My Black Book Journal

SummaryIn this conversation, Danny Brister, Jr. interviews Maya Moore Irons and Jonathan Irons about their book 'Love and Justice.' They discuss their intertwined stories of love, resilience, and the fight for justice, emphasizing the importance of family, faith, and community support. Jonathan shares his experiences of wrongful incarceration and the strength he found in adversity, while Mya reflects on her journey of stepping away from basketball to support Jonathan. Together, they highlight the need for systemic reform in the criminal justice system and the role of faith in seeking justice.Takeaways* The book 'Love and Justice' intertwines personal stories of triumph.* Family and community play a crucial role in overcoming adversity.* Faith can provide strength during the darkest times.* Navigating life transitions requires support and understanding.* Friendship can blossom even in the most challenging circumstances.* Finding strength in injustice can lead to helping others.* Hope and resilience are essential in the fight for justice.* Forgiveness and accountability are vital in addressing systemic issues.* The faith community has a responsibility to advocate for justice.* Redefining success in the justice system is necessary for reform.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Love and Justice02:57 The Role of Family and Community05:49 Faith and Perseverance in Adversity11:49 Navigating Relationships and Friendship17:55 Building a Family and Legacy26:23 The Importance of Discretion in Relationships28:12 Finding Strength in Adversity35:40 Navigating Injustice and Seeking Justice41:20 Faith, Forgiveness, and Accountability48:24 Empowering Change Through Community EngagementAct Justly Love Mercy is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.actjustlylovemercy.org/subscribe

During this episode, our host, Danny Brister, Jr., interviews Dr. Adrienne Starks of STREAM Innovations and Brittany Hogan of Empowered To Conquer alongside special guest host Kevin Moore of Mission Increase of Central Alabama. They discuss the realities of being a Black executive director of a nonprofit in the south. Brittany Hogan - https://www.empoweredtoconquer.org/Dr. Adrienne Starks - https://streaminnovations.org/Kevin Moore - https://missionincrease.org/central-alabama/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.actjustlylovemercy.org/subscribe

Earlier this year, I interviewed Churck Mingo and Dr. Troy Jackson about their book Living Undivided: Loving Courageously for Racial Healing and Justice. They addressed how pursuing racial healing remains a paramount concern, especially for the church and the believer. The conversation offers an enlightening dialogue with two champions of justice and racial reconciliation. These community leaders have committed themselves to "Living Undivided," an initiative that aims to bridge the racial divide and foster a society grounded in justice, mercy, and humility.Chuck Mingo's evolution from the corporate world to pastoral ministry was not merely a career transition but a leap into the mission of mending the racial fissures within our communities. Troy Jackson's profound engagement with civil rights history led him from scholarly endeavors to the frontline of activism. The episode vividly portrays their combined efforts and provides a roadmap for others seeking to navigate the tumultuous waters of race and reconciliation.I waited until the launch of the We The American Series to share this episode because I wanted to offer it as a way for us to navigate our divided culture while also seeking to understand our past. Chuck and Troy take us through the complexities of race and history, emphasizing the power of personal reflection and the importance of recognizing the truths that have shaped our local communities. Their narratives, woven with vulnerability and victory, mirror our own paths toward greater understanding and commitment.At a moment when the call for racial justice is more audible than it has been in the last 50 years, the episode underscores the critical role of the church in this conversation. Through moving anecdotes, such as a mother's concerns for her child's faith amidst the church's perceived silence on racial matters, the episode highlights the urgent need for spiritual leaders to advocate for justice and live out Jesus' vision of justice, mercy, and righteousness. It culminates with an exhortation to embrace the teachings found in "Living Undivided" and to join Chuck and Troy in their quest to repair the tapestry of our fractured world.The episode encourages us to connect with the stories of racial formation that surround us, urging us to either challenge or elevate these narratives. It brings to light the necessity of confronting our nation's historical relationship with race, especially during times of national reflection, while not neglecting to acknowledge instances where progress has shone through.As the episode progresses, it delves into the critical urgency of addressing racial injustice and the church's integral role in this endeavor. Chuck and Troy discuss the implications of the church's silence on racial issues, the idolatry of Christian nationalism, and the distractions that deter us from our mission. They stress the importance of self-care and community support in preventing burnout and reiterate the spiritual practices that sustain our efforts toward a more equitable society.In conclusion, the episode is not just an auditory experience but a call to action. It invites listeners to engage with the content and the authors, urging them to become part of the ongoing movement toward racial justice and healing. By providing a candid look into the lives and work of Chuck Mingo and Troy Jackson, the podcast serves as a beacon of hope and a guide for those yearning to make a meaningful impact in the world.Act Justly Love Mercy is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.actjustlylovemercy.org/subscribe

