The Empowerment Zone

Dr. Carolyne Opinde: Empowering NGOs to Build a More Sustainable World — Non-governmental organizations, also referred to as NGOs, focus on solving some of the most pressing social challenges facing communities and nations around the world. To successfully execute their social missions, NGOs must build strong infrastructures, consisting of knowledge, processes and resources. The NGO Whisperer Center for Social Impact is focused on just that: empowering NGOs for success.  Join Ramona as she talks to Dr. Carolyne Opinde about her new book Fit For The Future - A Guidebook For Nonprofits To Thrive In A Changing World (Volume 1).  This book explores many of the essential elements that NGOs must put in place to be successful.  Carolyne A. Opinde Dr.h.c. is an award-winning social impact expert, author, speaker and the Founder and CEO of The NGO Whisperer® Centre For Social Impact.  Originally from Kenya, Dr. Opinde currently lives in Manchester, United Kingdom. Resources: https://ngowhisperer.com/  Topics: Dr. Carolyne Opinde's journey to becoming a leader in social impact Evolution of the NGO Whisperer Centre for Social Impact Importance of social innovation NGO Whisperer Global Summit 2023 Fit for the Future:  A Guidebook for Nonprofits to Thrive in a Changing World (Volume 1) Evolution of the book Various challenges facing NGOs Role of leadership in developing successful NGOs

Next episode out on Monday, December 25 with guests Dr. Carolyne Opinde Book Launch: Fit For The Future - A Guidebook For Nonprofits To Thrive In A Changing World (Volume 1)

Dr. Constance Craig-Mason: Preparing individuals for financial well-being —  Financial education and literacy is so important to living a financially secure and abundant life, yet so many African Americans and Latinos lack the knowledge they need to create financial success for themselves and their families.  Join Ramona as she talks to Dr. Constance Craig-Mason about how individuals in Black and Brown communities can take steps to master the fundamentals of financial empowerment.  Constance shares strategies for building a prosperous financial future.  As the CEO of Concierge Financial Advisory and an Investment Advisor Representative at Forthright Capital Partners, Dr. Constance Craig-Mason teaches her clients how to manage their money, so they can live the life they want without worrying about money. Resources: https://www.moneytalkschallenge.com  Topics: Constance's personal and professional journey into becoming a financial advisor Importance of exposure in inspiring financial empowerment Intrinsic value of financial education and literacy to living an empowered life Reasons for being intentional and clear about the life you want, so you can chart your life Insurance Investing MORE:  memories, opportunities, relationships and experiences Strategies for financial empowerment

Next episode out on Monday, December 18 with guests Dr. Constance Craig-Mason Mastering Financial Fundamentals

Melvin M. Coleman: Black Economic Empowerment through Ownership and Control —  Since the development of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, African Americans have primarily served as a source of labor in the American and global economy.  This has limited the ability of African Americans to build wealth, which leads to power and influence. Listen to the conversation as Ramona talks to Melvin Coleman about the need for African Americans to move beyond being employees and consumers to being owners of businesses and industries.  Melvin M. Colman is President of the Atlanta Black Chambers and the founder and chief portfolio strategist of Essential Wealth Management, a registered investment advisory firm based in the Atlanta area.  A US Navy veteran, Melvin is originally from Savannah, Georgia, and now makes Atlanta his home. Resources: https://atlantablackchambers.org  Topics: Melvin's professional trajectory into becoming an expert in economic empowerment “DSGB” Savannah, Georgia Atlanta Black Chambers Economic history of slavery Labor history and the role of African Americans as a source of labor Importance of ownership in building wealth Strategies for the economic empowerment of the African American community Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, December 11 with guests Melvin M. Coleman How can African Americans expand their power and influence?

