Our Body Politic

Follow Our Body Politic
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Created and hosted by award-winning journalist Farai Chideya, Our Body Politic is unapologetically centered on reporting on not just how women of color experience the major political events of today, but how they're impacting those very issues. Weekly episodes feature in-depth conversations about the economy, health, politics, education, the environment, and the most prescient issues—because all issues are women's issues. Tune in every Friday everywhere you listen to podcasts, and on public radio stations around the country. Presented by KCRW, KPCC, and KQED.

Lantigua Williams & Co.


    • Feb 23, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 49m AVG DURATION
    • 189 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Our Body Politic podcast is an incredibly informative and insightful show that delves into important issues affecting women of color. Hosted by the brilliant Farai Chideya, each episode offers a thought-provoking analysis of current events and explores topics that are often overlooked or downplayed in mainstream media. The guests on the show, both well-known experts and lesser-known voices, provide a diverse range of perspectives that shed light on various aspects of the Black experience. This podcast has become a go-to source for news analysis with an unapologetically feminist and women of color perspective.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is its ability to bring attention to underrepresented voices and amplify their stories. Farai Chideya's dedication to covering topics related to the Black community has helped many listeners gain a deeper understanding of what's happening in the world. The podcast provides valuable insights and educates its audience on issues they may not have been aware of otherwise. Additionally, the production quality is top-notch, making it enjoyable to listen to each episode. Furthermore, the inclusion of music from talented artists like Monica Martin adds another layer of richness to the conversations.

    While there are countless positive aspects to The Our Body Politic podcast, one potential downside is that its target audience may be limited. While everyone can benefit from listening to this show, it specifically caters to those interested in news analysis from a feminist and women of color perspective. This might limit its reach and prevent some individuals who could benefit from these discussions from tuning in.

    In conclusion, The Our Body Politic podcast is an outstanding resource for those seeking nuanced analysis and unique perspectives on current events. It serves as a platform for underrepresented voices and offers valuable insight into issues affecting women of color. Farai Chideya's expertise as a host shines through each episode, engaging listeners with her thoughtful questions and facilitating meaningful conversations. Overall, this podcast deserves praise for its contribution to the podcasting landscape and its dedication to amplifying marginalized voices.



    Search for episodes from Our Body Politic with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Our Body Politic

    Black Country Music Stars on Diversifying The Genre

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2024 51:54


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Mara S. Campo looks at the foundational role of Black Americans in country music, and the barriers to entry that still exist. First we hear Mara's conversation with professor Francesca Royster, author of “Black Country Music: Listening for Revolutions.” Then Mara talks with country music singer Brittney Spencer who was one of Rolling Stone's 25 artists to watch in 2023. We round out the show hearing grammy-nominated Mickey Guyton speak with Mara about paving the way for other Black women in country music.

    How Native Women Are Working to End the MMIW Crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2024 56:25


    On this special episode of Our Body Politic produced in partnership with Level Forward, we highlight the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women's (MMIW) crisis. Guest-host Andrea Ambam, an Artist and Host of Level Forward's More to Talk About, speaks with Lorna Cuny, a member of the Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe from South Dakota and Co-Chair and Co-Founder of the Medicine Wheel Ride and Darlene Gomez, attorney at her law firm Darlene Law, who serves on the MMIW-R Task Force for New Mexico and is General Counsel for Medicine Wheel Ride, about The Medicine Wheel Riders, a national group raising awareness about the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women's crisis. Then Andrea Ambam speaks with Alecia Onzahwah, about her efforts to arm Indigenous women with information (through The Skye Woman Project) and tools to defend themselves (through Skye Woman Beauty). We round out the show with Andrea speaking with Prairie Rose Seminole, co-director of the documentary We Ride for Her about owning the Native narrative through community filmmaking.

    Can BIPOC Musicians Shape the Future of Classical Music?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2024 49:14


    Can the world of classical music become more inclusive given its history? On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Celeste Headlee, a journalist and best-selling author, speaks with Professor Philip Ewell, professor of music theory at Hunter College about the history of classical music and Blackness. Then Celeste speaks with professor and Harpist Ashley Jackson about the significance of performing the works of Black female composers. Celeste is also joined by 8-time Grammy-winning musician Christian McBride on the links between jazz and classical music. We round out the show with Lara Downes, concert pianist, musical creator and host of the NPR video series Amplify, about performing for others and her hope for making an impact on the next generation.

