The More We Know Community Show with Dr. Sylvia

In this episode of "The More We Know Community Show: Conversations Cultivating Change," we delve into the historic nomination of Kamala Harris for President following President Biden's decision to step down. We discuss the potential impact and significance of Harris's candidacy, especially from the perspective of civil rights leader Alberder Gillespie. Additionally, we explore the importance of leadership during challenging political times, the crucial role of voting, donating, and organizing. Tune in and download this thought-provoking discussion on the future of American politics and civic engagement.

In this episode of 'The More We Know Community Show: Conversations Cultivating Change,' we embark on an extraordinary life journey characterized by resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Our guest, Leonard Wright, Owner & CEO of INPAX Shipping Solutions Inc., guides us through the compelling chapters of his life – from enduring unimaginable poverty to thriving as a triumphant business leader.   Hailing from the poverty-stricken rural landscape of Leesburg, Georgia, during the segregated 1960s, Leonard's entrepreneurial spirit ignited at an early age. Despite financial hardships and being raised by a single mother, he exhibited entrepreneurial traits as a child – from peddling snacks to pioneering a sports section in his local newspaper.   Leonard excelled as an athletic prodigy in college, particularly in football and basketball. However, a career-ending injury altered his course, leading to involvement with drugs. Yet, amidst these challenges, he secured a job at a software duplication company. It was here that he noticed significant expenses in couriers and freight services, igniting the spark for his own courier business, which later evolved into INPAX Shipping Solutions Inc.   Nevertheless, Leonard's journey encountered a drastic twist when his involvement with drugs led to incarceration. Undeterred, he emerged from prison with a renewed commitment to sobriety and an unwavering determination to rebuild his life.   Join us as we explore how Leonard surmounted adversity, reshaped his destiny, and laid the foundation for INPAX Shipping Solutions Inc. His story serves as a testament to the formidable force of determination, reminding us that success remains attainable, even in the face of formidable challenges.

In this episode of the "More We Know Community Show, Conversations Cultivating Change," Host Dr. Sylvia had the privilege of hosting Dr. Ebbin Dotson, an accomplished academic, researcher, and public health leader. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, Dr. Dotson shares his transformative journey and profound insights into public health, health equity, and leadership.   Hailing from the Midwest and raised in an African American community, Dr. Dotson's early experiences in clinical projects exposed him to the realities of health disparities and inequalities. With a strong foundation in math, science, teaching, and leadership, he initially aspired to a career in medicine. However, he realized that healthcare needed leaders who understood the complexities of healthcare administration, policy, and health equity.   Driven by his passion for making healthcare more equitable, Dr. Dotson transitioned to public health. He now teaches courses that equip future leaders with the tools to effectively manage individuals and groups within healthcare organizations. His teachings emphasize skills like persuasive communication, conflict management, and addressing interpersonal issues in an organizational context.   Dr. Dotson's commitment to preparing leaders who prioritize health equity is paramount. He believes that future healthcare leaders must comprehend health disparities, cultural competence, and social determinants of health to make informed, positive impacts on communities.  The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for healthcare leaders who prioritize health equity. Dr. Dotson's dedication to cultivating the next generation of leaders rooted in compassion and health equity is a beacon of hope.

In this episode, Mayor Melvin Carter III offers a unique behind-the-scenes perspective from his desk, providing an authentic and intimate glimpse into the trials and triumphs of leading a city. Prepare to gain insights into the mayor's reflections on pivotal topics such as community development, equity, and the progressive humanity policies that are charting the course towards a brighter future in Saint Paul.   Mayor Carter's leadership approach is deeply rooted in a steadfast commitment to inclusivity, and active community engagement. Host Dr. Sylvia and Mayor Carter delve into the transformative initiatives and compelling narratives that define Mayor Carter's tenure, and how the city's rich history and diverse population are converging to foster tangible and meaningful change.   Mayor Carter shares his bold vision for re-imagining governance to positively impact the lives of every citizen. And his unwavering dedication to crafting an equitable city where the principles of humanity and fairness serve as the foundation for an inclusive and thriving community for all.

In this episode, my guests are two remarkable individuals who are deeply committed to revolutionizing the landscape of maternal health: Dr. Linda Henderson – Smith, President, and Founder of ATC Consulting, a powerhouse of expertise in trauma, equity, and behavioral health, and Naomi Clemmons, Maternal Child Health Sr. Technical Advisor, whose insights into maternal health have helped shape strategies and initiatives for transformation.   Our conversation navigates through a tapestry of topics that demand our attention:   Understanding Disparities: We begin by diving into the state of Black maternal health, deciphering statistics, and facing the disparities head-on. The urgency to address these challenges becomes vivid through the personal stories shared.   Countering Bias: Our experts unravel the complexities of bias in medical professionalism and the ways it permeates maternal care. Solutions to counteract these biases take center stage, offering a glimmer of hope. Trauma-Informed Care: Dr. Henderson – Smith leads us through the concept of trauma-informed care in maternal child health, spotlighting its vital role in understanding and catering to the unique needs of Black mothers.   Community Empowerment: Naomi helps us explore grassroots efforts and community-based initiatives that are sowing the seeds of change for Black maternal health. The multi-sector approach is proving to be a force for transformation.     Collaborations for Change: Success stories of collaborations that drive positive change in maternal health shine a light on what's possible when we come together with a shared vision.   Steps for Advocacy: Practical steps for individual advocacy, raising awareness, and fostering change become a call to action for all listeners.     Policy and Systems Change: Delving into the realm of policy reform, we explore the changes necessary to address racial disparities in maternal health, touching upon education, awareness, and political determinants of health.   Healing in Relationships: We navigate the importance of healing within relationships, acknowledging the profound impact of social and community bonds on maternal health.   Join us as we unravel the web of Black maternal health, armed with knowledge, compassion, and a collective determination to bridge the gaps and elevate care. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a roadmap to empowerment, equity, and lasting change.