Have you ever wondered how one man's spiritual journey can transform his life and resonate deeply with a broad audience? Join us as we chat with Trey Ferguson, the author of Theologizin' Bigger: Homilies on Living Freely and Loving Wholly. Trey takes us on his profound faith journey—a striking blend of skepticism, curiosity, and the unyielding power of faith in an often unfriendly world. Discover how these experiences coalesce into Theologizin' Bigger, a concept that encapsulates his spiritual awakening and offers a fresh perspective on living an authentic, invigorated life.In this episode, Trey shares the challenges of writing a book that speaks to the essence of faith, capturing the hearts of diverse readers ranging from middle-aged white women to people of varied cultural backgrounds. We explore the importance of authenticity and the impact of his parents' unwavering support in fostering his confidence. Furthermore, Trey sheds light on the obstacles faced by Black Christian nonfiction authors in the publishing industry and his decision to opt for a hybrid publishing model.This episode is a rich tapestry of faith, identity, and resilience, offering valuable insights into navigating the complexities of spirituality and representation in today's world. From Trey's website about the book:“Prophets are rare in our culture and poets are needed in this challenging contemporary moment. Trey Ferguson is a poet and a prophet for such a time as this. ”—Otis Moss, III, Pastor, Trinity United Church of Christ, Chicago, and author of Dancing in the DarknessFaith can get messy. Whether we're talking about personal beliefs or the ideologies that end up shaping our institutions, there's a lot to wade through. As people drifting through—and sometimes away from—faith communities reexamine their convictions, there's more desire than ever to live freely and to grant our curiosity an audience. In Theologizin' Bigger: Homilies on Living Freely and Loving Wholly, pastor, podcaster, and public theologian Trey Ferguson encourages you to re-engage your imagination, and to construct theologies that speak to our current contexts, just as people of faith have done throughout history. With personal stories and some lo-fi truth-telling, Ferguson leads us through topics like how we read the Bible, our inherited traditions, the shame and confusion we experience, and a faith that can shape tomorrow. Ferguson writes, “Theology requires imagination. The ability to imagine is part of what makes us human. And salvation is, in part, a rehumanization project.” You don't have to ignore your nagging doubts and honest questions. You don't have to check any part of yourself at the door. You can find the faith to live freely and love wholly. When you're Theologizin' Bigger, you get to decide where the crown goes.Order your copy today: Theologizin' Bigger: Homilies on Living Freely and Loving Wholly This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dannybjr.substack.com/subscribe

In a profound and engaging episode of the podcast, Dr. Chuck Wallington, author and thought leader, shares his incredible journey from a journalist with a vision to a seasoned executive in the corporate realm. The episode, titled "Breaking Barriers: The Rise of African American Executives in Corporate America," delves into the nuanced experiences of African American leaders as they navigate through the intricate layers of corporate leadership, facing and overcoming a myriad of obstacles.Dr. Wallington's discussion opens a window into the stark reality of the underrepresentation of black professionals in senior positions while simultaneously celebrating the triumphs of those who have reached the apex of leadership through resilience and strategic mentorship. His book, "A Seat at the C-Suite Table," is not just a testament to these executives' achievements but serves as a guiding light for those who are on similar paths, striving for excellence against the odds.The episode enriches listeners with a detailed recount of Dr. Wallington's personal evolution and the powerful insights gained from the experiences of 30 black male executives. These narratives shed light on the critical roles played by mentors, coaches, and sponsors in shaping successful careers and emphasize the undeniable importance of diversity in the upper echelons of business leadership.In essence, this podcast episode serves as both a reflection on personal growth and a collective call to action. It challenges listeners to acknowledge the barriers that exist while equipping them with the wisdom and strategies necessary to overcome them and excel in their professional endeavors. Dr. Wallington's message is a beacon for current and future African American executives and for anyone who values the richness that diversity brings to leadership.Act Justly Love Mercy is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Act Justly Love Mercy at dannybjr.substack.com/subscribe