Rebekah Ratliff: inspiring an end the crab in a barrel syndrome —  In this climate of heightened awareness around the need for diverse perspectives and equitable inclusion, individuals must be intentional about making an impact. Listen to a candid conversation between friends as Ramona chats with Rebekah Ratliff about the need for individuals to be supportive colleagues and not malicious crabs.  The crabs in the barrel syndrome is destructive and has detrimental consequences.  Rebekah contends that individuals and communities must be intentional about ending this harmful practice if we are going to move forward individually and collectively.   Rebekah is an international mediator and arbitrator with the Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Service (JAMS), the first African American non-lawyer ever to be invited to the JAMS panel of neutrals. She provides dispute resolution services in the U.S., London and Caribbean. A native of Chicago, Rebekah currently lives in Atlanta. Resources: https://www.consultccm.com  Topics: Rebekah's professional trajectory into becoming an international mediator and arbitrator Crabs in a basket syndrome Ways to replace the crabs in the basket syndrome with more affirming behaviors Importance of sowing seeds generously (in service) to reap generously Taking risks Racism Simple analogy to understand Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEI&B) HBCU I.M.P.A.C.T. ®

Next episode out on Monday, December 4 with guests Rebekah Ratliff Are you crab in a barrel?

Daryl Perry: empowering clients to maximize their insurance investments —  It is open enrollment!  It is that time of year to explore your insurance needs and determine what is best for you and your family.  Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.  Join Ramona as she talks to Daryl Perry, a ten-year veteran of the insurance industry.  Daryl combines his life experiences as a military brat, lover of hip hop, and insurance nerd to help make sense of something we all have to deal with. Being a married man and father of four also helps him to see insurance needs from different angles.   When it comes to insurance, Daryl contends that we all need to have a plan, not a plea. Resources: https://wayoflifegroup.com/   Topics: Daryl's professional journey in becoming an insurance professional Importance of spending time to understand the various types of insurance Affordable Care Act, AKA: “Obamacare” Short-term health insurance Dental and vision insurance Supplemental insurance Disability insurance Life insurance Permanent insurance Risk factors in insurance Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, November 27 with guests Daryl Perry Insurance: do you know what you really need?

Philippe Jean-Bart: The Advantages of Technical Education —  It is a fact:  everyone does not have the ability or the resources to pursue a traditional four-year college education.  According to Philippe Jean-Bart that is why technical education and training is so valuable.  Join the conversation as Ramona talks to Philippe about the value and benefits of attending technical college.  Through a technical education students can actually “build a career in a year.”  Philippe is Chair of Health Science Education at Atlantic Technical College & Technical High School.  A first-generation Haitian American, Philippe now makes Miami his home. Resources: Atlantic Technical College Highlights from our conversation: Value of a technical education Employment opportunities for people with technical degrees Receiving technical education during high school Funding technical education Workforce development Affordability of higher education Strategies for college success

Malaise Mogodi: South African Women's Alliance —  Economic empowerment is important to all women.  That is why it is essential for women in various parts of the world to build relationships in order to create more opportunities with and for each other.  Maloase Mogodi seeks to create this connection as Founder and President of the South African Women's Alliance (SAWA).  Maloase is on a mission to promote, celebrate and showcase the people and culture of South Africa in order to build cultural exchange between women of the US and South Africa.   Listen to Ramona and Maloase's conversation as they discuss SAWA and how women can inspire and support each other.  In their conversation Maloase also discusses the upcoming 10th Anniversary SAWA Gala and Award celebration to be held on November 4, 2023, in Atlanta Georgia.  Originally from South Africa, Maloase now lives in Atlanta.  Resources: South African Women's Alliance SAWA 10th Anniversary Gala and Awards Highlights from our conversation: Women's Empowerment South Africa South African Women's Alliance Economic empowerment of women Global relationships between women in the US and South Africa SAWA Gala and Awards, November 4, 2023 Strategies for college success

