#WeNeedToTalk: Recent Episodes
Malynda Hale
WeNeedToTalk is hosted by singer and activist Malynda Hale. Leading with the motto that everything begins with a conversation, #WeNeedToTalk is centered around heartfelt one on one conversations, with an emphasis on social justice, politics, religion, society, and culture. Listeners will enjoy meaningful discussions with Malynda and a variety of special guests.
For years and neraly 200 episodes, #WeNeedToTalk comes to an end.
Happy Holidays to all of my amazing listeners and supporters. For the last 4 years I have had the opportunity to bring to you some incredible conversations, unbelievable guests, education and knowledge about things that mattered so much to me. And for the last 4 years I’ve solely done everything on my own! Sometimes people are surprised to hear that but it’s true. From producing to editing, to even booking and scheduling. #WeNeedToTalk has been my labor of love and a true passion project. But after nearly 200 episodes and over 130 guests it’s time for this iteration of #WeNeedToTalk to end. That doesn’t mean #WeNeedToTalk will not come back in some form one way or another. But it does mean that for I must hit the pause button and seek out other ventures that fulfill me the way this show has. I can’t begin to tell you that having my show grow from a couple hundred downloads to nearly 5k downloads a month with little to not advertising, and being a one woman operation has been humbling and filled me with gratitude. I doubt myself alot but I do know that I was good at this. I loved having conversations with people and learning. I walked away from these conversations a better person and I hope you did to. If you aren’t already following me on social media please do. And pleass share episodes that resonated with you with others. This isn’t a good bye but simple a “until next time” Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the last 4 years! And remember, everything begins with a conversation!
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On this Episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Sleuth App startup founder, Sehreen Ali Noor. They discuss parenting, medical care, why she created the app and how parents need more support. Sehreen is the co-founder of Sleuth, an app that enables parents to understand, manage, and predict their child's health. Backed by investors like Gary Vaynerchuk, Sleuth is the first platform to combine crowdsourced health histories with AI to give parents comprehensive, evidence-backed information about their kid's health and development that can be taken to a pediatrician. Sehreen is passionate about supporting founders, serving on the leadership team of VC Backed Moms (300 founders, $2B+ raised) and an EIR at Brown University. The journey to Sleuth is inspired by her struggle navigating her daughter's health and she is a vocal advocate for more inclusive policies towards all kids, especially ones with medical and special needs.
All Listeners of #WeNeedToTalk can use the promo code: Malynda20 for 20% discount. To download the app click here: Sleuth.
#WeNeedToTalk is hosted by singer, songwriter, actress and activist Malynda Hale. She won “Best Female Vocalist” at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards, “Best Pop Music Video” at the Indie Music Channel Awards, and “Pop Song of the Year” at The Josie Music Awards. She has been a headliner for the NAMM show, has opened for artists such as Tyrone Wells, Ernie Halter, Levi Kreis, OTOWN and Smokey Robinson and sung background for Melissa Manchester, Terron Brooks and Foreigner. She has toured the world as a guest entertainer on cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Regent, and Celebrity. She has also sung the national anthem numerous times for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Lakers, LA Galaxy, and the California Democratic National Convention. She recently had music featured on the CBS hit soap opera, The Bold and the Beautiful as well as the Disney channel TV show Saturdays. She was also a featured soloist in WhyHunger’s: Drum Together version of The Beatles classic “Come Together”. The project featured over 100 drummers and musicians including Ringo Starr and a featured soloist for the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra. She has appeared in numerous stage productions, national commercials, independent films and TV movies.She hosts the #WeNeedToTalk Podcast that is centered around meaningful conversations, is the owner of JMV Entertainment and a proud member of AEA, SAG-AFTRA and NARAS.
Website: www.malyndahale.com | Instagram: @malyndahale | Twitter & Threads: @malyndahale | TikTok: @malyndahale
On this episode of #WeNeedtoTalk, Malynda chats with Psychotherapist and Author Matthias Roberts. The two discuss his personal faith journey, the future of the church, reclaming your faith and his new book Holy Runaways.
Matthias Roberts (he/him) is a psychotherapist specializing in religious and spiritual trauma and the author of Beyond Shame: Creating a Healthy Sex Life on Your Own Terms. He hosts Queerology: A Podcast on Belief and Being and holds two master's degrees from The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, one in theology and culture, and one in counseling psychology. His work has been featured by O: The Oprah Magazine, Bustle, Woman's Day, Sojourners, The Seattle Times, and many others. He lives in Seattle.
Website: matthiasroberts.com/ | Instagram: matthiasroberts/ | Twitter: matthiasroberts | Facebook: matthiasroberts
#WeNeedToTalk is hosted by singer, songwriter, actress and activist Malynda Hale. She won “Best Female Vocalist” at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards, “Best Pop Music Video” at the Indie Music Channel Awards, and “Pop Song of the Year” at The Josie Music Awards. She has been a headliner for the NAMM show, has opened for artists such as Tyrone Wells, Ernie Halter, Levi Kreis, OTOWN and Smokey Robinson and sung background for Melissa Manchester, Terron Brooks and Foreigner. She has toured the world as a guest entertainer on cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Regent, and Celebrity. She has also sung the national anthem numerous times for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Lakers, LA Galaxy, and the California Democratic National Convention. She recently had music featured on the CBS hit soap opera, The Bold and the Beautiful as well as the Disney channel TV show Saturdays. She was also a featured soloist in WhyHunger’s: Drum Together version of The Beatles classic “Come Together”. The project featured over 100 drummers and musicians including Ringo Starr and a featured soloist for the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra. She has appeared in numerous stage productions, national commercials, independent films and TV movies.She hosts the #WeNeedToTalk Podcast that is centered around meaningful conversations, is the owner of JMV Entertainment and a proud member of AEA, SAG-AFTRA and NARAS.
Website: www.malyndahale.com | Instagram: @malyndahale | Twitter & Threads: @malyndahale | TikTok: @malyndahale
WeNeedToTalk Returns next week on October 9th! #WeNeedTo Talk is hosted by MALYNDA HALE. SHE IS A SINGER/SONGWRITER, ACTRESS, ENTREPRENEUR & ACTIVIST. Malynda was born and raised in sunny Santa Barbara, California where she began singing at the age of 5. At the age of seven she learned to play the piano, and by the age of nine, she was writing her own music. Her love for music and desire to make a difference in the world has led her to be recognized many times for her work. She won “Best Female Vocalist” at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards, “Best Pop Music Video” at the Indie Music Channel Awards, and “Pop Song of the Year” at The Josie Music Awards. She has been a headliner for the NAMM show, has opened for artists such as Tyrone Wells, Ernie Halter, Levi Kreis, OTOWN and Smokey Robinson and sung background for Melissa Manchester, Terron Brooks and Foreigner. Pre-covid she was touring the world as a guest entertainer on cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Regent, and Celebrity. She has sung the national anthem numerous times for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Lakers, LA Galaxy, and the California Democratic National Convention and she recently had music featured on the CBS hit soap opera, The Bold and the Beautiful as well as the Disney channel tv show Saturdays. She was also a featured soloist in WhyHunger’s: Drum Together version of The Beatles classic “Come Together”. The project featured over 100 drummers and musicians including Ringo Starr.
As an actress she has appeared in stage productions of Once of This Island, Dreamgirls, and Bye Bye Birdie as well as numerous national commercials, independent films and the Lifetime TV Network movie ” A Hunt for Truth” alongside Willa Ford. Most recently she starred in a feature film alongside Loretta Divine and Amy Madigan and a short film with Danielle Beckman and Bobby Moynihan. She also played “Tanta Kringle” in the Troubadour Theatre company’s performance of “Santa Claus is coming to Motown” and The Soul Sister Fairy Godmother in Cindy and the Disco Ball, a 70’s version of Cinderella at the Garry Marshall Theatre.
Past guests on the show have included: Cornel West, John Pavlovitz, Shaun King, Kyla Pratt, Frederick Joseph, Richard Marx, Michelle Williams, Elisa Donovan, Jonah Platt, Sarah Jakes Roberts, Noa Tishby, Grace Semler Baldridge, Angel Parker, Dewayne Perkins, Nick Jones Jr., and more!
Because of her love for telling people’s stories, in January 2021 she created the Black Voices Heard Project, an ongoing video and photo series that seeks to amplify the experiences of Black Americans. Through this project, it is her hope that the negative perceptions of the Black community will be dismantled and the door will open for more understanding and empathy.
Malynda uses her voice through her music and social media presence as an educating activist to effect change within social justice, female empowerment, LGBTQ+ rights, veganism, the Black Lives Matter movement, Antisemitism and Progressive Christianity. Malynda has partnered with many organizations such as ACE For Change, Vocal Media, and Yahoo to spread messaging on voting rights, climate change and world hunger and has been a featured commentator on CNN, ABC News Live & Good Morning America. She currently serves as a curriculum and development consultant for ROC Era, a nonprofit committed to providing arts and mentorship programs to inner city youth, she is on the board for the Religions Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and for The New Evangelicals Non Profit and is an assistant producer at the Garry Marshall Theatre.
She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, daughter, and dog. She is the owner of JMV Music Entertainment Agency and a proud member of AEA, SAG-AFTRA and NARAS.. When she’s not working she loves to binge watch a good Netflix series.
Malynda offers her thoughts to consider as a final episode for this season of #WeNeedToTalk.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats facilitator, public speaker, and touch specialist, Aaron Johnson. They discuss his important work of healing trauma in the Black community and practices his closeness as a way to break down barriers between people. As co-founder of both Holistic Resistance and Grief to Action, Aaron takes the time to hold the stories of black people around homophobia, transphobia, internalized racism, and those that are Chronically UnderTouched. Because the purchasing, selling, lynching, and commoditization of the sexual energy of black bodies is a part of historical and present American culture, the long term impact of those trauma stories should be acknowledged and held as a map for our collective healing. A beautiful, touching and informative conversation.
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On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Spirtual Leader and LGBTQ Community advocate, Mike Maeshiro. They chat about his personal coming out story, his faith, and what he feels his purpose is.