    Innovative Solutions For A Growing Nationwide Mental Health Crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2024 49:40


    Guest host Mara S. Campo, Anchor and Managing Editor at Revolt Black News, looks at the ongoing national mental health crisis and talks to people who are working outside the box to make a difference.

    Black Maternal Matters

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2024 49:57


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, Farai Chideya looks back at our conversations around Black Maternal health. First, she speaks with Aftershock co-director Tonya Lewis Lee and film subject Shawnee Benton-Gibson. Then, we hear from Dr. Rachel Hardeman about racism as one of the root causes of health disparities in the U.S. After, author Anna Malaika Tubbs talks about her book The Three Mothers: How the Mothers of Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X and James Baldwin Shaped a Nation. We round out the show with Tressie McMillan Cottom who speaks about her horrific labor and delivery experience.

    How Black Women are Leading the Soft Life Movement

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2024 56:43


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Mara S. Campo looks at the idea of the “soft life” as a form of self care for Black women. Mara speaks with Dr. Judith Joseph, a board certified psychiatrist, and Chair of Women in Medicine Collaborative at Columbia University's Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons about the concept. Mara also talks with the founder of Saddie Baddies, Priscilla O. Agyeman about using her skills to teach women how they can embrace a soft life. We round out the show with Zee Clarke, author of Black People Breathe who offers practical methods to embrace rest.

    Black Country Music Stars on Diversifying The Genre

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2024 51:54


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Mara S. Campo looks at the foundational role of Black Americans in country music, and the barriers to entry that still exist. First we hear Mara's conversation with professor Francesca Royster, author of “Black Country Music: Listening for Revolutions.” Then Mara talks with country music singer Brittney Spencer who was one of Rolling Stone's 25 artists to watch in 2023. We round out the show hearing grammy-nominated Mickey Guyton speak with Mara about paving the way for other Black women in country music.

    6. Jan 6th: An American Story - Why January 6th is Not Over

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2024 27:40


    By now, the story of what happened on January 6 2021 is seared into the public psyche. But there is still an untold story.Many of the investigators and team leads on the January 6th Committee were people of color. In this podcast, we bring you the story of their leadership, and why their mix of lived experience as descendents of enslaved people; children of immigrants; or immigrants themselves deeply shaped the committee's quest to protect and uphold a multiracial pluralistic democracy. The story they tell about the inner workings of the committee also reveal deep rifts over the role of race and Christian Nationalism in the insurrection, and how much of that inquiry should be told while proving former President Trump's role in the insurrection. As America winds up with endless court cases over the former President and his alleged co-conspirators, it is also, arguably winding up for an increase in domestic violent extremism. In “January 6th: An American Story,” we show – through the investigators of color and lawmakers helping lead the committee – that January 6th is not over, and the ways we continue to make sense of its reverberations could save – or imperil – us all. The story of January 6 is an American Story. It just might be different from the one you thought you knew.

    5. Jan 6th: An American Story - The Lawmakers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2024 34:56


    By now, the story of what happened on January 6 2021 is seared into the public psyche. But there is still an untold story.Many of the investigators and team leads on the January 6th Committee were people of color. In this podcast, we bring you the story of their leadership, and why their mix of lived experience as descendents of enslaved people; children of immigrants; or immigrants themselves deeply shaped the committee's quest to protect and uphold a multiracial pluralistic democracy. The story they tell about the inner workings of the committee also reveal deep rifts over the role of race and Christian Nationalism in the insurrection, and how much of that inquiry should be told while proving former President Trump's role in the insurrection. As America winds up with endless court cases over the former President and his alleged co-conspirators, it is also, arguably winding up for an increase in domestic violent extremism. In “January 6th: An American Story,” we show – through the investigators of color and lawmakers helping lead the committee – that January 6th is not over, and the ways we continue to make sense of its reverberations could save – or imperil – us all. The story of January 6 is an American Story. It just might be different from the one you thought you knew.