Join host Dr. Sylvia in a captivating conversation with Leslie Redmond, a Social Impact Coach and Leadership Development Consultant. Leslie's journey, molded by her family's struggles and rich history, has deeply shaped her passion for social impact and advocacy. As a younger millennial born in the 90s, she witnessed the impact of mass incarceration and substance abuse, driving her unwavering commitment to fighting for justice.   From being a student body president and meeting President Barack Obama to serving as Vice President of the NAACP, Leslie's fearless leadership knows no bounds. Her experiences during the 18-day occupation at the Fourth Precinct after Jamar Clark's death and her arrest during a peaceful nonviolent protest seeking justice for the murder of Breonna Taylor solidified her mission to create real, attainable access for her community.   Throughout this interview, Leslie shares insightful perspectives on generational differences and the progressive momentum built upon the work of previous generations. Her unexpected journey to Minnesota and unwavering audacity of hope reflect the power of following one's path and purpose. Her story is a testament to the drive, passion, and determination that fuel her commitment to creating a more just and equitable world.   Download and listen to "Trailblazing Perspectives: A Conversation with Leslie Redmond." to gain a deeper understanding of the transformative force behind Leslie's dedication and her unwavering pursuit of a better future for all.

Listen to Dr. Sylvia's conversation with Dr. Tonya Jackman Hampton, a remarkable leader, DEI expert, breast cancer survivor, and true trailblazer on an inspiring journey. Discover her invaluable insights, shaped by early experiences in gymnastics and running, fueling a commitment to fitness and mindfulness.   As Chief Human Resource Officer, Dr. Hampton's transformative leadership creates an inclusive work environment. Uncover the enduring importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a brighter future for all.  Fearlessly confronting breast cancer, her courageous choices empower and support others through the African American Breast Cancer Alliance. Her journey highlights the power of hope and collective strength.  Amidst societal challenges, Dr. Hampton's perspective on health and mindfulness ignites transformative change, positively impacting communities.   Celebrate Tonya Hampton's inspiring life, embrace resilience and purpose, and learn from her profound experiences.   Subscribe to "The More We Know Community Show: Conversations Cultivating Change" for empowering insights, transformative leadership, and the essence of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Welcome to "The More We Know Community Show: Conversations Cultivating Change." In this thought-provoking and candid episode, our host, Dr. Sylvia, embarks on a profound exploration with Chanda Smith Baker, an esteemed senior black female leader in the realm of philanthropy. Together, they delve into the realities faced by black female leaders behind the scenes, navigating the complexities and challenges that arise. Chanda fearlessly opens up about her personal journey, sharing the intricate balance of strong leadership and community influence, sometimes met with resistance. Throughout the conversation, she sheds light on the strategies and resilience required to stay focused on impactful work and rise above distractions. During their engaging dialogue, the drive to be a strong black woman is challenged, and the profound consequences of this strength are discussed. This conversation delves into the realities of leadership, the strength of black female trailblazers, and the unwavering spirit that drives them to create meaningful change.

Welcome to "The More We Know Community Show: Conversations Cultivating Change" with Dr. Sylvia, where we engage in meaningful dialogues with influential figures who are driving positive transformations in society. In today's episode, Dr. Sylvia hosts a captivating conversation with a special guest, Minnesota Attorney General (AG) Keith Ellison.   AG Keith Ellison, a prominent figure in the pursuit of justice, joins us to share insights from his recent book, "Break the Wheel: Ending the Cycle of Police Violence." Together, they delve into the complexities of addressing systemic challenges while offering empowering strategies for effecting lasting change.   During their discussion, Dr. Sylvia and AG Ellison shed light on his remarkable leadership during the investigation into the murder of George Floyd. They explore the strategies, mindset, and resilience exhibited by AG Ellison as he navigated through the crisis, countering attacks on George Floyd's character, and ensuring justice prevailed. Beyond the investigation, the conversation delves into the essence of shared humanity, emphasizing the significance of doing what is right without contributing to chaos.     AG Ellison's experiences and perspectives offer invaluable insights into promoting justice, compassion, and harmony even amidst the most challenging circumstances. Their conversation goes beyond surface-level discussions, uncovering the deeper layers of the fight for equality and the path to a more just society.

