Count Time: Recent Episodes
LD Azobra
Count Time Podcast features LD Azobra formerly Lyman White, formerly of the LSU Tigers and the Atlanta Falcons. LD interviews Living Legends and those whose stories need to be heard. His time at Oakdale Federal Prison along with his perspectives as a "Black" man who has traveled the world, inspires insightful, emotional and sometimes hilarious discussions. Website: https://smartbrothamedia.com/count-time
How do you celebrate Superhuman Day? We hope everyone had a great Labor Day weekend. This year we celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington and the 160th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. And today we celebrate Superhuman Day. We all have a lot to celebrate! Todays episode describes Superhuman Day and starts with the inspiration of Ethan Hawke and Amanda Gorman. How will you celebrate?
August 28th is the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom where the moral leader of our nation, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered the famed I Have a Dream speech. Todays episode commemorates this day with a replay of the speech by President Barack Obama at the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington.
He reminds us of "that steady flame of conscience and courage" that fuels the struggle; and that we would dishonor those hero's who gave their lives if we, "suggest that the work of this nation is some how complete." Where do we find that steady flame of conscience and courage today?
It took a hundred years from the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation to get to the March on Washington. As civil rights legend Ronnie Moore has said "this is a hundred year struggle." And we are only sixty years in, what can we do over the course of the next 40 years to make real the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. proclaimed on August 28, 1963.
Click Here to listen to 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Did you know that August is National Black Business Month? We have some of the latest reports on the celebration and how it came about. Includes an LD excerpt from Who R U? and 8 Ways to Empower Black Businesses. Click Here to listen to Inspiration - National Black Business Month along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Black businesses have been around for centuries. Estimates are that Black entrepreneurs can earn over 10 times more than non-Black business owners.
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A renowned civil rights attorney, our Living Legend reminisces about growing up in Baton Rouge and becoming successful. Click Here to listen to Interview with Robert Eames along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
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Today we have an impromptu speech given by Ms. Lauryn Hill at a Jalen Brown-hosted Event in 2018 at NBA All-Star Weekend. We hope that you too are inspired. Click Here to listen to Inspiration - Lauryn Hill along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Lauryn Hill is a rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. She is regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is one of the best-selling albums of all time.
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Today we celebrate the dedication of the Heritage monument and the 75th Anniversary of the desegregation of the US Armed Forces. The Louisiana Heritage Monument honors the brave service and sacrifices of all African-American Veterans and their families from Louisiana and throughout the country. It is located in the Louisiana Veterans Memorial Park at the State Capitol. This episode includes remarks by Governor John Bel Edwards, Senator Royce Duplessis and more. On July 26, 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9980, which eliminated discrimination in federal employment, and 9981, which banned segregation in the U.S. armed forces. Click Here to listen to Louisiana Heritage Monument Dedication along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
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Southern University and A&M College has partnered with the state and agreed to maintain the Heritage Monument website and share the stories of the veterans for many years to come.
Our Living Legend describes growing up and running a corner store that is quickly approaching its 80th anniversary of operation in Donaldsonville, LA. One of a few that have survived the heyday of corner grocery stores.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Michel Bellina along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
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The Ghetto Messiah discusses "family," trauma, rebirth and the challenges of life all in his unique brand of humor, irreverence and insight. Click Here to listen to Interview with Arthur Silky Slim Reed along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
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An inspirational 4th of July episode that will make you think. A Jamaican-born immigrant, our Living Legend describes what happens when access and opportunity are given to young people. A sharp reminder of the folly of the recent Supreme Court ruling which killed Affirmative Action social justice policies.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Tech Visionary Yusuf Henriques along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Founder & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IndyGeneUS AI & IndyGeneUS Global (pronounced indigenous) a precision genomics company aiming to create the world's largest blockchain-encrypted digital health platform of indigenous and diasporic African clinical and genomic data.
A world renown artist, our Living legend describes his life growing up in Louisiana and how he learned his craft. "Everybody's got a story," sums up the 40 years of the woodcarver creating 3D art from centuries old cypress to capture Louisiana life. Everybody needs a Watson!
Click Here to listen to Interview with Artist Henry Watson along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Shout Out to Veronica Shealy for becoming a Patron at the Legacy Maker level. Your support means a lot!