    4. Jan 6th: An American Story - The Book of Purple

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2024 33:47


    By now, the story of what happened on January 6 2021 is seared into the public psyche. But there is still an untold story.Many of the investigators and team leads on the January 6th Committee were people of color. In this podcast, we bring you the story of their leadership, and why their mix of lived experience as descendents of enslaved people; children of immigrants; or immigrants themselves deeply shaped the committee's quest to protect and uphold a multiracial pluralistic democracy. The story they tell about the inner workings of the committee also reveal deep rifts over the role of race and Christian Nationalism in the insurrection, and how much of that inquiry should be told while proving former President Trump's role in the insurrection. As America winds up with endless court cases over the former President and his alleged co-conspirators, it is also, arguably winding up for an increase in domestic violent extremism. In “January 6th: An American Story,” we show – through the investigators of color and lawmakers helping lead the committee – that January 6th is not over, and the ways we continue to make sense of its reverberations could save – or imperil – us all. The story of January 6 is an American Story. It just might be different from the one you thought you knew.

    3. Jan 6th: An American Story - America In Black and White

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2024 22:25


    By now, the story of what happened on January 6 2021 is seared into the public psyche. But there is still an untold story.Many of the investigators and team leads on the January 6th Committee were people of color. In this podcast, we bring you the story of their leadership, and why their mix of lived experience as descendents of enslaved people; children of immigrants; or immigrants themselves deeply shaped the committee's quest to protect and uphold a multiracial pluralistic democracy. The story they tell about the inner workings of the committee also reveal deep rifts over the role of race and Christian Nationalism in the insurrection, and how much of that inquiry should be told while proving former President Trump's role in the insurrection. As America winds up with endless court cases over the former President and his alleged co-conspirators, it is also, arguably winding up for an increase in domestic violent extremism. In “January 6th: An American Story,” we show – through the investigators of color and lawmakers helping lead the committee – that January 6th is not over, and the ways we continue to make sense of its reverberations could save – or imperil – us all. The story of January 6 is an American Story. It just might be different from the one you thought you knew.

    2. Jan 6th: An American Story - 187 Minutes

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2024 29:40


    By now, the story of what happened on January 6 2021 is seared into the public psyche. But there is still an untold story.Many of the investigators and team leads on the January 6th Committee were people of color. In this podcast, we bring you the story of their leadership, and why their mix of lived experience as descendents of enslaved people; children of immigrants; or immigrants themselves deeply shaped the committee's quest to protect and uphold a multiracial pluralistic democracy. The story they tell about the inner workings of the committee also reveal deep rifts over the role of race and Christian Nationalism in the insurrection, and how much of that inquiry should be told while proving former President Trump's role in the insurrection. As America winds up with endless court cases over the former President and his alleged co-conspirators, it is also, arguably winding up for an increase in domestic violent extremism. In “January 6th: An American Story,” we show -- through the investigators of color and lawmakers helping lead the committee -- that January 6th is not over, and the ways we continue to make sense of its reverberations could save -- or imperil -- us all. The story of January 6 is an American Story. It just might be different from the one you thought you knew.

    1. Jan 6th: An American Story - Legal Eagles

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2024 35:13


    OBP's Best Books of 2023 with Tananarive Due, Linda Villarosa, and Baynard Woods

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2023 57:29


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, host Farai Chideya looks back on some of our favorite conversations with authors this past year. First we hear Farai's conversation with author Linda Villarosa about her latest book “Under the Skin” and the dangers of medical racism. Then guest host Karen Grigsby Bates speaks with Baynard Woods, about his book “Inheritance: An Autobiography of Whiteness.” We round out the show hearing Farai's conversation with award-winning author Tananarive Due about her latest spooky book, “The Reformatory” and the true family story that inspired it.

    skin whiteness best books tananarive due farai reformatory farai chideya linda villarosa baynard woods karen grigsby bates
    Conversations on Care: How to Give a Good Apology and Music for Mindfulness

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2023 49:50


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, host Farai Chideya looks back on our best advice from guests about how to take care of our relationships, communities, and ourselves. First we hear Farai's conversation with authors Susan McCarthy and Marjorie Ingall about what it means to give and receive an apology. Then Farai talks with professor Andrea Roberts about celebrating Black Memory and Freedom on Juneteenth. We round out the show by listening back to Farai's conversation with Jasmine Lamb, founder of Whut We Share and singer Geminelle about making music for mindfulness.