Letycia Pastrana: The Community Services Agency of the Metro-Washington Council, AFL-CIO —  The AFL-CIO continues to empower and inspire families and communities.  The Community Services Agency (CSA) of the Metropolitan-Washington Council, AFL-CIO is on a mission to continue that tradition.  Listen to the conversation today as Ramona talks to Letycia Pastrana, Executive Director, about the work of the CSA.  The CSA is an independent, nonprofit organization established to improve the lives of workers and their families by helping to meet their human and social service needs.  A native of San Antonio, Texas, Letycia has extensive experience developing and executing community and economic development activities for vulnerable, as well as diverse, populations in need of resources. Resources: https://www.communityservicesagency.org/  Highlights from our conversation: Emergency assistance to families facing unique challenges, such as lay-offs, unemployment, etc. Careers in trades WorkForce Development Providing the tools and guidance for career choices Connecting with organizations that provide mental wellness Women in trades Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, October 16 with guests Letycia Pastrana How the CSA, AFL-CIO impacts communities

Donna P. Riley: Building pleasant work environments through etiquette —  Have you ever felt disrespected?  Many people are stressed out in the marketplace and in general due to the fact that they feel disrespected. The use of proper business etiquette can eliminate misunderstandings, and using simple common courtesies can make a difference in your everyday work and life interactions.  Join the conversation as Ramona talks to Donna P. Riley, who believes we can accomplish more when we have pleasant interactions over the course of the workday.  Donna Paige Riley, also known as “The Etiquette Lady,” is the founder of Paige's Etiquette Seminars, L.L.C., and MSDonnaspeaks.com., companies specializing in personal and professional development training and coaching in the areas of communication skills, public speaking and socialization, customer service, leadership and corporate etiquette skills. She is the author of What is Business Etiquette Anyway? Key Strategies for Building Successful Working Relationships. Resources: https://www.msdonnaspeaks.com/  https://www.paigesetiquette.com  Highlights from our conversation: Defining etiquette beyond table manners Value of etiquette in the workplace Praise in public, reprimand in private When correcting others, criticize the action, not the individual Making time to be courteous and considerate of others Etiquette skills and practices Corporate bullying Tips from What is Business Etiquette Anyway? Key Strategies for Building Successful Working Relationships Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, October 9 with guests Donna P. Riley What is Business Etiquette Anyway?

Marlon Addison: Arousing your fullest potential through Marlon Mentors —  Join Ramona as she delves deep into the connection between Emotional Intelligence and Sales with the CEO (Chief Emotional Officer) of "MarlonMentors", Marlon Addison.  Marlon's vision of and for "Marlon Mentors" is to provide individuals the language to relationally communicate, the tools to socially navigate, and improve their self-talk to unblock their imagination and increase self-esteem.  Marlon is a Sales and Marketing Leader and owner of a consulting company called "Marlon Mentors," which specifically focuses on teaching Emotional Intelligence and Sales techniques to Corporations and Colleges and Universities. A trainer and coach at his core, he pushes teams to listen for the things they are complimented on the most and on what comes easy to and for them; those things are your superpowers. Resources: https://www.marlonmentors.com  Highlights from our conversation: Emotional intelligence How emotional intelligence inspires success in sales Identifying your passion Aligning workforce within corporations How to develop relationships Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, October 2 with guests Marlon Addison How do you zero in on your zone of genius?

Vincenzo and Gabriela Piscopo: Empowering People with Motor Disabilities around the World — The Wheels of Happiness Foundation is on a mission to empower spinal cord injury survivors and individuals with motor disabilities with the resources they need to reintegrate into society and add value to their families and communities. Based in Atlanta, the Foundation supports people in disadvantaged communities around the world.  Enjoy the conversation today as Ramona talks to the founders Vincenzo and Gabriela Piscopo about their journey to building this organization and why their work is so impactful. Vincenzo serves as the CEO of the United Spinal Association and Dr. Gabriela Piscopo is a professor at Morehouse College. Together, they inspire and uplift communities through service.  Mark your calendars to join the Wheels of Happiness Foundation for their annual fundraising gala on September 30th, in Atlanta, Georgia, as they celebrate Uganda. Resources: https://wheelsofhappiness.org/  The Wheels of Happiness Foundation 2023 Gala   Highlights from our conversation: Vincenzo and Gabriela's personal journey as immigrants from Venezuela to the US Founding of the Wheels of Happiness Foundation The various experiences and support systems of people with motor disabilities “The multiplier effect”:  How helping others with motor disabilities makes even greater impact on families and communities Wheels of Happiness Foundation 2023 Gala, September 30, 2023, Atlanta, Georgia Celebrating Uganda Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, September 25 with guests Vincenzo and Gabriela Piscopo The Wheels of Happiness Foundation