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Our Living Legend an attorney and former LSU football great describes growing up in Lake Charles, the importance of mental health and of course some great LSU stories.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Thad Minaldi along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
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A pioneer, the first African American elected to a judgeship in Baton Rouge, LA; served as a District Court and Circuit Court of Appeals judge; Chancellor of the Southern University Law Center; and author. Our Living Legend gives his history and describes the importance and value of relationships and coalition building in becoming an agent of change.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Judge Freddie Pitcher along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Our Living Legend a 93 year old trailblazing former justice of the peace gives a Scotlandville history lesson along with great stories from his life and time serving as Justice of the Peace. An interesting glimpse of African-American life 1940's - 1970's.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Judge Henry Allen along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Click Here to listen to Thanksgiving Message 2022 along with notes, transcript, pictures, videos and links. Happy Thanksgiving to all out there in Count Time land. We thank you for tuning in weekly. We thank you for being so supportive of our podcast. We thank you for the encouraging words. As easy as it is to say that, we know a lot goes behind Happy Thanksgiving and we're talking about how this day came about. I know we like to celebrate, but we also want you to be mindful of the many who died.
Please click on the Thanksgiving Message 2022 link and be sure to leave a comment and watch the 12 minute video.
"Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer. And let faith be the bridge you build to overcome evil and welcome good."
Maya Angelou
Click Here to listen to Interview with Sukari Hardnett along with notes, transcript, pictures, videos and links. Expulsion by Southern University and blacklisted to working for Clarence Thomas yes that Clarence Thomas. A fascinating life. Our Living Legend completes her journey from fighting for education to fighting for those at a disadvantage in the legal system. The struggle continues.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Sukari Haronett and Brenda Williams along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Our Living Legends describe the 1972 unrest at Southern University that included the deaths of Denver Smith and Leonard Brown. They discuss the conditions which led to the community activism and protests of that time period.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Ben Peabody and Dr. Brian Benson along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Two perspectives on the fentanyl epidemic, addiction, recovery and promise for the future. Long time community leader and recovery advocate Ben Peabody along with Dr. Brian Benson provide some addiction facts you may not have heard before.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Joanette Batiste Boutte along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. In 1975, the first African American woman to play varsity basketball and volleyball at LSU. She ranks 4th all-time at LSU in rebounds with 1,017 in 121 career games. Our Living Legend discusses the impact of Title IX on her life, and becoming a professional athlete, educator, mother and wife.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Principal Murphy L Armelin along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Teacher, veteran, family man, martial artist and community leader a man determined to bring change. Our Living Legend discusses his early life, becoming a Karate Black Belt while stationed in South Korea and his career in education.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Coach Roy Barron along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Our Living Legend talks about football, coaching and the effect integration had on high school sports. LD reminisces with his high school coach.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Leonard and Alyce Julien along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. From a lineage of successful farmers and innovators they tell their families story of accomplishment and heart ache. Their father invented the mechanical sugar cane planter. Great description of life in the small village of Modeste Louisiana on Highway 405, north of the parish seat of Donaldsonville, between Hohen Solms, and Philadelphia Point. Shameful story of the theft of Black owned farms with the assistance/direction of the federal government.
Click Here to listen to Interview with The Mayor Valeria Schexnayder along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Born on land owned by her ancestors for a century that was stolen to create a National Park, our Living Legend known as the "Mayor of the Lower Nine" talks about her life, surviving Hurricanes Betsy and Katrina and how she has fought for her community and won.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Coach Roger Cador Part II along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Our Living Legend on success despite obstacles, how to inspire young people, the difficulties of building a program at a university with limited resources and his take on what is the future of baseball.
It is impossible not to like Roger Cador. His genuineness and candor is refreshing. He provides smart, insightful analysis on everything from sports to life lessons for parents, students, athletes or anyone seeking to be successful. He also gives the best explanation of why baseball will always be America's pastime.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Coach Roger Cador along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Southern University Legendary Coach gives insight into the relationships, struggles and obstacles that led to his early success. Coach holds the distinction of leading Southern University to the first HBCU to win a game in an NCAA regional, upsetting No. 2 Cal State Fullerton, 1-0, in New Orleans in 1987.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Gaynell "Gus" Kinchen along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Our Living Legend talks about family, LSU and football. A member of the LSU National Championship Football team playing on the Chinese Bandits squad, a politician and family patriarch.
Click Here to listen to Interview with the Voice Dan Borné along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. From football walk on in high school to working for Russell Long and Edwin Edwards to the Voice of Tiger Stadium our Living Legend tells his story of a life well lived.
He celebrates his 37th year as Public Address announcer for LSU football and men’s basketball games. His signature line before each football game, “Chance of rain … never!” is always followed by the roar of the Tiger faithful. The husband, father and deacon in the Catholic church has successfully served in the public and private sectors.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Sybil Haydel Morial Part II along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Sybil Haydel Morial a Force of Nature Part II.
