Everything's Not Black & White

In this episode, we sit down with an extraordinary guest, Dr. Leslie Powell Ahmadi, who shares her captivating journey from pursuing a Ph.D. in foreign language and culture education at The Ohio State University to unexpectedly falling in love with an Iranian doctoral student in agronomy. As a Black American Christian, she never imagined marrying Mahmoud, a Muslim man, and moving to Iran. Yet, she did and her four years living there were filled with experiences that transformed her life—discovering the culture, teaching at a university, raising children, and witnessing the profound beauty and challenges of her new environment. Join us as she reflects on love, identity, and navigating life in a foreign land.Dr Leslie Powell AhmadiNot Without My DaughterLinkedIn Dr Leslie Powell Ahmadi*Book release coming in 2025: Road Between Two Hearts: A Black American Bride Discovers Iran

Join us in this heartfelt episode as we sit down with Autumn and Jade (she/her) to dive deep into Jade's transgender journey. With Autumn's unwavering love and support, Jade navigated the complexities of transition, finding strength and courage along the way.Together, they share candid insights into the challenges faced by transgender individuals, especially in today's turbulent political climate. From personal experiences to broader societal perspectives, this conversation sheds light on the importance of empathy, understanding, and acceptance.Autumn Theodore PhotographyAutumn Theodore Photography InstagramJade Barry InstagramRoman Minerals InstagramNational Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE)The Trevor ProjectKaleidoscope Youth Center

In this podcast episode, we explore Ashley Brooks' inspiring journey and her groundbreaking book. Ashley's work sheds light on how community-driven civic environments impact personal development and well-being. Ashley's thesis takes us on a qualitative research adventure, using co-design and service design to create inclusive spaces. What makes Ashley's work unique is her dedication to centering the voices and needs of Black and Indigenous Women of Color (BIWOC) in public spaces. Through interviews, surveys, and collaboration, she empowers these women to shape inclusive spaces that celebrate their culture, enhance safety, promote learning, and honor their holistic identities. ashleymilanbrooks.comAn Intersectional LensLinkedInFacebookInstagram

In this episode of our podcast, we have the privilege of hosting Lizzie Bronte, a remarkable individual who hails from Cameroon and embarked on a life-changing journey to the United States due to political turmoil in her home country. Lizzie shares her heartfelt experiences of adapting to a new culture while cherishing her deep love for Cameroon. She also courageously opens up about her personal struggles with domestic abuse, shedding light on the importance of organizations like Just Like You Global. Lizzie's unwavering support for this organization, dedicated to empowering survivors and combating domestic abuse and human trafficking through comprehensive support, education, and advocacy, adds a poignant layer to her inspiring story. Join us as we delve into Lizzie's incredible journey of resilience, cultural exploration, and her mission to foster a world free from violence and exploitation.Just Like You Global FoundationCameroon

In this captivating podcast episode, we're joined by Lori Lutz, a distinguished expert in unlocking human potential for high performance, both in personal and professional spheres. Lori's profound insights center on the idea that every individual possesses a unique source of power within them. Join us as we delve into Lori's wisdom and discover how, by collectively connecting the innate power within us all, we can shine equally bright and achieve remarkable success in our diverse journeys of life.VisionInstagramLinkedIn

In this deeply inspiring episode, we sit down with Ella Williams, one of the visionary founders of Posh Teatime Co., a social enterprise and luxury teatime experience company based in central Ohio. Ella opens up about her journey from facing homelessness, hunger, and poverty in her youth, compounded by her mother's battle with mental illness, to becoming a successful entrepreneur, educator, and pillar of her community. Ella's story is not just about overcoming adversity; it's a masterclass in resilience.