What if you could find hope, inspiration, and transformation in the darkest corners of life? That's exactly what my guest today has achieved, even when it seemed like all the odds were stacked against him. We kick off by sharing the incredible journey of Ronald Olivier, author of "27 Summers: My Journey to Freedom, Forgiveness, and Redemption During My Time in Angola Prison." Ronald's firm belief in the power of faith and his unwavering motto, "Don't tell me what God can't do," will leave you inspired.We wrap up with an exploration of the 2012 law change on mandatory life sentences for juveniles in the US. This change had a profound impact on many young lives, including that of Olivier, who was convicted of murder. His journey back to court for re-sentencing and the emotional meeting with the victim's mother is a testament to the power of forgiveness. From in-depth discussions on faith, redemption, and transformation to heartrending stories of forgiveness, this episode promises to touch your heart and soul.Purchased book Here: 27 SummersFollow Danny @ https://dannybjr.substack.com/#BuildingAvillage #America The Violent 

Have you ever wondered about the strength and resilience that emerge from a struggle? Join us as we invite Esau McCaulley, author of How Far to  The Promised Land: One Black Family's Story of Hope and Survival in the American South, into our studio. Get ready for an honest conversation about the collective narrative of a people, the beauty in brokenness, and the power of hope. In the first part of our discussion, Esau takes us on a journey through his life and the lives of his ancestors that have shaped his understanding of the world. From his hometown of Huntsville, Alabama, to his current role as Associate Professor of New Testament at Wheaton College, Esau shares the experiences that inspired him to write his book. As we delve into the experiences of his family, which are reflective of the broader African-American experience in the South, he encourages us to connect with our own relatives to gain a deeper understanding of our family's history. Our guest invites us all to read his book for a deeper understanding of the resilience and hope that can emerge from struggle. This insightful narrative of one family's journey is not just about those who made it to the 'promised land', but also about those who continue to fight and strive for it. Tune in to be inspired by Esau's courage, resilience, and unshakeable faith.https://www.actjustlylovemercy.org/https://esaumccaulley.com/https://dannybjr.substack.com/

Is the Black Church dead, or is it perhaps more alive than ever before? This week, we invited esteemed film producer Joe Howell and filmmaker Rafiq Nabali to our show, two creative minds behind the thought-provoking documentary, Let the Church Say. They tackle this intriguing question head-on, challenging the narrative around the Black Church and its relevance in our present-day society. Buckle up as we journey through the rich and complex tapestry of the Black Church, tracing its roots and its influence on Black economics, finance, and the civil rights movement. This institution has served as an incredible support system, providing not just spiritual comfort but financial and legal assistance. Joe and Rafiq provide a new perspective, highlighting how the younger generation's involvement in the Church can bring about progress and action. Finally, we move towards the future, discussing the plans of bringing Let the Church Say to different parts of the country. This documentary can serve as a jump-off point for necessary conversations within and beyond the Church. We also delve into how faith can guide us and how we can create ripples of impact through God's guidance. This episode is a testament to the robust and enduring spirit of the Black Church, a source of empowerment and transformation for the community. Join our enlightening conversation and immerse yourself in the story of an institution that has not just survived but thrived in the face of adversity.