    A Love Letter to Hip-Hop: How Women Shaped the First 50 Years

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2023 53:35


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Callie Crossley, who is a host and commentator for GBH Boston, looks back at the first 50 years of women in Hip-Hop with educator and MC Queen D and author and cultural critic Aisha Durham. Then Callie talks with journalist Brooklyn White about the iconic Missy Elliot, the first woman Hip-Hop artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We round out the show by hearing from our viewers about what Hip-Hop means to them and the impact it's made on their lives.

    Mobilizing for 2024: The Power of Ballot Initiatives and Engaging Black and Asian American Voters

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2023 58:44


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, Sayu Bhojwani, guest host and founder of Women's Democracy Lab, speaks with Chris Melody Fields Figueredo, Executive Director at The Ballot Initiative Strategy Center about the power of ballot initiatives. Then Sayu talks with Grace Choi, CEO & Founder of Karis Consulting Group and LaTosha Brown, Co-founder of Black Voters Matter Fund about mobilizing diverse voters. We round out the show with host Farai Chideya's conversation with Tiffany Hammond, author of “A Day with No Words” about creating community while raising two sons with autism.

    2023 Labor Movements And An Immigrant Capitol Sergeant's Perspective On the January 6th Insurrection

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2023 57:04


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, Karen Attiah, guest host and Columnist for the Washington Post, speaks with labor journalist Kim Kelly about the past year in labor movements in the U.S. Then Karen talks with journalist, activist and documentarian Rokhaya Diallo about the anti-racist protests in France. We round out the show with part 2 of Farai Chideya's conversation with Former U.S. Capitol Police Sergeant, Aquilino Gonell about his new book, “American Shield: The Immigrant Sergeant Who Defended Democracy.

    OBP Rewind: The Gift of Health And Deb Haaland on Being an Indigenous Leader

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2023 49:00


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, host Farai Chideya listens back to some of the conversations she is thankful for this year. First, is Farai's most recent interview with Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland. Then Farai speaks with Renata Joy, founder of Pure Joy Wellness and Dionne C. Monsanto, Founder of Joyous Ocean about gratitude for good health. We round out the show with guest host Imara Jones and her interview with Oklahoma State Representative Mauree Turner, and then hear The Grio's Natasha Alford in conversation with Jemele Hill about the gift of allyship in women's sports.

    Living Data: Insights on Cultural Competency and the American Mindset

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2023 56:16


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, host Farai Chideya talks with Shannon-Janean Currie, vice president at Benenson Strategy Group, which conducted our inaugural survey for our Living Data series. Farai then speaks with Cathy Cohen, the founder and director of GenForward Survey about the importance of polling. Then, Farai, Cathy Cohen and Shannon-Janean Currie, discuss the main GenZ survey takeaways. We round out the show with Farai in conversation with Former U.S. Capitol Police Sergeant, Aquilino Gonell about his new book, “American Shield: The Immigrant Sergeant Who Defended Democracy.”

    Examining Election Day, VP Kamala Harris's Ratings, and America's History of Division

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2023 49:37


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Sayu Bhojwani talks with Adriane Lentz-Smith, associate professor of history at Duke University about polarization, division and the politics of rage. Sayu then speaks with Christina Greer, Moynihan Public Scholars Fellow about what's behind the low approval numbers for Vice President Kamala Harris. We round out the show with Sayu in discussion with Andrea Mercado, Executive Director, Florida Rising and Fernand Amandi, Pollster, strategist, MSNBC analyst about takeaways from the 2023 election.

    How Poll Workers, the Supreme Court, and Medical Biases Impact U.S. Democracy

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2023 62:08


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Karen Grigsby Bates talks with Virginia Kase Solomón, CEO of the League of Women Voters, about the threats and issues poll workers face protecting democracy. Karen then speaks with Melissa Murray, NYU law professor and host of the podcast Strict Scrutiny about some of the cases SCOTUS will hear this term. We round out the show with Karen discussing how to navigate medical bias with artist, author and doctor, Shirlene Obuobi.

