Perspectives with Condace Pressley

Summer vacation season is heating up, and with increased concerns about air travel, many passengers are left wondering: How safe is it to fly? And how can travelers make the most of their summer journeys without the stress? Brandon Blewett—a frequent flier with "Million Miler" status and author of the Amazon #1 New Release How to Avoid Strangers on Airplanes: A Survival Guide for the Frequent Business Traveler shares not only his top travel hacks—like how to dodge the dreaded middle seat, breeze through TSA, pack like a pro, and snag extra legroom—but also his expert tips on staying fit and energized while on the go. From in-room workouts to airport-friendly snacks, Brandon has the insider strategies to keep your summer travels smooth, stress-free, and healthy. Whether you're jetting off to the beach or hopping between cities, Brandon's got everything you need to travel smart this summer. In his book How to Avoid Strangers on Airplanes, Brandon humorously dissects the quirks of frequent air travel, turning the challenges of airports and airplanes into relatable lessons on leadership, resilience, and adaptability.

According to LinkedIn, half of all workers are considering a career change in 2025. As government employees continue to experience layoffs in this volatile job market, they face an uncertain career future. Finding a new role in an oversaturated job market requires more than just updating a resume, it demands a strategic pivot. With more than 20 years in career strategy, Patrice Lindo, CEO of Career Nomad has helped more than 3,500 professionals pivot successfully by identifying their transferable skills and by leveraging her RNA framework. RNA stands for rebrand, network and achieve recognition. We discuss how laid off government employees can reposition their skill set to secure jobs in the private sector; the hidden job market and how networking and not online applications unlock career breakthroughs and why the traditional job search does not work in a saturated market. She shares what to do instead.

From bestselling and Coretta Scott King Author Honor Award-winning author, Sharon G. Flake, THE FAMILY I'M IN delves deep into the complex relationships between Black boys and their fathers, exploring the challenges of growing up and defining what it truly means to be a man. Following her groundbreaking novel THE SKIN I'M IN and its powerful sequel THE LIFE I'M IN, Flake returns with a story that resonates with a new generation of readers. THE FAMILY I'M IN introduces John-John and Caleb, childhood friends who are facing the triumphs and struggles of becoming young men in a world full of generational expectations, societal pressures, and uncertain futures. Together, John-John and Caleb navigate family illness, divorced parents, difficult teachers, and relationships with girls who think they have all the answers. As they search for their own identities, they wrestle with the idea of being “nice” kids who want to be seen for who they truly are.

Tara Roberts is a Georgia Native having graduated from Frederick M. Douglas High School. She is an award-winning journalist and author. Her book is Written in the Waters. Her work uncovers the untold stories of enslaved Africans lost to shipwrecks and the Black divers who are reclaiming this powerful history. Her journey has been featured in National Geographic and she currently is working on a sequel to this work. Our conversation speaks to the power of uncovering hidden Black history and its impact today; her personal journey from journalist to historian, the importance of Black representation in archaeology, diving, and historical storytelling and how these recovered histories connect to current conversations on identity and resilience.

Early learning experiences shape a child's health, growth, character and happiness. 90% of a child's brain develops in the first five years. That is why it is so crucial for parents to partner with a trusted early education and care provider to maximize this critical time. High-quality preschool not only provides children with an educational foundation; it also offers important life skills such as cooperation, conflict resolution, sharing and socialization which they will need throughout their school years and beyond. For parents, finding a school that will support a child's cognitive, physical, emotional and developmental needs is an important decision. Dr. Amy Jackson joins us on Perspectives to discuss how introducing the right learning experiences at the right time helps meet the specific needs of children; shares the questions parents need to ask potential preschools and explains the differences in a child's milestone development.

March 2025 marks 5 years since the onset of the COVID19 Pandemic. It was a defining global crisis, reshaping every aspect of life—from healthcare and education to work and human connection. Emerging in late 2019, the virus rapidly spread across continents, claiming more than 7 million lives worldwide including 1.2 million cumulative deaths in the U.S. The crisis exposed deep vulnerabilities in public health systems and social safety nets. Lockdowns, mask mandates, and vaccine rollouts became the norm. Communities grappled with grief, isolation, and economic uncertainty. Yet amid the hardship, the pandemic also revealed extraordinary resilience, innovation, and solidarity, as people adapted, supported one another, and reimagined what it means to care for the collective good. Amy Comeau is the author of the award-winning book "Every Storm Runs Out of Rain." During COVID, Comeau led a team at Emory Healthcare as Vice President. She wrote to the team weekly. Those emails are the source for this book and a look back at that experience.