Picture this: growing up in the Boston busing era in the 70s, grappling with the struggle of identity, place, and racial trauma. That's the reality Sheila Wise-Rowe, author of 'Young, Gifted, and Black: A Journey of Lament and Celebration,' faced. In a candid conversation, she takes us on an eye-opening journey through the struggles of gifted Black millennials and Gen Zs. Sheila shares insights on how organizations, churches, and institutions can better recognize and serve this demographic. Ever thought about how leadership transition can affect the emotional health of those involved? Together with Sheila, we explore the challenges and the importance of nurturing the next generation of leaders. We also discuss the necessity of creating intentional relationships and safe spaces for those struggling emotionally. Transitioning the baton of leadership is no easy task. But with the right approach, it can be a smooth and fruitful journey.What happens when we overlook grief and loss? Drawing from the teachings of Pete Scazzaro and the life of Chadwick Boseman, we probe the importance of acknowledging grief as part of our personal growth and healing. We also touch on the essence of waiting on the Lord and maintaining an authentic faith through our experiences. As the episode concludes, we highlight the joy and healing of hearing diverse voices, as depicted in Natasha Robinson's book 'Voices of Lament.' Tune in for insightful discussions and stories that will leave you enlightened and inspired.

Have you ever found yourself wrestling with feelings of unworthiness, struggling to comprehend self-worth amidst societal systems that promote white supremacy? This is what we unpack with the insightful Caroline J. Sumlin, who's not just a guest, but a beacon of light guiding us through her profound journey. Caroline, the author of We'll All Be Free: How a Culture of White Supremacy Devalues Us and How We Can Reclaim Our True Worth, eloquently narrates how she shattered her conditioning, realizing that it wasn't about her inadequacies but rather the flawed system we operate in. This hit home for me as we explored how white supremacy isn't just about power dynamics but can infiltrate every facet of our lives - from education to healthcare and even the fashion industry.We peel back the layers of how white supremacy impacts us on a daily basis, often in ways we're not even consciously aware of. Caroline's analysis of how this pervasive culture of whiteness is subtly accepted and internalized is a stark eye-opener. But along with this revelation comes a powerful message - embracing the power of choice in reacting to cultural ideals. Wrapping up our conversation, we touch on the importance of self-care in the face of isolation and the crucial role of reformers in deconstructing white supremacy. We conclude with a spotlight on Caroline's exciting work toward reclaiming our true value within a culture of white supremacy. So, get ready for an enlightening discussion that's guaranteed to leave you contemplating your own life experiences and the role you play in shaping the narrative for future generations.Follow Danny at https://dannybjr.substack.com/Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

As our host, Danny Brister, Jr., takes a much-needed break during the summer, we wanted to bring you three sermons he preached. Please enjoy the second sermon in our summer preaching series and stay tuned for new interviews starting in September. Follow our host on Substack: https://dannybjr.substack.com/

As our host, Danny, takes a much-needed break throughout the summer, we are sharing this sermon that he preached this summer. We hope you enjoy this episode, and we look forward to bringing you new interviews starting this Fall. Follow Danny on his substack: https://dannybjr.substack.com/

In our newest episode, our host, Danny Brister, Jr. interviews Ally Henny about her new book I Won't Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When The World Tries to Silence You. To follow my work, go to: https://dannybjr.substack.com/More about today's guest:Ally Henny is a writer, speaker, advocate-minister, and vice president of The Witness: A Black Christian Collective, an organization committed to encouraging, engaging, and empowering Black Christians toward liberation from racism. She completed her MDiv from Fuller Seminary with an emphasis in race, cultural identity, and reconciliation, and she hopes to lead a church someday. Ally has been leading conversations about race on her social media and blog, The Armchair Commentary, since 2014, and her posts reach millions each month. She is a proud Chicago Southsider.

Join our host Danny Brister, Jr., as he interviews Craig Lamar Brown about his new movie Between Mercy and Me. Between Mercy and Me will have a one-day premiere on June 20th at 7 pm. To find a showtime in your area, please visit: https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Between-Mercy-and-MeThe film centers around Hugo, a talented musician and worship leader in a Cincinnati community grappling with the impact of gentrification and tragedy. When his pastor challenges him to produce more inspirational music for the congregation, Hugo struggles with writer's block. In his search for inspiration, he meets Mercy, a jubilant and outgoing fellow musician, at a neighborhood coffee shop. As they join forces in their songwriting efforts, their relationship blossoms romantically, but they soon face challenges from friends, family, and their own communities. Determined not to let hard conversations or tension tear them apart, Hugo and Mercy set out to create space for honest conversations and work toward unification in their community. They courageously challenge biases, both seen and unseen, often left unspoken. However, one fateful evening, their relationship is rocked by a routine traffic stop that forces them to confront their own internal narratives and beliefs. Will they choose to embrace vulnerability with each other or let their relationship crumble under the weight of biases they worked so hard to overcome?

