is decorated with stamps. And at each destination, he strives to connect with people on a local level. He tells THE SIDEBAR producer KATHRYN JONES that the threshold for what media organizations and the public care about is limited and that it is vital to help Black international stories break through its thick membrane.
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Today's episode is coming against the backdrop of the current worries about inflation and a possible recession, plus the continuing struggles by members of the Black community with matters of "financial literacy." In this episode, our esteemed guests, who are members of our own community, will tell us what life's like for a Black business journalist, what it takes to succeed in their line of work and how to successfully navigate the issues around our own personal finances, including the importance of a "side hustle" and how to invest our money smartly.
The conversation will be moderated by veteran producer VICTORIA L. CHAPMAN, currently with the A&E Network, and the panelists are VALERIE COLEMAN MORRIS, former CNN anchor and author; DIANE KING HALL, CBS Market Watch; and JENNIFER STREAKS, senior investing reporter, the Insider."
"The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS
Today's episode of The Sidebar features JACKIE RAE, a journalist of both print and visual disciplines for the Long Beach Post in Long Beach, California, who also serves as the VP of Operations for the Black-owned-and-operated Nitecast Media
Jackie sat down recently with NYABJ member MICHAEL W. RAY to discuss her life, from her early years growing up in Colorado to her winding scarcely paved route to a career in print and visual journalism.
Sustainability has become an important topic within the fashion industry. During this September NYFW, the Conscious Fashion Campaign honored the women who are leading the conversation.
In this episode, IMANI LATORTUE speaks with September advisory member TARA DONALDSON (Executive Editor, WWD) about fashion journalism’s role in covering sustainability and highlighting true changemakers. Conscious Fashion Campaign September honoree, TEJU ADISA-FARRAR (writer, geographer, researcher connector) talks about her passion for sustainability and environmental equity. Teju also offers tips for all of us to do our part to create change in our own everyday lives. To learn more about Teju’s work, you can visit www.tejuadisafarrar.com.
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Networking and mentorship are critical components of diversifying newsrooms, especially with the limited number of black faces at media companies. But as you comb through post-convention herds of business cards galore, making the first step towards meaningful connections seems like a daunting task. Rest assured, The Sidebar by NYABJ has you covered. This week’s episode features MSNBC Senior Producer JEFF JOHNSON, an enthusiastic mentor to many in the halls of NBCUniversal, NABJ, and beyond. No matter what level you find yourself on your career journey, Johnson tells producer KATHRYN JONES what it takes to foster connections and make them count. Find yourself a mentor, a confidant, or future coworker with his do’s and don’ts of networking in media.
// The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
In this episode, NYABJ attended the press screening of "The Lady Makers" starring actress Jasmine Guy ("A Different World", "Harlem"), who talked about her journey in the making of this unique film. For more information on "The Lady Makers", you can visit their website at www.theladymakers.com.
// The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Summertime offers time for rest and relaxation for most, but news professionals often find it more difficult to disconnect from the 24-hour news cycle and back-to-back crises.
In this episode, we discuss the importance of regularly checking in with ourselves and our colleagues, explore how covering distressing stories impact us, and share simple strategies for self-care that you can implement today.
NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE sits down with DR. ADAIR F. WHITE-JOHNSON, BRITTNEY LARYEA, DR. SHAUN FLETCHER, SIANEY PAIGE, and NIJIAMA SMALLS for this timely conversation.
The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Thousands of Black and Brown journalists, as well as leaders across other industries, are expected to gather in Las Vegas for the joint convention of the National Association of Black Journalists and National Association of Hispanic Journalists. The #NABJNAHJ22 Convention & Career Fair, set for Aug. 3-7, 2022, is the premier conference for journalism education, career development, networking and industry innovation.
In this episode, TYLER CLIFFORD holds a discussion with NABJ President DOROTHY TUCKER and NAHJ President NORA LÓPEZ to preview what’s in store for this year’s convention, the first in-person convention for both groups since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.
Editor's Note: This conversation took place in early July.
// The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Have you dreamt of reporting on fashion and lifestyle? Did the looks worn at the Essence Festival in New Orleans this past weekend inspire you? This episode is for you! JAMÉ JACKSON (Fashion and Beauty Creator Manager at Linkedin and Founder of TheBlondeMisfit.com) leads this talk with four women making moves in this lane: KAITLYN WELLS (Pets & Style Reporter at Wirecutter), CHARELL STAR (On Air Host and Correspondent), MARJON CARLOS (Freelance Beauty Reporter and Host of "Your Favorite Auntie") and CHELSEA HALL (Fashion and Beauty Writer).
// The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
For Pride Month, NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE has a conversation with actor and producer MUSA JACKSON about his role in "Summer of Soul" (2021), promoting arts & culture in Harlem, and his trailblazing modeling career as a Black gay man. Jackson is the CEO and Editor-In-Chief of Ambassador Digital Magazine and has modeled for GQ, Vogue, New York Fashion Of the Times magazines and walked the runways in Paris and Milan for Jean Paul Gaultier. He starred in over 30 national commercials and was the first Black male model for The Gap in a national campaign from his beloved Harlem.
// The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Nonprofit newsrooms are rapidly growing across the country. So is the gap between trust in local and national news. What does this mean for Black and other underserved communities as they navigate everyday life? //
In this episode, Producer CAROLYN ADAMS sits down with AKOTO OFORI-ATTA of Capital B News to talk about starting and scaling Black-led news ventures, engagement journalism, and how reporting on gun violence continues to influence her work today. //
Editor's Note: This conversation took place at the end of April 2022, ahead of the tragic incidents in Buffalo, NY, Uvalde, TX, and so many other cities since then. Thanks to Alejandra Arevalo for additional editing support.
// The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
There are many ways to engage in journalism and tell stories outside of a traditional newsroom environment - and we're exploring options in this episode!
Bronxnet Reporter ARLENE MUKOKO hosted this conversation with CHRISTINA CARREGA (National Criminal Justice Reporter, Capital B), CYDNEY ADAMS (Editorial Lead, Snap Inc), ALLYSHA RENAY (Host of 'Get Away for A Day with Allysha Renay') and MUTALE NKONDE (Leader, A.I. For The People), delving into their non-traditional journalistic paths.
// The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
In celebration of Women's History Month, we invited four dynamic women to speak about their experiences as producers, directors and writers in the news and television industry!
NYABJ President BONITA SOSTRE hosts this conversation with NYT best-selling author ATTICA LOCKE (Little Fires Everywhere, When They See Us, Empire), TASH GRAY (Power Book III: Raising Kanan, P-Valley, Snowfall), NKECHI OKORO CARROLL (The CW's All American and All American: Homecoming, Rosewood), and ILIANA HAGENAH (AJ+, Vice, Teen Vogue, Elle Magazine).
// The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who expressed them, and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS.
Welcome to The Sidebar by NYABJ, a show about the world of media, through the lens of Black media-makers. Each episode will feature honest conversations with journalists, content creators, advocates, trailblazers and new voices alike - talking about what it really takes to keep our communities informed and engaged. Subscribe now to join us as we look behind the figurative curtain for insights - straight from the source.
Music: "Phases (Instrumental)" by HoliznaRAPS