The community is invited to stand up in the fight against breast cancer at Bubbles and Bling on Saturday, March 21, 2025 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill. The theme is Hope Rides with Us. Leave your dress up clothes at home and turn out in your favorite western wear. My guest is Cathy Scott, Vice President for Social Impact at UPS. She is an eight year breast cancer survivor and is working to become a patient navigator with Komen Georgia.

Joining me for this episode of Perspectives is culinary expert Annette Anthony. In Always Enough: A Global Food Memoir written by Annette Anthony takes readers on a global culinary adventure. She uses her Black girl culinary experience to show that what is similar across cultures stands out just as much as their uniqueness, and that there is always enough at the table, however little or much. From Philadelphia to travels across several continents, Anthony offers a generous and eclectic collection of more than 160 recipes she developed across her lifetime. Unlike cookbooks that concentrate on food preparation and ingredients alone, Always Enough maps a life enriched by many cultures and cuisines, reflecting the author's worlds and discovery of the crossroads of cultures and cuisines through poetry, prose and recipes. Anthony's memoir launches from her grandparents West Philadelphia home, where their southern roots influenced meals. Then she takes us to Paris, the Ivory Coast and back to Europe where she now lives in London.

On Saturday, March 8th from11am-2pm the community is invited to come out to the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center, for a Women's History Month Celebration. This fun and engaging program will include: Empowerment speeches, music, poetry, an awards presentation and a delectable brunch as well as line dancing and wellness activities including a fireside chat with DeKalb County history makers: CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson and Sheriff, Melody Maddox. Next we are joined by author, spoken word artist and hip-hop educator Tony Keith Jr. to talk about his book Knuckleheads, a label often assigned to challenging students. Keith flips that notion on its head.

Maggie Michaels DeCan is a former corporate executive who has penned a compelling and inspiring story about finding purpose. Her story and insights are most valuable as many reflect on their own goals and direction in 2025. Maggie bravely transitioned from high-profile corporate roles to dedicate her life to working for an educational nonprofit. In her newly published book, “Humbled on Purpose,” Maggie describes her humorous leap from a C-suite position at a major holiday brand to leading the Children's Development Academy. What's particularly impactful about Maggie's story is that it emerges from the depths of childhood trauma – including a difficult relationship with a functioning alcoholic father and the loss of her mother to postpartum depression when she was just ten months old. These experiences shaped her unique leadership style, “scar-based leadership,” which emphasizes the importance of embracing failures and vulnerabilities to build authenticity and trust in both personal and professional relationships. Today, Maggie is an executive coach, speaker, consultant, and author, leveraging her extensive experience across the faith-based, nonprofit, and corporate sectors.

Perspectives is the show where we talk about our differences only to learn more about the things that we have in common. Today, we have a very special guest—Lawanna Bradford, a savvy investor, strategic planner, and powerhouse in financial management. As the COO of The Bradford Group, she has spent decades helping individuals and businesses navigate the world of finance, real estate, and strategic growth. From innovative lending solutions to wealth-building strategies, Lawanna has a wealth of knowledge to share. She's also a strong advocate for women in finance and believes in empowering people to achieve financial freedom. In this conversation, we'll dive into her investment philosophy, strategies for success, and how she stays ahead of market trends. Get ready for a masterclass in smart investing with Lawanna Bradford.

We begin Black History Month with conversations with two amazing Black Americans. First, I talk with Angelo Antonio Ellerbee. Ellerbee is a pioneer in the entertainment industry and has made an indelible impact on history globally as well as our culture. His career spans over five decades, during which he has represented a diverse array of clients, including Michael Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Lionel Richie, and DMX. He's penned a deeply personal memoir, "Before I Let You Go," and dedicated it to marginalized groups including the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of domestic violence and others. Next we chat with Wren T. Brown, an actor, producer, director and founder and producing artistic director of Ebony Repertory Theatre, LA's only African American Professional theatre company. His book, "The Family Business" shares stories and many never-before-seen images from his family's four generations and more than 100-years in the arts and entertainment industry. His focus is on the Black artist in American culture.

Seven years ago, the W. K. Kellogg Foundation, headquartered in Battle Creek, Michigan established a National Day of Racial Healing. It's always the Tuesday following the MLK Holiday and was created as an opportunity for all Americans to consider having an important, and sometimes uncomfortable conversation on racial healing. My guest is La June Montgomery Tabron, President and CEO of the foundation who has written a couple of important books on this topic. One is written for adults, "How We Heal" and she's also penned a companion book for children on the same topic called "Our Differences Make Us Stronger." Both are available everywhere books are sold.

