Black Men Speak is a podcast designed to address the concerns of Black Men and provide a forum for them to learn, feel empowered, and be the men they are called to be.
What began as a collection of handwritten letters from his beloved grandmother became an extraordinary journey through family history, race, resilience, and the enduring power of love across generations. Walter shares how his grandmother's unwavering faith, quiet strength, and simple words of encouragement helped shape his identity and inspired him to preserve a story that is both deeply personal and profoundly American.
Together, we explore the sacrifices that built future generations, the hidden heroes whose names may never appear in history books, and why preserving our family stories is one of the greatest gifts we can leave behind. We also discuss what it means to carry the dreams of our ancestors, navigate America's complex racial history, and define success in a way that honors those who came before us. This conversation is heartfelt, inspiring, and filled with wisdom for anyone who has ever wondered how the lives of ordinary people can create extraordinary legacies.
Walter Pryor is a product of the South, the Black Church, and a strong family unit of resilient, formidable women. He is a cum laude graduate of Hendrix College, the only Black student in the college's history to receive the President's Medal, and a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center. Pryor's professional career has spanned a myriad of sectors in the legal arena, including large and small law firms, the U.S. Department of Justice, Capitol Hill, corporations, higher education, and mission-driven bank Southern Bancorp. He is passionate about education. He has devoted significant time to volunteer work in that field. Pryor currently serves on the Board of Trustees of Hendrix College as Chair and the Board of Directors of the Washington Children's Foundation. Pryor has also served on the Board of Trustees of the Latin School of Chicago, the Board of Directors of Legal Prep Charter Academies in Chicago, and the Board of Trustees of National Collegiate Preparatory Public Charter High School in Washington, D.C. He and his wife, Juliette, have two adult children, Adjua and Wade Osei, and divide their time between Chicago, Charlotte, and Martha's Vineyard. This Leaves Me Okay (Heliotrope Books, 2025) is his first book.
In this podcast episode, Rashawn Davis, Executive Director of The Citizen Service, shares how everyday people can become catalysts for change and why civic engagement is more important than ever.
Rashawn Davis is a nonprofit leader, writer, and public speaker focused on strengthening democracy, advancing civic technology, and inspiring public leadership. A Newark native, he made history at 21 years old as one of the youngest candidates to qualify for the city's municipal election ballot. Rashawn has led national initiatives at The Andrew Goodman Foundation and Change.org. He has served on Newark's Police Review Board and speaks regularly at universities, public agencies, and private companies. Rashawn holds degrees from Georgetown University and New York University's Wagner School and serves on the Board of Directors for the W.E.B. DuBois Scholars Institute.
What does courage look like when the world refuses to see your humanity?
In this powerful episode, Steven A. Holmes discusses Black masculinity, family, race, love, and liberation through the lens of World War II and his gripping novel Black Messiahs
In this powerful episode of Black Men Speak, we sit down with Aaron Johnson, founder of The Chronically Undertouched Project, to unpack a silent crisis affecting Black men—the lack of safe, intentional human touch.
Drawing from his viral TED Talk and documentary Dark and Tender, Aaron shares how years without platonic connection can lead to isolation, depression, and emotional disconnection, and why something as simple as a hug can be life-changing. Together, we explore how cultural conditioning, trauma, and systemic oppression have shaped the way Black men experience touch—and how reclaiming connection through listening, presence, and brotherhood can become a pathway to healing.
This conversation challenges everything we've been taught about masculinity and asks a bold question:
What would change if Black men got just 15 minutes of real connection each day?
Too many of us are grinding… but not building. On this Pinnacle of Color episode of Black Men Speak, we're talking about the shift from hustle to legacy — what it really takes to move from short-term money to long-term wealth. We sit down with Joe Coleman and Vernon Garret, founders of C&G Luxury Candles in Richmond, Virginia — breaking down how a vision becomes a brand, and how a brand becomes something that lasts. If you're tired of the grind and ready to build something meaningful… this episode is for you.
In this episode of Black Men Speak, we explore the lived experiences of biracial Black men raised in environments where Black culture, community, and mentorship were limited—or completely absent.
From identity confusion to delayed self-discovery, we unpack how isolation impacts confidence, masculinity, and belonging. Dr. Corey Clay is an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist based in West Seattle and founder of Puget I/O, an independent consulting practice that blends organizational development with diversity, equity, and inclusion to help organizations build more inclusive, effective, and resilient workplaces.
With a career spanning Houston, Portland, Seattle, and London, he brings a global perspective to his work and has been committed since 2006 to mentoring young men and fostering meaningful cross-community relationships.
He previously served as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Washington, where he led equity-focused initiatives before relocating to London, and after returning to the Pacific Northwest in February, he continues expanding his consulting and mentorship efforts. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Dr. Clay integrates leadership, service, and discipline into both his professional practice and community impact.
In this episode, we sit down with Michael Thomas, the acclaimed novelist behind Man Gone Down and winner of the International Dublin Literary Award, to discuss his powerful memoir The Broken King.
In a raw and deeply personal conversation, Thomas reflects on fatherhood without the polish often found in parenting narratives, confronting the trauma, racism, and family history that shaped his upbringing in 1970s Boston and resurfaced as he tried to become a different kind of father to his own sons. Drawing inspiration from a line in Little Gidding, The Broken King explores the lives of the men who shaped him—his absent father, his estranged brother, his children, and ultimately himself—while reckoning with generational trauma, artistic struggle, and the difficult journey toward healing and self-understanding.
Michael Thomas is the author of the national bestseller Man Gone Down, winner of the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award and a New York Times Top Ten Novel of the Year. His writing has appeared in A Public Space, the New Yorker, the New York Times, and in Ben George's anthology The Book of Dads. He is a professor of English at Hunter College. He lives in Brooklyn.
With a recent tik-tok video about Black Men's appearance at a Ruth Chris Steakhouse going viral, it would be a perfect time to talk about Black Male etiquette. In a world where perception can open doors—or quietly close them—Black men often find themselves navigating an unspoken standard: be excellent, but also be exceptional. Be confident, but not intimidating. Be authentic, but not "too much."
So the question becomes: Are we required to be twice as polished just to receive half the opportunity? We will discuss this important topic with James B Wingo, author of "The Manners Playbook: Essential Lessons for African-American Boys on Confidence, Self-Awareness and Etiquette".
You can purchase The Manners Playbook: Essential Lessons for Young African-American Boys on Self-Awareness, Confidence and Etiquette here or email him at wingojam@sbcglobal.net for an autographed copy.
In this episode of Black Men Speak, we sit with Ryan K Brown Jr., who confronted loss head-on—and discovered how unprepared our systems are to care for grieving families once the hospital lights dim. What began as a medical crisis exposed deeper emotional and systemic gaps, where strength was assumed, silence followed, and support was scarce.
Through his grief, Ryan Brown Co-Founded The Andreas Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing research, education, and compassionate support for families affected by pregnancy and infant loss. Ryan's work is deeply shaped by personal experience. After the loss of his son, Andreas Darius Brown, Ryan confronted firsthand the emotional, medical, and systemic gaps that too often leave grieving families unsupported.