Ebony Little: Focus on service and make the business case —  Many women of color face multiple challenges at work due to toxic work environments.  This results in many individuals not being as productive and resourceful as they could and would be, if they were treated well and felt valued and appreciated.  Ebony Little discusses what women of color can do to be proactive in creating meaning in their work and influence change in hostile work environments.  Ebony is the Program Director the National Association of African American Insurance Association (NAAIA).  A self-proclaimed “army brat,” Ebony has lived in Germany and Florida.  Currently she makes Fort Lauderdale, Florida, her home. Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebonynlittle/   Highlights from our conversation: Ebony's personal and professional trajectory The importance of creating affirming relationships at work Identifying mentors, advocates and sponsors Finding joy at work through service to others Making the business case to employers about changing hostile work environments National Association of African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) How to address personal doubts of speaking up and speaking out at work Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, August 7 with guest Ebony Little How can women of color find joy at work?

Reading of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's dissenting opinion —  In this episode, Ramona reads Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's dissenting opinion of the Supreme Court's decision to end affirmative action in college admission in The Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. vs. President and Fellows of Harvard College.  Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Justice Elena Kagan join in dissenting.  Released on June 29th, 2023, the decision is a devastating blow to racial justice in the United States.   Judge Brown Jackson makes a prolific argument of why affirmative action is still necessary in higher education.  Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is the first African American woman and the first former federal public defender to serve on the United States Supreme Court. Resources: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/20-1199_hgdj.pdf  Highlights from the reading: History of racism in and its impact on America How racial disparities in education, health, wealth and well-being developed in the US History of local and federal policies that perpetuated inequality Why race is an important factor in the admissions process Why diversity is important in higher education

Due to popular demand, we're repeating this episode from December 2022 featuring... Christian McBride: How artists influence people and society through their music and actions —  From James Brown to Winton Marsalis, artists have an incredible amount of influence, impacting all aspects of society and people, including today's guest Christian McBride. Listen to Ramona's conversation as Christian talks about the music and the artists who have impacted his life and his development as a musician. According to Christian, example is of utmost importance, because it is your example that creates change; for people follow examples. Christian McBride is an eight-time GRAMMY-winning bassist, composer, and bandleader. He is the Artistic Director of the historic Newport Jazz Festival, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the TD James Moody Jazz Festival, and the National Jazz Museum in Harlem. In addition to artistic directing and consistent touring with his ensembles, he hosts NPR's “Jazz Night in America” and "The Lowdown: Conversations With Christian" on SiriusXM. Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Christian now lives in New Jersey. For more information about Christian McBride, visit https://www.christianmcbride.com.

Dr. Vicki Ruiz: The Gift of Mentorship —  Have you had a mentor that made a significant impact on your life?  Have you ever considered serving as a mentor to others?  Join the conversation as Ramona talks to distinguished professor and historian Dr. Vicki Ruiz about the gift of mentorship.  Dr. Ruiz discusses how mentors transform lives.  She also talks about the power and impact of institutional mentorship.  According to Dr. Ruiz, by being a mentor and institutionalizing mentorship programs individuals can impact individuals in profound ways.  Dr. Vicki Ruiz is a Distinguished Professor Emerita of History and Chicano/Latino Studies in the Department of History at the University of California, Irvine. Resources: https://www.faculty.uci.edu/profile/?facultyId=5302   Highlights from our conversation: Influence of Dr. Ruiz's mother and grandmother on her appreciation for and understanding of history Dr. Ruiz's personal and professional journey in becoming a professor of history The power of mentorship Institutional mentorship Examples of great mentorship programs The impact of mentorship on 1st generation college students How to empower mentees Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, July 10th with guest Dr. Vicki Ruiz What is one of the most powerful gifts to give to others?