Fathers Incorporated is currently recruiting fathers for their Gentle Warriors Academy fatherhood program where they are striving for the largest graduation to date - 100 fathers who have completed a fatherhood-centered curriculum that will begin taking place two days a week for two hours on topics such as, but not limited to conflict resolution, visioning, emotional wellness, integrity, responsibility, communication, temperament, masculinity and more. My guests on the show are Project Director Javin Foreman and recent graduate Troy Sledge.

We are in the season where college-bound students are learning about early or delayed admission to their preferred schools. They are working on those college essays and wondering if they have enough community service to balance their academics to make an "ideal" student for their ideal college of choice. Level All is an organization that is working to level the playing field when it comes to what students and families may not know about the college admissions process. They call it the hidden curriculum. My guests on the program are Level All co-founder and CEO Kevin Kenney and his College Director, Afiya Johnson-Thornton. Level All provides its students with digestible nuggets of information about the admissions process.

Two years have passed since ChatGPT was launched, and while many industries are still getting used to the idea, the legal field is taking full advantage. Reviewing legal evidence to find a “smoking gun” can be a major time commitment for legal professionals. But with new AI products, lawyers, paralegals, and district attorneys are getting work done faster than ever before. On the show is Everlaw Chief Legal Officer, Gloria Lee. She says many of us have an image in our minds of legal teams in a backroom, with stacks of bankers' boxes filled with documents in them – perhaps in a Suits episode, or the Pelican Brief – but today, legal teams are using generative AI to tame those mountains of digital data. In an era driven by AI and innovation, legal professionals are working alongside this technology, tapping it like a new Smart Intern, to help lay the groundwork for cases more efficiently.

Are you ready to get a jump start on your mental health this holiday season? The holidays are supposed to be the most joyous time of the year, but this is not always the case, especially for those who suffer from a mental illness. According to National Alliance on Mental Illness study 64% of people with mental illness report holidays make their conditions worse. Depression. Anxiety. Trauma. Addiction. Do the holidays trigger these areas for you? It doesn't have to be like this. There is a road to healing that can bring you inner peace, even during the holidays. And the key lies not in your mind, but in your soul. In SOUL SETTING: Listen to Your Soul Instead of Your Mind, Levy draws on his personal experience with depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, addiction, and recovery to guide you toward a better way to deal with conflict. He breaks down complex and confusing concepts and shows you how to apply a new way of being to your life. Healing is possible. After a lifetime of suffering, Levy is now free of the struggles he had with mental illness. In Soul Setting, he shows you how to be free of the drama and demons that plague your life. LEVY is a father, husband, grandfather, entrepreneur, and real estate developer in Ontario. For the last 15 years he has lived free of the demons that were ruining his life—depression, anxiety, addiction, and suicidal thoughts. Soul Setting is his first book.

Melissa Davey, age 74, retired from a lengthy corporate career in 2016 to pursue her second act and dream of becoming a filmmaker. At age 65, after a day on the set with the famous Director M. Night Shyamalan, she decided to take a risk and left her career to jump into the unknown. Pursuing her dream of becoming a filmmaker became a reality in late 2018 when Melissa completed her first film, Beyond Sixty, a feature length documentary about women over the age of sixty. During 2019 Melissa's film was accepted by and screened at 8 film festivals throughout the United States and Canada, winning awards and confirming that it is never too late to learn something new. Melissa recently completed her second documentary, Climbing into Life, the story of Dierdre Wolownick who is the mother of Alex Honnold (Free Solo). The film has been accepted into thirteen film festivals so far and won has won several awards so far.

Amidst the political rhetoric of getting “tough on crime,” RESTORATIVE JUSTICE AND LIVED RELIGION opens thoughtful discussions of a way to reduce crime by making communities safer and more supportive. Many of us associate “restorative justice” with international truth and reconciliation commissions spurred by human rights atrocities such as apartheid. In the US, it typically refers to small-scale efforts that divert alleged wrongdoers from the standard path of time behind bars. Studies of such initiatives affirm their value for reducing recidivism—by as much as 44 percent when compared with prison—and improving perceptions of fairness and satisfaction with the justice process among both offenders and victims. Yet, making our criminal punishment system feel “kinder and gentler” isn't enough. In RESTORATIVE JUSTICE AND LIVED RELIGION: Transforming Mass Incarceration in Chicago, Jason A. Springs, Professor of Religion, Ethics, and Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame, shows how restorative justice has the potential to overcome the racism embedded in the American justice system's culture of retribution and violence. To make the case for restorative justice's transformative power, the author calls for a holistic approach to concrete, purposeful practices that foster moral and spiritual forms of association between people.

