Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge

OSOT is pleased to introduce you to Community Entrepreneurs, Dr. Marcus Herndon creator of ICEBREAKRS an board game designed to create interactions; and Dr. Trenessa Williams Founder of Kizzy's Book and More. Learn more about who they are, and their innovative offerings to serve the community.

Our Seat Our Table pays tribute to Malcolm X; joined by LaWanda Thompson, organizer of the 4th Annual Malcolm X Book Festival in the Martin Luther King Park located in Winter Park. 

Our Seat Our Table celebrates Mother's Day as Host and Co-Host share fond memories of their Mothers; along with community Members who talk about their Motherhood journey. 

OSOT Welcomed the Sister of Daniel Knight, Katrina Knight, and local activist LaWanda Thompson. Daniel Knight died at the Winter Park Event Center by a Winter Park Police Officer after a phone call by a staff. The Family is seeking transparency and justice. OSOT was able to learn more about Daniel Knight and who he was as a Son, Brother, and Father.

Joining us this week is LeAnn Siefferman Busdeker, local ceramist artist and racial equity coach, Co-Host Daryl Gray discuss one of Martin Luther King Jr. speeches ”Remaining Awake During A Great Revolution” delivered March 31st, 1968 and the relevance of this speech has in 2023.

Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge connected to the Florida PTA (Parent Teacher Association) in celebration of their upcoming events in celebration of their 100 year!

Our Seat Our Table, Welcomes Retired Circuit Judge Bob Lablanc; Lablanc discusses with Co Host Darrell Gray and I that the  Florida Supreme Court has removed fairness and diversity requirements  from any judicial ethics training. How will this impact a fair trial to Black and Brown communities?

Our Seat Our Table Leadership Lounge is hosted by Barbara Chandler and Co Host Darrell Gray Friday mornings from 9-10am. This is a community platform for grassroots leaders, community organizers, Historians and other voices to share their contributions to building and sustaining resilient communities.Our Seat Our Table welcomes Historian Judith Deloris Smith and Rollins Student Liam King! Judith Deloris Smith, Life Long Resident, First African American Commissioner and Historian shares Oviedo's Black History, what life was like for the Black residents and serving as a Commissioner. Judith also talks about the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museums will be opening in the near future. Liam King, Rollins College student and Organizer for protest against diversity, equity and inclusion being removed from public schools.

Season 2 Episode 10 Our Seat Our Table: Host Barbara Chandler and Co-Host Darrell Gray welcome Dr. Shan-Estelle Brown to speak about Women's Health and to identify the barriers faced by Black women in our local community to help empower a culture of health and reduce gendered racism in healthcare. Mariah Roman and Kierra Branker, Local Artists with Black Shell Studio also join us to discuss an upcoming partnership with the Black Lunch Table. The BLT host and facilitates community conversations as way to document a community's history and add it to Wikipedia.

Season 2 Episode 9 Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge continues to create a platform for community leaders and the work they are doing in underserved communities. Co-Host Darrell Gray and I get the chance to speak with Rollins College First Black, Student Government President, Akheem Mitchell along Vice President Sendy Sejourne and Teasa Mays, Associate Director of Admission for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Liaison of Rollins Black Student Union.

Season 2 Episode 7 Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge continues to elevate the voices in our community, Darrell Gray shares some history on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Jaison Radcliff gives the history of African American Fashion Designers who have been faceless and Tinah Marie gives us some tips on creating a new look in the new year.

Season 2 Episode 6 Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge continues to create a platform for grassroots programs; we invite guests who are relatable professionals and can connect to the audience to provide answers to building effective communities. 

Season 2 Episode 5 Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge took the natural approach this week. Natural hair is back; it is a growing market within Black culture. This is a great  and insight discussion with Donna Chase Benton, seeing the need to create a conference for stylists and product specialist, and K Goody, Natural Hair Guru.   

Season 2 Episode 4 Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge continues to cultivate community by addressing ways to wellness with Donna Morton, Mindset Coach and Julie Ward, Plant Based Nutritionist. 

Season 2 Episode 3 Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge continues to create a platform for community leaders and the work they are doing in underserved communities. Angel Burke and Jay Chandler are both educators within Orange County Public School. Both Men are serving communities, and taking productive strides to teach lessons, they have learned in their lives, which will influence and develop characteristics to the Gen Z.   