Dr. Sylvia engages in a profound and bold conversation with Jennifer Farmer, a highly regarded author and passionate advocate for social and racial justice. Their discussion revolves around Jennifer's transformative book, "The First and Only: A Black Woman's Guide to Thriving at Work and in Life." Delving into the book's inspiration and the strategies it offers, Dr. Sylvia and Jennifer explore the keys to success and well-being for Black women.   The heart of their conversation lies in addressing the pressing issue of health disparities faced by Black women. With a focus on alarming maternal mortality rates and disparities in healthcare access, they uncover the profound impact of racism and sexism on the upward mobility of Black women. Through personal stories and insightful reflections, Jennifer sheds light on the urgent need to address these systemic issues and their interconnectedness with professional success and overall well-being.   This episode serves as a powerful platform to amplify Jennifer Farmer's voice, providing valuable insights and practical strategies for Black women to navigate the challenges they face.

Join host Dr. Sylvia as she engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Chauntyll Allen, a remarkable individual dedicated to disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline. As an activist, educator, and elected official, Chauntyll has made significant strides in advocating for racial equity and social justice within the education system.   During her time working with special education students in the Saint Paul Schools, Chauntyll witnessed the troubling emergence of the school-to-prison pipeline. Motivated to effect change, she took action and successfully secured a seat on the St. Paul School Board in 2020. Since then, she has become a respected leader, working tirelessly to transform policies and practices that perpetuate inequity.   In this episode, Chauntyll shares her inspiring journey, from her experiences as an educator and a dedicated activist within the Black Lives Matter movement to her current role as a School Board Director for Saint Paul Public Schools. She also holds the esteemed position of Director of Criminal Justice Policy and activism at the Wayfinder Foundation in Minnesota, where she continues her advocacy for youth and social justice.   Through personal tragedy, Chauntyll has found the strength to channel her experiences into positive change, empowering and uplifting others along the way. Join us as we explore her incredible story and learn how she is making a lasting impact in the fight for a more equitable education system and society as a whole.

Gary Cunningham, the President and CEO of Prosperity Now, a national organization dedicated to advancing racial and ethnic economic justice sits down with host Dr. Sylvia to share his perspective and experience with systemic structures designed to prevent people from building economic wealth and power.  Gary explains how targeted universalism can inform efforts to close the racial wealth gap and the strategic framework and data tools Prosperity Now is creating to drive systems-change solutions that will completely transform our economy.   Gary is a recognized and respected expert on entrepreneurship, job creation, racial wealth equity, housing and economic development and is a sought-after thought leader on building a more inclusive economy. A native of Minneapolis, MN, he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Policy from Metropolitan State University and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. For more than 20 years, Gary has served as a top leader of philanthropic, health care, public policy, and educational organizations. In addition to leading NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center, he was Associate Superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools, the Deputy Director of Civil Rights for the City of Minneapolis and CEO of the Metropolitan Economic Development Association (MEDA) — a minority entrepreneurial organization — and Chaired the Community and Economic Development Committee for the Metropolitan Council the Twin Cites Planning and transportation agency

Mario Ball is an innovative leader and dynamic engineering professional with domestic and global experience in designing, developing, and selling medical devices/technology. He is currently the US Sales Director for Cardiac Diagnostics & Commercial Execution.   During this episode, Mario shares how he determined his path in the medical device industry at a young age after his grandmother and guardian transitioned from a heart attack. He was motivated to educate and help save lives. Mario forged a career path in the medical device industry as a cardiac clinical specialist and sales representative for leading medical device companies worldwide. He is excelling in this field while fulfilling his passion. Coming from humble beginnings in Georgia, Mario expresses his love for his family, the wisdom they breathed into him, and how he leans on his family's wisdom and faith to guide him as he nurtures his family and overcomes challenges.

Nekima Levy-Armstrong, a lawyer and social justice activist, has an upfront and personal discussion with host Dr. Sylvia about her drive to consistently drive system change to advance justice and represent communities in their fight for Social Justice.  Nekima shares her rich history of community engagement as a lawyer, former Minneapolis NAACP President, and a leading candidate for the Mayoral race in 2017.  Nekima also opens up to share the terrifying moment when she received the news of her brain tumor,  her immediate reaction, how she managed through her surgery, and why her first published book, J is For Justice, has a stronger significance to her now than it did when she wrote it before her diagnosis.

Elizer Darris shares his empowering story of how he turned his life around, from serving a life sentence in MN prisons to becoming a recognized and celebrated leader in the Twin Cities, MN, community. Elizer is at the forefront of advocating for the Restore the Right to Vote bill and justice within the criminal and immigration systems. He is the Co-Executive Director at the Minnesota Freedom Fund and a former ACLU organizer; he was appointed by MN Governor Walz to the State Board of Public Defense and is the Chairman of the Board of Directors for Legal Revolution. Elizer talks about how the elders in prison and his organizing roles in the Nekima-Levy Armstrong Mayoral race helped transform his life and the bold steps he took in prison to make this possible.  Elizer is a recent recipient of the 2022  “40 under 40” recognition in the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal and an Echoing Green 2022 Fellow.