In this episode, our host Danny Brister, Jr., interviews Fox and Rob Richardson about their book Time: The Untold Story of the Love That Held Us Together When Incarceration Kept Us Apart. Follow our host Danny at his new substack: https://dannybjr.substack.com/Follow Fox and Rob Richardson at their website: https://foxandrob.com/More info about our guest: "Twenty-one years of love and commitment is the sign of a great relationship by most standards. But twenty-one years of love and commitment, separated by America's most violent maximum-security prison while raising six boys as a single mom and relentlessly advocating against a system designed to keep her husband in prison, can only be described as radical love.In his early twenties, Rob Richardson was fighting to get his business off the ground to provide for his growing family, yet was turned down by every bank for a loan. So, in the heat of desperation, he attempted to rob one, and was sentenced to 61 years in prison due to an overzealous prosecution. This was his first offense. Rob ended up serving more than two decades in America's bloodiest penitentiary, Angola, until receiving clemency in 2018. In their new book, Time: The Untold Story of the Love That Held Us Together When Incarceration Kept Us Apart (Baker Books, February 7, 2023), high school sweethearts Fox & Rob share how they defied all odds and kept their family together through years of challenges. "

Check out the newest episode of My Black Book Journal as our host, Danny Brister, Jr., interviews Ian V. Rowe about his book Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for All Children to Overcome the Victimhood narrative and discover their pathway to power. Danny's Substack:https://dannybjr.substack.com/Ian Rowe's Bio:Ian Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. Mr. Rowe is also the co-founder of Vertex Partnership Academies, a new network of character-based International Baccalaureate high schools opening in the Bronx in 2022; the chairman of the board of Spence-Chapin, a nonprofit adoption services organization; and the cofounder of the National Summer School Initiative. He concurrently serves as a senior visiting fellow at the Woodson Center, and a writer for the 1776 Unites Campaign.Until July 1, 2020, Mr. Rowe was CEO of Public Prep, a nonprofit network of public charter schools based in the South Bronx and Lower East Side of Manhattan. Before joining Public Prep, he was deputy director of postsecondary success at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, senior vice president of strategic partnerships and public affairs at MTV, director of strategy and performance measurement at the USA Freedom Corps office in the White House, and cofounder and president of Third Millennium Media. Mr. Rowe also joined Teach for America in its early days.Mr. Rowe has been widely published in the popular press, including in the New York Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Washington Examiner. He is often interviewed on talk radio programs. With his forthcoming book “Agency” (Templeton Press, May 2022), Ian Rowe seeks to inspire young people of all races to build strong families and become masters of their own destiny.

Join our host Danny Brister as he interviews Dr. Kwasi Kena, Associate Professor of Ethnic and Multicultural Ministry at Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University. They discuss the book Building A City On A Hill: African American Communities of Purpose. Danny's new substack: https://dannybjr.substack.com/Website: https://www.actjustlylovemercy.org/Dr. Kena and his wife Safiyah's wearable art website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SankofaNSilkDr. Kwasi Kena's bio:Kwasi Kena is married to Rev. Dr. Safiyah Fosua, who also serves as an Associate Professor of Spiritual Formation at Wesley Seminary at IWU.  The couple has two adult children and two grandchildren. Kwasi and Safiyah are fiber artists who spin and weave “wearable art.” The couple co-founded Sankofa N Silk, an online store that warehouses their woven goods. He spends his spare time playing piano and creating new arrangements of familiar hymns and sacred music. He also enjoys photography, creative writing, and collaborating with imaginative performing artists in worship. Prior to coming to the Wesley Seminary, Kwasi Kena served in variousnational and conference positions in the United Methodist Church:Director of Evangelism Ministries, Director of Field Services and theGeneral Editor of UMMen Magazine, and Congregational DevelopmentCoordinator. Kena and his wife, Rev. Dr. Safiyah Fosua, also served asmissionaries to Ghana, West Africa, assisting the Methodist ChurchGhana in curriculum writing, clergy and lay leadership development, and local pastor's education.  Kena has taught at several colleges and universities.  He is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and has served as a pastor in Iowa. Kena is a published author of various devotional and Bible study curricular works. He has been in frequent demand as a preacher, workshop leader, and guest musician for national events.