    What Horror Noire Reveals About American Society

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2023 55:44


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, host Farai Chideya is celebrating the spooky season with Black women creators of horror. First we hear her conversation with Louisiana-based writer and director Zandashé Brown on expanding the canon of Black Southern gothic horror. Then Farai speaks with Tonia Ransom, author and creator of the award-winning horror fiction podcast Nightlight. We round out the show with award-winning author Tananarive Due talking about her newest book, ‘The Reformatory.'

    Israel-Hamas Conflict and Roxane Gay On Her Latest Book ‘Opinions'

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2023 50:02


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Hagar Chemali, Creator and Host of Oh My World! talks with SiriusXM Host and MSNBC columnist Nayyera Haq and Global Opinions Editor for The Washington Post, Karen Attiah, about the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. We round out the show with a conversation between host Farai Chideya and author Roxane Gay about her new collection of essays, Opinions: A Decade of Arguments, Criticism, and Minding Other People's Business.”

    Redistricting Battles: Exploring Their Impact from Los Angeles to Alabama

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2023 56:26


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Karen Grigsby Bates talks about redistricting and newly redrawn maps in Alabama with Marina Jenkins, executive director of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee. Then Karen looks at redistricting on the city level with Los Angeles City Council Member Nithya Raman who represents the 4th district. We round out the show with Karen speaking with Jenisha Watts, senior editor at The Atlantic about her October cover story which details her upbringing in a crack house in Lexington, Kentucky.

    How Native Women Are Working to End the MMIW Crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2023 56:25


    On this special episode of Our Body Politic, we highlight the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women's (MMIW) crisis. Guest-host Andrea Ambam, speaks with Lorna Cuny, Co-Founder of the Medicine Wheel Ride and Darlene Gomez, who is General Counsel for Medicine Wheel Ride, about The Medicine Wheel Riders, a national group raising awareness about the MMIW crisis. Then Andrea speaks with Alecia Onzahwah, about her efforts to arm Indigenous women with tools to defend themselves. We round out the show with Andrea speaking with Prairie Rose Seminole, co-director of the documentary We Ride for Her.

    The Dangers of Medical Racism and Our GOP Debate Recap

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2023 58:24


    Georgia Politics: Voter Mobilization and A Democrat's Journey to the GOP

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2023 56:27


    We're celebrating our third year anniversary at Our Body Politic! We started this journey covering the 2020 election, so let's continue on that path by covering one of the states that will be key in the next election - Georgia. On this episode of Our Body Politic, host Farai Chideya, speaks with Kendra Davenport Cotton, CEO of the New Georgia Project about mobilizing voters in the peach state. Then Farai speaks with Georgia State Representative Mesha Mainor about her decision to switch parties and become the first Black Republican woman serving in the Georgia Assembly. We round out the show with a report by host Farai Chideya about the efforts by the Burning Man festival to diversify, straight from Burners of color.

    "Whose Vote Counts? Suspended Florida Prosecutor Worrell's 2024 Run and Political Lawsuits”

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2023 59:07


    From redistricting to Governors acting against the will of the people, we explore, whose vote counts? On this episode of Our Body Politic, host Farai Chideya, speaks with Elected Florida State Attorney Monique Worrell about being suspended by Governor Ron Desantis, and running for office again. Then Karen Grigsby Bates, founding member of NPR's Code Switch Team AND Our Body Politic co-host, speaks with Michigan State Representative Donavan McKinney about suing over new state legislative maps. We round out the show with Farai speaking with fashion icon Bethann Hardison about her legendary career and her work to diversify the fashion industry.

    The Rising Danger Of Extremism In America

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2023 49:54


    One of the biggest threats facing Americans today…is extremism. What can be done to combat the rising danger of extremist events in the United States? On this episode of Our Body Politic, host Farai Chideya, speaks with Kristofer Goldsmith, founder and CEO of Taskforce Butler, about engaging veterans in the fight against extremism. Then Farai gets a debrief from journalist and Our Body Politic team member Joanne Levine, who attended the Mom's For Liberty Annual Summit. They're an organization that has been designated to have “racist” and “extremist ties. We round the show out with our Sippin' the Political Tea roundtable that includes Robert P. Jones, the president and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute and Anthea Butler, the Geraldine R. Segal Professor in American Social Thought and chair of the department of Religious Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, about the connections between religion, race, politics and violence.