Mike Maeshiro is the founder of Numa, a spiritual intelligence organization that equips people in theology, spirituality, and faith. Mike is gay, an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, and a queer theology enthusiast. He is the author of the book #themikeboard and also travels the world teaching on queer theology, emotional health, and redemptive deconstruction. He is a social media influencer and thought-leader. Mike loves Japanese food, watching movies, playing volleyball with friends, and has a depth of useless knowledge of X-Men lore
WeNeedToTalk will return next week! Make sure to Follow Malynda on Instagram and Twitter @malyndahale
and TikTok @malyndahaleofficial
On this episode of #WeNeedtoTalk, Malynda chats with activist and founder of #WeWalkWith Shawn, Shawn Dromgoole. They talk about how his journey and fear of walking alone in his neighborhood, became a movement that has now created community and conversation, a foundation called #MoreThanAWalk. Such an inspiring story, you want to hear!
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On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with her mom about parenting and the current education system. As a retired educator and academic counselor Diane Hale provides her perspective and some nuggets of knowledge.
Enjoy this endearing conversation between mother and daughter.
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We are back to finish up Season 7 of #WeNeedToTalk.
8 more episodes to round out this season of the podcast!
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#WeNeedToTalk- @weneedtotalkthepodast
We will be taking a few months off and will return with a great summer series of conversations and a brand new season in the fall!
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On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Certified Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor and Fitness Writer Brittany Hammond.
They discuss what culture within the fitness industry how it affects the Black community, and how racial discrimination can show up in the gym environment. They aslo discuss solutions, the role of corporations and lack of access to healthier lifestyles.
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On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Comedian, Actor and Filmmaker Anastasia Washington. they talk about her journey being bi-racial, using comedy to get through hard times, and being a multi-hyphenate.
Anastasia Washington is the comedic voice of the future. The ‘bi-racial boss lady with curves, curls and sass’ is utilizing her many talents for good by breaking down barriers and giving a voice to those who need it. As a Los Angeles native, she began professionally acting and singing at just 3-years-old and has since done everything under the show biz sun. Her lengthy list of award-winning talents have given her many titles including: Actress, Comedian, Podcaster, Writer, Director, Singer, Curvy Model, Comic Con Panelist, and Dance Hall Queen. She’s seen the industry at its best and worst throughout her career, and is now working to be the change she wishes to see in the world.
Anastasia utilizes her platform to educate her audience about topics such as Police Brutality, Eating Disorders, and Colorism. She incorporates her advocacy into her award-winning shorts including “What are you?” which touches on the struggles of expressing one’s identity as a person of mixed races, and “He Said, She Said” which tackles the topic of sexual assault. Anastasia constantly strives to take on these difficult topics and make the big changes needed through creative expression.
Her work can be seen on-screen in productions such as The Addams Family Movies and Die Hard 2, as well as previous hosting opportunities for WonderCon, San Diego Comic Con, LA Comic Con, Red Carpet Report, and more. She has also modeled for big-name brands such as: Nordstrom, NYDJ, Dickies, Mod Cloth, and Marvel. Throughout the pandemic alone, Anastasia was able to produce, write and star in a one-woman-show that played at the Black Voices Festival and Solo Fest called “50 Shades of Mixed: Confessions of your Ethnically Ambiguous Best Friend” and a web series called “Disordered”.
Currently, Anastasia is working on creating more stand-up specials, podcasts, feature films, and a self-help book. With the hopes of furthering the conversation of colorism, discrimination, and even bring attention to true crime stories. Noting, she is a member of SAG/AFTRA, WIF, and WOC Unite.
To kick off Black History Month Malynda site down with musician, filmmaker and activist Rob Young. The two talk about his committment to social issues, his organization Excus my accent and his advocacy for Deported Veterans.
Rob Young is an award-winning filmmaker, music artist, social entrepreneur, and humanitarian from Tacoma Washington. As the CEO of Young World Media and founder of Excuse My Accent and CEO of Dream Roots Creative, he focuses on creating platforms that invoke change through music and film, while spearheading inner cultural non-profit inititiatives.
Born and raised in Tacoma Washington to a family who owned the largest African art museum in the North West covering Africans from the diaspora, social entrepreneurialism, advocacy and the talent of writing thought-provoking lyrics is a birthright.
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INSTAGRAM | @officialrobyoung TIKTOK| @youngworldmedia YOUTUBE | @robyoungmusic
Today we celebrate the legacy of a man committed to change. Committed to truly making the world a better place. A man who at one point was considered to be the most hated man in America.
Malynda gives updates on #WeNeedToTalk and reflects on MLK's legacy.
For tickets to MLK Fulfilling the Dream for our Children please visit: www.fccla.org/mlk
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Happy Holidays to everyone who listens to and supports #WeNeedToTalk! We will be back Mid-January with a brand new episode!
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On this Episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with the President and CEO of The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. They chat about compassion for the Jewish community, his resonsibility as a leader, Black and Jewish Unity, antisemitism, the holocausts and more. This is a beautiful conversation that addresses many of the tropes and stereotypes plaguin the Jewish community today. Listen for understanding, education and awareness.
Rabbi Noah Farkas serves as the Federation’s President & Chief Executive Officer. Named by The Forward as one of America’s most inspiring rabbis, Noah served from 2008 to 2021 as a clergy member of Valley Beth Shalom, the largest Jewishcongregation in the San Fernando Valley, where he led successful innovations in synagogue life through social action, mental health, and next-generation spiritual initiatives. Previously, Noah served Congregation Beth Israel in Biloxi, Mississippi, where he helped rebuild the Gulf Coast Jewish community after Hurricane Katrina. Noah is a proven civic leader in Southern California. In addition to his work as an appointed commissioner and former Chair of the Los Angeles Homelessness Services Authority over a two-year campaign, he mobilized a broad coalition of synagogues, churches, and other organizations to pass historic legislation that invested over $5 billion into housing and services for the vulnerable. Noah is also a third-generation veteran and served as a United States Navy Reserve chaplain during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Noah’s core values include that the Federation support the entirety of Jewish life bycreating foundations for Jewish learning, supporting Jewish social welfare, protecting Jews from antisemitism, and standing with Israel. Additionally, Noah believes Jewse verywhere must be inclusive and commit to building bridges to other communities,join and convene diverse coalitions, and raise up the flag for social justice. A prominent voice helping to define the next generation of American Jewish leadership, Noah has served for several years as scholar-in-residence of the Federation’s Rautenberg New Leaders Project and a close partner to the Board of Rabbis. He founded Netiya, an interfaith organization fighting hunger in Los Angeles, as well as the Seminary Leadership Project, which has trained hundreds of Jewish clergy nationwide to create social change. Noah is also a founding board member of Zioness, a pro-Israel organization fighting antisemitism – including anti-Zionism – with the same clarity and intensity used to combat other forms of bigotry. His writing on millennial engagement, spirituality, and Jewish innovation has been published widely and his work has been quoted or featured in the LA Times, The New York Times, Associated Press, Reuters, TIME Magazine, Newsweek, and on NPR.
Noah was ordained at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America and earned a BA in Jewish Studies at the University of Judaism (now American Jewish University). He lives in Encino with his wife Sarah and four children. He is on Twitter at @RabbiNoah
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda talks with TV writer, Chas Jackson. They chat about how his path led him to be a writer on the television show Grown-ish, the adversity he faced as a Black male writer and achieving his dreams, the struggle of being a diversity hire versus being hired because you're qualified, and the importance of being able to tell authentic stories from the Black experience.
Chas is an award-winning slam poet from the Bay Area. After completing his studies in Writing for Television at UCLA he lived in Cameroon West Africa creating original content for MTN telecommunications. Chas wroteor the award-winning web series The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl starring Issa Rae. He was a Napa Valley Writers Fiction Fellow as well as an Official Selection in the New York Television Festival’s first script competition. He went on to win a development deal from the competition with One X Studios in 2016. Last year he was selected for the 2021 Disney Writers Fellowship. Chas most recently wrapped as a Staff Writer on the Freeform comedy GROWNISH.
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On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with the creator of The New Evangelicals, Tim Whitaker. they chat about the creation of the group, the church, Christian nationalism, what led Tim to being his deconstruction journey and more. A powerful conversation for people in flux with their faith or that are on the deconstruction journey.
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On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Social Media Influencer and Youtuber Joshua David Evans. They chat about his journey to sobriety, being liberal in a red state, the pros and cons of social media, and the importance of continuing to educate yourself on social issues. This conversation is important and so needed!
Originally from Georgia, Joshua studied music, acting, and entertainment at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. From there he went on to perform professionally in Broadway tours, commercial work, and eventually YouTube where his debut album reached the iTunes top 100. Joshua now works behind the scenes, helping brands and companies establish new media relations.
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On this Episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Activist and Digital Creator Barrett Pall. They share a beautiful conversation about advocacy, activism, antisemtisim and more. Barrett Pall is a Life Coach, Activist, and Digital Creator, who reaches over 2 million people across his social platforms. Throughout his humanitarian work he has traveled to all 7 continents, which lead to him being profiled by the UN at the UNGA in 2019. In 2016 Pall hiked 800 miles on the PCT, and since then his mission is to fully lean into helping the world heal. Barrett welcomes you to join his Love Army where together our purpose is to empower, educate, and inspire as many humans as possible.
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On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with American Idol alum, singer, songwriter and Host Miklaha Gordon.
They chat about her using music as a way to cope as a sexual assault survivor, the concept of forgiveness, the loss of her grandmother, how the pandemic affected her as an artist, her growth from American Idol to now and her latest album, "Vivian". A moving, and heartfelt conversation.
Mikalah Gordon knows how to take multifaceted to a whole new level. A Vegas native and proud LGBTQ+ Italian-American, Mikalah channels her love of family, her culture, and entertainment across music, comedy, acting, and as a TV personality/host. At only 17 years old, her time as a Top 12 contestant on American Idol Season 4 kick started her career with a national audience that took to her unique stage presence and powerful vocals. Mikalah would soon after return to Idol as a co-host for “American Idol Extra” and go on to create her own YouTube series, Idolatry, where she interviewed former coaches and contestants.
Comedy is also an integral part of Mikalah’s life, getting her stand up start in the LA Comedy scene— headlining The Laugh Factory and The Comedy Store—allowing her to return to TV in a whole new way, starring in the WB sitcom “Living with Fran” alongside Fran Drescher, and serving as a field correspondent for “The Tyra Banks Show” and “The TV Guide Network.” Joining the ranks as YouTube star solidified Mikalah as a comedic triple threat, with her viral portrayal of Melania Trump landing her on a recent sketch for Jimmy Kimmel Live to reprise her role alongside comedian John Di Domenico. Mikalah has also proven herself to be a skilled dramatic actress, previously starring in the CBS hit show “The Unit.”