The 89 year old mother, author matriarch of New Orleans most successful political family discusses the importance of family, Martin Luther King, Andrew Young, Mahalia Jackson, Global Warming and more. Our Living Legend is our history.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Sybil Haydel Morial Part I along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Sybil Haydel Morial a Force of Nature Part I.
The 89 year old mother, author matriarch of New Orleans most successful political family discusses the importance of knowing your ancestry. A first rate storyteller lets us in on a couple centuries of her family history woven into a recipe for successful navigation of the American experience for those of the African Diaspora. From the Wolof people of Senegal to the Haydel plantation to participating in ending Jim Crow tyranny to First Lady of New Orleans our Living Legend is our history.
Click Here to listen to 75th Episode Celebration along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Congratulations to LD Azobra! Count Time passed its one year anniversary and has been heard in 25 countries around the world.
History
Episode 37 Interview with Julia B Moore Nov 4, 2021
Episode 42 Interview with Freya Rivers Dec 9, 2021
Episode 62 Ronnie Moore May 12, 2022
Episode 60 Passing of Johnnie A Jones Dr. Apr 28, 2022
Episode 30 Interview with Dr. Johnnie Jones, Sr. Sept 16, 2021
Sports
Episode 27 Interview with Coach Dale Brown Aug 26, 2021
Episode 40 Interview with Ramsey Dardar Nov 25, 2021
Episode 13 An Interview with Coach Lynn Leblanc May 13, 2021
Upcoming episodes?
Click Here to listen to Interview with Tyler Lafauci along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Entrepreneur and prominent physical therapist our living legend talks about a football, LSU and family.
He was a first-team All-American football player his senior season in 1973 for the LSU Tigers of Louisiana State University (LSU). Mainly playing as an offensive guard, he was also a first-team All-Southeastern Conference selection in 1973 and a second-team selection in 1972. After college, he became a prominent physical therapist in Baton Rouge and in 1983, was inducted into the LSU Athletic Hall of Fame.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Stanley Francis along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. Entrepreneur, artist our living legend talks about a mixture of history, inspiration, legacy and faith.
His family run business established during Reconstruction (1875) has been passed down for generations. He describes the effort and drive needed to maintain a successful business from the reconstruction era through Jim Crow to modern times starting with his great-grandfather the founder. He is a musician with the "voice of an angel" he describes the importance of faith in his life and his legacy.
Nurses of 4South to be Honored on July 27, 2022. Click Here to listen to Honoring the Nurses of 4South see the event invitation and link to the October 2021 episode when our two Living Legends of Nursing told their story.
LD is excited and you should be too, because the Nurses of 4South of the Baton Rouge General Hospital, the segregated ward in the 50's and 60's, are being honored. A dedication will be held next Wednesday July 27, 2022 at 7036 Florida Blvd. in the hospital chapel.
Please come out and celebrate with us in support of the nurses, that they may know their labor is appreciated and was not in vain. They had to overcome segregation, discrimination and everything else that comes with living under oppression.
Click Here to listen to A Personal 4th of July along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. A celebration of life and independence inspires LD to put out a call to the church, the mosque the temple and the synagogue.
At the recent 4th of July celebration in Franklin, Louisiana LD's family also celebrated the life of his parents and his father who was murdered 40 years ago. This celebration of independence led to this release of his previously recorded but unpublished thoughts about how the "Kingdom of God is at hand."
Click Here to listen to Interview with Conan Louis along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. A pioneer, an entrepreneur, avid collector of African-American art conversant in Russian and French our Living Legend describes his journey from Trinidad to power and community activism.
An experienced manager with a strong track record of success in diverse settings such as the Smithsonian, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, and international law firms. He is the founder of CNL Solutions, a private consulting and legal services firm and is a member of the bar of the District of Columbia and the United States Court of International Trade. He is a graduate of Georgetown University with degrees in Applied Linguistics, Social Linguistics and Law.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Sheleen Jones along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos. A renown New Orleans visual artist, our Living Legend talks art, inspiration and the importance of following "your" path.
Several of her sculptures are displayed throughout the New Orleans Metropolitan area. Commissioned sculptures include, Armstrong National Park “Chief Allison Tootie Montana”, Rev. Avery C. Alexander, "Forever a Crusader" of Civil Rights, the Memorial Plaza, and "Opening the Gates" A Memorial to A. P. Tureaud Sr.
She is a graduate of Xavier University of New Orleans and Florida State University. She is currently working on a sculpture Heritage honoring Black servicemen and women that will be permanently displayed on the grounds of the Louisiana State Capital. Ms. Jones is also on the faculty of Xavier University of New Orleans.