In this compelling episode we're thrilled to welcome Chanel Hughley, author of the poignant memoir, "When His Mistress is His Mother - A Cautionary Tale." Chanel opens up about her past relationship with James, a man who seemed like the perfect partner—funny, kind, and committed. Yet, as they transitioned from dating to marriage, Chanel found herself competing for James' attention with an unexpected rival: his own mother. Listen in as Chanel unpacks the emotional complexities and nuances of being caught in a love triangle that defies the usual narrative, one where the "other woman" is actually the mother-in-law.chanelhughleyauthor23@gmail.comhttps://www.chanelhughley.com/Book on AmazonInstagramFacebook

Join us as Tracy Teuscher sheds light on the daunting threats bees face, from habitat loss and pesticide exposure to climate change. Her insights offer a deeper understanding of the urgency behind bee conservation efforts. But it's not all grim news—Tracy also empowers listeners with actionable steps they can take to make a positive impact. From planting bee-friendly gardens and supporting local beekeepers to advocating for pollinator-friendly policies, Tracy provides a wealth of practical ways for individuals and communities to contribute to bee preservation.Save Ohio BeesXercesPollinator Ohio Division of Fish & Wildlife

In this impactful episode, we explore a compelling event that occurred during a fundraiser for Kaleidoscope Youth Center, held at Land Grant. Initially intended as a joyous occasion to celebrate and support the center, the day took an unexpected turn when a hateful Nazi far-right group, fully masked, armed, and resolute in spreading their toxic ideology, decided to protest the event. As a result, what should have been a day of positivity and unity turned into hours of adversity and confrontation.Join us as we have an enlightening conversation with Erin Upchurch, the extraordinary executive director of Kaleidoscope Youth Center. Through her firsthand account, we delve into how KYC, the performers and the entire community, courageously responded to the disruptive and hateful protest with grace and unwavering resilience. Together, they sent a resounding message that love will always conquer hate, and their steadfast support for LGBTQIA+ youth remains unshakable.  Kaleidoscope Youth CenterOhio REST CollectiveDonate to KYCColumbus PrideUnderstanding The Transgender CommunityLand Grant Brewing

Join us as we delve into Lamar's inspiring story of triumph over adversity, having overcome the daunting obstacle of foster care to become a remarkable and successful young man. Born to a mother who was only 17 and battling addiction, Lamar's early years were filled with uncertainty and hardship. However, through steady determination and the support of a loving community, Lamar navigated his way through the challenges of his youth, ultimately emerging as a shining example of resilience. Together with his wife LaChandra, their love and unwavering support for one another serve as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and dedication. In this podcast, Lamar and LaChandra invite you to join them on an emotional journey of love, hope, and resolute strength that will inspire you to embrace your own resilience and overcome any obstacle in life.Lamar King FacebookLaChandra King FacebookLaChandra King InstagramOhio Foster Care InformationFoster Care Statistics

Only four men have won 10 or more NBA championship rings and Coach Jim Cleamons is one of them. He's played ball with some of the greats like Elgin Baylor, Jerry West, and Wilt Chamberlain. As a coach, he's worked with legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquille O'Neal. Even with all of his success, he remains humble, grateful, and determined to leave a legacy of being a man of his word. We are honored to have Coach Cleamons on our podcast.Where Are They Now: Jim Cleamons 

Trigger warning: This episode discusses sexually predatory behavior. Trust is one of the most important aspects of a relationship. When that trust is violated, it can cause feelings of confusion, hurt,  and anger. This is especially true when the perpetrator is supposed to be a spiritual leader. Brandi Lust, a community leader, empath, and resilience coach, bravely shares her story of emotional and sexually predatory abuse at the hands of her spiritual advisor and the long process to get justice for herself and others. Brandi Lust WebsiteLinkedInInstagramBrandi Lust Promo Video

We are experiencing a time of deep, cultural trauma. Our collective nervous systems are on overdrive and it's causing many health challenges - physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Its impact on nature can also be felt and seen in devastating ways. Our guest today, Tracy Teuscher, is a certified ecotherapist and naturalist, as well as an award-winning communicator. She'll show us how to make space for our collective wounds and create nature-based resiliency practices to experience more peace and joy.The Buzz MakerMeet Tracy TeuscherLinkedInWhy You Need To Commit to Self-CareCaring for a best friend until the endIntergovernmental Panel on Climate ChangeInterconnectedness and SocietyThe Nap Ministry