Mikalah currently serves as the host for Channel Q’s Morning Beat, discussing the latest in LGBTQ+ news, pop culture, and entertainment.
Malynda offers some thoughts to consider on this bonus mini episode of #WeNeedToTalk. She discusses her thoughts on the artist formerly known as Kanye West,, Antisemitism, Anit-Blackness, Elon Musk and kindness.
#WeNeedToTalk full episodes will return next week with special guest Miklaha Gordon.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Global Leader and Senior Fellow of the Tel Aviv Institue, Hen Mazzig. They discuss antisemitism, zionism, Black Jewish Unity and White supremacy.
For a decade, Hen Mazzig has been an educator on Jews with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa, and credited by historians as the founder of Mizrahi Heritage Month.
Mazzig has appeared as an expert on Jewish issues on four continents, over 500 college campuses, BBC, SkyNews, TEDx, and countless Shabbat dinners. Mazzig's writing has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Newsweek, NBC News, Haaretz, The Forward, Jewish Chronicle, International Business Times, and numerous other publications. Hen was named in Algemeiner's top 100 people positively influencing Jewish life in 2018 and 2021, the top 50 online pro-Israel Influencers, and Top 50 LGBTQ+ Influencers. For his advocacy, he recently was awarded CAMERA’s Portrait in Courage Award. Hen Mazzig's first book, "Bad Jew" will be released in 2022.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with New York Times Best Selling Author Eleanor Herman about her latest book Off with Her Head. They explore the history of misogyny, how it shows up is everyday society, the hypocrisy of reactions towards men, how participation in one "ism" usually means participation in other, and how we as a society can begin to break down misogyny.
Eleanor Herman is the New York Times bestselling author of
Sex with Presidents, Sex with Kings, Sex with the Queen, and
several other works of popular history.
She has hosted Lost Worlds for the History Channel, The
Madness of Henry VIII for the National Geographic Channel,
as well as a second season of America: Fact vs. Fiction for the
American Heroes Channel.
Her latest offering, OFF WITH HER HEAD uses Herman’s signature wit and sharp eye to oust the unsettling pattern of misogyny impeding
female leadership worldwide.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda sits down and talks with Actress Tiffany Daniels, about her career growth, struggles of race and misogyny in the industry, how she grew into the Black culture being bi-racial, and the importantce of being on an all Black sitcom in 2022.
Tiffany Daniels was born & raised in San Diego, CA.
She graduated from the San Diego School of Creative & Performing Arts. Tiffany also began working at The San Diego Civic Light Opera at the age of 16, performing in a
variety of musical theatre productions.
After high school Tiffany attended Cornell University & received a bachelor of science in Hotel & Restaurant Administration. Upon graduation ,Tiffany received a dance
scholarship to Edge Performing Arts Center in Hollywood where she trained full time in different areas of dance, voice, & improv. After completing the scholarship program,
Tiffany began building a large body of work in multiple commercials, films, television & stage appearances.
She has also had the pleasure of dancing for both the NBA & the NFL with the LA Laker Girls in 2005-2006 & the LA Charger Girls in 2017-2018.
Currently you can catch her playing “Trish” (the mom) on Nickelodeon’s “That Girl Lay Lay!”
Tiffany has trained at the Master Level with Anthony Meindl's Acting Workshop, Stan Kirsch Studios, & Christinna Chauncey.
She is signed with BRS/Gage theatrically, A3 Artists Agency commercially, & Go2Talent Agency for dance representation. Tiffany is managed by Jeffrey Brooks at Redrock Entertainment. She is a proud member of Actors Equity, & SAG-AFTRA.
Malynda continues her conversation with Tylert Merritt. Tyler is the founder of The Tyler Merritt Project, and author of "I TAKE MY COFFEE BLACK: REFLECTIONS ON TUPAC, MUSICAL THEATER, FAITH AND BEING BLACK IN AMERICA." Throughout his career, Tyler has gained recognition through notable acting projects, including Netflix Outer Banks, NBC’s Ordinary Joe, and Marvel’s Falcon and The Winter Soldier, and serving as the face of the worldwide teaching curriculum The Gospel Project for Kids. Most recently, Tyler Merritt made headlines with his 2018 viral video "Before You Call The Cops," which has been viewed by over 100 million people worldwide and appeared on Jimmy Kimmel, MSNBC, and the New York Times. As a 6’2'' dreadlocked Black man living in America, where racial injustices continue to plague our society, Tyler has emerged as a steadfast activist in the face of racism. Follow Malynda on Instagram & Twitter: @malyndahale Follow #WeNeedToTalk on Instagram: @weneedtotalkthepodcast Theme song written and produced by Steven James
Season 7 of #WeNeedToTalk Kicks off with a 2 part conversation with Nashville-based actor, activist & cancer survivor, Tyler Merritt.
Tyler is the founder of The Tyler Merritt Project, and author of "I TAKE MY COFFEE BLACK: REFLECTIONS ON TUPAC, MUSICAL THEATER, FAITH AND BEING BLACK IN AMERICA." Throughout his career, Tyler has gained recognition through notable acting projects, including Netflix Outer Banks, NBC’s Ordinary Joe, and Marvel’s Falcon and The Winter Soldier, and serving as the face of the worldwide teaching curriculum The Gospel Project for Kids. Most recently, Tyler Merritt made headlines with his 2018 viral video "Before You Call The Cops," which has been viewed by over 100 million people worldwide and appeared on Jimmy Kimmel, MSNBC, and the New York Times. As a 6’2'' dreadlocked Black man living in America, where racial injustices continue to plague our society, Tyler has emerged as a steadfast activist in the face of racism.
Follow Malynda on Instagram & Twitter: @malyndahale Follow #WeNeedToTalk on Instagram: @weneedtotalkthepodcast Theme song written and produced by Steven James
WeNeedToTalk returns with a brand new season of meaningful conversations!
Save the date and be a part of the conversation on September 26th!
#WeNeedToTalk is created and produced by Malynda Hale
Theme Song written and produced by Steven James
Follow on Instagram: @malyndahale @weneedtotalkthepodcast
Subscribe to #WeNeedToTalk on all streaming platforms!
WeNeedTotalk wraps up Season 6.
A New Season will return in September!
Please subscribe, follow us on social media and remember everything begins with a conversation!
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On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Digital Content Creator, Podcast Host and Advocate Anna DeShawn. They discuss pride month, politics, LGBTQ rights, her new venture to amplify BIPOC and Queer voices and more. Anna, pronouns anything respectful, is a Chicago-born social entrepreneur who builds streaming platforms which center & celebrate BIPOC & QTPOC creatives. Media has always been her passion and in 2009 she turned that passion into a reality when she founded E3 Radio, an online radio station playing Queer music & reporting on Queer news with an intersectional lens. Most recently, she co-founded The Qube, a curated app where you discover the best music & podcasts by BIPOC & QTPOC creatives. Anna is determined to ride media into its next era by utilizing digital media streams to tell the stories and play the music that deserves to be heard.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with award-winning filmmaker, Rachel Myers. They discuss her newest project “BOURN KIND”. A film, social activism project and street art campaign, and built-in activation that explores the theme of connection and kindness, through the power of art and the work of artist Bourn Rich. Rachel Myers is an award-winning filmmaker, Time-Warner-150 Artist and Tribeca alumni. Her film Wendy’s Shabbat qualified for Academy Awards and was broadcast on PBS. She is a winner of Ovation, NAACP, Broadway World and Streamy Awards, and inaugural recipient of the Shondaland-Women’s-Directing-Mentorship, Sundance Co-lab, and a nominee for the Lynn Shelton Grant.
Rachel has been creating work in front and behind the camera for over 20 years in the entertainment industry as a director, designer and actor. She has collaborated in the creation of over 150 film, theatre and television productions. Rachel received her MFA from the Yale School of Drama and studied Theatre and Art at Pomona and Scripps Colleges and RADA the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, London.
WeNeedToTalk will return next week with a brand new episode!
Please take some time this holiday to remember those who have been lost serving this country and those that have been lost due to gun violence in the last few weeks.
Thank you for your support and we will see you next week!
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Equity strategist Tara Jaye Frank. The discuss the need for equity in the workplace, what led her to be in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion space and her new book The Waymakers that invites leaders into a space that will allow for equity.
Tara Jaye Frank is an equity stategist and author. She has worked with thousands of leaders at Fortune 500 companies to help solve culture-based and leadership problems and is frequently called upon to discuss timely DEI issues by top tier media including Business Insider, Forbes, HerMoney, and more. Here is an example of a recent broadcast interview on Fox4 Dallas and Tara’s inclusion on the recent confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson in Business Insider. This is a fantastic feature in Worth, which was included in both the print on online version.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Actress, and activist Noa Tishby. The two discuss the common misconceptions about the Israel/Palestine conflicts, the need for truth to be shared on social media, her new role as Special Envoy to combat anti-semitism, and her informative book on Israel. Author, producer, actress, and mom, Noa Tishby is Israel’s first Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism and Delegitimization. Noa is a keynote speaker and panelist; she has spoken at the United Nations General Assembly, and was named one of the 50 Most Powerful Jews in the World. In 2021, Noa published her first book, Israel: a Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth.
WeNeedToTalk will return next week!
Happy Mothers day to all the Mothers! Malynda will be taking this week off to be with her family but we will be back next week!
Make sure you like, comment and share and subscribe!
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On this weeks episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Actor, Singer , Writer & Director Jonah Platt. They talk about the struggles within the Jewish community to be heard, the rise of anti-semitism, being Jewish in the entertainment industry and what he wants from Democrats and progressives when it comes to speaking out for all marginalized groups, including the Jewish community. Jonah Platt is an American Actor, Film Producer, and Screenwriter. He is a multi-platform creator as well as performer, with an extensive background across many aspects of the entertainment industry.
On this weeks episode Malynda chats with Christian Investigative journalist Julie Roys. The two discuss her relationship with the church, her faith, what she witnessed in evangelical spaces that led her to her current work, and what she thinks the future of the church is.
Julie Roys is a veteran investigative reporter and founder of The Roys Report. Before that, she hosted a national talk show on the Moody Radio Network called Up For Debate. She’s also worked as a TV reporter for a CBS affiliate, and as a newswriter for both WGN-TV and Fox News Chicago. Julie’s book, Redeeming the Feminine Soul, published in 2017.She’s also written for numerous periodicals, including WORLD Magazine, Christianity Today, Religion News Service, and The Federalist.