Season 2 Ep 2 Our Seat Our Table: Leadership Lounge continues to create a platform for community leaders and the work they are doing in underserved communities. BAM Orlando's Chair Malcolm Jones and Vice Chair Cameron Hoskins leads the conversation along with Artist, Curator and Instructor Patrick Noze exchange their perspective as to why agency and representation is so important in the areas of arts and architecture. As leaders, Guests elaborated as to why creating opportunities for the next is a personal responsibility.   Barbara Chandler

Season 2 Episode 1 Listeners will hear from Pragasen Ramiah as he shares the history of South Africa and lessons in Leadership; Stephanie will define "First Geners", why this population is important when we speak around change and ways in which she helps them navigate unfamiliar spaces; this episode will also focus on the importance of cultivating the next generation of Leaders. We will approach Leadership from a grassroots/community lens, as well as from a corporate stance and see where, how and if these two types of leadership styles intersects.

Juneteenth is being celebrated in every corner of the local community along with the conversation of Juneteenth becoming a national holiday!  This is a special 1 hour edition with The Author of Juneteenth Dr. Alzo J. Reddick, Life Long Orlando Resident; Mr. Reddick outstanding contributions to Central Florida as the First African American elected to Florida Legislature, 1999-2000; The First African American Professor to teach at Rollins College, Founder of Soldiers To Scholars, Author of Single Member District in Orlando, and now his quest to build a Juneteenth Museum in Orlando. 

Our Seat Our Table pays tribute Mothers everywhere; hear from some of our community Mothers Henrietta Tice, Shiela Belle and Cherlye Radcliffe on what it was like raising children and how motherhood transcended in community leadership.

Our Seat Our Table continues to touch the community needs through relatable voices, informed and knowledgeable leading professionals. Epidemiologist McKenzie Weise shares the inside edition on COVID 19 and the expedited making of the vaccine -Director of Community Health Stephanie Arguello talks about access to quality health care to communities of color.  The discussion grows personal as hosts and guest panelist look over years of medical distrust beginning as early as the Tuskegee Airmen and The Story of Henrietta Lacks.

Historian Francine Boykin tells the history of the City of Apopka, from the origins of its name, to the reasons why South Apopka looks much different than North Apopka. Zakiya Brown, of Pivot Growth Consulting, shares tips to identify and resolve stress, just in time for the weekend. Musician and historian Eugene Phillips takes us on a tour of African and Caribbean sounds. As a member of the Orlando Rhythm Unity Section, Phillips shares the origins of the springtime festival known as Carnival and why African music was banned across various European countries. Business owner Sylvester Terry shares his perspective on business in Central Florida.

Vivian Owens is an Author and Historian in the Mount Dora Community, she is the Author of Mount Dorians: African American History. In the interview she shares who was the first AA to settle in the Mount Dora community and the education and historic sites. Sgt. Major Malvin Williams is the Interim Director of Soldiers to Scholars, a program created by Dr. Alzo Reddick provides Veterans with educational opportunities; Veterans work with the students as mentors, help with tutors and walk children to and from school in a high traffic area.Local Visual Artist Joyce Hayes shares intriguing details as to what inspired her career and where you can find her earlier painting; Joy is a community artist and has her work in several local galleries, Bronze Kingdom, Park Ave Gallery in Sanford and has is a returning artist to the Hannibal Square Heritage Center Folk and Urban Art Festival.Chafon Gray enthusiasm as an esthetician, young entrepreneur is contagious and a remedy for success. Chafon talks about sugaring and why it is good for the skin and the full benefits to men and women.

As Central Florida continues to change the desire to connect with our local communities and the leaders who carry the history, and create dynamic and engaging programming to move the community along---Our Seat Our Table Leadership Lounge is committed to finding authentic community builders to share their first hand knowledge. Representative, Founder/Historian Geraldine Thompson shares the history of Dr. William Monroe Wells and what fueled her passion to initiate a repository for Orlando's black pioneers, Wells' Built Museum of African American History and Culture511 W South St, Orlando FL 32805 www.pastinc.orgwww.ourseatourtable.comCommunity Builder and Founder Daniel Ings of Boys to Men Mentoring is an exceptional grassroots organization working to provide life skills and hand on experience to young men ages 10-18 in Orange and Seminole County. You will hear Daniel's enthusiasm as he speaks about the difference his program is making in the lives of the young men and their families. www.B2morlando.org www.ourseatourtable.com Choreographer Maxine Montilus speaks about her experience with the Opera Orlando and being the choreographer of their performance of Carmen. Maxine speaks about her background, and her amazing journey to becoming a choreographer- brought to you by  Browne Box Creative Solutions, Andrew Browne.www.browneboxcreative.comTax Specialist Darlene Robinson is known as the “Tax Diva”! Darlene shares successful business tips for start professionals-brought to you by Eatonville Chamber of Commerce, LaVonda Wilder.darlenethetaxdiva@gmail.comwww.eatonvillechamberofcommerce.org

Host Barbara Chandler, Co-Hosts LaVonda Wilder and Andrew Browne discuss their emotions around the repeat of African American communities being re-traumatized as The Trail of Derek Chauvin opened this week; the discussion includes Florida's “anti riot bill”, as another form of Jim Crow  which is meant to intimidate Black people from protesting after seeing police officers kill family members and close friends--at the same time while seeking Justice for George Floyd. Listeners will hear heartfelt stories from the Hosts as they navigate the necessary conversations.