Click Here to listen to Interview with Pamela Whitley along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
A trailblazer in the aviation industry our Living Legend from Baton Rouge, La., ran a $2 Billion a year federal agency and guided aviation into the digital age. A retired FAA Administrator, Ms. Whitley is the recipient of several prestigious FAA awards. A graduate of Southern University in Baton Rouge, La., she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering.
Part 2 Lyrics for the Soul interview with Kayin White, the son of LD Azobra. Kayin is a Hip-Hop/Rap Artist and performs under the name NWE Yeen. In this episode he discusses why he relates to and performs gangsta rap. He discusses what is behind the violent lyrics and offers a glimpse at what can be learned that can change communities.
Listen to Interview with Kayin White Part 2 Lyrics for the Soul along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
God the Devil and the Soul of Man. Kayin White, the son of LD Azobra is a local rapper and recording artist known as NWE Yeen currently living in Houston TX. In Part 1 of his interview, Kayin gives an interesting perspective on how Lucifer is jealous of God's greatest creation, man. This episode gives a young mans view on spirituality, conservation of energy and the afterlife. Did you know the devil doesn't have a soul? Listen to Interview with Kayin White Part 1 along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
The umbilical cord connects the baby to the mother's placenta. Does the church need to cut the "umbiblical" cord? Listen to LD Azobra thoughts about church and community along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
The ethnomusicologist on the Blues, origin stories and the mixture of colonizers that made Louisiana its likely birthplace. From the misery of the plantation to the classic blues decade of the women, the Harlem Renaissance to Louisiana festivals and everything in between. The Blues is alive and well. Listen to Interview with Dr. Joyce Jackson along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Includes Crazy Blues the first commercial recording of blues music by Mamie Smith and Blues a 1938 Alan Lomax recording of Calvin Frazier for the Library of Congress.
Picked cotton as a teenager and went back to school at the age of 65 to take over the family business in operation since 1958. A woman of destiny, matriarch, successful entrepreneur and Living Legend.
Demby and Son Funeral Home continues under the direction and management of LaBelle Demby. Known for her kind spirit she talks about life, business and the need for compassion. Listen to Interview with LaBelle Demby along with notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
The Hundred Year Struggle to the Promise Land. Living Legend Ronnie Moore describes his role in the hundred year struggle that is the civil rights movement. He took on the klan and southern law enforcement in a battle against evil while surviving near miss assassination attempts. He provides a fresh take on what we do now. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Ronnie Moore" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Permission to use You Been Sweet to Me granted by Mrs. Shirley B Neal, Mother of the Blues.
Happy Mothers Day from the Smart Brotha Media family! The Matriarch of the Family of the Blues a Louisiana Musical Dynasty, Mrs. Shirley Neal "The Mother of the Blues" talks about life growing up in Erwinville, Louisiana, her life with Blues legend Raful Neal and raising a family of world renown Blues musicians. An inspirational look at family, hardship and love. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Shirley Neal" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Permission to use You Been Sweet to Me, Pride and Joy and Someday granted by Mrs. Shirley B Neal, Mother of the Blues.
Count Time Podcast honors the life and legacy of warrior, legend Dr. Johnnie A Jones, Sr. who passed away on April 23rd 2022. He was 102-years-old. He fought for the next generation and his legacy will inspire future generations as it has inspired all who know of him.
A civil rights attorney, Dr. Jones was inducted into the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame and earned the Purple Heart for fighting while injured by shrapnel during Operation Overlord, the D-Day invasion of Omaha Beach.