For ten years, Julie worked for Moody Radio and hosted a popular talk show on the Moody Radio Network called Up For Debate. Prior to that, she had taken a 13-year hiatus from reporting and broadcasting to raise children. And in the 1990s, she worked as a TV reporter for a CBS affiliate in Indiana, and as a newswriter for both WGN-TV and Fox News Chicago.
Julie holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL, and a master’s degree in broadcast journalism from the prestigious Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.
Malynda welcome back Author and activist, Frederick Joseph. They discuss the personal stories that led to his growth as an advocate and his upcoming book Patriarchy Blues. They also discuss toxic masuclinity, anti-blackness and current events affecting the country.
Frederick is a New York Times bestselling author of The Black Friend and upcoming Patriarchy Blues and Better Than We Found It (2022), Forbes Under 30 list-maker for marketing and advertising, an activist, philanthropist, with over 10 years of marketing experience.
He is also the sole creator of the largest GoFundMe campaign in history, the #BlackPantherChallenge, which ultimately generated over $43 million dollars in earned advertising and media for Disney and raised over $950K and allowed more than 75,000 children worldwide to see 'Black Panther’ for free.
He is also the creator of the largest individual Covid-19 support effort, the #RentRelief campaign, which has raised over $2 million dollars.Frederick has been honored as the 2018 Comic-Con Humanitarian of the Year award and a member of the 2018 Root 100" list of Most Influential African Americans.
He was also a national surrogate for the Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders campaigns.Frederick consistently writes about marketing, culture, and politics for the Huffington Post, USA Today, NowThisNews, The Independent, amongst others.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Grammy Award Singer/Songwriter & producer, Autumn Rowe. The two discuss her recent Grammy win with Jon Batiste, her experiences of being a Black woman in the music industry and why creating music with a message matters. They also discuss how shes naviagted her identity as a Black Jewish woman and uses her platform for acitivsm and speaking out. Autumn Rowe is a Grammy Award Winner, for her contributions to Jon Batiste’s WE ARE that won “Album of The Year” at Th 64th annual Grammy awards.**
The legendary songwriter and woman of color has collaborated with some of music’s biggest name such as Dua Lipa, Pitbull, Zendaya, Nicole Scherzinger, The Knocks, Leona Lewis and Avicii! Autumn also wrote the dance anthem behind the 2011 FIFA World Cup “Happiness” featuring Alexis Jordan! Rowe isn’t just a talent songwriter, but also a celebrated vocal coach. She has appeared on season 2 of The X Factor, and as the only vocal coach on America’s Got Talent for five years, between the show’s eight and twelfth seasons. As if all of this wasn’t enough to keep her busy, Rowe is a talented DJ who is self-taught on turntables.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Married at First Sight Alumni Ryan Oubre. They chat about race relations in this country, how trust and faith play a factor in his life, what he learned about himself through being on MAFS, the portrayal of Blackness of Reality TV and why understanding someone else's culture and personal journey is important when you enter into a relationship.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Reverend Katey Zeh. They chat about her spiritual journey from being an evangelical to a progressive Christian, what led her to be an advocate for womens rights and her new book A Complicated Choice that details the truly complicated choice of choosing to get an abortion. Rev. Katey Zeh is an ordained Baptist minister and the Chief Executive Officer of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice. The Center for American Progress named her one of their top justice-seeking faith leaders to watch, and she is a member of the Clergy Advocacy Board of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. She has written for many outlets including the Washington Post, Sojourners, Religion News Services, Rewire and Religion Dispatches, and her advocacy work has been featured in numerous outlets including CNN, The Nation, and VICE News. Katey is the co-host of the Kindreds podcast and the author of two books, A Complicated Choice: Making Space for Grief and Healing in the Pro-Choice Movement and Women Rise Up: Sacred Stories of Resistance for Today’s Revolution.
On this weeks episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Actress and Author Cerina Vincent. They chat about what sparked her to write her new childrens book about race, skin color and diversity, how it's important to start these conversations with children early, and what she is still learning about herself and how she can make a difference!
Born and raised in Las Vegas, NV, Cerina spent her formative years growing up in a large, loving Italian family and performing in stage productions, musicals and beauty pageants. After hanging up her crown as Miss Nevada Teen USA 1996, she moved to Hollywood and began working in film and television full time. With her radiant beauty, strong work ethic and ever-so charming personality, she was quick to be noticed by major casting directors.
Cerina’s first major role was starring in the #1 kid’s series in the world during the late 90’s – “Power Rangers: Lost Galaxy” as ‘Maya’ the Yellow Power Ranger. She quickly went from a TV superhero to a silver screen siren, picking up a Saturn Award Nomination for her performance in the horror sensation “Cabin Fever.” Swiftly becoming a world-renowned on screen ‘scream queen,’ she went on to star in the films “Not Another Teen Movie,” “Return to House on Haunted Hill,” “It Waits,” “Monika,” “Tales of Halloween,” a mini-series for AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” the short film “Darkened Room” (directed by David Lynch),“Killing Eleanor”,and dozens of other genre fan favorites. Beyond SyFy/Horror, her multi-faceted talent has led to guest roles on dozens of hit comedic shows, such as “Two and a Half Men,” “Mike and Molly,” “Workaholics,” and “Californication.”
Everybody Has a Belly Button is a timeless and delightful book for babies and toddlers that teaches our youngest readers about skin color, equality, and equity in the same way we teach our babies where their belly button, nose, eyes, and toes are.
Cerina Vincent's effortless rhymes and Zoi Hunter's digital watercolor designs illustrate that “every body” is the same. And the subtle differences in our bodies’ colors (eyes, hair, skin) is what makes us all beautiful and special, “like a rainbow.”
On this Episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Author and Podcast Host Kimberley Johnson. The two talk about womens rights, her journey to becoming an active womens rights advocate, what she hopes for the Biden Administration and powerful women that are doing great work for the country. Born in Baltimore, Maryland and raised in southern California, Kimberley A. Johnson is the host of the Start Me Up podcast, an author, an activist for women’s rights and has written for HuffPost. She is the the Director of Media and Public Relations Spokesperson for the national advocacy group We Are Woman. Her first foray into fiction is a Young Adult novel inspired by one of her favorite authors, Judy Blume, and is titled Peyton’s Choice.
Follow her at @AuthorKimberley
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Author, Speaker and Human Rights Activist Asha Dahya. The two have an indepth discussion about choosing the life of an activist, differences in perception based on where you are from, having your voice heard as a female, why speaking out as Pro-choice is important and how people who want to use their voice can start.
Asha Dahya is an author, TEDx speaker and founder of GirlTalkHQ.com Asha was born in the UK, raised in Australia, and now resides in Los Angeles, California. She has spent the last 16 years creating, producing and hosting content for networks such as MTV, MSN.com, Disney, ABC, Nickelodeon, Fox, Nine Network Australia and more.
Considered a voice of authority in the feminist media space, she has delivered keynote addresses for organizations such as Accenture, UCLA and March for Moms. Asha has also moderated panels for UN Women, Mount Saint Mary’s University, EmpowHer Institute, Women’s Voices Now Film Festival, rePRO Film Fest, and Continuum Collective. Asha is a recipient of the Awesome Without Borders grant from the Harnisch Foundation, and the 2022 Creative Power Award grant.
Asha is currently in post production on a short documentary about later abortion, in development on a docu-series about global abortion laws with an award-winning UK production company, and hosts the rePRO Film Podcast interview series for the rePRO Film Fest. Asha is a board member of the Religious Coalition for Reproduction Choice (RCRC) since 2021.
Through her work, Asha focuses on reproductive rights, gender equality, and the representation of women in media. She is passionate about empowering women, girls and femmes to take up space, raise their voice and share their story with the world.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda welcome Senior Pastor of Middle Church New York, Reverend Dr. Jacqui Lewis. They talk about her journey in affirming ministry, current struggles within the Christian faith, reconciling with racism and white supremacy within the church being in an interracial relationship, and her new book Fierce love.
A powerful conversation that must be heard!
Rev. Jacqui Lewis, Ph.D. uses her gifts as author, activist, preacher, public theologian toward creating an antiracist, just, fully welcoming society in which everyone has enough. After graduating with an M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1992, Jacqui fell in love with urban ministry, leading two churches in Trenton, New Jersey. Fascinated with how faith heals the soul—so we can heal the world—she returned to graduate school, for a Ph.D. in Psychology and Religion from Drew University (2004). Jacqui came to study Middle Church, received a call, and joined the staff in January 2004. Middle is the church of her dreams and prayers, a multiethnic rainbow coalition of love, justice, and worship that rocks her soul.
In her activism, preaching, speaking, writing, and teaching, Dr. Lewis advocates for racial equality, gun control, economic justice, equal rights for all sexual orientations/genders and marriage equality. Because of her dynamic leadership, Middle Church was featured in a national broadcast on CBS. A Bold New Love: Christmas Eve with Middle Collegiate Church aired on December 24, 2018 to more than 1,000,000 viewers. Dr. Lewis has been on the The Today Show, All In with Chris Hayes, AM Joy, The Melissa Harris Perry Show, NY1, ABC, NBC, PBS, CBS and WPIX, where she recently covered the Brooklyn memorial for George Floyd. Dr. Lewis has been interviewed on Through Her Eyes at Yahoo News, 30 Good Minutes, Grit TV, the New York Daily News, Here and Now with Sandra Bookman, and appeared on the History Channel H2 series, The Bible Rules.
WeNeedToTalk will Return on February 28th! Follow #WeNeedToToTalk on all social media.
Theme Song written and produced by Steven James
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Activist, Organizer and Public Speaker Martin Henson. They chat about societal views of the Black community, different forms of activism, his work bridging the gap with Black Men and the Trans Community, how white supremacy fuels all aspects of soceity, and why he started his foundation BMEN that focuses on healthy conversations with Black men surrounding mental health, mascunlitiy, sexuality, homophobia and more. Martin has spent the last 10 years advocating for black lives and addressing the systemic issues that affect black and marginalized groups, through both conventional and unconventional avenues. He is an activist, organizer, and uses his training as a mental health counselor to add nuance to the way we support the livelihood of black people. Martin has engaged thousands of people around prison abolition, fighting white supremacy, and supporting black communities, through seminars, training and curriculum development, community events, rallies, and his work with the Black Lives Matter Boston chapter.