MN community leaders Rose McGee and Monique Linder join host Dr. Bartley to discuss their work to celebrate Black History at the Minnesota Humanities Center and OMG. Rose also shares how her mission to provide community comfort and healing through baking her famous Sweet Potato Comfort Pies has taken her around the country and drawn attention in the national news. And Monique shares fond memories of working with Prince and how she continues to support his legacy.

Host Dr. Sylvia converses with Andrea Campbell, the Founder and Chief Caring Officer (CCO) at Vybrant Living LLC, who shares why she feels it's crucial to create a radically caring and engaging workplace culture.  And how her experience as a two-time cancer survivor forced her to stop existing and be more deliberate about what she's creating in her life.  Andrea is a transformational coach and consultant who helps organizations achieve higher productivity and increase profits by creating a radical caring, and engaging workplace culture.  

A new year, new beginnings, and new goals!   During this show, host Dr. Sylvia explores how to set emotional health goals and plans for 2023 with my guest Joy D. Calloway, a transformational speaker and charismatic leader with over 25 years of experience successfully building people, teams, and organizations. Her strengths are proven to motivate people to achieve beyond their expectations and build relationships that foster healthy corporate cultures.  Joy shares through her story why she feels it's essential for her to set emotional health and wellness goals mindfully, how she keeps her internal cup full of affirmations that uplift her, and why she chooses joy even through highly challenging times she has experienced both professionally and personally.

Dr. Sylvia Bartley sits down with Gail Covington, the Executive Director and wealth advisor at Covington Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley. They discuss the importance of financial planning and a multitude of topics including inflation, assets, mortgages, institutional wealth, trusts, long term care, investments, insurance, and much more. 

Jason Mimns is well known for his roles in many shows, including T.V. One's original film Montross: Blood Rules and Ava Duvernay's romantic drama Cherish the Day.  While visiting Atlanta, GA, Jason sat down with Dr. Sylvia for an upfront and personal conversation about his career, the joys, trials, and tribulations of the film industry, and why he is ‘relentless, resilient, and just the right amount of stubborn.'  He describes acting as purpose-filled and shares the special moment he met filmmaker and television producers Ava DuVernay.  Jason also shares how he gives back to his community and looks after his emotional health.  

Recorded from the heart of London, host Dr. Sylvia sits down with Michael Eboda, Founder and CEO of Powerful Media UK, whose mission is to connect great African, African, Caribbean, and African American minds through events, publications, introduction, and recruitment.  This episode was recorded a few days after Britain elected its first Prime Minister of Indian descent and at the end of Black history month in the UK.   Michael shares his experience growing up in a working-class family in the UK and how being sent to live with his aunt in Nigeria after the death of his mother changed the trajectory of his life, providing him access to opportunities he never knew were available to him as a black man.  Michael provides his perspective on the negative narrative about black Britons and drive for creating the Powerlist in 2007, an annual list of the 100 most influential people of African or African Caribbean heritage in the United Kingdom.  He explains the importance of using the Powerlist as a springboard to connect black talent to senior leadership opportunities, collaborate with African American executives via the Executive Leadership Council (ELC) to support black talent, as well as support and showcase future leaders in an annual publication that profiles 150 of the most outstanding black university students in Britain.    About Michael Eboda: Before starting Powerful Media, Michael was Editorial Director of the Ethnic Media Group, which at one time published some 10 titles. He has worked for and written for many national newspapers and magazines, including The Observer, The Guardian, The Sun, The Evening Standard, The Sunday Times, The Times and The Independent. Michael holds Bachelors and Master's degrees in Law and a post-graduate diploma in Periodical Journalism.

Since COVID-19 began, depression has increased dramatically globally (CDC). In this episode, host Dr. Sylvia discusses mental health and mental illness, including depression and anxiety, with double board certified psychiatrist Dr. Iman Hypolite, who explains the difference between the two and how depression and anxiety present differently in higher-functioning adults. In addition, Dr. Hypolite explains some treatment options for people experiencing mental illness.  Dr. Iman Hypolite, is a double board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist. Dr. Hypolite is the CEO and founder of Aspira Health and Wellness Consulting LLC. a boutique private, psychiatry practice for high functioning, professional women.  She received her medical education and training at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University of Maryland, and The Johns Hopkins Hospital. She has been practicing medicine for over 20 years! Mental Health Resources: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Veteran Crisis line: 988 then press 1 Trans Lifeline: 877 565 8860 BlackMental Health Resources.net CDC.gov resources mental health tools and resources nimh.nih.gov

What is emotional emancipation and/or liberation?   Why is this important to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)? And how do we release ourselves from self-limiting beliefs that prevent us from being our true selves? Host Dr. Sylvia dives into these questions during an intimate conversation with Erika Totten, a Spiritual Life Coach, Pleasure Activist, Facilitator, and Community Builder who supports Black, Indigenous, and People of Color all over the world in breaking the mental, emotional, and spiritual chains that hinder us from being exactly who we're uniquely designed to be. Erika shares personal details of her spiritual journey, her relationship with her ancestors, and her motivation for being a healer. Erika unpacks why she believes every self-limiting belief BIPOC has is directly connected to a system of oppression and the importance of 'breaking free from feelings of unworthiness and inadequacy, perfectionism, guilt, shame, fear, rejection, unprocessed grief, internalized oppression, and more – onto creating a life of joy, ease, abundance, and groundedness'. Erika also discusses ways in which this can be achieved with resources and practice.