Tel Aviv University has written a moving and captivating book about the devastating power of words. OCCUPIED WORDS: What the Holocaust Did to Yiddish offers insights into the phenomenon of Khurbn Yiddish—the Yiddish of the Holocaust—and what it says about the role of language in genocide and survival. Pollin-Galay explores how a new strain of Yiddish emerged out of the need among Jews to describe an unprecedented reality—the brutality, imprisonment, and dehumanization within the ghettos and death camps of Nazi occupation—that defied not only comprehension but also normal, prewar forms of conversation. Pollin-Galay seeks to understand why people chose Yiddish lexicography as a means of witnessing the Holocaust. Ultimately, Occupied Words speaks to broader debates about cultural genocide, asking how we might rethink the concept of genocide through the framework of language.

Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and is linked to some types of cancer. Preventing diabetes and taking charge of your health as soon as possible after diagnosis may help you prevent these health problems. This can include building healthy lifestyle habits, taking medicines on time, managing your stress, and working with your health care team to get the personal care you need. In honor of National Diabetes Month this November, we talk with Dr. Griffin Rodgers to raise awareness about the impacts of diabetes. Next a conversation with Jor-El Caraballo about self-care for men. His Self-Care for Black Men became a popular guidebook with features in Men's Health, Prevention, Self and more. Leaning into that success, Caraballo's guided audio meditation program MEDITATIONS FOR BLACK MEN is filled with unique insights and tools for Black men everywhere to prioritize mental health, empowering listeners to create a deeper connection with their mind, body, and spirit over the course of ten guided meditations. For Black men, self-care too often feels like a luxury. But being in touch with your emotions, deepening sensory awareness, and taking time to quiet the busy mind are essential tools for a healthy lifestyle. Mindfulness can be a pathway to emotional and psychological freedom. Over the course of ten guided meditations, this audio program covers topics such as redefining Black masculinity, connecting with your ancestors, and creating sacred space, as well as physical practices such as breath work and a walking meditation. The program closes with affirmations: short, positive messages to further instill self-confidence and emotional well-being.

It's never too late to make a career change even after 40. Jeannie Jacobs MD, a former OB-GYN, knows this all too well. Her journey from medicine to becoming a curator of a successful lifestyle brand "Just Jeannie" is a testament to her resilience and audacity. Over two decades, Dr. Jacobs assisted in the miracle of birth. However, her transformative journey began when she decided to pursue her passion for cooking, DIY projects, and interior design. Her unique brand, "Just Jeannie," makes luxury living accessible and relatable, demystifying the concept of luxury, and emphasizing the importance of living authentically. Her successful debut product, the Luminosity candle, is a carefully crafted creation that blends the soothing power of aromatherapy with the symbolism of illumination. It serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for women embarking on their personal development journeys.

A cancer diagnosis can change our lives and the lives of our loved ones in an instant. It leaves us seeking answers to myriad questions and searching for hope. In The Cancer Journey, Dr. Chadi Nabhan demystifies this complex disease and offers a compassionate guide to understanding your diagnosis and treatment options. With decades of experience treating oncology patients, Dr. Nabhan answers your essential questions about cancer, including how it develops, how it is diagnosed, how it is treated, and how to prevent it from returning. He provides suggestions for how readers can prepare for their first visit to a cancer specialist, what questions to ask the health care team, and insider tips for getting second opinions and clinical trials. This comprehensive guide covers screening, survivorship, the art of communication, complementary and integrative medicines, and the future of cancer care. For those who may be at risk or are newly diagnosed, for family members and friends seeking guidance to help their loved ones, and for non-specialist providers seeking to educate their patients, The Cancer Journey is your one-stop-shop for all the information you need.

Ellen Marks lost the love of her life to suicide. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States and the 11th leading cause of death in Georgia, yet suicide can be prevented. Volunteers from Atlanta are joining the thousands of people who are gathering this season in towns across the United States to promote suicide prevention. The annual Atlanta Out of the Darkness Community Walk, hosted by the Georgia Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP Georgia), will take place November 3 at 1:30 p.m. in Piedmont Park. This gathering will support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's education, research, and support for those affected by suicide. In addition to raising awareness and funds to fight suicide, the walks give those who attend a chance to connect with others and know they are not alone, whether they walk in memory or in support of a loved one or in honor of their own mental health journey. The Atlanta Out of the Darkness Community Walk is one of the hundreds of events being held nationwide this year.

Breast cancer survivor and fierce advocate for Black women's health, April Love, is set to host the 6th annual Pink Awards on Saturday, October 12 at the TheaterPlex in Decatur, GA. This event goes beyond recognizing achievements; it's a powerful platform that sheds light on the devastating impact of breast cancer within the African American community and highlight the urgency of providing equal care and treatment to Black women, who are often overlooked and underserved in the fight against breast cancer. April Love, a survivor herself, understands the unique challenges faced by Black women, who are twice as likely as their White counterparts to develop aggressive forms like triple-negative breast cancer.