Martin is the Executive Director of BMEN Foundation, a nonprofit he started in 2018, because of his passions for building effective support systems for black men, community improvement, and activism. His nonprofit brings black men together to actively discuss and work through issues specific to black men, including but not limited to: mental health, healthy masculinity, identity, sexuality, homophobia and sexual assault.
Martin is also a restorative justice coach working with various schools in Boston. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, from the University of Central Arkansas.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Pediatrician and Social Impact Entrepreneur Dr. Omolara. They chat about the lack of Black female medical professionals, racism in the medical industry, obstacles she's faced and what led her to create Melanin and Medicine. Dr. Omolara Thomas Uwemedimo is a business development and funding coach for women of color in healthcare and serial entrepreneur, growing 2 companies to multi-six figures in revenue in less than 18 months. During her intrapreneurial career as a pediatrician for over 15 years, researcher & professor for over a decade, she secured $2 million in grant funding and has led inter-professional teams to build and scale healthcare delivery and research programs to achieve health equity for marginalized youth and families. Her work has been defined by a passion for social justice, serving as an advocate and working as a global physician across sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.
On Episode 4 of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Actor and Life Coach Eric Feltes. The two chat about spiritual growth, identity discovery, and how his experience with church trauma led him to create a safe space for other Gay men to free themselves and know that God loves them for who they are. Through creativity, courage and authenticity, Eric Feltes cultivates connection and tells stories in order to inspire others to love themselves and the world around them. In his professional life, he does this through acting and Life Coaching. Through his coaching program, Eric helps other gay men free themselves from Chursh shame, a topic in which he has a great deal of firsthand experience. Eric lives in Los Angeles with his dog Cadence and 20 houseplants. He enjoys hiking, reading, and writing.
On Episode 3 of #WeNeedToTalk, Malyn da chats with Entreprenuer and Talent Manager, Temima Shames, The chat about the hardships of being a female entrepreneur, how her childhood gave her a strong work ethic, how its important to talk about the journey of getting to sucess and why she chose to start her own company. Temima is the CEO & Founder of Next Step Talent. She hopes to inspire other aspiring entrepreneurs to follow her lead and take a chance at any age. From a young age herself, Temima was engrained with an entrepreneurial mindset. Growing up in an unstable household, Temima began supporting herself at the age of 12 and quickly learned the value of hard work. She spent much of her youth as a child actress, which is where she initially got a glimpse into the ins-and-outs of a career as a talent manager.
On Episode 2 Malynda chats with former Windows on the World employee Inez Ribustello. They chat about her narrowly missing 9/11, how 20 years later she has managed to heal, and her new memoir Life after Windows that chronicles her life in New York before, during and after 9/11.
Eastern North Carolina native, Inez Ribustello, got her start in the world of food and wine after moving to New York City to pursue a career in cooking. Her wine career took a huge leap forward when she became an Assistant Cellar Master at the renowned World Trade Center restaurant Windows on the World. In a very short time, she was promoted to Beverage Director, putting her in the position as wine buyer for the largest grossing restaurant in North America. The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 impacted her both personally and professionally.Having lost friends, colleagues, and her job in the attacks, she had to face her future.In September of 2021, Inez releases her self-published memoir Life After Windows, a book she has been working on for the past 20 years.
WeNeedToTalk is back for its 6th Season!
On the first episode of the season, Malynda chats with Broadway Veteran and Singer/Songwriter Terron Brooks. The two chat about what the new year means, how faith plays a part in his life as a performer, how he handles rejection, and why he's focusing on who he wants to be this year rather than what he wants to accomplish.
Terron Brooks has traveled many roads in his life and career. He welcomed 2021 by signing a deal with Mercia Records with distribution through SONY MUSIC/The Orchard Internationally.
A native of Southern California, he’s had the pleasure of performing with many artists including Stevie Wonder, Josh Groban, David Foster, Randy Jackson, Stephanie Mills, Peter Cetera, Lizz Wright, Yolanda Adams, Sheila E., and One Republic.
He’s toured with the legendary Phil Collins and Golden Globe and Tony-nominated star Matthew Morrison. He also opened for The New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys’ tour. As a guest artist for the Atlanta, Colorado, and Taiwan Symphony Orchestras, he has delighted audiences with classic songs from Disney productions.
His Broadway credits include Simba in Disney’s The Lion King and Seaweed in Hairspray. He was also featured in the World Premieres of Sleepless in Seattle: The Musical and First Wives Club: The Musical. For his role as Daddy Brubeck in Sweet Charity, Terron earned an Ovation Award nomination.
No stranger to television, Terron is widely recognized for his critically acclaimed role as the great Eddie Kendricks in the Emmy Award-winning NBC mini-series The Temptations. He’s also starred in PureFlix’s hit feature HavFaith with Gary Sturgis and Brooklyn Tankard. Additionally, he’s sung on The Voice, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, American Idol, and on numerous soundtrack albums including the Grammy-winning Hairspray, Tears from the Sun, The Adventures of Brer Rabbit, and ABC’s Gepetto.
Not only did Terron star in the hit romantic comedy All About You with the legendary Debbie Allen and Hamilton star Renee Elise Goldsberry, he co-wrote its theme song and contributed original material to the movie’s soundtrack, produced by American Idol’s Rickey Minor.
With the innate need to give back, motivate, and guide, he released his first book, Something GoOD on the Table: Practical Proverbs for the Soul in 2018.
WeNeedToTalk Returns on January 10th! Don't miss it!
Hosted by Malynda Hale
Theme song written & produced by Steven James
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and Stitcher!
On the final episode of #WeNeedToTalk-Faith & Politics, Malynda chats with her friend Author and Pastor John Pavlovitz. They discuss the current voice of Christianity, the lack of progressive Faith figures, how we can reclaim Christianity, and his new book If God is Love, Don't be a Jerk.
John Pavlovitz is a writer, pastor, and activist from Wake Forest, North Carolina. A 25-year veteran in the trenches of local church ministry, John is committed to equality, diversity, and justice—both inside and outside faith communities. When not actively working for a more compassionate planet, John enjoys spending time with his family, exercising, cooking, and having time in nature. He is the author of A Bigger Table, Hope and Other Superpowers, Low, and Stuff That Needs to Be Said.
On Part 3 of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Reverend Denyse Barnes. They discuss the differences in political and religious culture in The UK and the US. Why going into ministry was so important to her and what her goals for the church are in terms of how it plays a role in politics.
Rev. Denyse is appointed as senior pastor to Crescenta Valley UMC effective July 1st 2021. She is also appointed as Associate Director of Justice and Compassion Ministries to the California Pacific Annual Conference.
Rev. Denyse was commissioned as a provisional elder in June of 2018 and ordained in Full Connection in June 2020. She was appointed to HUMC as associate pastor effective July 1st 2018. In June 2019 Denyse was appointed 1/4 time to the Cal-Pac annual conference as LGBTQIA+ Advocacy Coordinator.
She graduated with a Masters in Divinity from Claremont School of Theology in May of 2018 and is currently studying for her D.Min where her thesis is based on a proposal for a new organizational structure for the UMC based on Celtic Christianity models.
Rev. Denyse hails from the UK originally, leaving there in 2003 and teaching English as a second language in various countries across the globe. She arrived in the USA in 2004 and has worked as a travel consultant and tour guide for adults with developmental disabilities and as an in-home hospice caregiver for Alzheimer’s patients and their families.
Prior to leaving England, Rev. Denyse was teaching computer skills to young people with severe epilepsy.
She married Deborah Levinson on August 1st 2020 and when not working, can be found with her dogs, Sheldon, Jiminy, and Mozzie at the beach or in the park!
On Part 2 of Faith & Politics Malynda chats with Brent Hodge about his 25+ years in full time ministry and what caused him to leave. They discuss his experience in the evangelical church, how politics made its way into the pulpit, and what serving as a Christian truly looks like.
Brent Hodge has been in Full time ministry for 25 years. His experiences ranges from co-planting churches and working as a Worship/Creative Director. For the last year and a half, he was the Pastor at a church in Agoura Hills and has now transitioned out of full time ministry.
On Part 1 of #WeNeedtoTalk-Faith & Politics, Malynda chats with Professor, Philosopher, Author and Activist Dr. Cornel West. The two chat about the intersection between faith and politics.
Cornel West is a prominent and provocative democratic intellectual. He is the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Professor of Philosophy and Christian Practice at Union Theological Seminary and holds the title of Professor Emeritus at Princeton University. He has also taught at Union Theological Seminary, Yale, Harvard, and the University of Paris. Cornel West graduated Magna Cum Laude from Harvard in three years and obtained his M.A. and Ph.D. in Philosophy at Princeton.
On the final episode of the #WeNeedToTalk-Motherhood Series, Malynda welcomes back Behavioral Scientist and CEO of Entertainment Mindframe Adaire Byerly to talk about her motherhood journey as an entrepreneur and single mom. They chat about the societal view of working moms, raising a Black son and how she balances career and motherhood.
Adaire Byerly is based in Houston, TX and the Founder and CEO of Entertainment Mindframe.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Motherhood, Malynda sits down with her longtime friend Gabrielle Sullivan. They discuss going through pregnancy, the "right time" to have a child, the stigma behind breastfeeding, why cultural awareness is so important and how she pushed through her grief in order to put her child's needs first.
Gabrielle Taryn is a momma, wife, singer and songwriter. She is also a mental health advocate and strives to end the stigma surrounding it. Gabrielle’s music can be heard on all streaming platforms.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk-Motherhood, Malynda chats with single mom of 3, DeAna Crosson. They discuss the negative perceptions of single mothers, how she survived medical negligence during her second pregnancy, what being raised by a single mom taught her, and her experience raising three kids on her own.
DeAna is a single mom of one teenager and toddler twins based in the Pacific Northwest. She is striving everyday to show her daughters how to be strong Black women.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk-Motherhood, Malynda chats with Sara Alvarez Kleinsmith about her experience with post partum depression. They also discuss the importance of asking for help, what it's like raising mixed race children and why cultural awareness is important.
Sara Kleinsmith is a writer, producer, and mother who lives in Austin, Texas. Her writing has centered on Latinx issues and parenthood.
On Part 2 of #WeNeedToTalk-Motherhood, Malynda chats with writer and mom of 3 Lesley Miller about her family dynamic throughout the pandemic, her families health history of surviving cancer twice ( her son and husband), why she continues to encourage people to get the Covid Vaccine and what it truly means to love your neighbor.