This episode includes an excerpt from Interview with Johnnie A Jones, Sr. as he describes his experiences as a warrant officer in World War II. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Passing of Dr. Johnnie A Jones, Sr." see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
A builder, preservationist and founder of the first African American museum in Louisiana. Kathe Hambrick is the founder of the River Road African American Museum (RRAAM) and the African Burial Grounds Coalition. She contrasts her life growing up in Louisiana and California and the drive that led her to be a prominent museum professional and author. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Kathe Hambrick" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Happy Easter from the Smart Brotha Media family! Today is Throwback Thursday as LD discusses the resurrection of life and the importance of the light from the east. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Happy Easter 2022" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Living Legend Dr. Len Garrett discusses his book, the trauma of his early life, the odd journey to the NFL and his quest for enlightenment. Born poor in the segregated south Len Garrett learned to survive and plotted his way out of his hometown of Silsbee, Texas. He thought he'd hit the jackpot when he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers and later played for the New Orleans Saints and the 49ers. Dr. Garrett describes his journey to success and happiness. Len was a founder of the Baton Rouge Chapter of the NFL Players Association and the Professional Athletes Supporting Students (PASS). LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Dr. Leonard N Garrett" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Living Legend Kathy Andre-Eames discusses her book and her life facing the racial divide in Jim Crow Louisiana with her husband George Eames, Jr. while fighting for civil equality. An educated, white, Catholic woman fell in love with and married a black paraplegic in the early 1970s. Her husband, George Washington Eames, Jr., was an activist for civil rights and racial equality. At her husband’s funeral, the president of the Baton Rouge branch of the NAACP honored her with these words: “If George was Mr. Civil Rights, then you are Mrs. Civil Rights.” LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Kathy Andre-Eames" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
This Women's History Month episode of Count Time Podcast celebrates the legacy of Annie Armstead Smart. Known as the Harriet Tubman of her time, Annie Smart was a general in the war on poverty and injustice. She founded local and national organizations to address hunger and poverty. Her tenacity and fearlessness was known to shake up the power brokers of the day. Governors, artist, her community and the nation mourned her death. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Women's History Month - Annie A Smart" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
This Women's History Month episode of Count Time Podcast celebrates the legacy of Sadie Roberts-Joseph. Sadie was the founder of Community Against Drugs and Violence (CADAV) and of the Odell S. Williams Now and Then African-American Museum. Her daughter Angela Roberts Machen reacts to the Professional Athletes Supporting Students (PASS) tribute video to Sadie in 2019. Be sure to watch the video. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Women's History Month - Sadie Roberts-Joseph" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
This Women's History Month episode of Count Time Podcast gives Ruthie Lee Millsaps account of the Biloxi Beach protest. March is Women's History Month. It commemorates the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. Its celebration corresponds with International Women's Day on March 8. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Women's History Month - Ruthie Lee Millsap" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
This Black History Month episode of Count Time Podcast is an excerpt from interview with Dr. Ibrahima Seck Pt2 as he describes the African rites of passage from teenager to the world of the adults. This African initiation society led by The Mask has links to the Mardi Gras Indians of New Orleans. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "African Secret Society of the Komo" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
This Black History Month episode of Count Time Podcast is an excerpt from interview with Johnnie Jones, Sr. as he describes his experiences as the lawyer for the Baton Rouge Bus Boycott. The first successful civil rights bus boycott in the south. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Baton Rouge Bus Boycott" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
The Baton Rouge Boycott was the blueprint for Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. In 1953, Martha White helped ignite the Baton Rouge bus boycott. After boarding the bus, she sat down in the section designated for white passengers in the only vacant seat, and was told to move by the driver, but refused. Approximately 14,000 Black residents of Baton Rouge boycotted the city’s segregated public bus system for eight days.
This Black History Month episode of Count Time Podcast Living Legends first hand description of the Biloxi Beach Wade In, also known as Bloody Sunday. Living Legend Delores Yvonne Stewart Shealy and her sister Ruthie Lee Millsap give a riveting description of life for Blacks in the fifties and sixties in Mississippi. The Biloxi beach protest begins at 18:04. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Biloxi Beach Wade In" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
The Biloxi Wade-Ins were three protests that were conducted by African-Americans on the beaches of Biloxi, Mississippi between 1959 and 1963. The police stood by on April 24, 1960, as white mobs attacked Black beachgoers/protesters including elderly men, women and children. Whites attacked Blacks throughout the city into the evening. Ten times as many Blacks were arrested as whites during the day.
This is our 50th Podcast!
This Black History Month episode of Count Time Podcast is an excerpt from interview with Charlie Granger as he describes his experiences as a member of the Deacons for Defense and Justice. Includes videos, links to award winning articles and the song "The Deacons" by its founder. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Deacons for Defense and Justice" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
The Deacons were an armed Black self-defense group founded in November 1964, during the civil rights era in Jonesboro, LA. African Americans were harassed and attacked by white KKK vigilantes in Jonesboro in 1964 including the torching of five churches, a Masonic hall and a Baptist center. The police and sheriff in the south as well as most government organizations were all infiltrated by the Klan. As a result, the only protection the people had against the Klan was the Deacons.
Although the FBI and white media regarded the Deacons as bringers of race warfare, they actually worked closely with CORE in their nonviolent protests as a way to bring about change. Activist Roy Innis said that the Deacons "forced the Klan to re-evaluate their actions and often change their undergarments."
