Craig and Them

We're back! After a long hiatus Craig and Them is back with a new guest, author and blogger Paul A. Henderson. We discuss his upcoming book, Slave No More, his blog about fatherhood, and the importance of mentoring. "Through the sharing of true stories, Slave No More teaches how to overcome life circumstances and live a life free from belief in limitation." Pre-order Slave No More wherever you choose to purchase your books. Slave No More on Amazon Father Hood on the Fly Blog: IG: @fatherhood_onthefly Facebook: @fatherhood0nthefly www.paulanthonyhenderson.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Tune in for some laughter as Atlanta-based comedian Kyndra Crump joins us to share her thoughts about her favorite comedians and a lot of other things. Check her our on her social media to hear from this hilarious comedian. IG: @thekydracrumpshow Twitter: @kyndracrump --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Michelle and I are joined by award winning documentary filmmaker, Alicia Aroche. Alicia talks about her beginnings, experience, and current and future projects. Follow her on IG @astoryteller5 and @three_ears_studio --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Patrick and Aaron, hosts of the Trauma Teacher podcast, join me to discuss their great show. We also discuss travel, sports, and how to awkwardly go about making the world a better place. Podcast Links: Trauma Teachers on Apple Trauma Teachers on Anchor Social Media Links: IG: @traumateachers Facebook: Trauma Teachers --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Professional counselor, Natasja Visser, joins us from South Africa to discuss the how and when of having the sex talk with your kids. Natasja is an experienced counselor and coach specializing in working with children, adolescents, and families. She developed the Let'S EXplain coaching program to assist parents and teenagers with practical guidance to navigate through a risky world filled with sexual imagery and sexual exploitations. Check out the Let'S EXplain website where you can find resources and coaching to help facilitate the talk with your own children and teens. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

This week we have a conversation with psychologist Dr. Megan. She tells us about being and becoming a Geek Therapist and how she uses Dungeons and Dragons and a therapeutic tool to help her clients build confidence, learn social skills, and learn to be the best version of themselves. Hear more from Dr. Megan and learn more about Geek therapy: Twitter: @MeganPsyD YouTube: Clinical Roll Webpage: www.MeganPsyD.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

In this week’s episode Michelle and Craig have a conversation with Amy Edge, an operations and project management expert for visionaries and change-makers in the online space.We talk to her about her own passion project, The Rising Sisterhood. The Rising Sisterhood is a book, movement, and a collective created by Amy and other women designed to build a community of support and uplifting change. The Rising Sisterhood book (website) Amy Edge and Co. (business website) --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Marcus, Shawn, and Craig get back together after a couple month break to discuss the issues that have occurred since last we spoke. Beginning with current events, the conversation eventually turns to the guys discussing their own personal stories about growing up as black men. Follow us and connect: IG: @craigandthempodcast Twitter: @craigandthempod Email: craigandthempodcast@gmail.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We are joined by the New York Times bestselling and Newbery Medal winning author, Jerry Craft. We discuss his graphic novel New Kid, which is only the second book to win both the Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King award. Craft is also the creator of Mama’s Boyz, an award-winning comic strip which won the African American Literary Award five times. He is a cofounder of the Schomburg Center’s Annual Black Comic Book Festival. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Craig and Michelle are joined by Christoper Rashad Green, a community organizer and activist for New Virginia Majority's Criminal Justice Campaign. Christopher shares his emotional story of going from incarceration to activism and how what he believes needs to be done to help re-entrants as well as preventing African-American youth from entering the pipeline. Christopher also shares his vision for his own organization, Free*Dome Unlimited, Inc. Support Chistopher through GoFundMe Christopher Rashad Green Organizer & Community Advocate christopherrashad47@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007290737277 Christopher has also been featured in the book How to Fight White Supremacy. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We are joined by Author Ericka K. F. Simpson to discuss her new book, Fostered to Love: "After learning that there is a shortage of foster parents across the state of Georgia, Cheyenne sees an opportunity to not only help more children in the system but to also fulfill her desires of being a mother...if she can only convince her wife the reward will be worth the risk." Ericka discusses how her own rewarding and life altering experiences as a foster and adoptive parent influenced her work. We also talk about what has helped her to produce so much quality work (8 books since 2003). Amazon author page Ericka's Facebook page Ericka's IG page --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Today's guest is Mz. Valentine, a published model, who has appeared at New York’s Fashion week and recently launched a perfume fragrance called, Unbreakable. We discuss her burgeoning career as a model, entrepreneur and check in to see what other areas this multi-talented woman will be breaking into. Check out her work and purchase your own bottle of Unbreakable. www.shawnamzvalentine.com IG: @Shawna_MzValentine Facebook: Mz. Valentine Model Chick Manager / Personal Photographer mr.anthony@firstworks.biz FB: Firstworks Photoz ]Vondrake La'var Eyewear: FB: Official House of Vondrake La'var www.vondrakelavar.com Shay's Shoe Haven --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Aaron, Marcus, and Craig discuss their views on the election and what they expect (and don't expect) from the new administration. They talk about what it would take for someone like them to throw their hat into the political ring. Theme music: Too Much Funk (By Steve Oxen) - https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