Lesley Sebek Miller lives in Santa Barbara, CA with her husband and three children. She's a writer, grad school student, and recently "retired" homeschool teacher. She is passionate about her faith, family and issues related to cancer awareness.
On Part 1 of the #WeNeedToTalk Motherhood series, Malynda chats with mom of 2, Savana Beal.
Savana offers her perspective on raising a child with special needs, navigating the world of disability rights and learning how to advocate for her youngest son who was born with a rare genetic disorder.
After he turned one, he was officially diagnosed. There are less than 60 cases of his disease in the world, so it has been a very lonely road. It’s a journey she never thought she would be on, but her story will reach many moms know who have had to navigate this space of motherhood not being what you hoped or dreamed for. Motherhood for Savana has been rewarding but challenging and her story is heartwarming.
WeNeedToTalk Returns January 2022 but get ready for two brand new mini series. #WeNeedToTalk-Motherhood and #WeNeedToTalk-Faith and Politics.
On the final episode of Season 5, Malynda is joined Yass, Jesus podcast Hosts, Daniel Franzese (Actor, Mean Girls, Looking) and Azariah Southworth (former host, The Remix on TBN). They talk about their personal journey's, how they knew God loved them, why they didn't walk away from God, and why they created a faith and sexuality affirming podcast that believes you don't have to pick between being Gay and loving God. Such a beautiful and powerful conversation!
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with the founders of United Stages Collective, Sam Cook, Madison Prince and Matt Coleman. They talk about the purpose behind United Stages collective, culturally what they want to bring to the states, the need for representation within Indigenous and Aboriginal communities and what the future holds.
United stages collective is aiming to bring aboriginal Australian creative excellence to Hollywood. Their goal is to bring a different perspective to the Film and television industry as well as presenting the industry with the opportunity for more intersection and collaboration.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda is joined by Comedian Zarna Garg. The two chat about her culture, her journey from India to America, how she found her way into comedy and her view of America.
Raised in Bombay and living in multiple countries throughout the world, Zarna made her way to the United States at the age of 16. After losing her mother at 14 and facing the choice of an arranged marriage or leaving, she journeyed to America on her own. Her experience immigrating from India to the U.S fed into her deep love for storytelling. She builds her career on her passion for having fun while also sharing her life in America from an immigrant’s perspective. After receiving her B.S. in Finance from the University of Akron and J.D. at Case Western Reserve School of Law, she began exploring her love for comedy and became a screenwriter. From a lawyer and a mom to award-winning stand-up comedian and screenwriter, Zarna now uses her signature style to highlight the immigrant and American experience.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Actress and Philanthropist Nikki DeLoach. They chat about her early start in the industry as an original 90's Mickey Mouse Club member, her reason for being an avid supporter of Children's Hospital LA and The Alzheimer Association, being open about her postpartum journey, and how she found her way to being a leading lady on the Hallmark Channel.
Born in a small town in South Georgia, Nikki DeLoach always knew she wanted to be an entertainer. She started dancing at the age of three, eventually adding singing, modeling and acting to her repertoire. All her hard work paid off when at age 12, DeLoach became a member of The Mickey Mouse Club, alongside Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Ryan Gosling. After “MMC,” DeLoach spent several years in Los Angeles pursuing acting and landed a starring role opposite Mark Wahlberg and Bill Paxton in the feature film Traveller, and the TV series Misery Loves Company. She also played Anthony LaPaglia’s daughter in the
television movie Never Give Up: The Jimmy V Story. In 1997, DeLoach put her acting career on hold to enter the world of pop music, signing with RCA and BMG Records to become part of the
girl group Innosense. When the group disbanded in 2003, DeLoach returned to Hollywood and has gone on to enjoy a successful and diverse acting career.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynd chats with writer/actor and podcast host Clark Moore. The two have an in depth conversation surrounding the entertainment industry, race, content from the 90's and more. An invigorating conversation you want to hear!
Clark is a Georgia native.
He is most known for his breakout role of "Ethan" in the hit Fox 2000 LGBT Teen rom-com, "Love, Simon" and for his recurring role of "AJ" on the CW's critically-acclaimed musical comedy "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend."
He is currently the host of "Soul Balm by Clark Moore" a podcast about healing and identity.
Clark graduated from Dartmouth College where he received a Bachelor's in History and Art History. He is currently conducting a research project in the School of History, Classics, and Archaeology at the University of Edinburgh with a focus on queer culture and identity in late-Imperial Russia. His research interests include material and visual culture, slavic studies, and queer history.
He has a background in Tech from his 3 years at Snapchat where he served as the Director of Community Outreach for Snap PRIDE and he consults for corporations and educational institutions and speaks on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
In 2019, Clark was the recipient of the Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Curve model and Actress Saje Nicole. The two talk about the body positivity movement, why it's important to find representatives for your career that align with your beliefs, and how the industry is working to change the perception of what beauty truly is.
Saje Nicole is a Model and Actress that is currently a finalist in the Sports Illustrated Swim Search 2021! She recently walked in Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty Vol. 2 Runway Show and can be seen in ‘Bad Boys III’ alongside Martin Lawrence and Will Smith. Saje has previously worked with brands such as Rare Beauty, SKIMS, Vogue Italia, Nike, Lu Lu Lemon, Savage X Fenty, Sports Illustrated, ILIA, and many more!.
Saje’s mission is to inspire women to pursue their dreams, and to do so unapologetically. She is passionate about advocating for size inclusivity and creating more diversity in the modeling industry.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chat with Emmy Award and Grammy Award Winning Artists Alisha Gaddis. They talk about applying activism to your artistry, the dynamic in her family life, how she maintains her mental health and sense of self, and what let her to write her book Mama's Milk and Me.
ALISHA GADDIS is an Emmy Award Winner (multiple nominations), multi Grammy Award Winner, writer, actress, best selling author, and producer based in Los Angeles. She is a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.
As a writer, Alisha and her writing partner, award- winning screenwriter Meg Swertlow, have optioned their romcom feature with Matt Baer Films and Four Leaf Films. The two are currently developing two Christas movies for Hallmark with TV darling/producer, Jessy Schram. Alisha has published seven books with multiple publishers to critical acclaim
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with American Idol alum David Hernandez. The two chat about his career journey, how coming out in 2016 affected his life and trajectory, what he learned about himself during the pandemic, and how important it is to stay humble.
David Hernandez gained national attention with his dynamic voice and affable personality as an American Idol finalist. A true self-made artist with the potential to transcend any genre, David is a force to be reckoned with.
In addition to American Idol, David has showcased his talents on The Ellen Show, The Today Show, MTV’s TRL, EXTRA, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, Teen Choice Awards, & TV Guides’ Sexiest Stars to name a few.
With soulful powerhouse vocals, he has been touring the world while writing and producing his original music. Most notably he was invited to sing at the Inaugural Kick-Off Celebration ball for Barak Obama, performing alongside celebrity recording artists John Legend & Maroon 5.
David’s hit single, “Beautiful” reached the Top 100 of the Billboard Dance charts while the music video was a viral sensation. His recent releases this past year include self-produced songs & music videos, “Sorry”, “Kingdom” & his summer anthem, “Boomerang”. Additionally, his 23 song album “Kingdom:
The Mixtape” is available on all digital platforms. The new single & music video “ily.” Is available now on all digital platforms & the music video is available on YouTube with over 116k views.
David has streamed 57+ virtual shows and you can catch him live on Facebook weekly.
David counts Stevie Wonder, Ne-yo, Donnie Hathaway, Alicia Keys, Luther Vandross & Michael Jackson amongst his musical influences.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with CEO, Model and Behavioral Scientist Adaire Byerly. The two chat about the creation of her company Entertainment Mindest, how she uses science to get to the root of company communication issues, and why she enjoys working with creative minds the most.
As the CEO/Founder of Entertainment Mindframe™, Adaire is hired by major Fashion, Sports and Entertainment companies to enhance their internal communication. Adaire does this by utilizing modern-day behavioral sciences and her own first-hand industry experience as a Fashion Model. She works to get to the root of any company communication issues – which can often stem from anxiety, depression, and verbal/email miscommunications. Adaire helps fill in the communication gaps between creative departments, teach professional skills, and help rebuild the communication structure within companies.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Vocalist Connor Smith. The two chat about his journey of self discovery and identity, his past relationship with the church as a member of the LGBTQ community, his career and the recent Netflix documentary "Pray Away".
“You may not have heard his name before, but chances are you’ve heard his voice.” As a studio singer, arranger, and music producer Connor Smith has collaborated on a wide-breadth of major motion pictures, television shows, studio albums, video games, live shows, Disney Recordings®, and more. In 2018, Connor was signed to Disney Music Group, releasing an album with Disney’s critically-acclaimed a cappella group "DCappella” the following year. As a touring artist, vocal director, and guest soloist Connor has performed across the globe from renowned concert halls and recording studios to the stages of Universal Studios Hollywood and the Disneyland Resort. He has had the proud honor to be a guest soloist with the Golden State Pops Orchestra and Lviv Philharmonic in Ukraine, among others. In addition to his work as a performer and vocalist, Connor is an internationally-recognized choral composer, with published arrangements and compositions that are regularly performed worldwide by groups of all sizes and calibers.
10 more episodes left of Season 5 for #WeNeedToTalk!
We will be back on Monday with a brand new episode!
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with her longtime friend, Actress Amy Argyle. The two chat about mental health, navigating the industry and world as a Black Female, privilege, the lack of empathy towards the Black community and more.
Amy Argyle brings a grounded honesty and personal spark to all of her roles.Having started her career in Dallas, Amy has continued here in LA the last 17 years.
She’s appeared in over 100 commercials, several popular tv shows and studio and indie films opposite some of the biggest names in the business, voiced characters in several serial podcasts, and is a 2 time film festival award winner.
Amy has also been an active stage actress, performing in plays in various theatres around Los Angeles. Her last production was for the 2019 Hollywood Fringe Festival where she produced and starred in a play she had translated to English from Spanish after seeing it in Mexico City the year before.Outside of the entertainment world, Amy is passionate about helping inspire others by sharing her personal stories of healing from childhood traumas and shifting her life from one of lack to thriving through deepening her connection to God/Source and shifts in mindset. She also loves to discover and share ways to be more eco friendly and sustainable in our every day lives.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Founder of Transgender Talent, Hollywoods first talent management company that exclusively represents transgender and non-binary talent. Malynda and Ann talk about her journey to self discovery, what led her to start the agency, what needs to change in Hollywood and what stereotypes of the Transgender community she wants to change.