What began as a journey through profound grief became a commitment to transform pain into purpose—ensuring that families navigating loss are met with understanding, resources, and meaningful change rather than silence. Today's conversation is about fatherhood, grief, and the quiet burden Black men are often expected to carry alone.
We talk about what happens after the doctors leave, how grief shows up in the body and mind, and why compassion can't end at discharge. This isn't about performing resilience. It's about telling the truth, naming the gaps, and creating space for Black men to be seen, supported, and heard.
In this episode of Black Men Speak, we sit down with Sylvester K. Johnson, Senior Capital Access Manager of Propeller, to unpack the real money moves Black entrepreneurs must master to build businesses that last. Sylvester brings a grounded, no-nonsense perspective on financial literacy — breaking down why so many entrepreneurs struggle not because they lack hustle, but because they lack financial systems, strategy, and clarity.
From managing cash flow and understanding the true cost of running a business, to separating personal and business finances, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the financial blind spots that quietly derail growth.
Together, we explore how Propeller is helping entrepreneurs move from reactive decision-making to intentional financial leadership, and why mastering your numbers is about more than profit — it's about freedom, sustainability, and legacy. This episode is a must-listen for any brother who's tired of grinding without clarity and ready to make smarter, more strategic money moves.
In this powerful episode of Black Men Speak, we sit down with the author of Black Cherokee to unpack the rarely told story of Black and Indigenous identity in America.
Through history, ancestral truth, and courageous storytelling, our guest explores what it means to exist at the intersection of Blackness and Cherokee heritage—while navigating belonging, erasure, and legacy. This conversation dives into hidden histories, the impact of enslavement within Native nations, and the emotional weight of claiming an identity that has often been questioned or denied.
We also explore how generational trauma, and cultural reclamation shape the lives of Black Cherokee people today.
Antonio Michael Downing is an acclaimed author, broadcaster, and musician. Kiese Laymon praised his memoir Saga Boy as "singularly dazzling" and received critical acclaim from publications like Essence Magazine.
His novel Black Cherokee has been called "a triumph" by Giller Prize winner Ian Williams. He has also won praise for his novella Molasses and children's book Stars in My Crown.
His works have been nominated for several awards, including the Speaker's Book Prize and the Toronto Book Awards. More than a history lesson, this episode is an invitation to reflect, unlearn, and reclaim stories that have been pushed to the margins. It's a necessary dialogue on ancestry, truth-telling, and the power of knowing who you are—on your own terms.
Bryce Savoy is an Oakland-born rapper, entrepreneur, and filmmaker whose work centers on authenticity, community, and resilience. As the founder of Neighborhood Diamonds, both a record label and lifestyle brand, Savoy is dedicated to discovering and elevating hidden talent—a philosophy inspired by his late father, affectionately known as Big Bryce. In a transformative ten-month period, Savoy experienced the profound loss of his father and the birth of his son, Zimri.
This journey of grief and new life became the foundation for his deeply personal documentary "Big Bryce Son" and the accompanying EP of the same name. His latest album, "Just Keep Shining," reflects his perseverance through life's most challenging moments.
Beyond music, Savoy is a co-founder of The Black Neighborhood, a non-profit organization, and helps run Euphorium Oakland with his mother. Based in Los Angeles, he continues to honor his father's legacy by living the lesson that life isn't restricted to one lane—embracing multiple creative and entrepreneurial ventures while raising his son and building community through art.
To follow him and give to his Neighborhood Diamonds Fund, check the links below.
The Neighborhood Diamonds Fund: https://givebutter.com/nhdiamonds Neighborhood Diamonds Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@neighborhooddiamonds Neighborhood Diamonds Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neighborhooddiamonds/ Bryce Savoy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brycesavoy510/ Bryce Savoy Official Site: https://brycesavoy.com/
In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Arthur L. Burnett, one of America's leading urologists and author of "The Manhood Rx," pulls back the curtain on men's sexual health and reveals why erectile dysfunction is far more than an embarrassing bedroom problem—it's often the first warning sign of serious cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other life-threatening conditions.
Dr. Burnett dismantles the stigma surrounding men's sexual health, explaining how lifestyle choices, psychological factors, and underlying medical issues converge to impact male sexual function. From the overreliance on quick-fix pills to the critical connection between heart health and sexual performance, this conversation challenges men to view their sexual health as a vital component of overall wellness.
Whether you're experiencing issues now or want to protect your health for decades to come, Dr. Burnett provides the science-backed roadmap every man needs—but few are willing to talk about.
In April 2025, Kwame Terra became known as "The Big Stepper" when he set an unofficial world record by walking 2 million steps in 30 days—averaging 66,667 steps daily, or about 35 miles per day. This challenge was designed to raise awareness about health disparities in Black communities and raise $2 million to support the development of the bEHR Health app and related programs. Founded in 2021, bEHR Health Systems is a platform dedicated to promoting healthy aging among Black Americans by offering medical, lifestyle, and social solutions.
Legendary author Walter Mosley joins the podcast to discuss his latest Easy Rawlins mystery "Gray Dawn," the 17th installment in a series that has captivated readers for over three decades. We explore how Easy has evolved from post-war Los Angeles to present day, the moral complexities of his characters, and Mosley's unwavering commitment to telling stories that reflect the full humanity of Black men.
From winning the National Book Award's Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters to creating unforgettable detectives who navigate unjust systems, Mosley shares insights on his craft, his legacy, and what stories still need to be told.
In the episode, we discuss Black Male Trauma and how it can be reduced holistically with my guest Ron Martin.
Ron Martin is the Founder and CEO of Cope and Chill. He is an Anxiety Relief and Mind-Body Balance Coach who helps high-functioning, healing people break free from anxious overthinking and finally feel safe in their own skin. Through his Inner Calm Mastery program, he guides them to calm their nervous system and rebuild inner safety through body-first practices—so they can show up in relationships with openness, confidence, and genuine connection.
For the 20-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, we only focused on the broken levees and the broken lives as a result. What about the triumphs? In this episode, we will a new generation of dreamers, doers, and builders who refused to be defined by tragedy. Born and raised in New Orleans' Ninth Ward, Spencer Davis is a proud native New Orleanian and graduate of the University of New Orleans, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Over the past two decades, he has led large-scale federal and infrastructure programs across the U.S., managing billions in capital projects and serving as a trusted program executive for U.S. Customs and Border Protection and NASA.
Today, Spencer is the Co-Founder of Bypasslines, an innovative online ordering platform helping food vendors and restaurants modernize their operations, and the CEO of Premium Asset Solutions, an AI agent builder empowering businesses to automate and scale through intelligent systems. His work bridges engineering, technology, and entrepreneurship—driven by a lifelong commitment to solving real-world problems and creating opportunities for others in his community.