Every day, news headlines remind us just how much many politicians want to erase parts of our history. Despite their fruitless efforts, the many atrocities our ancestors have experienced can never be forgotten. Those legacies often become the fuel that ignites our passion for change. This rings especially true for our guest  Jordan Nishizaki. Jordan will provide a glimpse into his family's history, from when they were prisoners in Japanese Internment Camps during World War II, to their triumphant return back into society, despite all odds being stacked against them. You won't want to miss this episode.  Instagram - @jordan.nishizaki DN Instagram - @diverse.network LinkedIn – Jordan Nishizaki Diverse Network WebsiteJapanese Internment CampsExecutive Order 90661943 U.S. government-produced film "Japanese Relocation" 

Do you use Alexa or Siri for digital assistance? Odds are, you do. More than 42% of the global population uses digital assistants for tasks from the very mundane to the mind-boggling complex. What you may not know is that through using these convenient systems, you have freely given access to your most private and valuable data. Stephanie Domas, our guest today, is a Chief Information Security Technologist for one of the largest tech firms in the world. She will give you insights into her journey, as well as ways to mitigate risks to your own livelihoods. Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE!  Stephanie Domas Linkedinstephaniedomas.comAI & Cybersecurity at the 2022 National Summit on State Cyber Security Protecting Medical Devices from Cyber harm  TEDxColumbusHow Medical Devices and Hospitals Are Protected Against HackersCbusNEXT | Medical hacker works to protect your private recordsWhat is two-factor authentication?DuckDuckGoWhat is a VPN and what does it mean?

There is great power in knowing yourself, celebrating yourself, and allowing others to do the same. With so much volatility, uncertainty, chaos, and ambiguity in our society today, it is so important, now more than ever, to center and respect the dignity of every person and their lived experiences. In this episode, we talk with multi-talented, always enlightening Karen Marie Hewitt, M. Ed about her/hir work in this space and the new ways she/ze is creating tools to help people heal from life traumas. Instagram @love4lifemkhInstagram @thecultureofyouPatreon - The Culture of YouWOSU 2/23 - 2/25Facebook Karen MarieTwitter @curiousk11The Ohio REST Collective

Representation matters in all aspects of life, especially in storytelling. When you see people who look, sound, and think like you on the big and small screen, it feels validating. We talked with Zach Cobb and Aujie Baker, two budding creatives in the film industry about their love of the medium and how the stories they want to share will leave a positive impact on the world. zcsketchez Shadow Blossoms RecordsFormal Film Productions3llo.its.aujieAujie Baker 

*Trigger warning* - This episode mentions sexual assault.It takes courage to stand up for something you believe in, especially when you've experienced trauma. Sophia Fifner never let fear or her past stop her from empowering and helping others. Her bold and triumphant journey will inspire you! Listen to learn more about Sophia's journey and how you, too, can become a brave philanthropist. Brave Philanthropist WebsiteWomen's Fund Of Central OhioOhio Alliance to End Sexual Violence Ohio Crime Victim Justice Center Sophia Fifner TikTok

"Cancer leaves your body, never your mind." The perspectives from both the survivors and the caregivers can vary wildly, especially in how you remember what happened. Join us as we talk with our friends John and Sherri Snoad, as they share their very personal journey from diagnosis to thriving on the other side of cancer. Balanced Holistic LivingMelissa Etheridge "I Run For Life"Amazon "Welcome To The Other Side"The James at The Ohio State UniversityH.O.P.E. Program at The JamesCare Giver Support at The JamesCaringBridge2019 Step Up for Stefanie's Champions: John SnoadHow Cancer Changes Your Sex Life—and What You Can Do About ItProject Athena FoundationThe Cancer Hope Network

According to the CDC, there is one divorce in America every 42 seconds. The contributing factors are anything from isolation, financial strain, and political division to domestic violence, lack of communication, and differing beliefs. If things are going badly, you shouldn't feel guilt or shame for wanting to leave. We sat down with Christian Family, a twice-divorced, adult child of divorce, divorce attorney who has been practicing for nearly 20 years. She is passionate about removing the stigma from divorce that causes good people to stay in bad marriages.You won't want to miss this episode!Christian Family LawFacebookTikTokTEDxTalkLinkedIn

Discussing mental health in many families isn't always easy to do. Speaking openly about matters of the mind still feels taboo, especially in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities. Join us as our guest, Asia MG McGarrah, shares her personal account of working through childhood trauma to create a platform of hope for a new generation.