Transgender Talent was founded in 2015 offering a safe and encouraging environment that fosters the talent of transgender actors by providing all management services as well as emotional and psychological support and more to their clients as they navigate the critical industry of film and television. Starting with three clients and now boasting a roster of almost 50, Transgender Talent is the most well-known and well respected management firm for transgender performers in the industry. Ann Thomas is second generation transgender. She and her father came out to each other in the early aughts after Ann, while caring for her father who was dying of cancer, found women’s clothing in her father’s closet while cleaning up the home. That prompted a very deep and emotional conversation resulting in them both coming out to each other. (We have wonderful video, as well as a one hour podcast about it in depth with Dr Drew.) Since founding Transgender Talent LLC, Ann has been a focal point, north star and important voice for many transgender performers who have come seeking a career in the entertainment industry. She has been quoted in articles from CNN to Rolling Stone and more but has never had a profile on her journey and the great work she does every day for others. They have three employees and are quickly growing. The management company provides its talent with all the tools they need to get started in the business: to find an agent, get jobs, advise on medical issues, hormone treatments, passports and more. They help provide a space for these artists often at a very vulnerable point in their careers and give them the platform and opportunity to succeed. The company boasts a talent, voice over, music and production division committed to telling transgender stories.
On todays episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda flies solo and chats about things that she feels we should be talking about. Jeff Bezos, Cannabis, Tommy Bryant and Self Worth. Listen to this in depth and vulnerable episode!
WeNeedToTalk will return on Monday with a brand new episode!
Make sure you subscribe and join the patreon community if you'd like to support further visit patreon.com/malyndahale
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Author and Army Veteran Dr. Pamela Gurley. The two chat about the challenges of being a Black female in America, breaking down stereotypes that plague the Black community, what representation means and her new children's book series Brown Girl, Brown Boy.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda Chats with Actress and Author, Elisa Donovan. The two chat about everything from her career achievements that started in the 90's, navigating the entertainment industry, and her new book “Wake Me When You Leave”. This book is a personal memoir that details how she healed after losing her job, her relationship, and her father to cancer, all over a very short period of time.
For over 20 years, Elisa Donovan has been a part of iconic pop culture phenomenon’s. She began her film career originating the role of Amber in the iconic Paramount Pictures comedy Clueless.She followed that up with a turn on another pop culture sensation, the television series Beverly Hills, 90210, playing bad girl ‘Ginger LaMonica.’ She then went on to reprise her role of ‘Amber’ for three seasons on the television series of Clueless. During which time she shot the Paramount/SNL Films comedy A Night At The Roxbury. Then for three seasons Elisa played ‘Morgan Cavanaugh’ on the monster hit series Sabrina The Teenage Witch.Elisa has had recurring roles on multiple other TV series, and has starred in numerous telefilms, including Your Love Never Fails, Eve’s Christmas, 12 Wishes Of Christmas and It Was One Of Us.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Singer and Actress Michelle Williams. The two talk about her career, her battle with depression, her time on The Masked Singer and her new book Checking in.
Michelle Williams is a Grammy Award-winning recording artist and actress who rose to stardom as a member of the R&B mega group, Destiny’s Child, and most recently appeared as the Butterfly on Fox’s hit series, The Masked Singer. Her successful solo albums include Heart to Yours; Do You Know; Unexpected, which spawned the internationally charted single, “We Break the Dawn”; and Journey to Freedom, which featured groupmates Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland on the single, “Say Yes.” Also a talented actress, she debuted on Broadway in Aida (2003) and starred in productions of The Color Purple (2007), Chicago (2009–10), What My Husband Doesn't Know (2011) and Fela! (2013). Michelle is passionate about raising awareness about mental health and about sharing the lessons she has learned in her own struggle with depression.
On this Episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Joanne Molinaro aka The Korean Vegan. The two chat about her transition into veganism, how food played in a role in her life growing up, sharing her culture with the world, the importance of family and her new cookbook, The Korean Vegan.
Joanne Lee Molinaro is a lawyer by day and one of TikTok’s hottest chefs of all time. Late last year, Joanne struck a chord with her stunning videos cooking classic Korean dishes and musings on justice, love, life, hardship, success, jealousy, and family. In two months, her Tiktok grew by over 2 million followers in 2 months (a video talking about her traditionally aloof father supporting her in her divorce - something that seemed very uncharacteristic of her Korean father- has over 10 million views).
On this bonus episode of #WeNeedToTalk to talk Malynda reflects on The Fourth of July, what freedom means and Frederick Douglass's famous speech.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Actress and Social Justice Advocate Courtney Nichole. The two chat about her acting journey, her passion for children's education, knowing when it's time to make a shift in your life, and the importance of body positivity.
Courtney Nichole is a Chicago native and multi-faceted actress that is currently starring as a series regular on Tyler Perry’s new
comedy series, “Assisted Living”.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Singer and Music producer Meredith Bull. The two chat about the growth of her career through TikTok, how she found her sound, being a woman in the music industry, and her journey to sobriety.
Meredith Bull has become a TikTok sensation with over 1-Million followers. Meredith’s videos spotlight her unique ability to make beautiful songs out of quite literally anything. She has so far created soundtracks to both viral and more mundane sounds of her meowing cat, a frog in Walmart, a grandma’s Vitamin D plea, the Backyardigans now popular track, Hank Green explaining candle wax, and much more. Meredith has even released a few of her own original songs, based off of her viral TikTok content.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Sports Illustrated Model and CEO of Elysium Social, Tanaye White.They chat about her journey into modeling, education, representation, natural hair and mental health. A powerful and meaningful conversation.
From earning her Master’s Degree at the esteemed Georgetown University and teaching herself how to code, to having the honor of being a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model, Tanaye continues to prove she has beauty and brains! After quitting her corporate job to pursue her modeling career, Tanaye is now inspiring young girls everywhere to follow their dreams.
On this episode Malynda chats with writer, preacher and advocate Jory Micah. The two talk all things religion. They address hypocrisy in the church, progressive Christianity, deconstruction, what Jesus really stood for and her upcoming book Breaking the Glass Steeple.
Jory Micah is a writer, preacher and advocate for women in the global Christian Church. She has a Master's Degree in Christian Doctrine and History from Regent University in Virginia Beach and will be releasing her first book this fall.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with professor, speaker, coach and an author. Dr. Peace Amadi. The two chat about what led her to want to help others, overcoming the stigma of talking about mental health, the perception of Black Women with higher education and her new book "Why Do I Feel Like This?"
Mental Health Expert Dr. Peace Amadi, PsyD, is a Professor, Author, Speaker, Coach,andTV Host who helps high-potential people heal so they can better lead. From leaders, content creators, and entrepreneurs, to pastors, parents, and teachers, Dr. Peace is a coach and cheerleader to the people in our lives that everyone goes to. She is the Founder of Influencing Well and Professor of Psychology (Social Psychology, Media Psychology, Child Psychology, Psychology & Law) and also a Professor of Leadership at Hope International University.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with the first female CEO of Pride Media, Diane Anderson-Minshall. The two discuss her career journey becoming the first female CEO of Pride Media, how companies capitalize on Pride month, what issues still need to be addressed in the LGBTQ community, how she includes conversations about intersectionality and diversity inclusion in the workplace and her relationship with her husband.
Diane Anderson-Minshall is the CEO of Pride Media, and editorial director of The Advocate, Out, and Plus magazine. She's the winner of numerous awards from GLAAD, the NLGJA, WPA, and was named to Folio's Top Women in Media list. She and her co-pilot of 30 years, transgender journalist Jacob Anderson-Minshall penned several books including Queerly Beloved: A Love Across Genders.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Singer/Songwriter Richard Marx. The two discuss his long career in the music industry, how the music industry has changed over the years, cancel culture, politics and his upcoming memoir "Stories To Tell."
Richard Marx is one of the most accomplished singer-songwriters in the history of popular music. He has written fourteen number one songs in total, shared a Song of the Year Grammy with Luther Vandross, and collaborated with a variety of artists including NSYNC, Josh Groban, Natalie Cole, and Keith Urban.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda sits down with her longtime friend Aurianna Angelique and the two discuss how her organization R.O.C. Era was created and why. They also discuss the recent rise in activism, being in the streets during the protests, being an ally and how to properly help the communities asking for help without being performative.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda kicks off pride month by chatting with the founders of Pride House LA. Mollee Gray, Jeka Jain, Garrett Clayton, and Kent Boyd. The group chats about why they decided to start Pridehouse LA, their own personal coming out stories, issues they want to address within the LGBTQ+ community and their plans to make PrideHouse LA a truly inclusive space.
“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes.” - Maya Angelou
Celebrate Memorial Day by honoring those we have lost that served this country.
#WeNeedToTalk will return on Thursday as we kick off Pride Month!
On this Episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda sits down with Legendary actor Gregg Daniel. Best known for his role as
Reverend Daniels on HBO’s hit show True Blood and his recurring role on Insecure with Issa Rae, Gregg has acquired well over 100 credits in film and television spanning across a variety of genres.
He discusses with Malynda how the culture of Hollywood has changed over the years, why diversity and inclusion is so important, the progression of diversity in the theatre community, his upcoming film 7th and Union and more.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with her longtime friend Siri Lorece. Siri is a Los Angeles based Urban farmer and owner of Creative Arts Farm. She is a Yoga Teacher, Singer-Musician, Minimalism and Sustainability Educator, and Podcast host.
Currently well rooted in Los Angeles, Siri and her family spend their time Sowing Seeds of Wellness (the Creative Arts Farm mission) through sharing live music, farming, and yoga within her community and virtually.
She speaks with Malynda about living a life committed to sustainability, living in a 200 sq ft tiny house how she guides others on their holistic wellness, sustainability, and homesteading journey and why she decided to leave Facebook.
Malynda welcomes activist, inspirational speaker, and certified life-coach, Blossom C. Brown to the show. Originally from the Greenwood, Mississippi, Blossom was the first black trans-woman to graduate from Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, MS.
She and Malynda discuss her journey of growing up in the south, the progression of trans resources, her connection to Caitlyn Jenner and Ellen Degeneres, misconceptions of the Trans community, the lack of attention that Black Trans women get when they are killed and more.
Kicking off a brand new season of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Actor and rapper Page Kennedy.