Dr. Shaun M. Anderson: Advancing social responsibility in sports — Sports teams and athletes have always influenced social change.  In this episode Ramona talks to professor and social responsibility champion Dr. Shaun M. Anderson about the power of athletes and sports teams in impacting and transforming society.  His work focuses on the intersections of sports, politics, race, and society.  Dr. Shaun M. Anderson is an internationally recognized scholar, author and professor at Loyola Marymount University and founder and CEO of CSR Global Consulting, LLC, a consultancy that advises organizations in building social responsibility initiatives.  A native of Arkansas, Dr. Anderson now lives in Los Angeles, California. Resources: http://www.shaunmarqanderson.com   Highlights from our conversation: Dr. Anderson's personal and professional journey in becoming a professor and social responsibility champion Major League Baseball and diversity Olympic Games and social movements Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in sports History of athletes and sports in creating social change Importance of social responsibility in sports How sports teams can be more impactful in their social impact initiatives How to influence athletes to be proponents of social responsibility Strategies for college success

Next episode out on Monday, June July 3rd with guest Dr. Shaun M. Anderson How can sports teams be more effective in community impact?

Dr. Emma Pérez: The power of writing in transforming people and society —  Life-writing can be healing, empowering, and community-making when shared with others. Ultimately, words have the power to change minds and lives. That is why writing our own stories is so important.  Listen to Ramona's conversation as she talks with the esteemed historian Dr. Emma Pérez. Dr. Pérez discusses the magic that happens in the classroom when brown, black, indigenous, and queer students find their voice and share their stories to build community.  Dr. Emma Perez is a Research Social Scientist at the Southwest Center and a Professor in the Department of Gender and Women's Studies at the University of Arizona. Pérez is an author of many publications including fiction, essays, and a history monograph. Resources: https://swc.arizona.edu/people/emma-pérez  Highlights from our conversation: Pérez's personal and professional journey and how she became a historian and writer Growing up in Texas   Rise of Ethnic Studies Influence of Juan Gomez Quiñonez, Gloria Anzaldua and Toni Morrison How and why writing and telling stories is so empowering and liberating How to encourage students to express and raise their voices The power of writing

Next episode out on Monday, June 26th with guest Dr. Emma Pérez Why is writing a significant aspect of empowerment?

A Texas Family Celebrates: Izora Jones, Loretta Houston, and Rita Sibert —  Juneteenth is now a National Holiday, and The Empowerment Zone” is celebrating.  In today's episode Ramona provides a brief overview of the history of Juneteenth.  Afterwards, she has a lively and engaging conversation with her family about the history and significance of Juneteenth. Natives of Texas, the family has lived in the state for generations, so Juneteenth has always been a part of their family experience and tradition. In this multi-generational conversation, family members of three generations talk about their fondest memories of Juneteenth and what the National Holiday means to them.  Guests include Ramona's 96-year-old grandmother Izora Jones, mother Loretta Houston, and aunt Rita Sibert. Highlights from our conversation: History of Juneteenth in Texas How Juneteenth became a state holiday in Texas and a national holiday in the US Mexia, Texas Limestone County Comanche Crossing and Booker T. Washington Park, Mexia Texas Deaths of teenagers Carl Baker, Steve Booker and Anthony Freeman Juneteenth celebrations in Texas Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Poor People's Campaign and March Family memories of Juneteenth

Next episode out on Monday, June 19th with guest Izora Jones, Loretta Houston and Rita Sibert It is Juneteenth! A Texas Family Celebrates