Depending on who you are speaking with, you may hear negative stories about the community of Pine Hills, Florida located in West Orlando. Community Historian Bertina Bush sets the narrative straight as she shares the history of what was once a majority white neighborhood to now one of the largest, ethnically diversified communities in Central Florida.  Sandra Fatmi-Hall, Founder of United Foundation of Central Florida talks about her commitment to Pine Hills community; through effective partnerships during the pandemic she has been able  to combat food insecurities for thousands of Families and how implementing a tutoring program in Evans High School has help to raise the academic profile of the school. Local Haitain Artist, Patrick Noze joins us and speaks candidly about his journey to overcoming stereo-types to becoming a well recognized and prolific artist. Glenn Providence is the consummate businessman throughout Central Florida, Executive Director for Hebni Nutrution, Chief Officer of Smile Ice Cream, and the Editor for the Midtown Press--a community newspaper which showcases Pine Hills small business, and shares homegrown stories of residents and the difference they make in the sustaining the pride in Pine Hills community!

Celebrating our 10th episode with a jingle and Women from our local and surrounding communities share personal experiences about their work, travels and what keeps them motivated. The panel of women range in demographics, occupation, age, experience and education. Each woman's point of view different, when asked to define “leadership”;  Michelle Smith: Federal Government and World Class TravelerMila Belle: Local Visual ArtistNikki Holmes: Singer/SongwriterHolly Tanyhill: Community BuilderPamela Bussey: Attorney/ Mediator, World Class TravelerChelsea Baker: UCF Graduate, Grassroots OrganizerFelicia Shelton: EducatorAmy Lalane: Founder of Bridge The Gap Coalition

Our Seat Our Table: Leading The Vision!  Host Barbara Chandler reaches out to New Smyrna Community Historian Ann Harrell, Ann is a board member with the "Mary Harrell Black Heritage Museum". Ann Harrell shares the vision of why Mary Harrell saw the need to create a museum dedicated to the African American history of New Symrna Beach. www.Blackheritagemuseum.orgCommunity Leader, Vivian Geary Founder of "Caring For Family Caregivers" saw the need to create a support system for family caregivers. Vivian shares her passion, and resources she found along her personal journey with community members who find themselves in the same space, of caring for parents or loved ones. http://familycaregiversnow.com/Enjoy the Artists Spotlight with Andrew Browne of Browne Box Solutions and New Symrna Beach Artist Shyraika "Shy" Morris of Peace Arts. Shy Morris is the creator of several murals, and a maintains community garden which she also uses to connect students to history and art.  LaVonda Wilder, Founder of Eatonville Chamber of Commerce interviews local videographer Oluwaseyi "OT" Thomas, owner of OT Persceptives. OT talks about his journey to becoming a business owner, OT shares how he transistioned from being infront of the camera to now being behind the camera--and how it helps small businesses and nonprofits in tell their story. otpersceptives.com       

Pull Up for "Chat with The Historian'' with Host Barbara Chandler and DeLand Community Historian, Mike Brown.  Mike will share the African American history of DeLand and what visitors will experience while touring the African American Museum of the Arts. https://www.africanmuseumdeland.org/  Our Community Spotlight features Dr. Felicia Benzo, Founder of the Catalyst Global Youth Initiatives, Inc., Volusia County Black History Honoree 2021. Dr. Benzo joins us and discusses why she started Catalyst mentoring and shares  success stories that the organization is having while fostering positive and healthy interactions within the community! https://mentoringforgreatness.org/Dr. Vicki Van Hurley is in the seat, as the Artist Spotlight with Andrew Browne of Browne Box Creative Solutions! Vicki Van Hurley is an artist, Branding Coach, and Adjunct Professor; you will hear her personal story of how she became known as the The Design Doc! https://www.thedesigndoc1.com/This week LaVonda Wilder, Founder of Eatonville Chamber of Commerce, Business Spotlight features a match up between John and Albert Richards of  Posh Rock Tennis Foundation! The Richards are committed to working with inner city youths and teaching the fundamentals of playing tennis which promotes a healthy and positive self-esteem in children. http://poshrockfoundation.org/