The Founder and CEO of Constant Hustle Comics, Lawrence J. King joins me for a great conversation about his company and the titles he and his team are producing. He tells us the importance of all representation and inclusion in comics and media. We also discuss, Nightfall, an upcoming crossover he is working on with indie comic companies Wingless Comics and Concept Moon Studios. Check out and support Constant Hustle Comics: Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/winglesscomics/nightfall-part-1-dark-horizons?ref=discovery&term=constant%20hustle Webpage: http://www.constanthustlecomics.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConstantHustleComics/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/c.h.comics/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

In a conversation recorded before the election results were official, Shawn and Craig discuss their feelings about COVID restrictions, fears and concerns about the aftermath of the election, and just how close are we paying attention to the issues below that main box on our ballots. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

My wonderful, courageous friend Lara rejoins us to discuss her battle with cancer. She was my very first interview just over a year ago and returns to share and update on her story. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

In this next installment of the roundtable discussion with the fellas, we have a unedited, uncensored honest conversation about the responsibility of black men to be consistent, vulnerable, and supportive. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We invite on Erin Delp, LCSW, for a conversation about sex. In a wide ranging conversation we to touch on how sex and sexuality affects our everyday lives and how we can be more intentional about experiencing pleasure in the mundane and the profound moments of life. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We sit down and chat with visual artist, @tommy_a.d. He shares how he gets inspired to create his work and the messages he's trying to convey to his audience. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Michelle's old military buddy joins us to discuss, Chico Sticks, the 80's Saturday lineup, the neighborhood candy lady, and many of our 80's childhood memories. Inspired by my appearance on the Puzzled Minds Podcast. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

The fellas pull up a chair to the round table to discuss the shooting of Jacob Blake and the unprecedented response of the sports world. We also discuss our own feelings about interactions with law enforcement and what we see as needing to happen to change some things. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Three friends join us to discuss their experiences as proud alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Four intelligent and passionate black women join me to discuss a little bit of everything. As one guest posted, we discussed everything, "From orgasms, why men are angry w/protecting us, Kamala, WAP, sex positivity, hair, erasing servitude of Black women, male rejection/consent, & the importance of voting." This one is a must listen and one that you may need to listen to more than once to make sure you don't miss anything. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We talk with a teacher and two school therapists about their thoughts, concerns, anxieties, and fears surrounding the back to school debate. With 40 combined years in field of education these professionals give us a glimpse into the minds of those doing the work, not just making the decisions. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We're back with Marcus and Shawn as we discuss our views on the return of sports and not getting drawn into the social media haze of fake news. We also introduce you to the new format of the show and if you stick around until the end you may be able to win a $25 giftcard to a black owned business of your choice. Theme music – Too Funky owned by FesliyanStudios Follow us: IG - @craigandthempodcast Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CraigAndThemPodcast/ Twitter - @craigandthempod --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We lighten things up this week as two of my former interns, Carol and Julie, join Michelle and me for a fun conversation. So if you want a break from all the heaviness of the moment, pour your self a drink and join us. Cover photo by Prem Pal Singh --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Aaron, Marcus, and Shawn rejoin me to continue our conversation about the Black Live Matter movement, defunding the police, and what steps we've taken in the three weeks since our last conversation. We also discuss our fears and concerns about what happens if this movement is not as successful as we all hope it should be. Art by Ariel Sinha - https://www.arielsinhaha.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

