Chicken Soup for the White Boy's Soul

Denver and his fiancé talk about their relationship and how they navigate conversations on race.

Another monologue to the self. Another moment for reflection. Another check-in.

Sometimes you need to create the things and the spaces you need. Tom has been an essential part of that for me in my journey. This is a conversation between two white men that, even if it isn't perfect or entirely "correct," "appropriate," insert adjective here... is essential in my personal journey. I hope it gives you a taste of what is possible. I cannot remain satisfied with this conversation alone, yet I can feel encouraged by it.

(Part 2 of 2) In this episode, Allicette and I have a drink or two and keep the conversation candid around the history of slavery, religion, and how to let people save themselves. The building is on fire. You've been warned. Resources for additional reading:-America: The Farewell Tour by Chris Hedges-The God Strategy: How Religion Became a Political Weapon in America by David Domke-Why Are All The Black Kids Sitting Together In The Cafeteria by Daniel Tatum

(Part 1 of 2) Things are shifting into a new gear in Denver's journey. Denver's well-intended feelings are met with some searing truths from Allicette Torres. Police violence, the Puerto Rican American experience. The fallibility of the English language. Dive in to part one of a complex and heart-filled conversation.

Shifting gears, Denver spends this episode talking to himself and to whoever is here to listen. A little bit of music, a little bit of poetry, and a whole lot of unpacking what's been going on behind the scenes are what you can look forward to hearing in this 30 minute episode.

Denver speaks with his childhood best friend, Olivia Mullen. There's something in the air. Is it him? Is it her? Is it the whiteness between them? What do you think it may be? In this episode, we manage to scratch the surface of American military life, white supremacist systems, communism, and even Avatar: The Last Airbender.

My guest on the podcast today is Jay Cobián. Most recently seen in the new play “Richard & Jane & Dick & Sally” written by Noah Diaz at Baltimore Center Stage. Our conversation dives into the learned racism of our childhoods, what privileges and challenges come with being “white-passing,” and diversity in the arts among other topics. This episode was recorded on June 30th, 2020.

Lovingly known as Dr. T, Dr. Tawnya Pettiford-Wates brings her lifetime of experiences to the table in this first installment of Chicken Soup for the White Boy's Soul. She is the founder of The Conciliation Project, a social justice theatre company whose mission is "To promote, through active and challenging dramatic work, open and honest dialogue about racism and oppression in America." She has been a mentor to Denver ever since he met her during his studies at Virginia Commonwealth University.