Welcome to Season 3 of My Black Book Journal. This episode features an interview with David L. Dada and his new book Many Happy Returns. You don't want to miss this new episode as we kick off a new season filled with exciting interviews of authors telling our stories in creative and imaginative ways. Follow our host Danny Brister, Jr, on IG @myblackbookjournal, and go to our home website at www.actjustlylovemercy.org to learn more and stay connected. Bio on our guest - David Dada is a native of Birmingham, Alabama, and a lifelong lover of stories and the ways that they connect us. He currently resides in the Birmingham area with his wife and two children. You can stay in touch with him at his website, www.daviddadabhm.com. You can also follow him on IG @daviddada_bhm. 

Our host Danny Brister, Jr., closes out this series of messages with a sermon on Matthew 6:1-18. 

Our host Danny Brister, Jr., shares a message from Huffman Baptist Church, where he preached on Colossians chapter 1. 

Join our host Danny Brister, Jr., as he preaches on Psalm 51. This message is about finding healing when you have hurt others or been hurt by others. 

Our host Danny Brister, Jr shares a message entitled "Spiritual Mothers and Fathers" from Titus 2:1-8. This message was delivered in January 2022 at the historic Bethel Baptist Church Collegeville. 

Join our host Danny Brister as he discusses reading through General Colin Powell's autobiography My American Journey. 

I hope that you enjoy this episode of My Black Book Journal. In this episode our host Danny Brister, Jr shares a message he preached on July 4, 2021. 

Join us as our host Danny Brister, Jr., interviews Dr. Rhonda Richmond for part two of our conversation about autism and the Black community. If you missed part one, you can listen to it here -->https://myblackbookjournal.buzzsprout.com/1525576/9376611-autistic-gifted-and-black-part-1

In this episode, Danny Brister interviews author Mary Brown-Huffman. Mary is a children's book author. Join us as we discuss what it's like to raise a child diagnosed with Autism and how we need a community to help us navigate the unexpected. Visit Mary's website --> https://beanandle.com/More about our guest: Mary L Brown-Huffman is a mom of two beautiful children. One dynamic son and one sassy diva with Autism. She is from Birmingham, AL, and loves a good book.  The Adventures of Bean and Le Series was created out of her love and dedication to educate others about the world of Autism.  She created this book series to celebrate all children who dance to the beat of their own drum. This book series aims to encourage acceptance, bravery, curiosity, and discovery in all children. Don't Forget About Me is the introductory title to the series. The series continues with the Picky Prickly Eater, Le vs. Hair Day, The Tale of the Potty Monster, and Where in The World Is Mr. Sandman.  You may follow her at The Adventures of Bean and Le on the following social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. 

In the first episode of season 2, our host Danny Brister, Jr, interviews Crystal Ash about her new book Lessons from My Grandma's Table. Purchase the Book --> Lessons from My Grandma's TableVisit our website: www.actjustlylovemercy.org More about Crystal Ash:Crystal T. Ash is a lifelong student of life, youth mentor, award-winning speaker, motivational strategist, and newly minted author. In her debut book, Lessons from My Grandma's Table, she will take you on a journey of self-discovery. You'll be able to identify life-defining moments and uncover the inspiring lessons of wisdom gained by everyday encounters. You will also find it easy to relate to Crystal's own life voyage...filled with ups and downs, heartbreaks, and victories. 