Black tech entrepreneurs are changing how we think about tech, racial justice, and equity. They positively impact communities through their technology, yet black tech practitioners are unrepresented in the tech industry. In this episode, host Dr. Sylvia sits down with Keisha N. Hines to explore the importance of Black tech and why diversity in technology development matters, especially in healthcare.     Keisha is the founder and CEO of Coltrane Hyde, a custom software and app development firm committed to transforming the digital landscape by developing software that solves business problems, unites communities, improves lives, and provides opportunities.

Chanda Smith Baker is the Chief Impact Officer and Senior Vice President at the Minneapolis Foundation. During this conversation Chanda shares her insightful perspectives on community impact, the importance of trusting and listening to community, her experience being a community leader in her own community, as well as her leadership style and community values. About Chanda:  Chanda has more than 20 years of experience working in, for, and with underestimated communities. At the Foundation, which she joined in 2017, Chanda oversees grantmaking programs, provides strategic direction to community initiatives and partnerships, and is the founder and host of the award-winning podcast Conversations with Chanda. Previously, Chanda spent 17 years at Pillsbury United Communities, a complex community-based nonprofit where she served in a variety of leadership positions before assuming the role of president and CEO in 2011. In addition to leading Pillsbury in pursuing bold strategies to address systemic inequities, Chanda has served on numerous nonprofit and philanthropic boards throughout her career, and her civic leadership has been recognized with several awards and commendations.

Racial Equity.  What do you think when you hear this term? As you can imagine, racial equity may mean different things to different people based on who they are, their values, and their beliefs.  The murder of George Floyd sparked national and international outrage and caused many organizations to step up their DEI efforts and even embrace race equity in the workplace.  During this show Dr. Sylvia and her guest Chrysta Wilson dive into race equity, what it means and if it's achievable. Chyrsta is the founder of Wilson and Associates Coaching and Consulting, a woman-led firm, who partners with dynamic purpose-driven people and organizations that want to create racial equity and social change.   Chrysta spent the last 22 years supporting efforts that advance equity and justice in communities across the United States.  This work is her calling:  it was born from the stories her parents told her about their growing up during legalized segregation in “Jim Crow” North Carolina. It was born from her own navigation of covert and overt racism and classism that she experienced in her childhood growing up in the same region.  Ultimately, she is committed to supporting people, organizations, and institutions in their transformations, so they are better positioned to accomplish their vision connected to equity, liberation, and justice.

Caroline Chinakwe is a Nigerian-born, London – based mixed media artist, designer, and fashion stylist known for her powerful, colorful, and unapologetic visuals that capture the beauty of black culture and style while addressing social issues affecting people of color. Caroline's latest art series, “Colourism,” created during the 2020 pandemic lockdown in London, United Kingdom, following the murder of George Floyd, explores the ugly bias surrounding the preference for lighter-toned women in the black community, perpetuated by the global beauty industry. In her own words: “I create art that will challenge the mainstream, igniting an understanding and appreciation for black culture, style, and beauty, as equal to the western ideology of beauty.”   During this episode, Caroline shares with host Dr. Sylvia her experience growing up in the United Kingdom as a Nigerian-born immigrant and her perspective and experience with colorism. And how her experience, together with the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, shocked and inspired her to widen her view and create a collection of mixed media art, to evoke conversations about colorism, the insidious negative impact of colorism, and the beauty of the diversity with different black skin tones.  

Bias toward to LGBTQ+ community has negatively impacted LGBTQ+ health and their access to healthcare. During this episode, podcast host Dr. Sylvia is joined by Raquelle Paulsen, Lead Case Manager at the University of Minnesota's Youth and AIDS Project, and Jeremy Hansen Willis, CEO of Rainbow Health in Minnesota. They have a candid conversation on the health disparities LGBTQ+ communities experience, specifically those affected by HIV and the horrific number of murders of transgender and non-binary people. The conversation includes Raquelle sharing her experience as a black trans female living with HIV,  the challenges, environments, and life adjustments for people navigating this side of healthcare, and the services and positive impact of Rainbow Health in the Twin Cities MN.

Public health and public health emergencies are phrases we frequently hear due to the opioid crisis, COVID-19 pandemic, and now the Monkey Pox epidemic. What exactly are public health and a federal public health emergency?  Why are public health emergencies put in place, and what does it mean for the everyday person?  Public health expert Dr. Nicole Kelm provides her perspectives on these questions together with her views on health equity and the importance of representation in clinical trials.   Dr. Nicole Kelm is a leader and strategist specialized in public health and healthcare with 10+ years of experience in the public and private sector in the US and abroad, including with the US Navy, the Peace Corps, and the World Health Organization. She supports transformation of health systems by leveraging a unique set of experiences - public-private, military-civilian, developed-developing, implementer-strategist - with strong organization and communication skills to serve historically excluded and marginalized communities. Nicole holds Bachelor of Health Science and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees from Andrew's University, a Master of Public Health Leadership from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master's certificate from the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences in Global Health Engagement.  Nicole continues to serve as a military Reservist and is Advisory Board Member for the University of New England Graduate Schools of Public Health.

Reba Dominski is a prominent, impactful, beloved leader in the Twin Cities. Reba is Executive Vice President, Chief Social Responsibility Officer, and President of the U.S. Bank Foundation.  During this one-on-one conversation with podcast host Dr. Sylvia, they discuss many topics including why service is one of Reba's core values, and why DEI matters to her and U.S. Bank. And the importance of building trusting relationships with the community, especially during challenging times.  In addition, Reba vividly recalls her emotional response to the murder of George Floyd and how she mindfully led U.S. Bank's response during the aftermath of his murder.  Reba also provides details of long-term initiatives U.S. Bank launched to support racial equity in underinvested communities of color.  And discusses her authentic and evolving leadership style as well as emotional health. 

A Chef's journey to success requires stamina, resilience, faith, hard work, creativity, dedication, and passion. This is undoubtedly the case for Chef Ju'von, an award-Winning African American celebrity Chef who is fast becoming a household brand as a personal Chef who specializes in fine dining. At an early age, Chef Ju'von was diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure and had to undergo dialysis for several years before successfully receiving a kidney transplant. His health scare made him assess the types of food he was eating and transition to cooking a healthier diet that would strengthen his immune system and meet his nutritional needs. Hence Chef Ju'von was born, and his journey to becoming a culinary innovator, entrepreneur, and community influencer began. Chef passionately shares his journey with host Dr. Sylvia during this episode. He speaks about his challenges while on dialysis, how he managed his emotional health, and how his faith kept him on his path and purpose, leading him to a place of joy and peace.

An encouraging conversation with Keith Powell and Rickey Robinson that will help change the narrative about Black men. We discussed the black family, fatherhood, the critical role black men have in the black community, black men's health, infertility, and other hot topics that impact the Black community. In addition, they share their experience with their family and the positive influences in their lives that help them become successful corporate leaders and entrepreneurs. Keith and Ricky are well known as co-founders of C-CRETS, a career advice platform offering career coaching services, online courses, and topical content through blogs and a podcast. Both worked in corporate America in various leadership roles and spent most of their spare time mentoring others and building supportive networks for like-minded corporate and community leaders.

Can you be on purpose while neglecting your own needs and emotional health? Is measuring your success against others a healthy practice?   How can you maintain peak performance, and regulate your mood, especially during stressful times? Why is it important to lead with emotional intelligence and mental health literacy? In this episode of the More you know community show, Schellie Fanfan, a motivational speaker, mental health counselor, and an Ordained minister provides her perspectives on discovering your purpose, managing multiple life assignments and the challenges with measuring your success against others.  She passionately shares how she transitioned from feeling like a failure to successfully taking complete control of her life, walking on purpose while nurturing her emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being.  Schellie is also the founder and sole owner of Ask Schellie Consulting, LLC, where she consults with corporations, individuals, other business entities, ministries, and organizations to maximize performance and productivity. During this conversation, Schellie also provides actionable tips on how to perform at work while regulating your mood, especially during stressful times.  And talks about the importance of leading with mental health literacy and operating with emotional intelligence.

The racially-motivated domestic terrorist attack, which led to the murders of ten Black Americans in Buffalo, NY, has caused so much pain and grief.    In the famous words of Fannie Lou Hamer, 1964, 'I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired.'   So how do we work through this tragedy and get on with our daily lives without fear? How do we heal individually and collectively while the ugly face of racism gets uglier?    In this episode, SharRon Jamison and I have a raw and honest conversation about this awful moment in history. Being in a rare position of wearing multiple hats; an Associate Minister, a corporate executive, a life- strategist, and a DEI expert, SharRon courageously shares her truth. She speaks about the ripple effect of the murders on the black community, what it does to our psyche, and the workplace challenges we often face while grieving from ongoing racist attacks. And the processes she uses to work through it, heal and be supportive while keeping her sanity intact. It's a conversation that moved us deeply.    Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of the following ten people who lost their lives.     Aaron Salter, 55 Pearly Young, 77 Deacon Heyward Patterson, 67 Ruth Whitfield, 86 Katherine Massey, 72 Celestine Chaney, 65 Roberta A. Drury, 32 Andre Mackneil, 53 Margus D. Morrison, 52 Geraldine Talley, 62   May their souls rest in peace.     Music: Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired by the Sounds of Blackness 

Eva Medilek is a certified high-performance coach passionate about helping Executives, Entrepreneurs, Influencers, and Business Leaders achieve and sustain heightened levels of success without strained relationships, burnout, stress, and sacrifice. During this episode, Eva opening shares a painful moment in her life, when her marriage was on the verge of a breakdown. This experience jolted her to take responsibility and transform how she achieves success without sacrificing her personal life. Eva shares the framework she uses for her clients to sustain their next level of success; how healthy lifestyle habits contribute to your success and the power of responsibility. Eva also shares the inspiration behind her book The Intimacy of Race: How to Move from Subconscious Racism to Active Allyship for People or Privilege. 

My guest Charlene Ketchum is driven to align her work with her path and purpose.  A licensed lawyer and professional medical writer, Charlene shares her journey, from being a highly paid professional to creating a digital platform for black women to build a supportive community, provide resources, connections, and structure that enable them to release from the stresses and strains of life. Her platform SheConfidential and SheConfidential podcast support black women living their best lives and following their destinies. Charlene shares how she made bold life-changing decisions, the role faith, and spirituality played in her journey, and why she is driven to align her work with her path and purpose

April is National Financial Literacy Month in the USA.  It was first recognized in April 2004. to highlight the importance of being financially literate and to help people understand how they can be financially smart, Jamesa Evans and Antwanette Crutcher- two corporate finance leaders – and co-founders of Level Up Investors Club, talk with Dr. Sylvia about financial literacy and share some tips on how we can be money smart and financially Savvy.

Faith Clarke is a mother, Organizational Health and Team Effectiveness Specialist, Co-founder, and CEO of an educational organization that supports families with children living with autism, an author, and podcast host for Peak Performance Team talks about her passion for helping organizations committed to healthy workplace culture, create a space and place for everyone to bring their best selves to work.  And how she specializes in helping organizations create a work environment where people feel good together, even when differences are exposed.  We talk about the value hierarchy, decolonizing the workplace, how we handle human emotions at work and if we can really bring our true selves to work.   Faith addresses her work from the lens of a mother of a child living with Autism. Her experience of creating new spaces for her son, which often meant being separated from others, led her to challenge the way we integrate differences in the workplace and identify what needs to be dismantled to create structures that value all employees.  Faith discusses the benefits of organizations hiring people based on their alignment with the organization's mission and values first and then the skill set required to do the work. Faith also shares how her son helped her increase her awareness about what it means to show up in the world differently, how to communicate without the use of words, and the importance of being compassionate to all. She openly shared the importance of spirituality in her life, her commitment to self-care, and her emotional health. 

Dr. Vikki Johnson is a dynamic speaker, passionate author, Minister, spiritual healer, empath, intuitive and the Chief Executive Officer of Soul Wealth LLC, an organization Dr. Vikki created to empower and equip women to invest in their emotional, mental, and spiritual health. In this conversation Dr. Vikki talks about her purpose, what she needs to nurture her soul, and live a life that 'light's her up.' She delved into the spiritual aspect of her life. She openly shared her journey from living with Postpartum depression to reaching a place of peace by adopting spiritual practices and different healing modalities. Dr. Vikki explained why and how she lives her life from a place of gratitude every day. And her perspective on how to live a transcendent life. 

Dr. Sylvia continues the conversation about the power of purpose with guest Reche' Tariq Abdul-Haqq, a leader, advocate, and counselor dedicated to the healing and liberation of people from trauma and oppression. Reche' shares his journey of unveiling his purpose growing up in the segregated south, to being a corporate leader for 34 years in the pharmaceutical industry, and how being diagnosed with cancer propelled him to make significant life changes that led him to Islamic chaplaincy. He describes his cancer as a gift that nudged him to the next stage of his journey, helping people heal spirituality, especially people who are transitioning to another lifetime. Reche' touches on the impact his traumatic experiences had on his emotional health and how he used it to do transformative things in his community.   

Minnesota's 41st  Governor Tim Walz, 50th Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Administration, Alice Roberts-Davis discuss their leadership journeys, styles, and hot topics impacting Minnesotans today: public safety, Covid -19, the state's budget, and the state's commitment to making Minnesota a more equitable and inclusive state. 

Over the past two decades, global maternal mortality declined while maternal mortality is on the rise in the United States, and it disproportionately affects black women. In 2020, the maternal mortality rate for Black women was 2.9 times the rate for White women (CDC). Dr. Kristin Oates a Board-Certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist and Partner at Atlanta Gynecology and Obstetrics, Dr. Kanika A. Harris, Ph.D., MPH, the Director, Maternal and Child Health at The Black Women's Health Imperative (BWHI) and Linda Goler Blount, MPH; President & CEO BWHI (the first nonprofit organization created by Black women to help protect and advance the health and wellness of Black women and girls), discuss why they think the racial maternal health disparities exist in the USA, what we should know about maternal health and potential solutions to advance health equity.  As Black mothers, they also share how these factors affect them and their families.  

March is National Kidney Month and March 10th is World Kidney Day. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid published these details in an April 2021 report entitled Chronic Kidney Disease Disparities: “Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities exist in the quality of primary care for patients with chronic kidney disease and CKD risk factors. Low-income, racial, and ethnic minority patients are less likely to receive recommended care related to CKD risk factors and are less likely to reduce CKD risk through recommended treatment goals (blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol control). Racial and ethnic minorities are also more likely to progress from CKD to end-stage renal disease (ESRD)—also known as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD)—and are less likely to have been under the care of a nephrologist before starting dialysis.” My guests Ursula Sharp and Virginia Clay share their journey living with chronic kidney disease, their treatment, and the critical factors that enable them to live a good quality of life.  Dr. Prayus Tailor, MD, FASN: Nephrologist, Medical Director, FKC Brandywine Home Therapies Newark, Delaware, and Jed Dadson: Marketing leader in Renal Care discuss what you need to know about chronic kidney disease, the treatment pathways, and the barriers that exist in the black community.

Nicole Martin is the founder of Power Trip Entertainment LLC. This full-service entertainment company provides a range of services from concert consulting, event management, makeup artistry, and talent procurement.   Nickey shares how she grew her business to be nationally known and respected in the entertainment industry through capitalizing on her passion for makeup artistry and using her connections to become a sort after booking agent and consultant. Nickey has worked with several well-known artists, including Cicely Tyson, Angie Stone, Eric Benet, and Jermaine Dupri. She also worked on numerous films sets like Coming to America Two and The Black Panther sequel (currently being filmed).  Nickey discussed how she turned her passion into a successful business, how she acquired her skills in a non-conventional way and gained industry knowledge to grow and successfully sustain her business over 30 years.

After 32 years of service, Chief Medaria Arradondo, the first Black police chief of the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) announced his retirement from the force in January 2022.  Chief Rhondo as he is affectionately known, has a leadership style deeply rooted in his love for the community, the city of Minneapolis, and his service to the police force.  During this conversation, Chief Rhondo shares fond memories of walking the ‘foot beat' in Minneapolis, getting to know the community, and the importance of getting to know the community. He describes the changes that took place under his leadership to improve the way the police interacted with community members, the trauma community, and the police force experience, the relations he developed, together with how he led MPD through the worst crisis in MPD history, the murder of George Floyd and the aftermath that's swiftly ensued.

Nineteen million workers quit their jobs in July 2021, and more than 1.7 million new business applications filed in Q3 2022 in the USA. During this podcast, Dr. Sylvia discusses the great resignation, what it looks like for the black community and how to reimagine how we do business while maintaining good emotional health. Her guests are Shawntera Hardy, the former Commissioner Minnesota, the founder of PolicyGrounds consulting. This strategy firm works at the intersection of public policy and placemaking. The co-founder of Fearless Commerce, an organization that elevates black women business owners through the production of books and live events, and the co-founder of Civic Eagle, created to make information about government policies more accessible. And Nina Everflow, an entrepreneur invested in delivering learning strategy and technical delivery services to online social entrepreneurs with a racial equity lens.

In honor of Black History Month in America, Deborah Archer, the first person of color to be elected as the President of the American Civil Liberties Union Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors Executive Committee shares the history, mission, and work of the ACLU.  The ACLU has been at the forefront of civil liberty, civil rights, and racial justice in America for over a century.  Deborah discusses the dichotomy and importance of the ACLU defending the first amendment on behalf of all Americans, regardless of opposing values, the historical voter suppression tactics used to prevent African Americans from voting, and the wave of assaults on voting rights today.  Deborah dives into the many factors we need to know about voting in America and the importance of casting your vote.

Dr. Kenneth Samuel, Pastor of Victory of the World Church, shares his perspectives on the historical role of the Black Church in the Black community and how it compares today. During his conversation with Dr. Sylvia, he touches on some controversial issues common in the Black Church like patriarchy and heterosexism, his price for being an inclusive leader, and how the Church should reimage its role and approach in this changing world.  

From brokenness to wholeness, Zawadi Eaton shares her powerful story of hope as she transitioned from homelessness to living in transitional housing to being a housing, social justice, and human rights activist, a motivational speaker, spoken word artist, author, and coach.   Zawadi takes our conversation to the depth of our soul as she explains how she found purpose and healing through her awakening and spiritual practices.  And the healing power of serving her community during her most difficult times.

On Nov. 26th, 2021, The World Health Organization named Omicron a “variant of concern”.  As the number of COVID hospitalization surges an expert panel joins host Dr. Sylvia to share information on the Omicron variant and the safety measures we can consider reducing our risk of infection and testing. Panelists are: Dr. Ellie Campbell: D.O Board Certified in Family Medicine and Integrative Holistic Medicine - GA Dr.  Julia Joseph-Di Caprio: M.D.  Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, UCare - MN Dr.  Zeke J. McKinney: M.D. Occupational Medicine, Health Partners Park Nicollet MN Adriene Thornton: RN -Infection Preventionist; Infection Prevention - Children's Minnesota 

In this first episode host Dr. Sylvia sits down with SharRon Jamison, an inspiring entrepreneur, author, speaker, visionary, corporate executive, and life strategist to shares her beliefs in ‘the power of purpose, its ability to cultivate our unique gifts', and strategies on how to overcome self-limiting beliefs. The more you know about the power of purpose the more you can cultivate change and inspire action.