Will America be able to keep its experiment in democratic republicanism going or will it slide into oligarchy, or worse? CIARA TORRES-SPELLISCY, Professor of Law at Stetson University, offers a chilling exposé of how corporations manipulate our political system for profit and offers concrete steps for consumers and investors committed to protecting our democracy in her new book, CORPORATOCRACY: How to Protect Democracy from Dark Money and Corrupt Politicians. In CORPORATOCRACY, Torres-Spelliscy explores how America's privately funded campaign finance system, combined with corporate greed and a tilt towards authoritarianism within the Republican Party, have placed American democracy on a knife's edge. Drawing on key Supreme Court cases, CORPORATOCRACY reveals how major US corporations have worked to undermine practices and laws upholding democratic principles like free and fair elections through shadowy tactics from bankrolling regressive politicians to funding ghost candidates with dark money. The motive? Profit.

My guest is Kenneth Braswell. He leads the nonprofit organization Fathers Incorporated. The group works collaboratively with organizations around the country to identify and advocate for social and legislative changes that lead to healthy father involvement with children, regardless of the father's marital or economic status, or geographic location. Braswell recently penned an op ed for the Atlanta Journal Constitution about why Black dads must vote and their newest initiative, Black Dads Count.

Amari and the Despicable Wonders is the third and final book in his pitch-perfect middle grade fantasy series that puts a black girl at the heart of the action. The series has received tons of critical acclaim and the books have been #1 bestsellers and will soon be a major motion picture from Universal Pictures. Throughout the series, Amari grapples with what it means when entering a new magical world as the “chosen one” doesn't erase the prejudice and discrimination she's faced as a marginalized individual. Skillfully tackling social justice issues, including racism, classism, and prejudice, each book in the series has a thrilling fantasy-adventure plot with substance. My guest is the author B. B. Alston who originally planned to go to medical school, and leave his writing dreams behind him after a few years of querying agents to no avail. While waiting to fill out paperwork for a temporary job, he saw the #DVPit pitching event on Twitter, and pitched AMARI on a whim. His tweet got plenty of attention, and he eventually signed with an agent!

Will America be able to keep its experiment in democratic republicanism going or will it slide into oligarchy, or worse? My guest on Perspectives is Ciara Torres-Spelliscy, a professor of Law at Stetson University, Fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law, and member of the board of directors of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. She offers a chilling exposé of how corporations manipulate our political system for profit and offers concrete steps on protecting our democracy in her new book, Corporatocracy: How to Protect Democracy from Dark Money and Corrupt Politicians. We discuss how America's privately funded campaign finance system, combined with corporate greed and a tilt towards authoritarianism within the Republican Party, have placed American democracy on a knife's edge. Drawing on key Supreme Court cases, CORPORATOCRACY reveals how major US corporations have worked to undermine practices and laws upholding democratic principles like free and fair elections through shadowy tactics from bankrolling regressive politicians to funding ghost candidates with dark money.

Now through September 19th, metro Atlantans can pause for a moment of self-care with a visit to The Unplugged for Self Care Exhibit at the Mable House Arts Center on Floyd Road in Mableton. The exhibit uitilizes the intersection of music, photography, and renowned voices to inspire individuals to relax and release more. Curators argue we need self-care especially during challenging times. Joining me for this conversation is producer and creative consultant Danese Turner. The exhibit is free and open to the public weekdays from 9am until 5pm. Next a conversation with Dr. Bernice King about the annual Beloved Community International Expo at the King Center September 7,

My guest on the show is New York Times best-selling author Ken Abraham. His book is No Address, a novel based on the soon to be released film of the same name. It vividly shows how homelessness can happen to anyone. This story offers hope, humanity and resilience as five characters - all based on real people experiencing homelessness navigate their journey. The story testifies to the enduring human spirit and the transformative power of community.

Everyone hopes to leave a legacy once life ends. What will yours be? Have you considered the gift of saving a life? LifeLink of Georgia, the state's largest organ procurement and education organizations has launched its "infinity campaign" as a new approach to motivating and registering organ donors. The idea is to register as an organ donor to continue your life legacy. More than 3000 Georgians are on the organ transplant list. Thousands more could benefit from tissue transplantation. More than half of the patients waiting on kidney donations are African American. Joining us on Perspectives are LifeLink's executive director Katie Payne and kidney recipient Idoreyin Obuda.