Aaron Robertson who is a writer and translator from Italian. His nonfiction debut, The Black Utopians: Searching for Paradise and the Promised Land in America (FSG, 2024), was a finalist for the 2024 Los Angeles Times Book Prize for History and the 2025 Zora Award for Nonfiction. It was also named a best book of the year by The New York Times, The Washington Post, The New Yorker, TIME, and elsewhere. His translation of Beyond Babylon by Igiaba Scego was shortlisted for the 2020 PEN Translation Prize and the National Translation Award. A recipient of a National Endowment for the Arts grant, he has written for The New York Times, Foreign Policy, The Nation, and other publications.
In our first Pinnacle of Color Series, I will be speaking with Al-Shakise Anderson, CEO of BWS Massage Concierge and Financial Services Leader. Too often, the story of Black male success has been limited, overlooked, or defined by others.
In this episode of Black Men Speak, we tackle what it really means to break generational barriers — and how Black men are rewriting the playbook on wealth, leadership, and legacy. In our conversation, Al and I dive into the patterns we’ve had to unlearn, the challenges of being “the first” or “the only,” and the role entrepreneurship plays in shifting cycles from struggle to sustainability. We’ll explore how harmful narratives are dismantled, and how new stories of success are built on resilience, vision, and community.
Al-Shakise Anderson is a dynamic entrepreneur, wellness advocate, and financial services professional dedicated to helping people achieve success through holistic well-being and smart financial strategies. As the CEO and founder of BWS Massage Concierge, Kise specializes in bringing mobile wellness solutions—massage, stretch therapy, and adaptive wellness—to corporations, in-home clients, and adults with disabilities across New Jersey.
In addition to his wellness business, Kise is a leader in the financial services industry, mentoring agents and helping families build generational wealth through life insurance and financial literacy. His personal journey from humble beginnings to business ownership fuels his passion for leadership, community impact, and empowering others to reach their full potential. This episode is about more than business — it’s about reclaiming identity, redefining what winning looks like, and ensuring the next generation starts further down the field than we did.
In this episode, we will talk with Dr. Okey Enyia, a health policy executive, government relations leader, and scholar-activist whose work sits at the intersection of public health, advocacy, and equity.
He is the author of his second forthcoming book The John Henry Health Equity Playbook: A Four-Year Policy Agenda for Black Men, which lays out a bold roadmap to improve health outcomes, strengthen families, and transform systems of care.
In this episode, we speak with Kamal Ben Ali—author, legacy entrepreneur, and founder of the ASCEND movement. Kamal is the son of the founders of Ben’s Chili Bowl, the legendary D.C. landmark that’s nourished bodies and built community for more than six decades.
After four decades of leadership in the family business, Kamal has written a transformational guide for a new kind of nourishment—ASCEND: The Black Man’s Guide to Elevation, Success, and Purpose. launching July 25, 2025. This book dives deep into the challenges, breakthroughs, and mindsets that shape our journey. From overcoming generational pain to stepping into leadership and self-worth, this space is about rising above limitations and living fully in your purpose. This is more than conversation—it’s elevation.
In this episode, we talk with Terrell Spurlock Sr. and Terrell Spurlock Jr. of Spurlock and Son Inc.
Founded in 1998, Spurlock & Son Inc. is a leading electrical contracting firm in Chicago, IL. We will discuss the firm's commitment to service, community, and inspiring future generations.
In this episode, we will discuss the low rate of employment in Black America, especially Black Men. One of the three major labor market challenges facing this population and on using subsidized employment as a tool to address this problem.
Austin Algernon has conducted research and writing on issues of race and racial inequality for over 20 years. Austin has a PhD in sociology from Northwestern University, and he taught sociology as a faculty member at Wesleyan University. He has held positions at the Economic Policy Institute, the Center for Global Policy Solutions, Dēmos, and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. He has discussed racial inequality on PBS, CNN, NPR, and other national television and radio networks.
In this episode, we will discuss "A Peculiar Legacy" with novelist Rashid Darden. A Peculiar Legacy is part contemporary fiction and historical fiction.
It's the story of a Black community in the District of Columbia called Slope that gathers in silence every Sunday, without the presence of a Pastor, in silent prayer, with occasional vocal ministry from among themselves.
Rashid Darden is an award-winning, best-selling novelist of the urban LGBT experience, a seasoned leader of Black fraternal movements and nonprofit organizations, and a professional educator in alternative schools. He is local to the District of Columbia and Conway, North Carolina.
Cy Richardson, Senior Vice President for Economic Programs at the National Urban League and a member of the League’s Executive Leadership Team, will discuss the gap in financial literacy among the African American community, the P-Fin index, and the eight key knowledge areas that should be understood around personal finance.
Writer, philanthropist, and producer Damon Mosley, discusses how walks around Target to help achieve a daily steps goal turned into a crusade to help children connect with the joy of reading.
Black Men Speak talks with Malcolm D. Lee is a highly accomplished director, producer, and screenwriter known for films like The Best Man series, Girls Trip, and Space Jam: A New Legacy. We discuss his creative process, career evolution, and unique perspective on filmmaking regarding Black Men.
Black Men Speak host, Keith Dent speaks with Jelani Millard, host of the podcast Pay Me in Plane Tickets, a podcast discussing all things travel with individuals who love to explore all parts of the world, experience all cultures and people and would rather be paid in plane tickets.
We talk to Alphonse Dotson, a former NFL defensive tackle for the Oakland Raiders, and owner of Dotson-Cervantes Winery. He along with his wife Martha Cervantes went from the sparkle of a dream to growing some of the most-prized grapes in Texas, and creating the most exquisite wines. We will discuss how his life experiences have taught him determination and the strength needed to accomplish his goals. From his beginnings on the football field at Yates High School in Houston, Alphonse worked hard to go on to play for the Grambling State University Tigers. After making the All-American Team in 1964, Alphonse was highly sought-after in the National Football League, signed on by the Kansas City Chiefs, the Miami Dolphins, and eventually playing for John Madden’s Oakland Raiders from 1967-1970. WARNING - THERE IS SOME EXPLICIT LANGUAGE
Eugene T. Barnes is a husband, father, stand-up comedian, actor, writer, producer, singer, rapper, and advocate for black family and marriage originally from Lakeland, Fl. He is a successful commercial actor appearing in commercials for top brands including Udemy and Amazon. He is also the star of the upcoming film Office Madness set to debut in November of 2024 on Amazon Prime. “Still Love”, a web series starring Eugene is currently in production and is set to debut in early 2025. Eugene co-wrote “The Come Up”, a web series inspired by the 1990 Richard Pryor classic “Stir Crazy”. The script has been making noise on the festival circuit winning Best Comedy Script in major festivals including The Georgia Shorts Film Festival, The Vegas Movie Awards, and The New York International Film Awards. Eugene and his lovely wife, singer/songwriter Bernadette Barnes own and operate “Book The Barnes”, a live event production company providing party entertainment services. The services offered include live music, comedy, hosting/emcee services, and event production. Together Eugene and Bernadette make up the musical duo “The Barnes”. The couple performs with their band at weddings, festivals, and clubs nationwide. The duo is currently working on original music and plans to release an EP in 2025
In this episode, we will discuss the importance of empowering black voices through media and mentoring with Kevin Benoit. Established in 2004 by founder, Kevin Benoit, Parlé Magazine began as an entertainment and lifestyle print publication, distributed in New York City. The print publication featured some of the biggest names in music, literature, and film.