On this episode, I invite on some of my friends from the LGBTQ+ community to discuss a wide range of topics around Pride, LGBTQ+ representation in the media, and the intersection of race, sexuality, and gender identity in the fight for equality. They are not afraid to state their opinions passionately, which means that this is my first podcast marked explicit, but don't let that stop you from listening or you will be definitely missing out of a fantastic conversation. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

I invite on four of the most intelligent and passionate black men I know to discuss our views on what we can do as a community to continue the fight for racial equality and to ensure that black lives continue to matter. We ask one another tough questions and challenge one another to do all we can to take a stand. Please listen, comment, and share. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

In our first episode in a while, I invite on two of my good friends to chat and laugh during the quarantine. We ask each other questions: some serious, some fun. Join us for some laughs and a couple of deep moments. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Our guests this week are Jason and Candance Benn, the owners and founders of Fit by Benns. Fit By Benns is a mobile fitness and yoga company that provides private group yoga, corporate yoga, personal training, group fitness classes and more! We discuss ways to stay fit while you’re working from home under quarantine and social distancing guidelines. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Our guest this week is Mark Lowen. He’s a licensed professional counselor in Richmond, VA, founder of Launchpad Counseling, and specializes in parenting, relationships, and LGBTQ issues. He joins us to discuss his new project, The True Colors of Family, a coloring book that celebrates LGBTQ families. We also mine his decade-plus experience working with families, to discuss parenting and talking to our children during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Links to get in contact with Mark and to find his books: LaunchPad Counseling markloewenauthor.com The True Colors of a Family What Does a Princess Really Look Like --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

After a brief hiatus, Michelle and I return for the final episode of season 2. We talk about some random topics and give a brief preview of season 3. Thanks so much for sticking with us and continuing to listen. Join us to learn more about Craig and Them. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Pipi Wingfield, owner of Spread Your Wings Supportive Counseling, joins us to discuss her experiences over 13 years of being a mental health professional. She provides insight into some of the stigmas and challenges that she has faced when offering mental health services within the African-American community. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Virginia is currently debating legalization of marijuana. There are several routes the state is considering and there are a number of organizations attempting to help guide the debate and ensure that the decisions made benefit everyone. Marijuana Justice is one of those organizations. Ed Miller, the co-founder and president, joins us to discuss aspects of the debate and his organizations goals and plans for the future. https://www.marijuanajustice.org/ https://www.instagram.com/thcjusticenow/ https://www.facebook.com/THCjusticenow/ https://twitter.com/thcjusticenow --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Licensed Master Esthetician, Lori Ragsdale, joins us to discuss how we can all take better care of our skin and offers tips to ensure that you maintain hydrated healthy skin. She also discusses what it takes to become a master esthetician and the services she offers. Join us for a conversation about the skin you're in. Find out more about Lori's services: https://loriannskincare.skincaretherapy.net/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

This episode's "and them" are Anita and Brandon DeLoach, the owners and operators of Beacon Threads. Beacon Threads is a handmade faith-based brand that has experienced meteoric growth over the last few years due to their dedication to quality products and developing a true connection with their customers. This power couple join us to discuss their entrepreneurial journey and how facing their fears by relying on their faith got them to where they are. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Christian hip-hop artist Mr. D3stiny joins us to discuss his music and his ministry. "Born in NYC and raised in both Brooklyn & Newark NJ [Mr. D3stiny's] insight and perspective are unique bringing life lessons in every lyric. Better known as C.Manuel Gonzalez, Mr. D3stiny is an independent artist with a positive flow which is influenced by faith, family and relationships." Follow Mr. D3stiny and hear more of his music through these platforms: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrd3stiny1/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9vLlcTJ8XGWKPihfHm2bag WWW: http://mrd3stiny.com/ Twitter: @Mr.D3stiny1 Instagram: @Mr.D3stiny1 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