LSU football standout, Executive Deputy Athletic Director and Executive Director of External Relations insightful discussion on building an athletic program the right way, impact of transfer portal and (NIL) Name Image Likeness. Verge Ausberry provides the keys to managing coaches and student-athletes. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Verge Ausberry" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Moving stories from a real estate mogul and community servant. Living Legend Arlene Sanders details how her family came to own acres of land and was able to keep, farm and develop it since the 1800's. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Arlene Sanders" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Our 95 year old Living Legend talks life history, and community improvement. Audrey N Jacksons long life and commitment to community service is exemplary. She discusses politics and change she has been engaged in and witnessed the last 95 years. It is quite a ride described by an extraordinary woman. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Audrey Jackson" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
The first Drug Czar in Louisiana. Griffin Rivers talks about working for Gov. Edwin Edwards, his role of "keeper of people" in prisons in Louisiana and Michigan and a passionate discussion about race, religion and education with his wife Freya Rivers. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Griffin Rivers" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
May all that is beautiful, meaningful and brings you joy be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year! Merry Christmas from the Smart Brotha Media family! LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Christmas Sermon on Peace and Nonviolence" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Christmas Sermon on Peace and Nonviolence, Massey Lecture #5 (Also known as "Peace on Earth" or "a Christmas Sermon on Peace") Aired on December 24th, 1967
Interview with LSU football great Jimmy Field a community leader walking with the Lord. From his time on Billy Cannon led LSU teams, to traveling to Europe, to his successful law practice and election to the Louisiana Public Service Commission Jimmy talks about life and his long friendship with LD. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Living Legend Jimmy Field" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
From desegregating Baton Rouge public schools, successful entrepreneur, educator to activist, What a life! An enlightening conversation full of emotion and humor with Living Legend Freya A Rivers.
LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Freya A Rivers" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
A former Marine, successful entrepreneur and currently "captured" husband's humorous discussion of relationships and life. A raucous conversation with a man who has been everywhere and seen everything. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Russell Sanders" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
LSU Football Living Legend and former SEC Defensive Player of the Year Ramsey Dardar a life filled with the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Ramsey Dardar" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Living Legend describes the social, cultural and racial transformation of Louisiana State University. Professor Emeritus Durant gives an insiders look at negotiating the politics of academia and LSU and his role in desegregation of the university. LISTEN to the Count Time Podcast episode: "Interview with Dr Thomas J Durant Part2" see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here.
Dr. Thomas J Durant, Professor Emeritus, Louisiana State University discusses his journey growing up in north Louisiana under a segregated system. He describes the tools given to him by his parents that took him around the world. LISTEN to the Podcast, see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here!
LISTEN to the Podcast, see notes, transcript, pictures and videos here!
An engaging discussion with Living Legend Julia B Moore cancer survivor, teacher and activist. A teachers' teacher provides a history of Scotlandville, LA, Jim Crow and her wise opinions on everything from education to politics with some surprising laughs. Methodism, and her current mission are a few of the many topics described by Ms. Moore in her passionate story telling style.
Faced with a lynch mob the residents of Scotlandville raised their guns to the sky and prayed "God be with us tonight, Amen."
First and only joint interview of living legends Mike Williams and Lora Hinton the first Black football players in LSU history. Great stories about what it was like to integrate the program, outcomes of their experiences and the life long relationships they made.
Click here for detailed show notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Interview with Baton Rouge Living Legends Catherine Jackson and Gwendolyn Miller. Some of the first black nurses talk about their experiences at Baton Rouge General Hospital during the fifties and sixties. Riveting stories about compassion, obstruction and anger.
Click here for detailed show notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
This Oakdale PhD episode defines Count Time and covers everything from mass incarceration and prison life to reparations with the usual LD engaging point of view. Count Time guests Paul Thomas and Demond Gray discuss how the US justice system functions as a bank (commerce), how it functions on a penal sum and continued use of humans as property and assets.
Click here for detailed show notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
Part II of interview with Edna Jordan Smith she describes the visit she organized to Canada and Underground Railroad sites, with more on Louisiana, Creole and Haitian history. Edna Jordan Smith holds a Masters of Education Degree with an emphasis in Historical Research. She currently teaches Genealogical Research at the Bluebonnet Genealogy Library in Baton Rouge.
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Dr Seck continues in Part II discussing religion, spirituality and superstition, Covid-19, rites of passage and his optimism for the future. Dr Ibrahima Seck is co-founder of the Whitney Plantation Museum where he serves as Director of Research. His research is mostly devoted to the historical and cultural links between West Africa and Louisiana. He is joined on this episode by Dr Joyce Jackson Chair of the LSU Department of Geography and Anthropology.