Kevin is interested in discussing topics such as "How to Launch an Arts Nonprofit and Get Funding in Year One" and "Empowering Black Voices: The Vital Role of Supporting Black-Owned Media Publications in 2024," offering practical insights and actionable advice to your listeners. As a first-generation Haitian American, Kevin graduated from John Jay College of Criminal Justice with a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies and holds a Master’s in Business Administration with a focus in media management. His passion for empowering the urban community led him to create Parlé Magazine in 2004, an entertainment magazine spotlighting entertainment and featuring celebrity interviews, yet also mindful to keep literacy and the written word at the forefront. The publication prioritizes BIPOC voices and stories, aiming to empower, entertain, educate, and motivate Black and Brown lives within the media industry. Kevin's extensive work at various nonprofit organizations in New York City, including Police Athletic League, Job Path, Hip-Hop 4 Life, Imani House, and SCO Family of Services, showcases his dedication to youth empowerment and community development. He founded Parlé Endeavors to continue his impactful work, providing comprehensive mentorship programs, scholarships, grants, exposure to industry leaders, and invaluable hands-on experience to youth with a passion for and interest in the fields of arts, media, journalism, and entrepreneurship. In his first year of running Parle Endeavors, Kevin was awarded the BeyGOOD Small Business grant, which he used to host Parle Endeavors' inaugural Teen Poetry Slam and provide youth comprehensive mentorship programs, scholarships, grants, exposure to industry leaders, and teen poetry writing workshops. This accomplishment further highlights his expertise and success in the entrepreneurial realm.
Ameer Natson wears several hats. He is a chef, humanitarian, entrepreneur, faith leader and counselor. He is the founder of Become Creative Agency, a full-service creative and marketing agency that hires local talent from inner-city communities.
He is also the founder of Fresh Chef Foundation, an organization that transforms lives through food. Their mission is to combat food insecurity, empower aspiring chefs, and nourish communities. They believe everyone deserves access to fresh, nutritious meals and the opportunity to pursue their culinary dreams.
We sit down with him to discuss the early days of entrepreneurship owning a hot dog business in to being a celebrity chef, winning a James Beard award, and ultimately giving back opening a non-profit organization and investing in a culinary institute at St. Thomas University in Miami.
In this episode we tackle the issue of nutrition and the importance of speaking to a nutritionist with licensed dietitian Gregory Lafortune.
At the age of 11, he was told that he had Type 1 Diabetes. He truly hated this reality and battled it daily. He had two options to choose from: 1) Make excuses & let this diagnosis ruin his life or 2) Take control of his health & rule over negativity.
Through faith, prayer, and support from his village, he was able to adopt a more positive outlook on his condition. Based on his journey, he decided to pursue nutrition as a career to help communities of people, especially men of color who also struggle with chronic diseases of many sorts.
Gregory is the owner and operator of Clocked in Wellness, LLC., an organization that is designed to transform healthcare by providing services that are male-centered & improve chronic disease rates in different populations.
Gregory, earned my B.S. at Georgia State University in 2016 and his M.S. in Nutrition & Human Performance at Logan University in 2020.
Thomas C Knox, a Master Connection Curator, Social Entrepreneur, and Thought Leader from Brooklyn, New York, is committed to curating impactful educational and community experiences through The Connection Collective. At the forefront of innovation, his company endeavors to challenge and empower individuals to forge unique connections. As the owner of BeGreat Bow Ties, an exclusive custom bow tie brand, Thomas encourages his customers to express their individuality by being unique in style. Importantly, he is the visionary creator and host of the Emmy-winning television series, boasting an impressive 13-time award recognition. This achievement is rooted in his pioneering connection platform, Date While You Wait.
We catch with Eric Seals and Donnie Seals as we discuss their documentary film Bike Vessel. It's a film that follows a father and son, 35 and 70, as they cycle from St. Louis to Chicago. Film director Eric Seals ’father almost died after three open-heart surgeries. However, he makes a miraculous health recovery after discovering his love for cycling, bringing his son Eric along with him.
Today's episode is about When Crack Was King with author Donovan X. Ramsey. It's a book about the crack epidemic of the 1980s and 1990s. It is arguably the least examined crisis in American history and how it impacted the lives of four individuals, Elgin Swift, son of a crack-addicted father who turned their home into a “crack house”; Lennie Woodley, a former crack addict, and a sex worker; Kurt Schmoke, former mayor of Baltimore and an early advocate of decriminalization; and lastly, Shawn McCray, community activist, basketball prodigy, and a founding member of the Zoo Crew, Newark's most legendary group of drug traffickers. Donovan X. Ramsey is a journalist, author, and an indispensable voice on issues of identity, justice, and patterns of power in America. Ramsey’s writing career has been focused entirely on amplifying the remarkable unheard stories of Black America. He believes in people-first narratives that center individuals and communities—not just issues.
We discuss Darrin Bell's Graphic Novel "The Talk" which is a a conversation Black parents in the United States feel compelled to have with their children and teenagers about the dangers they face due to racism or unjust treatment from authority figures, law enforcement or other parties, and how to de-escalate them.
Darrin Bell who is black and Jewish, born in Los Angeles California, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning American editorial cartoonist and comic strip creator known for the syndicated comic strips Candorville and Rudy Park. He is a syndicated editorial cartoonist with King Features.
We discuss Darrin Bell's Graphic Novel "The Talk" which is a a conversation Black parents in the United States feel compelled to have with their children and teenagers about the dangers they face due to racism or unjust treatment from authority figures, law enforcement or other parties, and how to de-escalate them.
Darrin Bell who is black and Jewish, born in Los Angeles California, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning American editorial cartoonist and comic strip creator known for the syndicated comic strips Candorville and Rudy Park. He is a syndicated editorial cartoonist with King Features.
In this episode, we will delve into relationships from the Black Male perspective with Keishorne Scott and Dr. Armon Perry. Mr. Scott is a bestselling author, international speaker, relationship & heartbreak coach, TV and Media Personality, and the founder of Your Love Experience Intl, which seeks to cultivate the power of healing, relationships, and love through creative online content, podcasts, special events, and community. Dr. Armon Perry is Professor and Director of the BSW Program at the University of Louisville’s Kent School of Social Work. Dr. Perry teaches Introduction to Social Work and Social Work Practice with Families. Dr. Perry’s is the author of Black Love Matters - Authentic Men's Voices on Marriages and Authentic Relationships.
We will discuss the physical and mental health of black men, racism, how it impacts our health, and what we can do about it. with Dr. Derek Griffith. Dr. Griffith is the Founder and Director of the Center for Men’s Health EquityThe Center for Men’s Health Equity conducts research that helps men live healthier lives. While there is growing interest in how social and cultural factors shape men’s health, few researchers have comprehensively studied these influences.