We continue to build community through, local leaders creating effective initiatives and direct programming with positive impact into communities. We continue to educate our listeners about historic African American communities and their  roles and contributions in vibrant cities;  This week we will speak to Community Historian Walter Gilbert from Newtown Sarasota FL; Kristen Fulwilye Thomas with Equal Ground shares information on "Take The Lead" an interactive training for African American community members who would like to go into politics  and why this is important in our local communities. Meka King, Lead Organizer of CFEA-Central Florida Entertainment Advocacy will join us and share why it was important to create an organization which advocates for African Americans in theatre and other forms of entertainment. Small Business Spotlight with LaVonda Wilder and Local Farmer Ray Warthen, Founder of Infinite Zion Farms shares his passion for building a healthy community through community farming and gardening. Wellness check in with RoseMary Johnson, Certified Yoga Instructor will give us some healthy tips as we go into March madness!

Co-Hosts Andrew Browne and LaVonda Wilder take the seat as they each share personal stories, and of Family, Community and Career--inspirational moments and challenges which have helped to shape many of their decisions and choices to serve the local community through creative grassroots programming and civic engagement. This show was a way to connect our hosts to the listeners. 

Historian Beverly Steele in the "Community of Royal" in Wildwood FL, gives us a history lesson about 40 acres and a mule! Artist, Jaison Radcliff with Form 2 Fashion shares his latest publication, "African Americans in Fashion History" coloring book for children and adults!Publisher Rich Black with Onyx Magazine, shares his journey from Diversity Officer to Orlando Magic Social Justice Recipient; Music Director, Dr. Carl Maults discusses the history of National Negro Hymn, written by James Weldon Johnson, Activist, Nahomi Matos Rondon, FL Immigrant Coalition gives us a call to action!

Host Barbara Chandler opens with a dedication to Tuskegee Airman Richard Hall Jr.; Darrell Gray shares the history of the Tuskegee Airman and talks about his personal relationship with Richard Hall Jr.;  Dimitrius “Dee'' Peoples reminisce about when she first met Richard Hall Jr. and share a humorous moment--when the women from the church came to visit Mr. Hall. Correspondant LaVonda Wilder, Eatonville Chamber of Commerce, chats with Desmond Ried, owner of Dare Books; Andrew Browne with Browne Box Creative Solutions interviews, Dr. Damon Dandridge, Managing Director with Project Grady Rayam, Negro Spritual Scholarship Foundation and how the organization has pivoted through the pandemic,  being unable to perform in live venues. Dr. Dandrige shared where and how spirituals originate, program offerings, and upcoming events. 

Sonya Mallard with the Harry T and Harriette V Moore Museum in Mims Florida tells the life of two Civil Rights activists/educators Harry T and Harriette V Moore  and their role with the NAACP, registering African Americans to vote throughout the state of Florida. The Harry T and Harriette V Moore Museum is open for scheduled tours. LaWanda Thompson with The Equity Council Inc, gives his the history of “1619 Project”-and what lead her to organizing an annual “1619 Fest” in Winter Park; Local  Artist, Peterson Guerrier, shares his love and passion for creating art and talks about being downtown Orlando and watching the Black Lives Matter movement right outside of his studio, Sales Geek, Black Tech Advocate and Co-Founder of Black Business Owners Florida  Mike Felix Discuss why it was important to create an online platform to promote Black Businesses. Rashite Calhoun, with No Pass Brand and Social Justice Partner called to action with a spoken word piece entitled “Notes To Self."

Goldsboro Sanford, Historian Francis Oliver shares how the town of Goldsboro became the second black incorporated city in the United States. Executive Director of Goldsboro Museum promotes the museum exhibitions and upcoming cultural events for Black History Month. LaVonda Wilder, Cynthia Slaughter shares personal and touching stories about her body of work “On Love and Loss” and what motivated her to take photos of her home, soon after it flooded in 2017, due to Hurricane Irma. Founder of the Eatonville Chamber of Commerce discusses the  Chamber's mission and goals to help support and promote small area business. Daniel Downer with The Bros in Convo Initiative, provides resources for health equity to Black gay, bisexual, queer, and same-gender loving men in Central Florida. Calen Potter, with Cadex Financial shared some money management tips for the New Year.  

OSOT kicks off their debut show on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday. Host Barbara Chandler interviews Hannibal Square Chief Historian Fairolyn Livingston; Livingston shares the political history in Winter Park, Florida and how not much has changed since the late 1800's.Correspondent Andrew Brown interviews Fabric Artist, Lauren Austin and shares her story of when she began quilting and what quilting symbolizes for her, along with her upcoming exhibitions and workshops. Pastor Claude Cheetam with Bethel Baptist Church talks about the famous King speech and how it is so relevant in present times..Stephanie Burke with Power of Potential shares some tips and strategies to setting and attaining your 2021 goals.