"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." We all heard this as kids, yet negative words continue to cause deep, emotional pain... especially in marriages.  Our special guest, Roni Morrow, shares her inspirational journey of overcoming an emotionally abusive marriage to find herself and her voice through the American pageant circuit. One LoveCaptivating PageantsToddlers & Tiaras - TLCNational Domestic Violence HotlineFacebookInstagram

It takes a personal commitment from all of us to make the world a better place. Intentionality is beautiful and has the power to change the world! Our guest this episode knew early on that she wanted to make a difference and leave a lasting impact. Listen as DEI practitioner and Inclusion advocate Jocelyn Armstrong discusses inspirational journey of learning, teaching, and overcoming challenges.Phylicia RashadDuke EllingtonCharles DrewBarbara JordanMaya AngelouCapitol UniversityPride Docuseries FXInscribing Inclusion TwitterJocelyn TwitterInscribing Inclusion InstagramInscribing Inclusion PodcastInscribinginclusion@gmail.com

The political scene has become increasingly divisive and confusing, leaving many to wonder if things will ever change. Our guest this episode is Morgan Harper, a new voice entering the scene and running for the U.S. Senate representing Ohio. Listen as Morgan discusses why she's the candidate we need and how citizens across both aisles can use their voices and votes to make positive change!Morgan Harper (Sign up and help make her eligible)Facebook MH4OHInstagram MH4OHTwitter MH4OHRegister to VoteTikTokMH4OHMorgan Harper Commercial

Join us as we speak with Shanon Phillips, a Self-Care Advocate, as she shares her experiences to promote faith, gratitude and introspection. Shanon's message will help empower you on your very own self-care journey.Power Seeds Podcast IGShanon Phillips IGPower Seeds Podcast AppleCardinal HealthSelf Carehello@powerseedspodcast.com

Take an adventure with our guest Karen Thomas as she explains how she has remained civically engaged throughout her entire life. Her adventures are amazing and her travels have taken her from the small town Ashland, Ohio all the way to a elephant sanctuary in Thailand. Listen in as she explains how to remain civically engaged no matter where you are.Grandpas Cheese BarnAshland, OhioColumbus Chamber of CommercePlanned ParenthoodElephant Retirement Park The Goodness MarketBang Studios Hair SalonRed CrossThailand 

Brian and La discuss a friendship that Brian had with a young African American man named Joddi Jordan at their place of employment in the early 90's. Their friendship helped Brian realize there are two set of rules in the United States that vary depending on ones ethnicity. Listen in as Brian describes the racial inequalities and blatant racism that Joddi faced during his tenure at a local furniture store and the lessons and growth that Brian took from this troubling experience.Sofa ExpressTowny QuinnMammyAunt JemimaWhite silence  

Brian and Lala welcome Kierra Williams to the podcast where she shares her journey of choosing love over hate and how that choice has empowered her life.ALL IN: THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY  - Prime VideoStacey AbramsCleo WadeKierra InstagramKierra LinkedInTibetan BuddhismMichael Jackson - The Girl Is Mine

Brian and Lala welcome Kelly Studebaker to discuss her life after having a stroke and how she's used life's challenges to triumph and thrive. Americans with Disabilities ActF.A.S.T.Kelly Studebaker InstagramCDCTribal Strength FitnessWorld Stroke DayTypes of StrokesStroke Facts & Statistics

Lala and Brian venture into the thought process of a former supporter (Brian) of conservative ideology into his transition into a new way of thinking. 