Robert Washington-Vaughns started the Black Men Flower Project in the summer of 2021 in Columbus, Ohio when he began delivering flowers to his guy friends in and around town as a token of his gratitude and appreciation towards them. Robert conceptualized the project during his time in an outpatient mental health program in Columbus, Ohio in 2018. He was inspired by the community, art, and nature therapy practice of wabi-sabi and wanted to adapt it to something portable and impactful. John Caleb Washington is the founder of Plank & Pistils, a floral design company that exists to design high-quality floral art that evokes a social and emotional connection to Black freedom, creativity, self-care, and growth. John’s floral design work has been in Munaluchi Bridal Magazine and he was included in “125 Florists To Be Celebrated in 2022” by Florists’ Review Magazine.
As we close out 2023 on Black Men Speak, my guest Collin Mays and I discuss his journey to care for his health and some of the things Black Men need to do in 2024. Collin serves as the President and Founder of LMS Solutions, a strategic planning consulting firm that assists local governments and nonprofits. Most recently Collin served as Director of the Department of Economic Inclusion for the City of Cincinnati. He also is Co-Chair of The Soul Of Philanthropy Michigan where he led a volunteer effort of 25 people and raised more than $400,000
In this special 4-part series, we'll examine the life of Jarvis Jay Masters born in Long Beach, California, in 1962. He is a widely published African-American Buddhist writer and the author of That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row and Finding Freedom.
Originally sent to San Quentin State Prison in 1981 for armed robbery, Jarvis was convicted of conspiracy to murder a prison guard in 1985 and sentenced to death in 1990. Because his case involved a correctional officer, he was placed in solitary confinement and endured there for twenty-one years, from 1985 to 2007. Jarvis exhausted his state appeals in 2019, and his case is currently headed to the federal courts. For more information on the growing campaign to exonerate him, go to www.freejarvis.org.
In this special 4-part series, we'll examine the life of Jarvis Jay Masters born in Long Beach, California, in 1962. He is a widely published African-American Buddhist writer and the author of That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row and Finding Freedom.
Originally sent to San Quentin State Prison in 1981 for armed robbery, Jarvis was convicted of conspiracy to murder a prison guard in 1985 and sentenced to death in 1990. Because his case involved a correctional officer, he was placed in solitary confinement and endured there for twenty-one years, from 1985 to 2007. Jarvis exhausted his state appeals in 2019, and his case is currently headed to the federal courts. For more information on the growing campaign to exonerate him, go to www.freejarvis.org.
In this special 4-part series, we'll examine the life of Jarvis Jay Masters born in Long Beach, California, in 1962. He is a widely published African-American Buddhist writer and the author of That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row and Finding Freedom.
Originally sent to San Quentin State Prison in 1981 for armed robbery, Jarvis was convicted of conspiracy to murder a prison guard in 1985 and sentenced to death in 1990. Because his case involved a correctional officer, he was placed in solitary confinement and endured there for twenty-one years, from 1985 to 2007. Jarvis exhausted his state appeals in 2019, and his case is currently headed to the federal courts. For more information on the growing campaign to exonerate him, go to www.freejarvis.org.
In this special 4-part series, we'll examine the life of Jarvis Jay Masters born in Long Beach, California, in 1962. He is a widely published African-American Buddhist writer and the author of That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row and Finding Freedom.
Originally sent to San Quentin State Prison in 1981 for armed robbery, Jarvis was convicted of conspiracy to murder a prison guard in 1985 and sentenced to death in 1990. Because his case involved a correctional officer, he was placed in solitary confinement and endured there for twenty-one years, from 1985 to 2007. Jarvis exhausted his state appeals in 2019, and his case is currently headed to the federal courts. For more information on the growing campaign to exonerate him, go to www.freejarvis.org.
In this episode, we will speak with Isaiah Jones, a Comedy Touring and Live Events Agent at United Talent Agency in New York. Initially from Dinwiddie, VA, we will talk about his passion for music and percussion and how that led him to serve as the Brand Manager and Speaking Agent for Marcus Johnson, an esteemed international jazz pianist, producer, entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist. Now growing as an Agent in Comedy Touring, Isaiah represents and books various talent for live events, including stand-up comedians, digital creators, podcasters, kids' character-based live stage shows, and more.
Black Wallstreeter Consultation Services (BWCS) was started by the father and son team, Kevon and Kamari Chisolm in 2018. In 2020 started a nonprofit called Junior Wallstreeters, Inc., whose motto is: Empowering Youth with Financial Wellness. We will talk about BWCS's primary goals which are to decrease the wealth gap in African - American communities. They focus on two areas: 1) helping others build wealth through investment clubs; and 2) empowering youth with financial wellness, which includes our financial literacy/investing curriculum and materials.
In 2020 Tyrese Allyene-Davis celebrated his 21st birthday alone in his NYU dorm room in the middle of a pandemic. It was a mere few days after his school’s closure, and a few weeks before the wave for racial justice would surge following the murder of George Floyd. Seven months later, still confined by a wheelchair and isolated with only his thoughts, he watches the documentary film “I Am Not Your Negro” by Raoul Peck and breaks down in verbal tears. With no one to talk to, Tyrese pours his visceral feelings into a live Facebook post with only audio, leaving his followers to reflect upon his present state of being, and the images behind those thoughts.
This experimental documentary short, In the Wake of Mourning by Adetoro Makinde is the visual amplification of Tyrese's words, bringing the viewer into his world, his trauma, and the awakening of a personal call to power.
Tyrese can be found on these social media platforms.
Instagram accounts: Main Instagram- _thethinktank Poetry, Instagram page-pennedbypablo Book review Instagram page- _therollingreader
Omari Anderson is the founder and CEO of The Best Dirty Lemonade, a brand born from a deeply personal mission. As the only child of a mother battling Alzheimer's, Omari channeled his tenacity and love into creating a remedy to soothe her ailments. As her condition worsened, affecting her sleep, appetite, and mood, Omari was driven to help in the best way he knew how. Despite his academic roots in law and liberal arts, as a graduate of Morehouse College and Howard University School of Law, Omari found himself tapping into the culinary memories of his childhood. Recalling the refreshing beverages his mother used to make, he painstakingly crafted his unique lemonade recipe. Omari's commitment to making a difference extends beyond his business. He is an active member of the Minority Cannabis Business Association and a proud graduate of the 2022 Black CannaBusiness Northeastern Cohort. In his journey, Omari has demonstrated that with resilience, passion, and a strong sense of purpose, transformative solutions can emerge from even the most challenging circumstances.
Spencer Russell currently boasts over 550,000 followers on TikTok, two years ago, he was just a dad going through a career change and looking to give his son a head start. Now the owner of Toddlers CAN Read, Spencer teaches kids as early as 18 months a simple approach to reading.