Page is well known for his starring role in Warner Bros summer blockbuster, The Meg, opposite Jason Statham. He is also best known for portraying Radon Randell in the Spike sports comedy series, Blue Mountain State, and U-Turn in the Showtime series, Weeds. He is currently starring in Netflix’s new comedy series, The Upshaws, opposite Wanda Sykes, Kim Fields and Mike Epps.
On this episode the two discuss, his music career, how he got into acting, battling depression, and lessons he's learned on set of The Upshaws.
On the final episode of Season 4 of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with writer, director and military Veteran Nick Jones Jr. The two chat about how Obama influenced his transition from being in the military to being a writer, representation in writers rooms, the Oscars and his new Netflix Anime series, Yasuke, starring Lakeith Stanfield.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with social Media Influencer, LGBTQ and Mental health advocate, Owin Pierson. The two chat about his personal story of coming into his own, the power behind being an influencer, why he's chosen to be vulnerable and authentic on his platform, how he holds himself accountable, and why he's using his platform to speak out about important issues.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with performer, diversity consultant and music educator Katherine Washington. They have an in depth conversation about activism, the need for people to get uncomfortable when talking about racism, navigating interracial relationships, and her organization The Hope collective.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Author and Scientist/Engineer Olympia Le Point. They discuss why she decided to go into science, her time working for Boeing and NASA, how she's battled racism and sexism within her field, and her newest book Answers Unleashed.
On this episode Malynda talks with Entrepreneur and Social Media Influencer, Gwen Lane. They talk about her career trajectory as an entrepreneur, the responsibility that influencers have to speak out against injustice, and her feelings on the current hate crimes against Asian Americans.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Pastor, Author, and businesswoman Sarah Jakes Roberts. The two chat about her new book Woman Evolve,what it was like growing up as a preachers kid, why people are turning away from the church, and her experience being a woman faith leader.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda sits down with Natalie London & Taylor Plecity of the indie rock band Hey, King! The three discuss their debut album, what it was like working with Ben Harper, the challenges of being women in music, and how they balance their working relationship with their romantic relationship.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Angel Parker about the challenges of 2020, working during a pandemic, raising bi-racial children, and how black women are often viewed. The two share an honest and open conversation.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda sits down with her long time friend Actor/Comedian and Writer, Dewayne Perkins. They chat about his career trajectory, representation in writers rooms, his experience at Second City, and who he thinks is getting it right in Hollywood. A conversation that is not to be missed.
Malynda sits down with Singer & Actress Connie Jackson. The two talk about the culture in Chicago, how whiteness is the default, why it's difficult for people to connect to blackness, how we are still experiencing firsts for people of color, and how Black victims are always vilified.
On this Episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Singer/Actress Trenyce Cobbins. The two talk about the lack of empathy for Black People, how social media affects your mental health, our response to Meghan Markle, Sharon Osbourne, and how race has played a factor in her career.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda welcomes back Singer/Songwriter, Vocal Producer & Arranger Maiya Sykes. The two talk about her journey in the music industry, how she's navigated life during the pandemic and why she has chosen to be open about her experience as a survivor of sexual assault.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with digital media expert and social media consultant Brittani Warrick. The two discuss the value behind addressing mental health in the entertainment industry, what led her to have a passion for digital marketing, and her relationship with her Aunt Dionne Warwick.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda sits down with human rights activist, and next-gen/ community social impact strategist, Jamira Burley. The two discuss a wide variety of issues including education, the minimum wage, and how to start being an ally.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda welcomes back comedian Dana Goldberg to discuss the how the pandemic has affected the arts and stand up comedy, the positives that came from the pandemic, and how the current administration has been performing.
To kick off Woman's History Month, Malynda sits down for an in depth conversation with actress, model and Trans activist, Corey Rae. They chat about her personal journey, why it's important to speak out for Black Trans lives, and how she is using her platform to educate others about the trans experience.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda welcomes Actor, Director and Writer Michael Shepperd to the show. They discuss why representation matters, what is still needed in the theatre community, how whiteness has been deemed as the default for our society and what it’s like raising kids of two different races.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda welcomes actress Liz Jenkins to the show. Best known for her role as Principal Biggs on ABC’s Blackish, Liz chats with Malynda about the perception of plus-sized actors, why she decided to be more vocal about politics, and what TV studios still need to do in terms of producing more diverse content.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Actress and millennial icon, Kyla Pratt. The two chat about her growing up in the spotlight, her experience as a Black female in the industry, being an advocate for mental health and why a wide variety of Black stories need to be told.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda dives into the birth & baby field with the founder of The Cradle Company, Brandi Jordan. The two talk about how race plays a factor in this particular industry, the challenges of being a Black female entrepreneur and why it's important to use your platform to speak out against injustice and be authentic in how you market yourself no matter what field you work in.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda welcomes Christian sexuality coach, Yeamah Logan. The two have a powerful discussion regarding issues within the church that leave the LGBTQ community feeling alienated, how she knew this was her calling, and how she helps members of the LGBTQ community be at peace with their faith and their sexuality.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with actor and activist Reggie Watkins. They discuss positive changes he's seen in the industry, his podcast Brothas on Football, and what led him to co-found The Valley of Change organization.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with opera singer, Breanna Sinclaire. The two discuss her making history as the first Trans woman to perform with the San Fransisco Opera, what she feels is still needed in the opera community in terms of diversity, the challenges she faced during her transition, and navigating her place as a member of two marginalized groups.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with award-winning marketing professional, activist, philanthropist, and author of the New York Times Bestseller The Black Friend, Frederick Joseph. The two chat about the current administration, performative activism, and his new book.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with International Model & activist Allison Kimball about her experiences in the modeling industry, being an advocate for body positivity, the pro and cons of social media and her new podcast Spiked Kombucha!
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda sits down with activist, writer and best-selling author Shaun King to discuss what led him to activism, his past criticism of Joe Biden & Kamala Harris, his new book Make Change and how he handles cancel culture.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Therapist and Founder/CEO of MyWellBeing.com, Alyssa Petersel. They discuss the stigma behind mental health, the fear behind finding a therapist, why she started MyWellBeing.com and the challenges behind being an entrepreneur.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with American government professor and founder of Justice Warriors academy, Ndidi Amadi. They chat about the pivotal moment in her life that made her want to get involved in government and politics, why more people need to understand how government works, what her hopes for Biden are and the consequences from the riots at the Capitol.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda chats with Singer/Songwriter Gattison about his personal story, experiences working in the Christian music industry and how people put too much faith in spiritual leaders. The two also discuss the responsibility that spiritual leaders have during the pandemic in terms of leading their congregation the way God would want them to.
On the Season 4 premiere of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda sits down with Host & Musician Grace Semler Baldridge to discuss her docu-series State of Grace on Refinery29, being a Queer Christian, how she manages to find a healthy intersection between the two and what the role of the church should be.
In the final Episode of Season 3, Malynda reflects on 2020 and the lessons she's learned throughout the year.
#WeNeedToTalk will Return January 11th, 2021.
On this weeks episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda discusses the importance of why we should make supporting Black Owned businesses a part of our regular routine.
On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda focuses on the positive of 2020 and things to be thankful for.
On this weeks episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda is joined by Ndidi Amadi, Drexel Heard, II and Ian Felchlin to discuss black endorsements of Trump, Celebrity endorsements, Swing States, Religion and Politics!
This week Malynda is joined by Ndidi Amadi, Ian Felchlin, and Drexel Heard to discuss to latest Presidential debate, the rise in Covid cases and comparisons to the 2016 election.
In week 2 of The Road to the Election series Malynda is joined by musician Ian Felchlin, American Government Professor Ndidi Amadi and Comedian/Activist Dana Goldberg. The three discuss the confirmation hearing, Biden & Trump Town Halls, Ice Cube and Upcoming Covid relief.
This week on #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda is joined by Professor Ndidi Amadi and Musician Ian Felchin to discuss the events of last week as well as the lead up to the 2020 Election. This episode is part 1 of the "Road to the Election" series.
On this weeks episode Malynda talks about Trump, Covid and the fallout of the reception for Amy Coney Barrett.
On this week's one-on-one episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda is joined by her husband to discuss what raising a bi-racial child looks like in the wake of civil unrest and racial tensions throughout the country.
On this weeks One on One, Malynda sits down with Drexel Heard, Executive Director of the LA County Democratic Party, to discuss Trump's Presidency, Biden/Harris policies, replacing RBG, and California propositions.
In this weeks one on one, Malynda sits down with drama/comedy poetry duo, Griot. They discuss activism, history, and how they use storytelling to make a difference.
On this weeks roundtable discussion, Malynda is joined by Reverend Denyse Barnes, Filmmaker Dakota Lupo, Youtuber Rod Kim and Environmental Justice Advocate Chelsey Gentry-Tipton to discuss White Privilege.
On this weeks one on one #episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda sits down with Seattle based blues singer Lady A and her music producer John Oliver III to discuss her career, the music industry and the recent controversy surround Lady Antebellum's name change.
On this weeks one on one episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda is joined by Shanna Lee to discuss manifestation, energy shifts and positivity through the pandemic. Shanna is an intuitive healer and celebrity manifestation coach. She is the #1 best -selling author of The Soul Frequency: Your Healthy, Awakened and Authentic Life and the host of The Soul Frequency Show podcast; leading the conversation on raising your energy frequency and creating a life founded on truth and alignment.
On this weeks episode of #WeNeedTalk, Malynda is joined by 4 teachers to discuss what teaching online has been like during the pandemic, risks involved with returning to school and how teachers and education are viewed in society.
In this week's episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda sits down with Emmy Award Winner and former Chair of the Department of Black Studies at University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omowale Akintunde to discuss systemic racism within education, Whiteness as a default, intersectional oppression and our current political climate.
On this week's roundtable discussion, Malynda is joined by Maiya Sykes, Ian Felchin, Andrew Orbison, Emily Danger and LaVance Colley to discuss the effects that COVID 19 has had on the music industry and what's next for artists and musicians.
On this weeks One on One, Malynda talks with US Army Veteran and former Trump supporter David Weissman. The two discuss why he decided to leave the republican party, rescind his support for Trump and how to get through to other Trump supporters.
In a second Roundtable episode of #WeNeedToTalk, Malynda discusses Pride Month, Black Lives Matter, Being an Ally and using your platform with American Idol Finalist David Hernandez, LGBTQ+ Recording Artists and Activist Torrey Mercer and Singer/Songwriter Gattison.