Max Mayblum is on a mission. When his aunt received a cancer diagnosis, his family moved - literally to provide her care. Max saw the impact her illness had on his family and was driven to make a difference. He thought there has to be a way for family members who provide care for loved ones to have access to some resources. He was right. Mayblum, a Emory University, Goizueta Business School graduate founded Givers because of the direct care worker shortage that exists. Givers seeks to ease that burden. His program finds state programs to hire, support and pay family caregivers. His company now employs six and has helped thousands of families. Max is part of the Forbes 30 under 30 class and he did share his plans for Givers with his aunt before her death.

Invest Fest 2024 concludes Aug 25 at the Georgia World Congress Center. This event focuses on Black financial empowerment and Entrepreneurialism. New American Funding, an independent mortgage lender servicing more tan 263,000 customers recently launched its Black Impact Initiative, an effort to promote home ownership to Black Borrowers. My guest for this segment of Perspectives is Mosi Gatling, SVP of strategic growth at NAF. In addition to their efforts to grow the number of Black homeowners, New American Funding has also launched its Black Impact Housing Advocate Certification program, designed to foster a more inclusive and diverse landscape int he mortgage industry.

For Ed Rahill, a cross-country road race record holder, his goal was to share a story with his children about the importance of family and the role every member plays. This effort evolved into a book illustrating the complexities of life blended with the thrills and challenges of racing on the open road. Rahill leads readers through the exhilarating realm of cross-continental road racing, seamlessly intertwining tales of personal struggle, heartbreak, and eventual triumph. Rooted in his grandmother's timeless wisdom, Rahill's memoir serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit, transcending mere storytelling to become a beacon of resilience and courage in the face of adversity.

We have three conversations for you in today's show. First, in 2020, a Pew Research Center report found that nearly 50% of U.S. adults felt that dating had gotten harder in recent years, with participants noting their dissatisfaction with their relationship history as well as their prospects for the future. So what happened to love? What's behind the growing trend of "situationships" and why has this scenario been made even more precarious for Black women and other women of color? In THE END OF LOVE: Racism, Sexism, and the Death of Romance, sociologist Sabrina Strings blends historical research, personal stories, and critical analysis of popular culture to trace the path that she believes has led to the demise of romantic partnerships, with an emphasis on how racism and anti-feminist ideology have been the driving force behind it. Sabrina Strings, PhD is professor and North Hall Chair of Black Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Next a quick conversation about the 15th annual Bronzelens Film Festival opening in Atlanta on August 21st with a special screening of Peacock's Fight Night. We close the show with critical information about the reduction in price of 10 of the most expensive drugs prescribed for seniors.

College savings plans have become even more valuable with recent changes. While 529 savings plans have traditionally been used to set aside money for education, they now offer even greater flexibility. Joining me is Dr. Edmund H Moore, a retired federal government worker and parent of two college-aged students. He provides his personal insights into navigating these plans for his own family. 529 plans have long been hailed as one of the best ways to save for your child's college education. These state-sponsored investment accounts offer tax-free earnings and withdrawals that can be used for a variety of educational expenses, from tuition and books to computers. However, the landscape of 529 plans has significantly evolved, especially with the recent 2024 policy change allowing funds to be rolled over into Roth IRA accounts without tax penalties. Dr. Edmund H. Moore is the author of the book “Financial Freedom: Doing Nothing Is an Option,” which challenges the traditional narrative around building wealth and achieving financial independence. The book offers readers a refreshing perspective on how to achieve financial freedom without sacrificing one's quality of life.

In a culture obsessed with youth, "It's Ok to be Old" offers a paradigm shift, inviting readers to embrace the aging process and recognize the unique advantages that come with years of life experience. This timely book addresses the increasing demographic of older adults and responds to a growing demand for positive, practical approaches to aging. My guest is Patricia Greenberg, a best-selling author, drew from her extensive research and personal experiences to create this comprehensive guide. "The inspiration for this book came from observing the widespread misconceptions about aging," says Greenberg. "I wanted to provide a resource that not only challenges these beliefs but also equips individuals with the tools to age with confidence, purpose, and joy."

America's Dream at a Crossroads: The 2024 Presidential Election and Beyond" is a crucial primer for understanding what is at stake in the 2024 presidential election and after the election. The book suggests that the American Dream itself is up for a vote. It urges readers to consider how the outcomes of this pivotal election could redefine the pursuit of happiness, prosperity, and well-being for all Americans. My guest today is Don Iannone who offers a twelve-point strategy to avert the systemic collapse of America's political system and advance the American Dream, including major campaign reform, placing limits on special interest lobbying, and reducing the federal debt. Iannone argues the 2024 presidential election is a referendum on the American Dream. Written from a moderate conservative perspective, the book voices concerns and offers solutions that resonate throughout the political spectrum. For that reason, it is a must-read for voters, policymakers, and opinion leaders eager to contribute to a national conversation about America's future.