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Insightful discussion on the cultural ties between Louisiana and West Africa as Dr. Seck "awakens the mind." Dr Ibrahima Seck is co-founder of the Whitney Plantation Museum where he serves as Director of Research. His research is mostly devoted to the historical and cultural links between West Africa and Louisiana.
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LD Azobra interviews 101 year old Living Legend and Civil Rights attorney Johnnie A. Jones Sr. Dr. Jones recounts growing up in Louisiana his work on the Baton Rouge Bus Boycott, numerous cases, student activism at Southern University and the NAACP and his encounters with General Eisenhower and involvement in the D-Day invasion, his recent Purple Heart and his upcoming visit to the White House to meet with President Biden. A funny engaging account of a life well lived, and the limitations of his time that he refuses to accept.
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The most fascinating discussion with a librarian that you have ever heard. LD interviews 86 year old Edna Jordan Smith. A true Living Legend she has advanced the practice of genealogy and has stories to tell. From Haiti to the Court of France to Marksville and 12 Years a Slave, Edna Jordan Smith has observed and describes Louisiana history. Click here for detailed show notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
LD interviews restaurateur and LSU football Living Legend Mike Anderson. He played for the LSU Tigers from 1967 to 1970 and was a consensus All-American linebacker in 1970. Anderson later operated restaurants in Baton Rouge and New Orleans called Mike Anderson's Seafood. Mike talks about the importance of football in his life and how he came to own a legendary restaurant.
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LSU Head Basketball Coach and Living Legend Dale Brown chops it up with LD. The Louisiana State University Living Legend gives an engaging description of his life growing up in "The Magic City" Minot, North Dakota. Coach gives his views on the NCAA, the changes he has fought for during his career, some of which have finally come to fruition. Find out why Coach is considered a players coach as he shares stories about some of his 160 players. Coach Brown and LD give a clinic on overcoming adversity, friendship, loyalty, social justice and the importance of standing up and being counted. Click here for detailed show notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
LD has a wide ranging discussion with Dr. Joyce Jackson the newly elect Chair of the LSU Department of Geography and Anthropology. Dr. Jackson describes what it was like in undergraduate and graduate school at LSU during the early seventies, the problems she faces as the first female Chair and person of color and her vision for the future. Great history lesson on growing up in the south, studying african cultures as well as history of New Orleans, Creoles, Indians and Mardi Gras (Carnivale) Indians along with LD's unique take on everything. Click here to comment and for detailed show notes, transcript, pictures and videos.
LD gives his thoughts on the Real ID and the impact of the digital age on privacy and safety. The Real ID will be required for state ID's beginning May 3, 2023. What impact will this have on travel? Does this signal a changing role for the Department of Homeland Security? Listen in for LD's take on the Real ID.
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LD interviews LSU football Living Legend Greg Lafleur. They discuss their time together at LSU and the different paths they took to the NFL. Listen in for never heard before LSU football history and great, inspiring life stories.
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LD and Greg Lafleur review the book Billy Cannon: A Long, Long Run and discuss the parallels with their lives.
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The coming start of the 2021 Olympics reminds LD of the pyramids and phoenix from the 2012 Olympic ceremonies.
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LD's fond memories of Governor Edwin Edwards and their time together.
Well done, good and faithful servant...
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LD discusses the Biden administration plan to "Combat" gun violence. Talks about quality prevention plans and how funding should be prioritized. Could this be a repeat of the 1994 Crime Bill? Comment or contact LD and let him know what you think.
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LD continues to decode the American System by asking questions regarding Juneteenth and race. Why were no monies attached to legislation to address the problems that the Juneteenth Holiday brings to the consciousness of the American people.
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https://www.wsj.com/articles/how-the-juneteenth-nameand-holidayspread
https://www.juneteenth.com
The 13th amendment, which formally abolished slavery in the United States, passed the Senate on April 8, 1864, and the House on January 31, 1865. On February 1, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln approved the Joint Resolution of Congress submitting the proposed amendment to the state legislatures. The necessary number of states ratified it by December 6, 1865. The 13th amendment to the United States Constitution provides that "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction."