Brian and Lala share insights on what White Privilege really is and how it should be used to support historically underrepresented groups. Stanford StudyWhitening a ResumeJoy DeGruyWhat is White PrivilegeName Discrimination on Applications Study Origins and Stereotype of "Angry Black Woman"Racial History of Public Swimming Pools

Brian and Lala talk about the mask mandate in Ohio and how masking up is a selfless act of love that can save lives. Immunocompromised Non-Hodgkin's LymphomaFace Mask Help HowAmy ActonPeeing Verizon CustomerPoliticization of Face Mask 

Brian and Lala welcome Theo and Erika Jackson, an "awakening" white couple determined to help change systemic racism, one small town at a time. Canal WinchesterACPAGroveportGenX and GenZWhite Fragility13th on NetflixJuneteenthFunkateerFlavortownSundowntownGreenbook

Brian and Lala welcome Raymond Weaver, a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) professional, artist, and activist. As a black man in the LGBTQ community, he shares his experiences growing up in Dayton, living as an adult in Columbus, and his participation in the current Black Lives Matter movement.Mario Woods VideoRaymond Weaver InstagramRaymond Weaver FacebookCamden, NJ De-escalationNo Knock Warrants / Breonna Taylor

Brian and Lala welcome special guest Donté Woods-Spikes, a local Columbus community activist, for a conversation about poverty, its stigmas, and the pathways to get out of it. Donté's WebsiteDonté's Columbus Alive Article Donte's TEDx TalkDonté's Columbus Dispatch ArticleDonté's FacebookDonté's InstagramDonté's TwitterPoverty Facts in the United StatesRedlining - A Forgotten History of How the U.S. Government Segregated America (NPR) How to get out of povertyBroken Windows (Glass) Theory

Brian and Lala welcome Suzanne Roberts for a conversation about race, privilege, and the collective action needed to eradicate systemic racism for the betterment of all humanity.Episode References:Ruby SalesSundown TownsJim White - A little problem I had renting a house Mississippi school district ends segregation fightSo you want to talk about race by Ijeoma OluoThree-fifths compromise in the U.S. ConstitutionThe Green BookHidden FiguresUnifying SolutionsGuest Contact: Suzanne Roberts (suzanne@unifyingsolutions.com)

Brian and Lala chat with Michael Justice, a motivational speaker, fitness enthusiast, and returning citizen. They share Mike's journey through incarceration, release, and rebuilding his life after prison.Mike owns Transcending Fitness and can be found on Instagram and YouTube. Transcending FitnessSuicide Prevention HotlineWorld Incarceration Rates

From music to hairstyles, the line between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation can sometimes get blurred. Brian and Lala, with their daughter Aujolie, share their perspectives on what may be acceptable and what may be offensive.

Doug Riggle, founder of Orphan World Relief, visits the ENBW podcast to talk about adoption and the importance of helping orphans around the world. Doug shares his personal journey of being adopted as a baby, adopting his own son and his desire to improve the lives of orphans and foster kids, one life at a time.

We recognize everyone is trying to adjust to the COVID-19 quarantine and a new normal. We'd like to infuse a little comic relief for you by sharing some funny stories from our interracial, blended marriage. Stay healthy and safe! And please have a laugh at our expense! 

Brian and Lala discuss preparing for college with their daughter Aujolie. Aujolie's commitment and sacrifice helped her graduate Magna Cum Laude (and debt-free) from Columbus State Community College, six months before she graduates high school. In this episode, you'll learn how she took advantage of the Dual Credit program available to high school students, how her study habits and dedication helped her excel and what she's planning to achieve with her educational future. Connect with Aujolie on Instagram (3llo.its.Aujie), YouTube (Aujie Baker) or Twitter (AujolieM).Cleveland State UniversityACPAColumbus State Community CollegeDual Credit

We have a conversation with personal trainer (and all-around bad*ss) Carrie Brookins to explore how body image is perceived not only on social media, but also in our own minds. We debunk the myth of "BMI" and share the struggles and victories of what it takes to feel like you are enough! Carrie can be reached at https://www.tribalstrength.fitness/ or carrie@tribalstrength.fitness.BulimiaBMI

Brian and Lala share their experiences as an interracial couple in the United States. From a history of the laws against mixed race marriage, to their personal accounts of discrimination and acceptance, this couple uses humor, compassion and vulnerability to give us hope and encourage us to love unconditionally.Interracial Marriage Statistics  Interracial Marriage HistoryLoving v. Virginia

This episodes provides an introduction to your host Lala and Brian with a brief history of their background and their experiences. They also share the reasons why they are starting the podcast and how they hope to have an impact on their listeners and the world around them.Sylvania, GAColumbus, OH"Everything's Not Black & White" Facebook