On this week's episode, Erin Leigh of @theNeatNiche joins us as she discusses her holistic approach to helping her clients organize and de-clutter their space. She provides insight into her philosophy of teaching individual and corporate clients to "live organized and enjoy life." Contact Erin Leigh at theNeatNiche: Instagram: @theNeatNiche LinkedIN: theNeatNiche Facebook: theNeatNiche --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Many people decide to take a cruise for a vacation. For those of you who have never experienced a cruise and still desire to do so, tune in to this episode to get tips and tricks to make it the best experience possible. Our friend Chris is a frequent cruiser and shares some helpful advice for anyone who wants to sail away on their next vacation. Be sure to Like and Share and Rate Craig and Them to help us get more visibility. Also please be sure to engage through comments, DMs, and/or emails if you have feedback or comments. You can also leave a voice message if you're listening on Anchor. Instagram - @craigandthempodcast Facebook - @craigandthemdiscuss Email - craigandthempodcast@gmail.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We're honored to have coplayer @neon_raijin to discuss all things cosplay. Former guest and anime buff, Jon, joins me as co-host as he helps me interview his good friend. Our guest has been cosplaying for several years and joins us to give us to insights into the ins and outs and dos and don'ts of art. He shares some of his inspiration for how he chooses characters and offers advice for novice cosplayers. Check out his Instagram to see the awesome work he has done (@neon_raijin). Be sure to Like and Share and Rate Craig and Them to help us get more visibility. Also please be sure to engage through comments, DMs, and/or emails if you have feedback or comments. You can also leave a voice message if you're listening on Anchor. Instagram - @craigandthempodcast Facebook - @craigandthemdiscuss Email - craigandthempodcast@gmail.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

We're back! Episode 11 highlights some of my favorite moments from the first ten episodes as well as gives a sneak preview of some of our upcoming topics. Give us a follow: Instagram - @craigandthempodcast Facebook - @craigandthemdiscuss Email - craigandthempodcast@gmail.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

A newlywed couple that has developed a mutual love of anime share some of their favorites and how bingeing is a part of their quality time. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Today's "and them" discusses how traveling the world solo has been a journey to find her light and discovering the woman she has also wanted to become. Follow her travels on Instagram - @ladybelle416 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

In this episode I'm joined by certified financial planner, Stephen Korving. We discuss his experiences helping families budget, save, and plan for retirement. He provides insight into why he feels people struggle with knowing where their money is going and how they may get a better hold of their finances. Stephen explains the benefits of the Virginia 529 and the options you may not knew existed with it. We also may have gotten a little too personal. Korving & Company, LLC - www.korvingco.com Virginia 529 ABLEnow --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

Things get a little random. Michelle throws herself under the bus, and Craig has a little too much fun not letting her get out of it. Follow us on all social media. Links to all of them here. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

In this episode my original "and them and I share our thoughts as we celebrate 13 years of marriage. We ended up talking for so long that we needed to separate our In part 1 Michelle and I discuss how we met, our wedding day, and suggestions to young couples about marriage. Part 2 will be up on Friday. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

My "and them" and I discuss our shared love of superhero movies and tv shows, and our thoughts on the future of the genre. I also share my long held feelings about Halle Berry's casting as Storm in the X-Men. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

One of the "Trauma Teachers" drops by to discuss parenting his sons to be responsible, respectful, and conscientious black men. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

This episodes "and them" discuss their love for video games in general and Fire Emblem: Three Houses specifically. Craig reveals a hidden agenda. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message

My "and them" stops by to chat about being a wife, mother, chef, and cancer survivor. What she shares will hopefully encourage others to think about what is really important. Resources: How to Be Sick I do not own any of the music used in this podcast: Intro - "Flava in Ya Ear"; Artist: Craig Mack; Label: Bad Boy, Arista New School intro -"Funny Music"; https://www.fesliyanstudios.com Sound Clips - Lean on Me (1989) "Lean on Me"; Artist: Club Nouveau --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/craig-simmons/message