Dr. Sarah Zenaida Gould: Mexican American Civil Rights Institute —  Most of the time when we think of US Civil Rights history, we primarily think of it in a black/white dichotomy.  In today's episode, Ramona talks to museum professional and public historian Dr. Sarah Zenaida Gould about the importance of expanding our understanding of US Civil Rights History by including the historical narratives of other marginalized groups and communities.  In their discussion Dr. Gould expands upon her work at the Mexican American Civil Rights Institute (MACRI) and her efforts to foster social change through museums.  Based in San Antonio, MACRI is dedicated to chronicling and advancing the Mexican American community's civil rights efforts in the U.S.  Originally from Houston, Dr. Gould is the Executive Director of MACRI and currently makes San Antonio, the cradle of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement, her home. Resources: https://www.somosmacri.org/  Highlights from our conversation: Dr. Gould's personal and professional journey and how she developed a love for history and museums Mexican American Civil Rights Institute (MACRI) How museums influence and foster social change Significant influence of the African American Civil Rights Movement on other movements focused on social change Reconstructing history to create narratives that include marginalized groups and communities Importance of challenging stereotypes in books and public spaces that focus on history Reframing distorted historical narratives

Next episode available from Monday, June 12th with guest Dr. Sarah Zenaida Gould How do Museums Advance History and Social Change?

Neelu Kaur: Empowering Women for Self-Advocacy —  Were you raised in an individualistic or collective culture? Based on your answer to this question, you may experience challenges when it comes to self-advocacy and self-promotion. Those of us who come from collective cultures, or are raised by parents in collective cultures, struggle with speaking up for ourselves as well as speaking about ourselves in both professional and personal settings. In this episode, Ramona talks to Neelu Kaur about the importance of self-advocacy, guidance from her book Be Your Own Cheerleader:  An Asian and South Asian Woman's Cultural, Psychological, and Spiritual Guide to Self-Promote at Work.  Join the conversation today to learn strategies on how you can become more empowered, confident and intentional about raising your voice, so that you may create a more fulfilling life.  Neelu is an author, facilitator and Executive Coach and resides in New York. Resources:  https://www.neelukaur.com/  Highlights from our conversation: Neelu's personal and professional journey to embracing self-advocacy Ways to deal with anxiety and panic attacks Be Your Own Cheerleader:  An Asian and South Asian Woman's Cultural, Psychological, and Spiritual Guide to Self-Promote at Work How culture influences concepts of self-advocacy Why self-advocacy is so important personally and professionally Dancing between the “We" and the “I” Strategies for speaking up for yourself Daily practices to “be your own cheerleader”

Next episode available from Monday, June 5th with guest Neelu Kaur Do you know how to be your own cheerleader?

Dr. Elena Foulis: Teaching students how to “be agents of change” —  Leadership development and the importance of impacting your community are and should be a significant component of a college education. In today's episode Ramona talks to Dr. Elena Foulis about her efforts in teaching her students to “Be agents of change.” As Dr. Foulis explains, learning how to be an impactful leader in the community occurs inside and outside of the classroom.  During this enlightening conversation Dr. Foulis provides educators and community leaders with strategies on how to formalize leadership development in their teaching practices, mentorship, and engaging students in community organizations. A student-centered educator with over 15 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Elena Foulis is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Language, Literature, and Arts at Texas A&M University, San Antonio.  Originally from Matamoros, Mexico, Dr. Foulis now resides in San Antonio. Highlights from our conversation: Dr. Foulis's personal and professional background The importance of leadership development in higher education Service learning How to make formal education relevant to students Inspiring students to make a social impact Mentorship Creating connections and widening networks for college students Strategies on how to formalize leadership development in the classroom Strategies for college success

Next episode available from Monday, May 29th with guest Dr. Elena Foulis Documentary film “Blurring the Color Line: Chinese in the Segregated South"