While Americans are tuned in to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, many of the athletes competing are calling the Olympic village in Sant Denis home. This is where you will find Africa Station. Saint Denis is the site of the largest immigrant community in France. My guest for this segment of Perspectives is Oliver Nguesson, curator of Africa Station. More than just a fan zone, it is a dynamic living space where Parisians and tourists alike can immerse themselves in the richness of African Heritage. Africa station is a celebration where the Olympic spirit meets African flair. Supported by the city and the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa, the project brings together sports, culture, and community.

Every day, the news delivers the same story: as a nation, we are so divided, we spend more time picking fights than solving our most urgent problems. It's exhausting and exasperating. In Remaking the Space Between Us, my guest, Diana McLain Smith invites us to see what lies behind this story: a growing trend in which more and more of us are seeking refuge in like-minded groups while distancing from groups different from our own. Although it's a natural response to the uncertainty and adversity of the past fifty years, this trend is fraying our social fabric, poisoning our politics, and weakening the moral foundation upon which our future together rests. Despite all we are up against, Smith shows why we need not—and why we must not—give up on each other or give into forces so overwhelming they make us feel powerless.

Black Violin will perform at the Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre on Saturday, July 20 at 8pm. My guest for Perspectives is one half of this dynamic duo, Wil Baptiste. About this group 303 Magazine wrote, "Today, genre-defying acts dominate the music industry, and artists move between styles with a level of comfort rarely — if ever — observed before. Few of these musical shapeshifters are as original and as captivating as string instrumentalists Kev Marcus and Wil B, who fuse hip-hop and classical music together as the band, Black Violin." Will shares their back story with me, their commitment to exposing young people to their talent reaching more than 100,000 students annually via their free performances and creating new and innovative music.

If you're like many people, when you think of innovation, you think of entrepreneurs. And gifted entrepreneurs have written countless books for go-getters starting their own businesses. But what if you're a visionary who wants to innovate effectively within the framework of your larger organization? It can be done says my guest Louis Gump in his new book The Inside Innovator. In this inspiring, yet practical primer, Gump shines a light on the efforts that occur behind the walls of almost every organization--from global business titans to local market leaders; from charitable nonprofits to government entities; from educational institutions to informal community groups and beyond; these are the places of the in-house innovators, the explorers, the intrapreneurs, who create value through innovation and growth, inside of a larger organization.

There's a new troop leader of the Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta. She's Jai Ferrell, a 5th generation Atlantan and the first woman of color to lead the Atlanta Council. She's a Spelman alumna and comes to the council from Hartsfield Jackson International Airport where she was the Chief Commercial Revenue Officer. Next we are joined by former South Carolina State Legislator and author Bakari Sellers, in Atlanta over the weekend to talk about his newest book, The Moment Thoughts on the Race Reckoning That Wasn't and How We All Can Move Forward Now. In this powerful and persuasive book, Sellers expands on the issues he addressed in his New York Times bestseller My Vanishing Country, examining national politics and policies that deeply impact not only Black people in his home state of South Carolina but the lives of millions of African Americans in communities across the nation

How's this for an idea and the perfect gift for any dad? Free advise, endless dad jokes, resources and virtual AI-powered confidant named Sage the Owl. Men will find all this and more at Poppa University, a free, dedicated online resource and virtual community to support fathers as they raise their kids and navigate fatherhood. My guest on Perspectives is Kenneth Braswell, founder and CEO of the nonprofit Father's Incorporated. Father's Incorporated has an overall mission to improve the societal narrative and perception of fathers to ensure the definition of family includes fathers. Established in 2004, Fathers Incorporated has a unique seat at the national table, working with leaders in the White House, Congress, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Family Law, Business, Faith-based and the Responsible Fatherhood Movement. PoppaUniversity.com features a range of A range of tools and resources to empower fathers in their parenting journey; a vibrant social media community for peer interaction; Practical parenting guides, self-help videos and brochures, and referral resources; A Fatherhood Fun Hub that includes contests, directory of TV and cinema dads, and dad jokes as well as an interactive AI powered chatbot named Sage the Owl to assist dads and engaged granddads 24/7.