Y'all, it's been too long, but your host Danny Brister, Jr, is happy to be back dropping a new episode on My Black Book Journal. Today's episode is from a message that Danny shared at Harvest Community Church taken from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s' most famous sermons. Join us on this episode on My Black Book Journal as we learn how to live differently. 

In this episode, our host Danny Brister, Jr, speaks with Terence June Gray, the author of We Want a Different Story: The Power of Narrative and How It Influences African-American Male Identity.  I want to warn that this episode contains the N-word used to reference how Black people in America have were viewed and how that view has shaped our narrative. This episode also includes descriptions of racialized violence. Learn more about our guest below:”Terence June Gray, M.Div, is a pastor, hip hop artist, and author from Memphis, TN. Terence also serves as a national board member of the Center for Youth Ministry Training. His own life experience, along with his time serving as a case manager and youth minister, has created within Terence a great passion to help black men discover and love their true selves. He is the author of the book “We Want A Different Story” which released in 2019. The book is about identity formation amongst African American men and how historical, political, and theological narratives shape identity. Terence is married to the love of his life Ashley Gray. Terence and Ashley share a daughter, Lucca Michelle Gray. "Follow his work here: https://www.facebook.com/terencejunegrayblog/https://terencejunegray.com/

On this special episode of My Black Book Journal our Host Danny Brister, Jr shares a message he preached during Black History Month. Social Media:https://www.facebook.com/myblackbookjournalhttps://www.instagram.com/myblackbookjournal/Website:https://www.actjustlylovemercy.org/

Our host Danny Brister, Jr, interviews Randi Pink about her new book Angel of Greenwood. Angel of Greenwood tells of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the days leading up to the 1921 Tulsa, Oklahoma Greenwood (Black Wall Street) Massacre. Randi approaches this story by humanizing Greenwood's inhabitants, revealing a thriving Black town destroyed by hate. I hope that you will come and sit awhile and join in on the conversation, Purchase BookAmazonThank You BooksFollow Randi Pink: Website, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramReview: “The romantic love in [Angel of Greenwood] is big and beautiful and pure. And beyond the love between two teenagers, there's a deep love of community and home. Greenwood feels so wholesome, so idyllic, and when the hate breaks through, it will break your heart...I hope teachers assign this in schools and librarians turn it face-out on the shelves. American kids need to know this history to be good citizens.” —National Public Radio (NPR)#ReadingBringsMeJoy#MyBlackBookJournal

In this episode, our host Danny Brister, Jr takes a dive into Dr. Bernard LaFayette's book In Peace and Freedom: My Journey in Selma. We also briefly discuss the recently released movie Jesus and the Black Messiah. Join us as we uncover lessons in life, love, and leadership. For more information on registering to vote check out the links below:https://www.whenweallvote.org/https://www.vote.org/https://www.rockthevote.org/about-rock-the-vote/Click the link to register for A Celebration of Blackness Check out the Church Politics Podcast that was mentioned in this episode.To check out KeBaiy's music click the links below:- Spotify- Apple Music

During this episode, our host Danny Brister, Jr., explores lessons in life and leadership from Ambassador Andrew Young's book A Way Out of No Way. Join us as we contemplate Ambassador Young's words and their application for today. We are giving away a free copy of How to Fight Racism by Jemar Tisby. If you would like to enter for a chance to win this book, please leave us a comment and rate My Black Book Journal wherever you listen to the show, then email our host at dannyb@actjustlylovemercy.org. We hope that you enjoy this week's show.

My Black Book Journal is the first podcast of Act Justly | Love Mercy. The purpose of My Black Book Journal is to explore Black stories through book reviews and interviews to uncover lessons in life, love, and leadership. This first episode explores Congressman John Lewis' book Across That Bridge: Life Lessons and a Vission for Change. Join me as we sit at the feet of this civil rights legend. If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review. Visit the website www.actjustlylovemercy.org and drop us a comment. Music is by KeBaiy, you can follow his music at https://soundcloud.com/kebaiylee or https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kebaiy/1437464541To purchase Across That Bridge by John Lewis, please visit this link: https://amzn.to/3c7yIo5d3EyNkbx5dXNNgvkUDnT