Dr. Crystal Kwok: Examining the Complexity of African American and Chinese Relations — This month “The Empowerment Zone” is celebrating Asian American Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AANHPI) by featuring Dr. Crystal Kwok and her documentary film “Blurring the Color Line:  Chinese in the Segregated South.” Join the conversation as Ramona talks to Dr. Kwok about her film, which examines the complex historical relationship between the African American and Asian American communities. We are proud to announce that the film will premiere on the World Channel on PBS streaming platforms this month on May 25. Dr. Kwok's documentary has already won multiple awards including the Mira Nair Rising Female Filmmaker Award at the Harlem International Film Festival and the Courage Award at the DisOrient Film Festival. Dr. Kwok is a transnational award winning filmmaker who established her career in Hong Kong as an actress, writer, director, and talk show host.  Originally from San Francisco, California, Dr. Kwok now lives in Hawaii. Resources: https://www.blurringthecolorline.com/  Highlights from our conversation: Dr. Kwok's dissertation defense Dr. Kwok's acting career and her professional trajectory to becoming a filmmaker Working with Jackie Chan Challenges women face in the entertainment and movie industries How and why Dr. Kwok created her own platforms How Dr. Kwok's film evolved from researching the history of women in her family to exploring Chinese and African American relations Complexity of race relations in the American South Exploring how Chinese Americans embrace and engage in anti-blackness Binary spaces How Dr. Kwok seeks to inspire social impact through her film Strategies for college success Redefining education

Next episode available from Monday, May 22nd with guest Dr. Crystal Kwok Leadership Development in Higher Education for Greater Impact

Gloria Neal: Empowering Companies to Maximize their ROI through DEI&A and ESG —  Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEI&A) are buzz words these days, but how many companies really understand what it means to embrace DEI&A? Join Ramona today as she has a very candid conversation with Gloria Neal about why DEI&A is vital for any company or organization doing business in the 21st Century.  The two also explore Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and why it is necessary for CEOs, managers and employees to understand how ESG impacts their company's return on investment (ROI) or bottom line.  Originally from Denver, Colorado, Gloria continues to make the city her home. Highlights from our conversation: Gail's professional journey to DEI&A DEI&A ESG How companies lose talent by not embracing DEI&A How individuals lose their energy and drive because their employers fail to accept them as their authentic selves GloKnows Consulting Strategies for implementing DEI&A in your company Resources: http://linkedin.com/in/gloria-prioleau-neal-9a6b33128 

Next episode available from Monday, May 8th with guest Gloria Neal How does DEI&A and ESG contribute to the bottom line?

The Importance of Philanthropy within the Black and Brown Communities —  Dr. Mara Perez, Founder and Principal of Latino Futures, discusses the importance of Latinos and African Americans engaging in philanthropy—both as donors and as professionals. According to Dr. Perez, the Black and Brown communities must become more involved in the philanthropic sector on multiple levels to ensure the viability of organizations that serve our communities.  Dr. Perez also discusses her publication “Roadmap to Latino Prosperity,” which argues that Latino prosperity is critical to America's future and is based on four pillars: education, entrepreneurship, workforce development and Latino philanthropy. Highlights from our conversation: Dr. Mara Perez and her work in philanthropy The Latino Community Foundation Giving Circles Latino Futures The lack of diversity within the philanthropic sectors The impact of white philanthropy on nonprofits that serve the Black and Brown communities Why African Americans and Latinos should engage in all levels of philanthropy Publication:  “Roadmap to Latino Prosperity” The four pillars of America's future Resources: https://www.latinofutures.com/ 

Next episode available from Monday, May 1st with guest Dr. Mara Perez The Importance of Philanthropy within the Black and Brown Communities