Deciding to teach his son how to read at such a young age stems from his experience feeling academically inadequate to his family members and peers in his youth. Russell knew from a young age that he was different from his siblings; school and education didn’t come as easy to him. In a family where everyone excelled — the Russell family tree is decorated with advanced degrees from Brown, Cornell, Princeton, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins — he learned early on that he would have to give extra effort in areas that seemed more natural to his four older siblings
In David Steele's new book - It Was Always a Choice Picking up the baton of athlete activism, he explores the complications and risks encountered by professional athletes regarding their personal involvement on social issues. In Part 2, we discuss activism after George Floyd, and the Mount Rushmore of Athlete Activist. David Steele has been a professional sports journalist for more than 35 years. He has written for the Sporting News, AOL, the Baltimore Sun, the San Francisco Chronicle and Newsday, and has contributed to ESPN’s The Undefeated, USA Today, and the NAACP’s The Crisis magazine.
In David Steele's new book - It Was Always a Choice Picking up the Baton of Athlete Activism, he explores the complications and risks encountered by professional athletes regarding their personal involvement on social issues. David Steele has been a professional sports journalist for more than 35 years. He has written for the Sporting News, AOL, the Baltimore Sun, the San Francisco Chronicle and Newsday, and has contributed to ESPN’s The Undefeated, USA Today, and the NAACP’s The Crisis magazine.
Omar Bailey is a footwear design & creation entrepreneur who built his reputation working with stars such as Jay-Z, Karim Benzema, Terry Crews, Quest Love & Allan Houston, and top-tier brands like Adidas, Supreme, Timberland, New Balance & K-Swiss. He along with his partner Abhishek Som started a sneaker production company. Dubbed “FCTRY LAb,” the Los Angeles-based footwear prototyping lab and venture studio aims to support both emerging and established designers. From 2019-2022 Omar was Head of the Innovation Lab at Yeezy-Adidas helping bridge the gap between cutting-edge conceptual designs and physically wearable footwear as Yeezy grew to more than a billion dollars in revenues. Omar studied Industrial Design at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Michigan & graduated from the College of Design, Architecture & Art at the University of Cincinnati.
In this special episode of Black Men Speak, Tierra Cunningham explores the meaningful topic of relationships from the point of view of a Georgetown student. Tierra interviews Chris Pitt, a junior track and field athlete as he discusses the rigors of being a college athlete while maintaining a sense of identity at the University.
In this year's Valentine's edition we speak with Paul Carrick Brunson. Known as the ‘love doctor’ and ‘real-life Hitch’ because of his work as a matchmaker, television host, serial entrepreneur, and author. He was proudly chosen as the World’s Most Influential Matchmaker by the Matchmaking Institute. He co-host Married at First Sight UK and Celebs Go Dating on UK’s Channel 4.
In this special episode of Black Men Speak, Tierra Cunningham explores the meaningful topic of relationships from the point of view of a Georgetown student. I interviewed Kenan Blakey, a Junior studying French and Korean, about his journey of making friends at Georgetown and comparing the friendships he has made here with his friends at home. As a result, our interview touched on his journey of making friends, culture, values, faith, and Covid.
Dr. Ovell Hamilton currently serves as an Assistant Professor of History at his alma mater, Morehouse College. Dr. Hamilton became the first instructor to teach world history on a Virtual Reality platform at Morehouse College, also this feat makes him the first professor around the world to utilize a pure Virtual Reality Classroom specified for history. He will take it up a notch as part of the Spring semester 2023, Morehouse College will launch its first Black history course in the Metaverse. History of the African Diaspora Since 1800 will be led by Professor Ovell Hamilton, and it will recreate prominent moments in Black history from slavery to the Civil Rights Movement.
J. Dillard, weary from being bullied in grade school due to his mother and older sister's attempts at a proper haircut, Dillard taught himself the art of barbering at a very young age. In 1999, he simultaneously became a licensed barber and opened his first barbershop while attending Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama. 22 years later, he is a trailblazing master barber whose celebrity client roster includes comedy sensation Kountry Wayne and more. In 2021, Dillard turned his love of barbering into the award-winning literacy series "J.D. the Kid Barber," which hilariously illustrates how a young Black boy's life drastically changes after discovering he has a natural talent for barbering. In addition to a positive portrayal of a young Black boy, the semi-autobiographical book series teaches children about entrepreneurship.
Roy Shuler, a gifted, talented, and charismatic communicator, long enchanted with public speaking, storytelling, and the power of words, began his acting career in 2007 at age 42 with a nondescript role in a regional commercial. While working in corporate America, his faith and determination opened the doors to additional commercials, voice-over, community theatre, TV, and print model opportunities. We will discuss hanging onto your dreams and having the courage to go after them.
The nightlife in Hoboken, NJ is movin’ and groovin’. After all, as the birthplace of American breweries, is it any surprise that Hoboken is home to some fantastic bars, taverns, and clubs? In Hoboken, most people don't see the other street life that is just as alive, but Rev. Anthony Forbes does as Shelter Manager of the Hoboken Shelter.
The nightlife in Hoboken, NJ is movin’ and groovin’. After all, as the birthplace of American breweries, is it any surprise that Hoboken is home to some fantastic bars, taverns, and clubs? In Hoboken, most people don't see the other street life that is just as alive, but Rev. Anthony Forbes does as Shelter Manager of the Hoboken Shelter.
Damon Mosley is an Ohio-based writer, producer, and creator of #SmileForWe, an online photo campaign he started post-pandemic to highlight Black men actively participating in joy.
Chef Donald J. Smith was born and raised in New Orleans, the heart and soul of Creole and Cajun culture. It was there that he learned the ins and outs of authentic Creole Cuisine at the feet of his mother and uncle. Known in culinary circles as “Chef D,” the chef specializes in Creole, Cajun, and soul food. Chef D has owned several restaurants. His portfolio boasts preparing meals for various entities, including conventions, corporations, celebs like Barry Bonds, The O’ Jays, The Clark Sisters, and Miguel, and feeding the homeless and less fortunate.
The New Orleans native is a natural-born, innovative chef. Chef Donald has traveled the world and interacted with other first-rate chefs worldwide; he has had the rare opportunity to share his expertise and passion for good food with other chefs from countries like Brazil, Italy, and Spain. To enhance and broaden his knowledge and skills of Creole Cuisine and add a little professional twist to things, he attended Louisiana Vo-Tech and Delgado Community College, where he earned many Culinary Arts certificates. Through his company, Chef D Services, not only does he mix his own spices, for his spice line Yes Chef Gourmet Spices and Foods, but he has also written cookbooks, Donald Lukie Smith New Orleans Underground Chef (2020) and most recently, The Underground Chefs, for which he was the visionary author.
Chef Donald now has 20-plus years of experience in culinary cuisine preparation under his belt and has received many awards, including “Gumbo” competitions, and accolades. In 2018, he was voted one of Louisiana’s best chefs, and in 2020, he received the Culinary Excellence Award from the National Black Chef Association. Last summer, Chef D was also named Culinary Ambassador for Louisiana for the National Black Chef Association.
Jermaine Hall, CEO of LEVEL MAN is a publication that originally started branched out at Medium but is now a stand-alone website for Black and Brown men. LEVEL offers the best commentary on race, identity, and culture for men of color and tips on how to live your best life. Men can visit LEVEL for advice on parenting, sex, relationships, marriage, and more. With over twenty years of experience creating award-winning, digital content at the intersection of entertainment and popular culture, Jermaine is the perfect person to discuss the trends affecting our black men.
