Awakened in America

Host Z & Host Jess discuss the intersectionality of folklore and race with Dr. Pat Turner of UCLA, author of "I Heard It Through the Grapevine: Rumor in African-American Culture" and "Crafted Lives: Stories and Studies of African American Quilters." 

Host Z and Host Jess chat with Claudia Walker, the owner of The Black Toy Store and recently published author of "ABC's of HBCU's", regarding her innovative business ventures that are elevating Black History. This episode celebrates American history, and specifically highlights Black History Month.

Host Z and Host Jess speak with Superintendent Dr. Ben Drati, Dr. Freda Rossi, and Dr. Satinder Hawkins from the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District about the programs and initiatives they are leading with regards to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

In light of the recent United States Presidential Election, Hosts Z and Jess discuss the topic of Patriotism.

Host Z and Host Jess compare events involving law enforcement in Kenosha, WI and Rochester, NY.

Host Z and Host Jess sit down with Shenita and Todd Moore to discuss their lives and experiences growing up in a state that considers itself Liberal.

Host Z & Host Jess continue their discussion with Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos, asking questions specific to Antiracism in a healthcare setting and his opinion on the Affordable Care Act.

Host Z & Host Jess sit down with Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos from Johns Hopkins Medicine where he serves as a Pulmonologist as well as Director of the Health Equity Steering Committee. How has COVID-19 shined a light on healthcare disparities in the U.S.? How can hospitals do a better job of listening to the communities they serve? Tune in to hear his feedback.

Host Z and Host Jess discuss ways to be an everyday antiracist ally to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Topics covered include: remembering African Americans who were killed at the hands of law enforcement, stark contrasts with the way the different races react to police, and highlighting the need for due process - regardless of race.

Hosts Z and Jess discuss how even areas where we would normally expect inclusion, like religion, are also lacking.

Hosts Z and Jess discuss what it means to be antiracist and potential pitfalls with the momentum the term is receiving right now.

Hosts Z and Jess discuss how the wealth gap among races is related to education, opportunities, and beyond.

Hosts Z and Jess discuss the relationship between funding and education quality based on first-hand experiences.

How did we get here? A constructive dialogue on the awakening of our minds to the issues of Black America.