    Can BIPOC Musicians Shape the Future of Classical Music?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2023 49:14


    Can the world of classical music become more inclusive given its history? On this episode of Our Body Politic, guest host Celeste Headlee, a journalist and best-selling author, speaks with Professor Philip Ewell, professor of music theory at Hunter College about the history of classical music and Blackness. Then Celeste speaks with professor and Harpist Ashley Jackson about the significance of performing the works of Black female composers. Celeste is also joined by 8-time Grammy-winning musician Christian McBride on the links between jazz and classical music. We round out the show with Lara Downes, concert pianist, musical creator and host of the NPR video series Amplify, about performing for others and her hope for making an impact on the next generation.

    The Continuing Effects of Summer Heat and Student Loan Repayments

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2023 49:55


    Fall is on the way, and school is back in session. And THIS year, the summer heat and student loans are making big headlines. On this episode of Our Body Politic, host and creator Farai Chideya speaks with Neel Dhanesha from Heatmap who discusses the underestimated yet deadliest weather crisis - HEAT. We're also joined by climate activist Dany Sigwalt on how to build a climate movement that includes BIPOC voices. Then co-host Karen Grigsby Bates, who is a founding member of NPR's Code Switch team speaks with Persis Yu, the deputy executive director and managing counsel at the Student Borrower Protection Center, about how the most vulnerable borrowers still recovering from the effects of a pandemic will be able to meet the demands of loan repayments.

    Tonya Mosley's Path to Journalism Royalty

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2023 49:33


    Tonya Mosley never expected to become a darling of public radio and podcasting; in fact, she had her heart set on becoming a print reporter. Now she's the host of her own podcast, “Truth Be Told,” and the newest co-host of the iconic NPR interview show, “Fresh Air.” On this episode of Our Body Politic, host and creator Farai Chideya speaks with Tonya about her life growing up in Detroit, how she developed an interest in the news, and how her career unfolded on multiple media. Plus, we hear some clips from the latest season of “Truth Be Told,” which is centered on psychedelics and the Black community.

    Trump's Federal Indictment, Political Rumors and the Dangers of Tech

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2023 48:50


    This week, Our Body Politic host and creator Farai Chideya unpacks the latest indictment against former President Trump, with former Senior Investigative Counsel for the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, Soumya Dayananda. Then, she digs into why political rumors thrive and how to challenge them with MIT Professor Adam Berinsky, author of the new book Political Rumors: Why We Accept Misinformation and How to Fight It. Plus, Farai talks with Pulitzer Prize winning investigative journalist Julia Angwin about how technology is changing our everyday lives through surveillance and fear speech.

    Hollywood's Historic Strikes And BIPOC Representation On-Screen

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2023 47:28


    Hollywood is on strike. How will this historic double strike affect the already dwindling numbers of writers of color in television and feature-film writers rooms? And what is the path forward as actors and writers face the challenges of streaming services, mini-rooms and artificial intelligence? First, Our Body Politic guest host Callie Crossley speaks with award-winning television writer Erika Green Swafford about her career, what it's like to be the only Black woman in a writer's room and the need for creating spaces for writers of color in TV. Then, TV and feature-film writers Jeane Phan Wong and Sylvia Franklin join Callie for a roundtable breaking down what the strikes are all about, including the day-to-day of being on the picket line.

    OBP's Summer Book Club

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2023 49:05


    This week on Our Body Politic, Farai Chideya revisits some of her favorite conversations with three authors. She starts with award-winning journalist, producer and author Danyel Smith, whose book Shine Bright: A Very Personal History of Black Women in Pop offers insight into Danyel's career in music journalism and highlights Black women's seismic - and sometimes underrated - influence on the world of pop music and business. Farai also talks with MacArthur Grant Award winner, Harvard professor and author Tiya Miles about one family heirloom from the enslavement period that remarkably stood the test of time. Then, Farai interviews Carmen Rita Wong, writer, journalist, finance expert and author of Why Didn't You Tell Me? A Memoir. Wong candidly shares how discovering a series of family secrets surrounding her heritage led her to re-examine her race and culture and forge a new path for authentic self-discovery.