Michael Hoffen and the protagonist in his new book are both teenagers, but there's quite an age gap between them—about 4,000 years. In Hoffen's new book, BE A SCRIBE: Working For a Better Life in Ancient Egypt, he brings to life the story of a young Egyptian, Pepi, whose father, Kheti, is intent on getting his son a job in the royal court. Hoffen, who has been translating ancient texts since middle school, became fascinated by a 4,000-year-old or so piece of literature from ancient Egypt's Middle Kingdom known as The Instruction of Khety, or “The Satire of the Trades.” Under the guidance and collaboration of his two co-authors, Egyptologists Christian Casey and Jen Thum, Hoffen spent three-and-a-half years translating hieroglyphics to modern-day prose and gathering images to tell their story. Beyond the words, which reveal a wit that transcends 4,000 years, ancient Egypt comes to life with more than 100 beautiful images of vibrant and colorful ancient Egyptian artifacts, paintings, graphics and illustrations that are featured throughout the book. This young author, a scribe himself, has given us a tale that helps us to see just how little the human condition has not changed in thousands of years. Parents still want the best for their children and teenagers face important decisions as they set out on their career path. I hope that you enjoy our conversation.

My guest on Perspectives is Atlanta's Milton Jones. He is the national president of The 100 Black Men of America, an organization founded 38 years ago and recognized as the nation's premiere African American led youth mentoring organization. The national organization staged its 2024 conference in Atlanta, a conference which featured a visit and address by Vice President Kamala Harris. In March, the organization launched its "Real Men Vote" initiative focused on delivering critical voter education and engagement ahead of the 2024 Presidential election. 100 Black Men, Inc. is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life and enhancing education and economic opportunities for all African Americans. Through mentorship, education, health & wellness, and economic empowerment, the organization is committed to initiatives that empower community members to become self-sufficient shareholders in the economic and social fabric of the communities they serve.

Family Food Fest Atlanta is a multicultural Father's Day charity fundraiser and food-tasting celebration where we celebrate fathers and men who impact their families and community. The 501(C)3 nonprofit Atlanta Culinary Charities, whose mission is to work with boys and girls in after-school programs and on weekends, produces this event each year on Father's Day. Longtime Atlanta resident Diane Larche' founded the event a decade ago. She lost her battle to pancreatic cancer earlier this year. Her team has rallied and the event is on again in 2024 in her honor. My guests on the show are the new Event manager, Patty Garret and Chef coordinator and food expert extraordinaire, Kevin Ashford. Family Food Fest takes place on Father's Day, June 16 from 3pm-6pm at the Georgia Freight Depot.

Exact figures are not available. However, it is estimated that nearly one in 5 individuals have self-injured themselves at some point in their lives. The highest likelihood of this behavior emerges in young people between the ages of 14 and 22 years old. My guest on Perspectives is Amanda Beausoleil. She was motivated by her own struggles with self-injury to build a solution for others. That solution is SIRA, The Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness organization. It's a nonprofit that helps people recover by use of an effective and powerful peer-support group model. The services SIRA offers are not bound by geography as anyone in need can seek access to SIRA's resources.

My guest is David Manuel. He's a father, arts advocate and community activist. 10 years ago, he received a life saving liver transplant. He's founded the "I Am A Father 5K Run/Walk, an event uniting male-focused organizations and directing donations to youth programs like the Piedmont Hospital Foundation and others with a priority on strengthening families from the fatherhood perspective. This year's 5K walk/run is Saturday, June 8th starting at Privi at The Mall at Stonecrest in Parking Lot C. Festivities begin at 8am with an energizing warm-up session led by Stepp Steward. The event will feature appearances by Q Parker from the R&B group 112 as well as a special message from Atlanta's own Ludacris. To learn more or to get involved, visit www.iamafather5K.org.

My guest is Ken Block, author of DISPROVEN: My Unbiased Search for Voter Fraud for the Trump Campaign, the Data that Shows Why He Lost, and How We Can Improve Our Elections. Looking back on the day he signed the contract with Donald Trump's second presidential campaign, Ken Block says, “I had no idea then how finding so little would lead to so much.” The day after the 2020 presidential election, a lawyer for former U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign called Block, a registered Republican and former gubernatorial candidate in Rhode Island, and asked if his firm, Simpatico Software Systems, would look for voter fraud. Block knew somebody was going to do it—and he knew he could do it honestly, thoroughly, and impartially. So, he took the job. In DISPROVEN: My Unbiased Search for Voter Fraud for the Trump Campaign, the Data that Shows Why He Lost, and How We Can Improve Our Elections Block describes what happened next—including another unexpected phone call early in the morning of February 23, 2023. “There is never a good time to receive a call from the FBI,” Block says. The phone call was followed by three subpoenas. We discuss the work Block did for the Trump campaign, what he did and didn't find, and the Trump supporters who kept claiming fraud. DISPROVEN offers suggestions of how new federal laws might fix things. “I am an optimist,” he writes, but he is also a realist and remains dedicated to this work. “My involvement in these matters will continue until these cases end.”