https://www.aclu.org/blog/smart-justice/mass-incarceration/how-1994-crime-bill-fed-mass-incarceration-crisis
The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, commonly referred to as the 1994 Crime Bill,[1] the Clinton Crime Bill,[2] or the Biden Crime Law,[3] is an Act of Congress dealing with crime and law enforcement; it became law in 1994. It is the largest crime bill in the history of the United States and consisted of 356 pages that provided for 100,000 new police officers, $9.7 billion in funding for prisons and $6.1 billion in funding for prevention programs, which were designed with significant input from experienced police officers.[4] Sponsored by U.S. Representative Jack Brooks of Texas,[5] the bill was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Bill Clinton.[6] Then-Senator Joe Biden of Delaware drafted the Senate version of the legislation in cooperation with the National Association of Police Organizations, also incorporating the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) with Senator Orrin Hatch.[7][8]
Following the 101 California Street shooting, the 1993 Waco Siege, and other high-profile instances of violent crime, the Act expanded federal law in several ways. One of the most noted sections was the Federal Assault Weapons Ban. Other parts of the Act provided for a greatly expanded federal death penalty, new classes of individuals banned from possessing firearms, and a variety of new crimes defined in statutes relating to hate crimes, sex crimes, and gang-related crime. The bill also required states to establish registries for sexual offenders by September 1997.
A look at the American legal system as a direct descendant of maritime law established by the Moors. Who agreed to the first treaty with the United States? How can maritime law help with a greater understanding of the legal system? More from LD from his unique perspective on the court.
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LD Azobra describes the similarities between the U.S. Judiciary and the banking system. This is one of a series of topics set to decode the American system. LD asks the question is the judiciary a court of justice or a court of equity. Is the court a bank? What do you think? Listen in on Apple Podcasts or tune in on Spotify or Stitcher!
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Are you a terrorist? You might want to listen to this episode before you answer that question. LD Azobra describes how he learned about OFAC and what happened to him. This episode delves into the Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) Sanctions Lists. OFAC publishes lists of individuals and companies owned or controlled by, or acting for or on behalf of, targeted countries. Are these lists ever used as a vendetta against US citizens? Listen in on Apple Podcasts or tune in on Spotify or Stitcher!
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The Office of Foreign Assets Control of the US Department of the Treasury administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions based on US foreign policy and national security goals against targeted foreign countries and regimes, terrorists, international narcotics traffickers, those engaged in activities related to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and other threats to the national security, foreign policy or economy of the United States.
https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/office-of-foreign-assets-control-sanctions-programs-and-information
Living Legend segment features LD Azobra interviewing Southern University Football Hall of Famer Charlie Granger, one of the Deacons for Defense and Justice. Coach Granger discusses Louisiana history that he helped make. Hear his journey from Lake Charles LA, the tragedy of Hurricane Audrey, redemption at Southern University all the way to the Dallas Cowboys and much more. Part 2. Listen in on Apple Podcasts or tune in on Spotify or Stitcher!
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This Living Legend segment features LD Azobra interviewing Southern University Football Hall of Famer great Charlie Granger, one of the Deacons for Defense and Justice. Hear his journey from Lake Charles La, the tragedy of Hurricane Audrey, redemption at HBCU Southern University all the way to the Dallas Cowboys and much more. A human rights activist, advocate and elected official he tells stories of Louisiana history. Part I of 2 Listen in on Apple Podcasts or tune in on Spotify or Stitcher! #CountTimePodcast
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In this episode of Count Time LD Azobra interviews Coach Lynn Leblanc and talks about coaching, the historic events he has watched and participated in, and why he was the Black recruiter.
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"Interview done Saturday May 1, 2021 at his home in Baton Rouge Louisiana. Coach wife Lynette was also present for the interview plus the interview almost didn't happen. Because when I arrived to their home coach asked had i been vaccinated for Covid19 and I said no. He stated his wife a retired nurse might not let me in the house. They were gracious enough to let me in an allow the interview to happen. It was a major concern because Coach who is now 82 and will be 83 this week."
LD Azobra
LD’s first Count Time interview is of Pastor Dennis Blackwell. Listen as they discuss:
- Black and white school attendance during integration from different perspectives
- Exploration of the impact of not seeing people of color as human on both the oppressor and the oppressed.
- Commentary on the George Floyd murder.
Dennis Blackwell is a graduate of LSU and a Army veteran that spent 10 months in combat during the Vietnam war. He worked for Mortorla for 30 years while a bivocational pastor in Grand Isle, LA for 35 years. He is now retired from both but continues to serve the Lord assisting Pastor Adraine and Apostle Albert White at Abounding Love Ministries.
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LD is Co-Founder and Director of Professional Athletes Supporting Students (PASS).
http://www.passtheballnow.org/
YouTube video: https://youtu.be/I-y5J5HeYPs
This episode will shed some light on the question is Queen Elizabeth II a white supremacist.
"Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life; not so much by what happens to you as by the way your mind looks at what happens." Khalil Gibran
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