    The Power of Mindfulness

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2023 55:00


    America is in a time of unprecedented mental health challenges. Many different cultures developed mindfulness techniques over millennia, and now, more people are embracing them for physical and mental health. On this episode of “Our Body Politic,” host and creator Farai Chideya digs into the what and how of mindfulness, how Black women and women of color are centering themselves, and the creative inner workings of artists creating music-rich meditations for mindfulness.

    The Downfall of Affirmative Action: What Happens Now?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2023 49:43


    On June 29, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled against a long-standing college admissions practice: affirmative action. For many, the conservative court's decision wasn't a surprise. But the fallout from the ruling will be felt for years to come. On this episode of “Our Body Politic,” guest host Karen Grigsby Bates, founding member of NPR's “Code Switch” team, is joined by experts and advocates to break down the history of affirmative action, what the recent decision means and who it's impacting. Plus we hear the voices and stories of those most affected by the ruling: students.

    The Crisis of Caregiving

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2023 60:36


    This episode of Our Body Politic is a special on caregiving. We start the show with the voices of caregivers, lawmakers and advocates. Then, OBP creator and host Farai Chideya speaks with Sade Dozan, Chief of Development and Operations at Caring Across Generations, a movement with the goal of creating “a world where everyone can age with dignity, and caregivers are respected and supported,” about her caregiving journey. Farai also speaks with nationally recognized author Ai-jen Poo, the co-founder and Executive Director of Caring Across Generations, about taking care of our elders, our children and ourselves. Finally, on our weekly roundtable, Farai, attorney and trusts, estates and family law expert Lisa Brown and Washington Post columnist Michelle Singletary discuss what to plan for – legally and financially – when it comes to elder care.

    Examining America's “Whitelash” and the state of voting rights

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2023 48:05


    On this episode of Our Body Politic, we focus on two hot topics in the news: the wave of white supremacist sentiments that has taken hold inside and outside of government, and the state of voting rights in America. First, Our Body Politic host and creator Farai Chideya speaks with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Wesley Lowery about his latest book,“American Whitelash: A Changing Nation and the Cost of Progress,” examining the “whitelash” to the notion of a “post-racial America” after the election of President Barack Obama. Then, Farai is joined by Tiffany Jeffers, associate professor of law at Georgetown Law and Our Body Politic contributor And Kimberly Atkins Stohr, senior opinion writer and columnist for Boston Globe Opinion, to discuss the latest Supreme Court ruling on voting rights, the legitimacy of SCOTUS, and President Donald Trump's indictments, and how all of these factors may play a role in the 2024 presidential election.

    Transpolitics 101

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2023 58:46


    Transgender rights are increasingly under attack in the United States, despite studies showing that the majority of Americans don't want laws limiting transgender rights. But politicians on the right, who have long used gender and family issues to appeal to conservative voters, are now trying to reach broader audiences with anti-trans rhetoric. In this episode of “Our Body Politic,” guest host Imara Jones, founder and CEO of TransLash Media and host of the investigative series podcast, the Anti-Trans Hate Machine, gives listeners a thoughtful overview of what's going on right now in the world of transpolitics – the politics impacting trans people and our communities. She also speaks with the trailblazing non-binary politician Mauree Turner about anti-trans issues and policies. And on our weekly roundtable, “Sippin' The Political Tea,” Imara and journalists Orion Rummler and Samantha Reidel dig into how the media talks about trans people and legislation, and how two pivotal works have guided the cultural and political conversation.

    Juneteenth Celebration of Black Memory and Black Freedom

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2023 55:28


    On June 19, 1865, enslaved people were finally freed in Texas – a day of joy that would become known and celebrated in Black communities as Juneteenth. While the day became a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth's expansion is one indication of the ways Black memory and the commemoration of Black freedom is championed. In this special presentation, we look at the roots of the holiday, what has endured – and changed – and some of the ways Juneteenth is exploited. We also hear from you, our listeners, about your stories of celebration, liberation and community.