THE BLACK MEN SPEAK PODCAST IS BACK. In October of 2021, I interviewed Phillip Henderson as he was about to lead a team of seven climbers to the top of Mt. Everest. He is back, along with Dom Mullins and Thomas Moore to give a first-hand account of his journey as he and his team successfully reached the summit on May 12th, 2022.
Nearly two decades ago, Andre Norman was serving a 100-year sentence in prison, but he was
no regular prisoner. A natural-born leader, he rose to be the top gang leader within the
facility, running all the daily gang activity.
After an epiphany in solitary confinement, Norman made the decision to turn his life
around. He had a simple dream to attend Harvard University and become successful.
Over the next 8 years, Andre worked 20-hour days to make this dream a reality. He
taught himself how to read, then to study and understand the law, and then volunteered
to participate in anger management groups. After winning his appeal and being armed
with a GED and a dream, Andre walked out of prison in 1999, after serving 14 years.
Having survived rock bottom, Norman knew he could help others do the same. He
pulled from his life experiences and created The Academy of Hope and set out on his
mission to teach both individuals and corporations how to turn any situation around.
Lavar Jacobs founded Not Just October in memory of his mother, Kim Jacobs, who passed away from breast cancer in 2009.
Not Just October is dedicated to increasing awareness around breast cancer and its effects on families and helping breast cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones lead a more comfortable life.
Dwayne Taylor was born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey. Attended St. Patrick's Grammar school and then Marist H.S in Bayonne NJ. In 2003 He became a Jersey City Firefighter, where he is currently a battalion chief. In a full-circle moment in 1950, Thomas Gerald Taylor, Dwayne's Grandfather, became the JCFD’s first African American firefighter.
Emeka "AR" Chiedu and Naseed Gifted from PBS Media are two blockchain "enthusiasts" that will explain the important aspects of cryptocurrency and NFT's
The only way we can transform the health of Black Men is to replicate a program that is working. We have found such an organization and it's called the Rebalanced - Life Wellness Health Association by Founder and CEO Aaron G. Perry. Frustrated by his own medical challenges, Perry created his own medical team to help eliminate a medical condition he lived with for over 2 years. Now he has created a new innovative health model for reducing health disparities and improving the Social & Health Conditions of Black men in Dane County. And is seeking to do so nationwide.
Dr. Armon Perry joins Black Men Speak to discuss love and relationships. We will discuss: The Black Manosphere, What marriage books should we read? and Realistic Black Movies on Relationships.
In Part of our Black Men Speak Health Challenge, we talk about some challenges around the problem of black men's health with guest Derrick Lane of BlackDoctor.org and two guests who are taking on the challenge Tim Davis, and Joe Winters.
As the first Black Man to win an Oscar, we examine the life of Sidney Poitier with his recent death at the age of 94. My roundtable of guests include three black men in the entertainment industry that have benefited from his legacy. Writer Tracy Grant, comedian Eugene Barnes and radio host, Will O'Kelly will each provide a unique perspective on how Sidney Poitier impacted their careers and if he should be on the Mt. Rushmore of Black Actors.
Shawn Dove, author of "I, Too Am America" and the CEO of the Corporation of Black Male Achievement (CBMA). We will discuss the insights, inspiration that humanizes the stories of Black men and boys while offering strategic recommendations on how we move from racial reckoning to racial resolution.
Eugene T. Barnes knew at a very young age that he wanted to be a comic. Hear how he parlayed his love for comedy into a budding career, a wonderful family, a social justice organization, and an award-winning new screenplay titled The Come Up.
Black people are about 13 percent of the nation’s population, they comprise less than 1 percent of brewers, according to a survey by the Brewers Association, a trade group that represents more than 5,400 small, independent brewers in the United States. Hear Roger Apollon Jr., co-founder of Four City Brewing Co. story as part of that 1%.
Author, Dr. William H. Turner, author of The Harlan Renaissance, paints an African-American life in the Appalachian Region. Often overlooked we discuss how blacks were able to build thriving, sustainable communities in the midst of racism and discrimination.
Daniel Morteh, founder of Bikes Will Save The World, tells the story of how a 100 bike ride in June 2019 not only saved his life, but set him on the path to his future.
In the spring of 2022, the Full Circle Everest Expedition (FCEE) with an all-Black cohort of climbers. Their goal is to make history by becoming the first all-Black team to summit the highest mountain on the planet.
Led by Phil Henderson, an experienced mountaineer and 30-year veteran of the outdoor industry, the team has built its expedition around far more than attaining a summit. It’s an effort to steer the narrative of mountaineering, climbing, and simply enjoying the outdoors to one that is more inclusive for future generations. It’s about showing that the outdoors is a space for everyone. It’s about elevating and inviting new faces into the mix
Dr. Armon Perry, Professor at the University of Louisville's Kent School of Social work and author of Black Love Matters: Authentic Men's Voices on Marriage and Romantic Relationships once again joins the show to talk about relationships in the black community.
Da'Vion Tatum, valedictorian of Westfield High School in Texas talks about his journey from Houston to Harvard after receiving $716,000 in scholarship money. As the author of “Thriving In My Own Lane,” Tatum shares his personal life experiences from middle to high school. and the pitfalls of succumbing to stereotypes by reminding them to have the courage and mindset necessary to break societal and cultural norms.
Steve Jones is the Founder and CEO of pocstock a diversity media agency that is laser-focused on changing the way the world sees people of color and the way we see ourselves. We will discuss why positive black images are so important to business today and beyond.
Two years ago Trumpeter, Herb Smith spent the night in a Monroe County Jail and the chatter of the men led to the launch of Herb’s City Trumpets (HCT) provides a mentorship program for young black men, 12 to 18 years old, through the expression of music.
Minnesota has one of the best education systems in the country unless you are a black boy. Black male teachers are only 0.5% of the teaching population in Minnesota and just 2% nationally. Studies show that if black boys have at least one Black male teacher during their elementary school years they are 29% less likely to drop out of school years later (this number was 39% for very low-income Black students). Markus Flynn, Executive Director of Black Men Teach will discuss the disparities and their impact and his initiative to recruit, prepare, place and retain Black male teachers in elementary schools.
Tim Davis & Antoine Richmond, hosts of the podcast, Hood Kings talk about the Derek Chauvin Verdict, gun ownership, men's health, and facials.
Adrian Miller, James Beard winner and author of Soul Food - The Surprising Story of an American Cuisine, will discuss the unknown history of African-American cuisine and the prominence African-American men have played in it.
As co-founder of Roll Up Life, New Jersey’s first black-owned cannabis delivery service, Tiyahnn Bryant will talk about his journey in the cannabis business as well as providing information that will help aspiring entrepreneurs in this new enterprise in the state of NJ.
In this episode, we will explore how Black men can prioritize internal peace when a war is being waged externally on their bodies through Yoga. Special guests include Quentin Vennie, author of Strong in Broken Places, and Yirser Ra Hotep, a 45-year Yoga Instructor practicing the art of Kemetic Yoga out of Chicago, Illinois.
Pittsburgh native, Michael Jasper talks about life and how he's inspired, does great things and how lives his dreams, not only in the community but for his wife and three kids as well.
Dr. Yaw A. Nyame is a surgeon, researcher, educator, and patient advocate who specializes in general urology care and urologic cancers. My expertise includes using open and minimally invasive surgical techniques for treating kidney, prostate, bladder, and testicular cancers.
Georgetown Alum, Cole Brown, author of Grey Boy - Finding Blackness in a White World follows the journey of Black identity when subsumed in an environment of white privilege. Cole digs into the places where, in youth, a greyboy’s difference is most acutely felt: parenting, police brutality, Trumpism, depression, and dating, to name a few.
In this episode, the tables are turned. Dr. Armon Perry who appeared in Episode 18, interviews me along with Rod Joiner, from the HBCU Singles Lounge and Coach Michael Taylor about the subject of Black Love from a men's perspective. This event was sponsored by Father's Incorporated.
Dr. Armon Perry Author of Black Love Matters: Authentic Men’s Voices on Marriages and Romantic Relationships. He is a Professor at the University of Louisville’s Kent School of Social Work. Dr. Perry teaches Introduction to Social Work and Social Work Practice with Families. Dr. Perry’s research interests are fathers’ involvement in the lives of their children and African American men’s contributions to family functioning.
Season 2 kicks off with Altarik White, former high school coach of Weequahic High School in Newark. We talk about his journey from Newark hometown hero on the football field to mentor and role model who dedicated his life to the growth and development of the youth in that city.
As an Academic Coach for the West Side High School and Weequahic High School football teams in Newark, NJ it was my job to impart important life-skills that would serve them as they entered manhood and beyond. We will discuss lessons learned, as well as how they have navigated adulthood.
Over 30 years ago, a group of nine black men lived in the same dorm at a predominately white university. On the show, we will talk to four of them about the "State of Black Male Friendship" and what brought them together, and how they have maintained such a connection for so long.
When President-elect Joe Biden Jr. thanked black voters in his victory speech during his acceptance speech, he said, "You've always had my back, and I'll have yours." But what does that mean? What are some of the changes President-elect Joeseph Biden and VP - elect Kamala Harris to need to push in order for the United States to be more equitable? Once again, we will have Morris O' Kelly from the Mo' Kelly Show, Mark Thompson from the Make It Plain Podcast, and Saladin Ambar to join me to discuss this historic event.
Black men have always been advised time and time again to remain silent on mental health issues. Following along the lines of norms of masculinity, these are the masks society instilled in Black men to carry in the face of rampant structural racism and violent crimes that hinders their progress in the fabric of society. Is this weight killing us? I sit down with Brandon Williams, Licensed Therapist at Williams Counseling and Consulting, and Michael Cox, Licensed Counselor, and Level II Restoration Therapist to see how we as Black Men can take steps to acknowledge and restore our mental health.
We speak to 18-year-old Rajah Caruth and how his love for the movies CARS and Hot Wheels led him to be selected to NASCAR's Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program.
In this Encore episode, two Georgetown alums, Mark Thompson host of the Podcast Make It Plain, and Morris O'Kelly, host of the Mo'Kelly Show give us the low down on the political landscape as we are less than 90 days away from our national election.
We talked about how does it feel to be called "out your name" in public by Roger Stone, who will be Joe Biden's VP candidate, and is it possible for President Trump to win another term.
Same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in the U.S. state of New Jersey since October 21, 2013.
An African-American male same-sex couple reveals the high and lows of their first year of marriage.
As a leadership keynote speaker, Tony Chatman provides practical, usable knowledge that people implement immediately for business and personal success.
Tony’s ability to help leaders, team members, and people from every background and diversity adopt empowering mindsets and strategies that allow them to adapt, reinvent, and transform the results they produce both personally and professionally.
When it comes to African-American Men in Leadership, Tony will discuss some of the ways to uncover unconscious bias and use simple tricks to neutralize personal bias and its effects.
Tony is the author of The Force Mulitplier, How to Lead Teams Where Everyone Wins.
Have you heard the names, Jamar Clark, Robbie Tolan, or Danny Ray Thomas? Probably not!
Chris Colbert, CEO of DCP Entertainment, a media production and distribution company curating pivotal conversations and a platform for underrepresented voices, including people of color, women, the LGBTQ+ community, and other overlooked communities, today wanted to change that with the launch of Say Their Name, a podcast series that will highlight and memorialize the stories of 7 Black individuals who were unarmed when they were assaulted or killed by police or in stand your ground states.
In a report called The Tapestry of Black Business in America by the Association of Economic Enterprise shows there are 2.58 black-owned businesses generating 3.56 million jobs.
In today's podcast, we talk with Al-Shakise Anderson (BWS Massage), Java Bradley (Java's Compost), Jason Hall (JH Pestaway). They discuss their journeys and struggles as entrepreneurs and what inspires them to succeed.
Working Actors are generally defined as those who consistently work in commercials, television and film and yet never receive "superstardom".
The brothas on today's show are the epitome of the working black actor and have the pedigree to prove it. Herve Clermont, Chris Williams, and Christopher T. Wood share their journey and experience as working black actors in Hollywood.
In part 2 they continue discussing the new Tyler Perry Studio, Chris's journey being Vanessa William's brother, and Black Lives Matter in Hollywood.
Working Actors are generally defined as those who consistently work in commercials, television and film and yet never receive "superstardom".
The brothas on today's show are the epitome of the working black actor and have the pedigree to prove it. Herve Clermont, Chris Williams, and Christopher T. Wood share their journey and experience as working black actors in Hollywood.
In this episode, two Georgetown alums, Mark Thompson host of the Podcast Make It Plain, and Morris O'Kelly, host of the Mo'Kelly Show give us the low down on the political landscape as we are less than 90 days away from our national election.
We talked about how does it feel to be called "Negro" in public by Roger Stone, who will be Joe Biden's VP candidate, and is it possible for President Trump to win another term.
In this episode, we will explore the other side of single parenting. A Pew Research center’s data from 2017 shows 4% of black children under 18-years-old live with single fathers. We'll interview two of those men Victor Nicholson & Hanif Abdul Salaam as they share their obstacles and triumphs when it comes to raising their children.
Did you know the typical black family has 10 times lest worth than the typical white family? Guest A. Donahue Baker, President of Money Ave., shares understands that fact, so he is working to alleviate this issue by showing African Americans how to create Generational Wealth.
In part 2 we continue the discussion of the Black Lives Matter Movement as we touch upon Christianity, Police Harassment, Public School Funding, and Reparations.
The recent deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery have sparked outrage and demonstrations across the nation. But, it sparks the question is a National movement necessary and what would it look like? My guests, Professor Saladin Ambar, Educational Activist Lmani Viney, and Chris Broussard, President of K.I.N.G. and Fox Sports Personality will discuss this topic.