Nedra Deadwyler: How to maintain culture and community despite change —  Are you in a community that is being disrupted and/or destroyed by gentrification?  If so, are you interested in preserving the history and culture of your community despite these changes? In this episode Ramona talks to Nedra Deadwyler about the need for communities to protect and maintain their history and culture.  According to Nedra heritage preservation is at the root of community building.  A social worker, public historian, and published author, Nedra is the Founder of Civil Bikes and Save Your Spaces, nonprofit organizations that focus on building community, creating change, and preserving culture as a means to liberation.  Originally, from Atlanta, Nedra continues to make the city her home. Highlights from our conversation: Nedra's journey from social worker to heritage preservation Gentrification and its detrimental impact on marginalized communities Ways for people and communities to preserve their history and culture Civil Rights Walking tours in Alabama and how they inspired Nedra Civil Bikes Save Your Space Festival Strategies for people and organizations to preserve their history and culture Resources: http://saveyourspaces.org/ 

Next episode available from Monday, April 24th with guest Nedra Deadwyler Heritage preservation in the midst of gentrification

Richard Martinez: Transforming Minds and Actions through Messaging -  Current leadership in the United States has the dual challenge of unifying the communities they serve and ending systemic racism within their spheres of influence—no small feat.  Today  Ramona talks with leadership development trainer Richard Martinez, who explains the importance of communication and messaging in leading social transformation.  Listen and learn from Richard how to become a more effective leader.  Richard is founder and President of the RJ Martinez Group and co-founder of Lideramos:  a National Leadership Alliance dedicated to creating Latino leadership programs across the country.  He is a native of San Antonio and continues to make the city his home. Highlights from our conversation: The power of leaders in influencing change Importance of repetition in messaging How leaders can be in the forefront of ending structural racism How leaders develop the skill of communicating with conviction and passion Personal transformation of Derek Black, godson of David Duke White Fragility by Robin Diangelo Communication strategies for influencing others to change the way they think How leaders can combat fear through effective communication Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-j-martinez-4169ba171/ 

Next episode available from Monday, April 17th with guest Richard Martinez How can leaders operate as healers and uniters?

Regina Jackson: Host of Race2Dinner, conversations on racism -  How many of us have participated in conversations that explore how white women uphold white supremacy?  Join Ramona in her conversation with Regina Jackson as Regina shares how she has found a creative way to have challenging yet hopeful conversations around racism, systems of oppression, and white supremacy with white women through her Race2Dinner events.  During their discussion Ramona and Regina discuss why having these conversations with white women about confronting racism are difficult, but necessary.  Regina is the focal point of the documentary film “De-Constructing Karen” and co-author of “White Women: Everything You Already Know About Your Own Racism and How to Do Better." Originally from Chicago and raised around the world as a child of military, Regina now makes Denver her home. Highlights from our conversation: Documentary film “De-Constructing Karen” Book “White Women: Everything You Already Know About Your Own Racism and How to Do Better” Race2Dinner events How white women contribute to upholding the system of racism How white women can use their power to dismantle racism How the racism of white women impacts women of color How being nice does not break down barriers Resources https://www.race2dinner.com/ 

Next episode available from Monday, April 10th with guest Regina Jackson, Host of Race2Dinner, conversations on racism.

Nick Taliaferro: Re-evaluating and Re-imagining the purpose of the Black Church —  The Black Church has always been the center of the African American community, but according to Nick Taliaferro, the role of the Black Church has changed. Listen to Ramona and Nick's conversation today as Nick explains the societal factors that have influenced this change and what he feels should be the new role of this powerful institution. Nick Taliaferro is a program host at WURD Radio, minister, vocalist and journalist, based in Philadelphia. He also serves as a Contributing Editor to Message Magazine, the nation's oldest continuously published Black religious periodical. Highlights from our conversation: History and role of the Black Church Societal changes that have influenced changes within the Black Church Identity and liberation theology within the Black Church Aspiration and prosperity theology within the Black Church How the Black Church can support current social change Why the Black Church should reevaluate its purpose Strategies for college success Resources WURD Radio Connect with me! Ramona Houston