    Our Nation's Enduring Public Health Emergency: Gun Violence

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2023 53:15


    An elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. A grocery store in East Buffalo, New York. A mall in Allen, Texas. The list of locations where mass shootings have taken place in the United States continues to grow, with gun violence touching every aspect of American life. Even people who have not been directly affected by gun violence still feel trapped by the crisis our nation is enduring and feeling a loss of public safety. On this week's episode of Our Body Politic, creator and host Farai Chideya focuses on the impact and intersections of gun violence. Plus, a special panel on gun violence and reproductive justice recorded live at Wesleyan University and moderated by OBP guest host, Karen Attiah.

    Layoffs, Shutdowns, and Cancellations: The Latest News About the News

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2023 54:10


    Between layoffs, show cancellations, downsizing and network shut-downs, some are calling the recent news about the news an all out “media massacre.” Will this disintegration of outlets cause increased polarization? The people who get the platform to tell the news – and how they tell it – will matter more than ever before.

    Finding Joy in Wellness and Movement at Every Age

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2023 59:22


    In today's image-obsessed world, the pressure from celebrities, beauty brands and pop culture toward changing and manipulating one's body can be overwhelming. How can we cultivate joy and wellness within ourselves and the world of fitness and movement? In this week's episode, Farai Chideya speaks with two guests who are helping their clients connect the dots between physical health and mental health; who are building their communities and businesses; and who are aging not with grace but with vigor. Plus, we answer questions from you, our listeners!

    A Guest-Host Celebration!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2023 56:53


    Our Body Politic was founded on a mission to give a platform to and uplift the voices of Black women and women of color. This week, we hand the mic over to three of our guest hosts to showcase the amazing interviews they've done. First, Natasha Alford speaks with Alisha Fernandez Miranda on embracing new paths in Alisha's memoir, “My What If Year.” Then, Karen Attiah talks business and Black hair with Janell Stephens, the CEO and founder of Camille Rose Naturals. Finally, Emmy-nominated producer Tanya Selvaratnam leads our Sippin' the Political Tea roundtable on South Asian creators and filmmaking with Academy Award winning producer and director Joseph Patel; and founder of Anthem of Us, Anurima Bhargava.

    The Complexity of South Asian American Identity

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2023 60:36


    Asian Americans are the fastest-growing racial or ethnic group in the United States. And people of Indian descent make up the largest part of America's South Asian diaspora, which includes Bangladeshi, Nepalis, Pakistanis, Sri Lankans as well as people from Bhutan and the Maldives. With such a diverse community, defining what it means to be a South Asian American can be complex. This week, we dive into that complexity, exploring identity, history, political representation and a pressing issue for the South Asian diaspora: caste discrimination.

    OBP Rewind: Collective Crises: Infectious Disease and Informed Democracy

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2023 48:25


    This week, an Our Body Politic encore: Farai interviews Steven Thrasher, LGBTQ scholar, journalist and author of “The Viral Underclass: The Human Toll When Inequality and Diseases Collide.” Thrasher offers insights from his new book on how systematic marginalization determines who is most affected by public health crises like HIV/AIDS, COVID-19 and mpox. Then, Farai speaks to Howard Polskin, president and founder of “TheRighting,” a newsletter, site and social media feed that compiles and disseminates far-right political commentary to cross-pollinate the divided media audiences in the U.S. and combat disinformation in the news.

    Innovative Solutions For A Growing Nationwide Mental Health Crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2023 49:40


    Guest host Mara S. Campo, Anchor and Managing Editor at Revolt Black News, looks at the ongoing national mental health crisis and talks to people who are working outside the box to make a difference.

    Women and Transgender Athletes in Sports

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2023 48:52


    More than fifty years after Title IX, we take a wider look at the treatment and coverage of female and transgender athletes. At the close of a dramatic NCAA women's championship, Natasha Alford, Senior Correspondent at The Grio, sits in for Farai Chideya to talk about Black women athletes, college sports, and sports journalism.

    Local, State, and National: The Power of Political Coalitions

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2023 49:26


    Guest host Natasha Alford, in for Farai Chideya, explores political coalition building through three lenses. From the national stage - to hotly contested state races - to local politics - elected officials owe a duty of care to the constituents they serve. But how do politicians at all levels of government communicate with marginalized communities and how do those communities get their voices heard?

    Claim Our Body Politic

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel