Podcasts about Ashanti

What happens when educators see themselves not only as teachers—but as conduits carrying history, culture, wisdom, and possibility from one generation to the next?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with educator, scholar, priest, writer, and longtime teacher Dr. Joseph Brown to explore education, Black history, identity, imagination, mentorship, spirituality, and the responsibility adults have to help young people dream beyond the limitations placed in front of them.At 82 years old and still teaching full-time, Dr. Brown reflects on knowing he wanted to become a teacher from the age of nine and the family message that shaped his life: “Get all the education you can.”This conversation dives into:Why education became Dr. Brown's callingWhat he means by “spirit talking”How introversion shaped his experience as a student and educatorWhy he sees himself as a conduit for historyThe importance of intergenerational mentorship for Black boysWhy literacy, storytelling, music, and art are connected to freedomHow adults can keep young people's imaginations aliveWhy students need to know they are more than how others define themHow educators can recognize the spark in young people and help protect itWhy communities must intentionally rebuild spaces where generations learn from one anotherThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Dr. Brown explore how education happens far beyond the classroom—through books, stories, music, family, churches, barbershops, front porches, and relationships with adults willing to say, “Come with me. Let me show you something.”Dr. Brown reminds us that young people need more than information. They need imagination, history, connection, and people who help them see what is possible.As he says, we have to intentionally create the circle again.If you care about Black male educators, mentorship, Black history, literacy, student identity, culturally responsive education, creativity, or helping young people imagine bigger futures, this episode is for you.Connect with Joseph BrownEmail: jbrownsj@siu.eduConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#IntergenerationalMentorship #BlackHistory #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #StudentIdentity #PowerOfEducation ##IntergenerationalMentorship

What happens when Black boys are taught that they have to choose between being authentically themselves and being seen as intelligent, successful, or worthy of belonging in school?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with educator, writer, professor, and author Matthew R. Morris to explore Black masculinity, identity, schooling, academic expectations, authenticity, equity, and the hidden lessons young people learn inside and outside the classroom.Together, they reflect on the masks Black men carry, the narrowing opportunities young people see around them, and why truly supporting Black boys requires educators to move beyond stereotypes, saviorism, lowered expectations, and performative conversations about equity.This conversation dives into:Matthew's mask: appearing concrete and clear while feeling soft, afraid, and searchingWhy Black men often feel pressure to appear unbreakableWhy young Black males may struggle to see clear paths to future successHow education's traditional promise of college, career, and stability has changedWhy educators should avoid blaming students when engagement declinesHow care without high expectations can limit student growthWhy culturally relevant teaching must include identity, rigor, and belief in studentsMatthew's “Fresh Prince Syndrome” and the narrow boxes placed around Black masculinityWhy Black boys should not have to choose between cultural authenticity and academic successHow schools can send hidden messages about who is expected to be brilliantWhy knowing the language of equity is different from doing the workHow saviorism can undermine genuine support for studentsWhy educators must examine their own biases and assumptionsHow showing up authentically can help students do the sameThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Matthew explore how narrow ideas about masculinity, intelligence, and success can limit Black boys. They challenge educators to maintain high expectations, understand cultural expression, and create spaces where students can be both academically brilliant and authentically themselves.If you care about Black male identity, culturally relevant teaching, student belonging, racial equity, academic expectations, or helping Black boys show up as their whole selves, this episode is for you.Connect with Matthew R. MorrisBook: Black Boys Like Me: Confrontations with Race, Identity, and BelongingWebsite: https://www.matthewrmorris.comEmail: mrmorrisroom@gmail.comTwitter/X: https://x.com/callmemrmorris?s=21&t=mQltOmL0H7gModQJHT7wBQYouTube: https://youtube.com/@matthewr.morris?si=3fCn_kVztaocBUIiConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #BlackBoysLikeMe #BlackMaleEducators #StudentBelonging #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching

Bessemer truckload driver Ashanti Kelly may have joined our team just a few months ago, but he's already seen how the Averitt culture sets us apart. From driver support to Profit Sharing to top-notch equipment and everything in between, Ashanti says that when it comes to everything he's looking for in a company, "Averitt has it!" He joins host David Broyles in this episode of From the Driver's Seat.

Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson examine Kwame Nkrumah's state-backed club Real Republicans and why it became widely unpopular despite winning trophies, after being created by taking top players from existing clubs without compensation and reinforcing regional and ethnic tensions, particularly in Ashanti. They track criticism in the Evening News and Ashanti Pioneer, Kotoko's protests, and the club's lack of public support even at its peak. The episode argues the project nonetheless helped the Black Stars by building cohesion, highlighted by a 3–3 draw with Real Madrid in 1962 and Ghana's AFCON triumphs in 1963 and 1965 under C.K. Gyamfi, with key players drawn from Republicans. The discussion then links football to Nkrumah's growing authoritarianism, economic strain from cocoa price swings, and his 1966 CIA-backed coup, after which Real Republicans were dissolved, while Ghana's club and national successes continued briefly before declining with reduced state support.00:00 Why Fans Reject Republicans01:33 Nkrumah Builds a Model Club05:09 Player Raids Spark Backlash09:05 Trophies Without Love16:32 Politics and Regional Resentment21:34 Cocoa Prices and Ashanti Nationalism25:41 Break and Reset26:07 Golden Era for Black Stars26:55 Real Madrid Draw and FIFA Fight29:24 World Cup Qualifiers Reality Check30:12 FIFA Spots Ghana32:08 Real Republicans Core33:18 Baba Yara Tragedy34:00 1963 AFCON Triumph36:03 Ethiopia Tangent41:10 1965 AFCON Away Win43:38 Ghana Legacy Debate45:37 Nkrumah Turns Authoritarian50:27 Coup Ends Era51:37 Aftermath and Wrap Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris Caggs celebrates 30 years on air with a high-energy episode of Shakedown Radio, delivering a nonstop mix of electronic dance, house, hip-hop and R&B, plus guest shoutouts and highlights from his global radio career. Visit shakedownradio.com or Mixcloud for the full tracklist and past episodes, and connect with Chris on social media to keep the party going. Listen on Podbean: www.shakedownradio.com Listen on Mixcloud:: www.mixcloud.com/chriscaggs Listen on Apple Podcasts:: https://shorturl.at/opRYj Listen on Amazon Music: https://shorturl.at/Enbs4 Listen on iHeart Radiio: https://shorturl.at/MI7pk Listen on Tune In App https://lnk.ua/Twk9Q0btv Listen on iVoox: https://tinyurl.com/ys2b8pf3 Listen on Castbox: https://tinyurl.com/2yn9n5jr Our featured artist on this episode is Cat Thompson, an Australian-born singer-songwriter and producer of Filipino and Northern Irish heritage. Celebrating the release of her brand new single “All Night”, out Friday 18 September 2026, Cat continues to showcase her dynamic sound and creative artistry. Special thanks to James Deane (Manager) for his support. For more information, visit: https://catthompson.com/all-night

Send us Fan MailR&B Mix 2026 featuring SZA, Usher, Chris Brown, Brent Faiyaz, Kehlani, Ella Mai, Giveon, Mariah Carey, Alicia Keys & more. Enjoy 1 hour 20 minutes of smooth R&B, classic R&B hits, modern R&B, love songs, heartbreak anthems and late-night vibes.Whether you're looking for an R&B playlist for late nights, a chill R&B mix, smooth R&B music, R&B love songs, or the best classic & modern R&B, this mix has you covered.

Chris Caggs celebrates 30 years on air with a high-energy episode of Shakedown Radio, delivering a nonstop mix of electronic dance, house, hip-hop and R&B, plus guest shoutouts and highlights from his global radio career. Visit shakedownradio.com or Mixcloud for the full tracklist and past episodes, and connect with Chris on social media to keep the party going. Listen on Podbean: www.shakedownradio.com Listen on Mixcloud:: www.mixcloud.com/chriscaggs Listen on Apple Podcasts:: https://shorturl.at/opRYj Listen on Amazon Music: https://shorturl.at/Enbs4 Listen on iHeart Radiio: https://shorturl.at/MI7pk Listen on Tune In App https://lnk.ua/Twk9Q0btv Listen on iVoox: https://tinyurl.com/ys2b8pf3 Listen on Castbox: https://tinyurl.com/2yn9n5jr Our featured artist on this episode is Cat Thompson, an Australian-born singer-songwriter and producer of Filipino and Northern Irish heritage. Celebrating the release of her brand new single “All Night”, out Friday 18 September 2026, Cat continues to showcase her dynamic sound and creative artistry. Special thanks to James Deane (Manager) for his support. For more information, visit: https://catthompson.com/all-night

Chris Caggs celebrates 30 years on air with a high-energy episode of Shakedown Radio, delivering a nonstop mix of electronic dance, house, hip-hop and R&B, plus guest shoutouts and highlights from his global radio career. Visit shakedownradio.com or Mixcloud for the full tracklist and past episodes, and connect with Chris on social media to keep the party going. Listen on Podbean: www.shakedownradio.com Listen on Mixcloud:: www.mixcloud.com/chriscaggs Listen on Apple Podcasts:: https://shorturl.at/opRYj Listen on Amazon Music: https://shorturl.at/Enbs4 Listen on iHeart Radiio: https://shorturl.at/MI7pk Listen on Tune In App https://lnk.ua/Twk9Q0btv Listen on iVoox: https://tinyurl.com/ys2b8pf3 Listen on Castbox: https://tinyurl.com/2yn9n5jr Our featured artist on this episode is Cat Thompson, an Australian-born singer-songwriter and producer of Filipino and Northern Irish heritage. Celebrating the release of her brand new single “All Night”, out Friday 18 September 2026, Cat continues to showcase her dynamic sound and creative artistry. Special thanks to James Deane (Manager) for his support. For more information, visit: https://catthompson.com/all-night

What happens when we stop shaming boys for the masks they wear—and start getting curious about why they learned to wear them in the first place?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with psychotherapist, former BBC journalist, men's mental health advocate, and founder of Men's Therapy Hub and M-Path Chris Hemmings to explore masculinity, empathy, grief, vulnerability, and what boys need from the adults trying to reach them.Chris shares how losing his father pushed him to confront his own relationship with masculinity and emotion—and how years of hiding his sensitive, empathic side shaped the man he became.Together, they reflect on the masks boys and men wear, the pressure to appear strong, and why real change requires compassion rather than shame.This conversation dives into:How losing his father changed Chris's relationship with grief and masculinityWhy Chris spent years hiding the sensitive and empathic parts of himselfWhat happens when boys are repeatedly told to “stop being soft”The difference between masculinity and rigid ideas of masculinityWhy boys need opportunities to reconnect with empathyHow social media influencers are filling emotional gaps for young menWhy harmful models of masculinity may be symptoms of a deeper problemWhy shaming and blaming boys rarely leads to meaningful changeHow educators can “speak to what is happening in the room” without humiliating studentsWhat one student taught Chris about the power of challenging boys without shaming themWhy vulnerability and confidence do not have to be oppositesThe importance of being able to say, “I hadn't thought of it that way”Why adults working with boys must be willing to examine their own experiences firstHow educators may impact young people without ever knowing itWhy boys need adults who can see beyond the behavior and recognize the person underneath the maskThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Chris explore how boys can question rigid ideas of masculinity without shame.Chris reminds us that boys need curiosity, compassion, honesty, and emotional safety—not more judgment.If you care about boys' mental health, masculinity, vulnerability, or creating healthier spaces for young men, this episode is for you.Connect with Chris HemmingsWebsites: https://chrishemmings.co.ukhttps://menstherapyhub.comhttps://m-path.co.ukPodcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/5QgINHeUZKorBCE4LBoBXFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/menstherapyhub/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MensTherapyHubLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/menstherapyhub/TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@menstherapyhub/video/7599690461707767042Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MensMentalHealth #HealthyMasculinity #BoysMentalHealth #EmotionalSafety #MasculinityMatters #UnmaskingWithMaleEducators

"Where are you fully known?" That's the question a mentor once asked Ashanti Branch, and it stopped him cold. Because when he really thought about it, the answer was nowhere. Ashanti Branch is the founder of the Ever Forward Club and creator of the Million Mask Movement, a global initiative that has reached people in over 100 countries. Raised in Oakland by a single mother, told at seven years old that he was "the man of the house," Ashanti spent his childhood learning to hide his anger, his sadness, and eventually his whole self behind a mask of toughness. Featured in the Sundance documentary The Mask You Live In, his work with boys and men has taken him from an Oakland classroom to a TEDx stage to the U.S. Surgeon General's office. In this episode, Robin and Ashanti explore what it actually takes for men to let themselves be known, and for the people who love them to become a safe place to land. They talk about the difference between belonging and fitting in, why anger is so often a cover for grief, and how vulnerability, far from being a trait some people are simply born with, is a skill that can be built one honest conversation at a time. Ashanti also leads Robin through his own Million Mask exercise live, a moment that gets right to the heart of what this conversation is about. At its core, this is a conversation about what changes, in a friendship, a marriage, or a family, when we finally let someone see what's on the other side of the mask, built on a simple, powerful idea: we can only be loved as deeply as we are willing to be known. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. When life feels overwhelming, therapy can help. Sign up and get 10% off at betterhelp.com/loveready. IN THIS EPISODE (00:04:32) Can You Be Fully Loved If You're Not Fully Known? (00:08:28) Becoming “The Man of the House” at Seven (00:16:32) From Engineering to Teaching (00:24:06) How the Ever Forward Club Began (00:29:52) The Million Mask Movement (00:32:37) What Boys Hide Behind the Mask (00:35:14) Anger, Heartbreak & the Rules of Masculinity (00:39:14) Creating Safe Spaces for Boys (00:45:50) Why Vulnerability Is a Skill (00:51:09) What Anger Can Be Hiding (00:54:07) Connecting the Head & the Heart (00:58:08) How to Reach the Men & Boys You Love (01:03:21) What Ashanti Wants Men to Know (01:07:58) The Mask Exercise (01:13:58) The Myth About Men & Love (01:15:32) What Is Love? QUOTES "You can only be loved as deeply as you're willing to be known." – Ashanti Branch "Violence is what happens when men and boys don't know what to do with their anger." – Ashanti Branch “Vulnerability is not a trait; it's a skill.” – Robin Ducharme "Men are loving, caring people who have been trained to operate in a world where they're not allowed to be that all the time." – Ashanti Branch ABOUT THE GUEST Ashanti Branch is the founder of the Ever Forward Club and creator of the Million Mask Movement, a global initiative that has reached people in over 100 countries. Raised in Oakland by a single mother, told at seven years old that he was "the man of the house," Ashanti spent his childhood learning to hide his anger, his sadness, and eventually his whole self behind a mask of toughness. Featured in the Sundance documentary The Mask You Live In, his work with boys and men has taken him from an Oakland classroom to the TEDx stage, and earned him the U.S. Surgeon General's Medallion for his work on youth mental health in 2023. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ Ever Forward Club: https://everforwardclub.org/ GET THE REAL LOVE READY BOOK Real Love Ready: A Guide to Relational Literacy is a clear, compassionate guide to the knowledge, skills, and daily practices that help us love with greater intention, truth, and heart. https://geni.us/RealLoveReadyBook Follow Us: @realloveready @robinducharmeofficial @soulprintmediaco Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you! Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 750 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls  Get John's new book ! He's been murdered on CSI, interviewed 2 Beatles on separate continents in the same week, and famously once got Mitt Romney's advisor to call Governor Romney an 'etch a sketch' on CNN. Actor, comedian & broadcaster John Fugelsang hosts 'Tell Me Everything" weekdays on SiriusXM Insight #121. He recently performed in 'The Bill of Rights Concert" alongside Lewis Black & Dick Gregory which aired on AXS.   He's also appeared at Montreal's 'Just for Laughs' Festival, HBO's U.S Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, hosted America's Funniest Home Videos for ABC and Bill Maher called him 'one of my favorite comedians'. Film/TV credits include 'Price Check' opposite Parker Posey, "Becker," "Providence," "Coyote Ugly,"  the religious standup performance film "The Coexist Comedy Tour" (which won Best Documentary at the NYC Vision Fest film festival).  He appears in the upcoming features "The Girl On The Train," "Maggie Black," and he plays two roles in the romantic comedy 'The Whole Truth' starring Elisabeth Rohm and Eric Roberts. He's interviewed Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Pete Townshend, Brian Wilson, Yoko Ono, Willie Nelson, Tony Bennett, Alan Rickman, Joey Ramone, Carlos Santana, James Taylor, Bo Diddley, Stevie Nicks, Robbie Robertson, Ravi Shankar, Beyonce Knowles, Olivia Harrison, Garth Brooks, William Hurt, Helen Hunt, Ashanti, John Fogerty, William Shatner, Sen. Trent Lott, Sen. Tom Daschle, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Ed Asner, Nile Rogers, Michael Moore, JK Simmons, Valerie Plame, Ethan Hawke, Brian Dennehy, Mavis Staples, Joel Grey, David Crosby, Graham Nash, Lily Tomlin,  Dave Matthews, Terrence McNally, Stanley Tucci, Michael Shannon, Noel Gallagher,  Jeff Daniels, Rita Moreno, & Carl Reiner.  His interview with George Harrison included JF persuading George to play several songs on acoustic guitar.  This proved to be George's final televised appearance and was broadcast as "The Last Performance." His new film "Dream On," a road trip in search of the American Dream, was named "Best Documentary" at the NY Independent Film Festival.   Directed by 2 time Oscar nominee Roger Weisberg, the film examines the current state of the American Dream while retracing the journey Alexis de Tocqueville made while writing 'Democracy in America.'   The film features 200 interviews in 55 cities in 17 states, including Mike Huckabee, Barney Frank & Paul Krugman and premieres on PBS Election Day Eve. On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Listen rate and review on Apple Podcasts Listen rate and review on Spotify Pete On Instagram Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on Twitter Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page

What happens when educators stop believing they need to have all the answers—and start recognizing trust, curiosity, and presence as some of the most powerful things they can offer students?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with jazz bassist, educator, artist, immigrant, and father Ray Seol to explore grief, identity, mentorship, anxiety, imposter syndrome, student trust, and the responsibility educators carry when young people are looking for someone to believe in them.Together, they reflect on the masks educators wear, the struggles they may carry privately, and why creating spaces where people feel safe enough to be honest can change lives.This conversation dives into:Ray's unexpected path into music and educationThe pressure of feeling like you are never enoughLosing his mother and learning to talk about griefWhy vulnerability can be difficult across culturesHow the pandemic helped Ray begin sharing his storyNavigating identity as a Korean immigrantWhy mentors helped Ray understand he was not aloneWhy trust is essential in the educator-student relationshipThe importance of telling students, “I trust you”Why educators should remain learners tooHow the pandemic changed music educationWhy human connection still matters in a digital worldHow curiosity can help educators see beyond student behaviorWhat one struggling student taught Ray about judgment and potentialWhy sometimes showing up is the lessonThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Ray explore how educators can become the people they once needed in their own lives.Ray reminds us that students do not always need someone to fix everything. Sometimes they need someone who will listen, stay curious, believe in them, and remind them that they are not alone.If you care about mentorship, emotional safety, educator vulnerability, student belonging, mental health, music education, immigrant identity, or building stronger relationships with young people, this episode is for you.Connect with Ray SeolLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayseol/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@soulraymusicofficialConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #Education #Mentorship #EmotionalSafety #StudentBelonging #EducatorWellbeing

In September 2017, 19-year-old Ashanti Billie disappeared after arriving for work on a Navy base in Norfolk, Virginia. Eleven days later, her body was found more than 300 miles away in Charlotte, North Carolina.As investigators searched for answers, they uncovered surveillance footage, DNA evidence, and a suspect with an unbelievable connection to where Ashanti was found.This is the heartbreaking case of Ashanti Billie and how her family turned tragedy into a fight to help other missing adults.NOW AVAILABLE: CRIME WITH HOLLY PATREON!www.patreon.com/crimewithhollyEnjoy ad free for just $2 a month!Enjoying the show?  Here's a way to find out where else you can follow CrimeaHolly!https://linktr.ee/CrimeaHollyCrime with Holly Case Suggestion Form:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGdPu4AWAoG_-cmznwcNxnNQlEyX9nxxOwZNZfqpprL3TaUQ/viewformResearch Genius behind this episode is the one and only Myrtle!Episode Sources:Criminal Compliant, United States District Court, filed November 7, 2017, https://www.justice.gov/usao-edva/press-release/file/1009571/downloadCourt opinion Brown 2018 https://media.wavy.com/nxs-wavytv-media-us-east-1/document_dev/2018/11/30/Eric%20Brown%20memorandum%20opinion%20order_1543592969510_63664949_ver1.0.pdfCourt opinion Brown involuntary mediated 2019 https://casetext.com/case/united-states-v-brown-2297Court opinion Brown mental incompetence 2020  https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca4/20-4017/20-4017-2020-08-14.htmlWUSA9 News, Landscaper finds body behind Charlotte church, could be missing VA woman, by Alex Shabad, September 29, 2017, https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/landscaper-finds-body-behind-charlotte-church-could-be-missing-va-woman/275-479675636WUSA9 News, Parents search for answers in Ashanti Billie murder case, by Marcella Robertson, October 19, 2017, updated October 20, 2017, https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/parents-search-for-answers-in-ashanti-billie-murder-case/484721891WTOP News, Volunteers find hair braids, clothing in search for missing Md. Woman, by Neal Augenstein, September 29, 2017, https://wtop.com/local/2017/09/clues-questions-search-missing-md-woman/WCNC.com, Report of Autopsy Examination, Ashanti Markaila Billie, Mecklenburg County M E Office, retrieved from https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/autopsy-ashanti-billies-death-caused-by-undetermined-trauma/275-496212001Missing Virginia Beach woman's car found in Ocean View, The Virginian-Pilot, by Joanne Kimberlin, September 23, 2017, https://www.pilotonline.com/news/crime/article_69719538-8481-50f5-89dc-65a2d59f8553.htmlLIS Virginia Law, Code of Virginia § 18.2-347, 2021 updates, keeping, residing in, or frequenting a bawdy place; "bawdy place" defined; penalty, https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/18.2-347#:~:text=Morals%20and%20Decency-,%C2%A7%2018.2%2D347.,shall%20constitute%20a%20separate%20offenseCourt Opinion, US v. Eric Brown, No. 20-4017 (4th Cir. 2020), https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca4/20-4017/20-4017-2020-08-14.html‘It wasn't as safe as we thought': Ashanti Billie's parents question Navy base security, WY Daily, Daily News for Southeast Virginia, November 9, 2017, https://wydaily.com/local-news/2017/11/09/ashanti-billies-parents-speak-out-about-their-daughters-murder-navy-base-security-nws/Bureau of Justice Assistance Fact Sheet National Ashanti Alert Network, March 2021, https://bja.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh186/files/media/document/National-Ashanti-Alert-Network-Fact-Sheet.pdfFamily of Ashanti Billie, local policymakers push for full implementation of alert system, WAVY10, by Julius Ayo and Madison Pearman, September 18, 2021, https://www.wavy.com/news/local-news/virginia-beach/family-of-ashanti-billie-local-policymakers-push-for-full-implementation-of-alert-system/Who is Eric Brown? Family that opened home to accused killer sheds light on past, 13NewsNow, by Regina Mobley, February 1, 2018, https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/crime/who-is-eric-brown-family-that-opened-home-to-accused-killer-sheds-light-on-past/291-511309134

01. MARY J. BLIGE - LOVE NO LIMIT (DJ L-GEE BLEND)02. ASHANTI - BABY (DJ L-GEE BLEND)03. D'ANGELO - LADY (DJ DIME BLEND)04. MIGUEL - ADORN (DJ DIME BLEND)05. BOBBY V - SLOW DOWN (DJ L-GEE BLEND)06. BRANDY - I WANNA BE DOWN (DJ L-GEE BLEND)07. TEVIN CAMPBELL - CAN WE TALK (DJ L-GEE BLEND)08. USHER FEAT. JEEZY - LOVE IN THIS CLUB (DJ L-GEE BLEND)09. ALEXANDER O'NEAL - IF YOU WERE HERE TONIGHT (DJ DIME BLEND)10. GINUWINE - SAME OL' G (DJ L-GEE BLEND)11. BRUNO MARS - VERSACE ON THE FLOOR (DJ DIME BLEND)12. MELI'SA MORGAN - FOOL'S PARADISE (DJ DIME BLEND)13. MARIO WINANS FEAT. ENYA x P. DIDDY - I DON'T WANNA KNOW (DJ L-GEE BLEND)14. JUSTIN BIEBER - SPEED DEMON (DJ L-GEE BLEND)15. KEHLANI FEAT. USHER - SHOULDA NEVER (DJ L-GEE BLEND)16. MICHAEL JACKSON - LADY IN MY LIFE (DJ DIME BLEND)17. SNOH AALEGRA - DYING 4 YOUR LOVE (DJ DIME BLEND)18. CARL THOMAS - SUMMER RAIN (DJ L-GEE BLEND)19. LUTHER VANDROSS - SO AMAZING (DJ L-GEE BLEND)20. TEMS - WHAT YOU NEED (DJ DIME BLEND)21. KEYSHIA COLE - I REMEMBER (DJ L-GEE BLEND)22. KEHLANI - FOLDED (DJ L-GEE BLEND)

What happens when educators stop seeing hip-hop as something to keep outside the classroom—and begin recognizing it as a tool for building confidence, self-awareness, connection, and possibility?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with hip-hop educator, author, curriculum creator, and community leader David Spellmon to explore social-emotional learning, Black male identity, mentorship, student engagement, emotional vulnerability, and the power of using culture to help young people recognize the greatness already inside of them.Together, they reflect on the confidence educators and community leaders often display publicly, the inadequacy and vulnerability they may carry privately, and why reaching young people sometimes requires educators to speak through the music, language, and culture students already understand.This conversation dives into:David's path as an unconventional educatorWhy positivity and connection guide his workThe vulnerability behind being the “strong friend”Why Black men may feel pressure to adjust how they show upHow A Tribe Called Quest shaped David's approach to educationWhy culturally relevant learning mattersHow David created Just Like Music during the pandemicWhy knowledge of self is central to hip-hopHow lyrics can build social-emotional skillsWhy greatness requires both belief and actionHow a “Game 7” mindset can reframe setbacksWhy educators should challenge students with careHow music builds identity, memory, and connectionWhy students can lose their joy for learningWhy educators must honor students' culture and experienceses students bring with them instead of asking them to become less of themselvesThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and David explore how educators, mentors, music, and relationships can help young people recognize the greatness within themselves.David reminds us that hip-hop can be a powerful tool for creativity, connection, self-awareness, and growth. Even one lyric can help a young person reframe failure, reconnect with a goal, and turn belief into action.If you care about hip-hop education, social-emotional learning, culturally responsive teaching, mentorship, student engagement, or bringing more joy and relevance into learning, this episode is for you.Connect with David SpellmonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-spellmon/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjappi/Website: https://positivearchersolutions.com/Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #HipHopEducation #SocialEmotionalLearning #BlackMaleEducators #StudentBelonging #KnowledgeOfSelf

Welcome to another episode of Kennel Talk Podcast. Today's episode we invite a fellow aquarian Ashanti (tiktok @shantiihoney) on to talk about public announcement of breakups. Is the husband and kids still sought after like the generation before us? What is the power dynamic when the woman is the bread winner?Be sure to Subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcast

In this engaging conversation, Ashanti Branch shares his journey from being a fatherless son to becoming a transformative educator and founder of the Ever Forward Club. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges faced in the teaching profession, and the impact of emotional masks on students. Through his experiences, Ashanti emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in education, highlighting the role of teachers in shaping young lives and fostering personal growth. In this conversation, Ashanti Branch shares his journey of personal growth, trauma, and the importance of mentorship in education. He discusses the struggles faced by students from challenging backgrounds and the impact of trauma on their behavior. Ashanti reflects on his own experiences with addiction and the healing process through vulnerability and connection. He emphasizes the significance of kindness, understanding, and building deeper connections to help others navigate their struggles. The conversation also touches on the definitions of fearlessness and happiness, highlighting the ongoing journey of self-discovery and the power of community support.https://everforwardclub.org/Https://millionmask.orgFor More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visitMaxNijst.org

What happens when educators recognize that their words can create warmth, build confidence, and strengthen belonging—or leave wounds students carry for years?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with educator, principal, pastor, author, and podcast host Maurice McDavid to explore student belonging, Black male identity, culturally responsive teaching, school leadership, representation, and the power of language.Together, they reflect on the strength educators display publicly, the fear and overwhelm they may carry privately, and why supporting young people requires both accountability and compassion.This conversation dives into:Maurice's journey from aspiring politician to educator and school leaderWhy social justice and equity have shaped his career in educationWhat it means to lead with optimism while carrying fear and uncertaintyWhy Black students benefit from seeing educators and leaders who look like themHow accountability can come from care rather than punishmentWhy Black boys are often expected to grow up faster than their peersHow schools can bring joy, creativity, and curiosity back into learningWhy students need to see themselves as belonging in academic spacesHow personal goals can help students connect their behavior to their futureWhy home language should be respected rather than treated as a sign of low intelligenceHow educators' words can create belonging, bring warmth, or leave lasting burn marksThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Maurice explore what it means to protect, challenge, and empower young people without stripping away their identity or childhood. They remind educators that language is never neutral—what adults say can shape how students see their intelligence, their culture, and their place in the classroom.If you care about culturally responsive teaching, Black male educators, student belonging, school leadership, restorative practices, language, representation, or creating more joyful and affirming learning environments, this episode is for you.Connect with Maurice McDavid Book: Your Words Are Fire: 10 Culturally Responsive Teaching Strategies to Speak the Language of Belonging and Help Students Learn, Express Ideas, and Solve ProblemsPodcast: https://www.blackbrownbilingue.com/podcastEmail: revmcdavid@gmail.comWebsite: http://www.blackbrownbilingue.comYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@blackbrownbilingue6382Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#WordsCarryPower #BuildingBelonging #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #StudentBelonging 

Hour 3 (8.21) L.A. County's own report puts the Paramount-Warner Bros. deal at 4,500 film and TV jobs lost over three years — on top of the 52,000 the region has already shed since 2022. And that's if the studios stay. 8:05 PM — Attention, Angelenos. A report to the Board of Supervisors this week from the county's Department of Economic Opportunity and CVL Economics says the Paramount Skydance–Warner Bros. Discovery merger would cost roughly 4,500 direct film and TV jobs in the county, with more than 10,000 total job-years and billions in economic activity at risk. That's the version where the merged company stays here. David Ellison is threatening to move operations to Texas or Tennessee if Rob Bonta won't come to the table by October 1. Bonta and eleven other attorneys general are suing to block the deal, and trial isn't until March. Then a burglary suspect in a Honda Accord led LAPD for over an hour through the Valley — through a CSUN parking structure, through a gas station, T-boned by an innocent driver in Granada Hills — before pulling a U-turn on the 405 and going head-on into a CHP SUV in North Hills. He ran. He didn't get far. 8:20 PM — Leveling Out: come meet Stu Mundel at Dave & Buster's in Orange. Plus the Los Feliz water main that let go at 11 o'clock last night at Commonwealth and Avocado — a six-inch cast iron line that buckled the sidewalk and flooded a restaurant patio. Crews had it back in service by 8 a.m. LADWP says the city averages two to four of these a day, which is either reassuring or the opposite. 8:35 PM — End of week WHIP. Then the tipping point, and we mean it literally: one survey has the average American leaving about $38 a month in tips they didn't want to leave in the first place, and Toast's data across 171,000 restaurants puts the overall average tip at 18.8%, dropping to 13.7% on takeout. Nearly three-quarters of Americans say they're being asked to tip in more places than five years ago. Skip the tip? We take your calls. Plus another chase, this one out of Woodland Hills. 8:50 PM — SeaWorld San Diego turned its Bayside Amphitheater into a Y2K block party. Ying Yang Twins opened the run, Ginuwine, Bow Wow, E-40, Ashanti and Jordin Sparks followed, and Too $hort and Warren G closed it out — all included with park admission, all going viral on TikTok, all with the bay behind the stage. Grandmothers, parents and kids at the same show. How a marine park accidentally built the best throwback series in Southern California. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RACCOON CITY WAS ONLY THE BEGINNING—NOW THE ENTIRE WORLD BELONGS TO THE INFECTED! Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/REJECTS #sponsored Tara Erickson & Roxy Striar continue their journey toward Zach Cregger's new Resident Evil movie with a first-time Resident Evil: Extinction reaction and review. Years after the T-virus escaped Raccoon City, Alice crosses a post-apocalyptic desert and reunites with Carlos Oliveira before joining Claire Redfield's convoy of survivors while Umbrella scientist Dr. Isaacs continues hunting her. From Alice's developing telekinetic powers and the terrifying infected-crow attack to the sand-covered ruins of Las Vegas, super zombies, Umbrella's underground laboratory, and the monstrous Tyrant, Tara & Roxy experience the biggest Resident Evil movie yet! Resident Evil: Extinction Full Movie Reaction Watch Along:   / thereelrejects   Directed by Russell Mulcahy (Highlander, Razorback) and written by Paul W. S. Anderson (Mortal Kombat, Event Horizon), Resident Evil: Extinction stars Milla Jovovich as Alice (The Fifth Element, Monster Hunter), Ali Larter as Claire Redfield (Final Destination, Heroes), Oded Fehr as Carlos Oliveira (The Mummy, Sleeper Cell), Iain Glen as Dr. Alexander Isaacs (Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey), Mike Epps as L.J. Wade (Next Friday, The Hangover), Ashanti as Nurse Betty (Coach Carter, John Tucker Must Die), Spencer Locke as K-Mart (Monster House, Cougar Town), and Jason O'Mara as Albert Wesker (Terra Nova, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.). Tara & Roxy discuss Claire Redfield's live-action debut, Alice's evolving powers, the returning survivors, Umbrella's experiments, the infected-crow sequence, apocalyptic Las Vegas, Dr. Isaacs' transformation, connections to the Capcom games, and how Extinction compares with Resident Evil and Resident Evil: Apocalypse before Zach Cregger's new reinvention arrives. Follow Roxy Striar YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheWhirlGirls Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxystriar/?hl=en Twitter:  https://twitter.com/roxystriar Follow Tara Erickson: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaraErickson Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/taraerickson/ Twitter:  https://twitter.com/thetaraerickson Intense Suspense by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Support The Channel By Getting Some REEL REJECTS Apparel! https://www.rejectnationshop.com/ Follow Us On Socials:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reelrejects/  Tik-Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reelrejects?lang=en Twitter: https://x.com/reelrejects Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReelRejects/ Music Used In Ad:  Hat the Jazz by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Happy Alley by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... POWERED BY @GFUEL Visit https://gfuel.ly/3wD5Ygo and use code REJECTNATION for 20% off select tubs!! Head Editor: https://www.instagram.com/praperhq/?hl=en Co-Editor: Greg Alba Co-Editor: John Humphrey Music In Video: Airport Lounge - Disco Ultralounge by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Ask Us A QUESTION On CAMEO: https://www.cameo.com/thereelrejects Follow TheReelRejects On FACEBOOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM:  FB:  https://www.facebook.com/TheReelRejects/ INSTAGRAM:  https://www.instagram.com/reelrejects/ TWITTER:  https://twitter.com/thereelrejects Follow GREG ON INSTAGRAM & TWITTER: INSTAGRAM:  https://www.instagram.com/thegregalba/ TWITTER:  https://twitter.com/thegregalba Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when someone appears confident, connected, and successful on the outside while privately navigating anxiety, avoidance, pressure, and self-doubt?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with educator, coach, connector, podcast host, and social impact leader Ron Rapatalo to explore identity, vulnerability, high performance, community, leadership, and the emotional weight people often carry behind their public image.Together, they reflect on the version of ourselves we share publicly, the struggles we protect privately, and why true self-awareness requires looking beyond achievement, visibility, and professional success.This conversation dives into:Ron's journey as the child of Filipino immigrants and a product of New York City public schoolsWhy education became an equalizer in his lifeHow Filipino cultural values shaped his commitment to community and connectionThe difference between a public brand and the person behind itWhy vulnerability is often shared only after it has been processedHow high performers can hide anxiety, avoidance, and private strugglesThe emotional and physical cost of constantly needing to succeedWhy educators should not have to sacrifice their health to serve othersHow ADHD, anxiety, deadlines, and performance can become deeply connectedWhy excellence does not have to look like sufferingThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Ron explore what it means to be visible without being fully known. They remind listeners that achievement does not erase struggle, vulnerability is not weakness, and the people who appear strongest may still be carrying experiences others cannot see.If you care about educator wellness, leadership, identity, high performance, emotional health, vulnerability, community, social impact, or creating more human-centered professional spaces, this episode is for you.Connect with Ron RapataloEmail: rapatalo@gmail.comPodcast: https://ronderings.podcastsmatter.com/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rapatalo/?skipRedirect=trueConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#BehindHighPerformance #WhatSuccessHides #HighPerformers #EducatorWellness #LeadershipAndVulnerability 

Despite being the NPP's traditional stronghold, the Ashanti Region is yet to have a befitting regional party office, raising concerns among party faithful and political observers. Former Bantama MP Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu has expressed disappointment over the situation and called for renewed efforts to construct a permanent regional office

What does it mean to lead with confidence while carrying vulnerability, caution, and responsibility behind the mask?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with Western Australian educator and school leader Dr. Ray Boyd to explore leadership, childhood, boundaries, technology, masculinity, and the lasting impact teachers have on young people.Together, they reflect on the pressure educators carry, the importance of consistency, and why students need both freedom and clear expectations in order to grow.This conversation dives into:The confidence school leaders often show publiclyThe vulnerability and sensitivity many men keep hiddenWhy dependable leadership builds trustHow teachers constantly anticipate what could go wrongThe pressure educators carry beyond the school dayWhy children need opportunities to take healthy risksHow overprotection can increase anxiety and limit independenceThe impact of phones and social media on childhoodWhy clear boundaries must be followed by consistent actionThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Ray explore how strong leadership combines confidence with care, boundaries with support, and high expectations with humanity. They remind educators that students may not always express their appreciation, but the consistency and care they receive can shape their lives for years to come.If you care about school leadership, emotional safety, healthy masculinity, student independence, educator wellness, or creating consistent and supportive classrooms, this episode is for you.Connect with Dr. Ray BoydEmail: ray.boyd@education.wa.edu.auLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayboyd007/Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#EmotionalSafety #HealthyMasculinity #StudentSupport #CaringClassrooms #PositiveDiscipline #ConsistencyMatters #YouthDevelopment 

K'Lee, Azura and Charlie caught up with Ashanti and surprise guest Nelly for a chat about marriage advice, mum life and NZ shows. For more, follow our socials: Instagram Facebook TikTok See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What might change in your school if students felt safe enough to say they were not okay? In this episode, Ashanti Branch shares how his own journey as a student, engineer, and educator led him to create the Ever Forward Club, a nonprofit dedicated to helping young men build connection, emotional awareness, character, and leadership skills. He explains why many students learn to hide behind masks, what it takes to earn trust, and how schools can create spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and supported. Ashanti also introduces the #MillionMaskMovement, a powerful activity that helps students and adults reflect on the parts of themselves they show to the world and the experiences they often keep hidden. From simple daily check-ins to proactive conversations about emotions and belonging, this episode offers practical ways educators and leaders can strengthen relationships, support regulation, and build a healthier campus culture. About Ashanti Branch Ashanti is a master in transforming schools into safer, more connected spaces through his workshops and a variety of products geared towards social-emotional learning. He is a pioneer in education reform and in youth mental health, with over 18 years of experience. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Ever Forward Club (EFC), a non- profit organization dedicated to addressing the dropout rates of marginalized students through youth mentorship and teacher professional development. A recipient of the 2023 US Surgeon General's Medallion (the highest honor a civilian can receive from the Surgeon General), Ashanti is a keynote speaker, a consultant on the youth mental health crisis, a Fulbright Fellow, and 4x Tedx Speaker. His work with youth as an ‘emotional locksmith' has been featured at SXSW, on CNN's This is Life with Lisa Ling, on the Kelly Clarkson Show, and in the documentary about American masculinity The Mask You Live In, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Formerly a math teacher and raised in Oakland by a single mom on welfare (his father died just before he was born), Ashanti found his passion while tutoring struggling students in a school with a majority African-American and Latino population. It broke his heart to see 40% of them wanting to drop out at such a young age. By fulfilling deeper emotional needs to feel safe, seen, and heard, EFC has helped 100% of its student members graduate high school, 90% enroll in higher education, and 0% become incarcerated (compared to the national incarceration rate of 8% for black males, age 20-24). Notable projects include EFC's Adventure Card Game which introduces youth to the world of their feelings, created by boiling down 18+ years of deep understanding working with thousands of youth. EFC's #millionmaskmovement (Anthem Award recipient) provides a free, youth-friendly, hands-on emotional tool, with an online gallery of over 75,000 masks from around the world, searchable by age, so youth feel less alone. EFC alumni are often the first to break generational patterns and go on to make healthier leaders, parents, and partners. Although EFC is based in California, it has now impacted schools globally, with thousands of alumni stating, "I can truly say Ever Forward Club saved my life." Ashanti's work is crucial as we are now at an unprecedented inflection point with youth, with this being the first generation in history expected to live shorter lives than their parents. Youth mental health has been identified as being in a state of emergency by the US Surgeon General. Please help Ashanti get the word out that help is available. Follow Ashanti Branch Website:https://everforwardclub.org/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub/Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@everforwardclub https://www.amazon.com/Diary-Confused-Educator-Ashanti-Branch/dp/B0F9K18XQV?crid=3TAW2U0Y4AOX8&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hOsaBN16KeoYeOEt7y3LL8A1tI79liJowuogsLf8crMkzD0L5qL5ZdsDMK3M0LOrygVN-otGu0afnWnNceA8EQ.KmhO_DVZ4L1VUXxCiT3U_vRO-C4M8BZq3oGDUt4O18k&dib_tag=se&keywords=Ashanti+Branch&qid=1786239603&sprefix=ashanti+branch%2Caps%2C177&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0ee789956ef1ee21eff4aacb290a9ac5&language=en_US&gaOptInStatus=true&ref_=as_li_ss_tl -- #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available!  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/

080226_sermon_ashanti_petteway_i_peter.mp3File Size: 59891 kbFile Type: mp3Download File [...]

This week, Thomas sits down with Ashanti Kunene, an activist, slam poet, writer, and the founder of Learning 2 Unlearn, for a conversation about spiritual alignment and integrity in leadership and the connection between individual healing and systems change.In a time when we're all faced with the repercussions of intergenerational trauma, oppressive systems, and unethical leadership, those of us who feel called to facilitate change must first confront our personal narratives, ethics, and shadow-self so that our actions align with our inner spiritual and moral compass.Ashanti and Thomas explore what that really looks like, what people in positions of power are truly responsible and accountable for, and what we can learn from the good AND the bad deeds of those who came before us.✨ Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube:

What happens when an educator chooses to look beyond behavior and uncover the story, need, or struggle beneath it?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with educator, author, speaker, and podcast host Joshua Stamper to explore relationships, leadership, student behavior, educator wellness, and the power of discovering purpose.Together, they reflect on the confidence educators show publicly, the self-doubt they may carry privately, and why meaningful change begins when students and staff feel seen, valued, and understood.This conversation dives into:Joshua's journey from graphic designer to teacher and school leaderHow mentors can recognize leadership potential before we see it ourselvesWhy purpose can transform motivation and performanceThe importance of building relationships before expecting academic growthWhy knowledge of the brain must first pass through the heartHow educators can misinterpret students when pieces of their stories are missingWhy behavior should be viewed as a form of communicationThe role respect and trust play in student engagementThe confidence leaders display while privately carrying self-doubtIf you care about educator wellness, student behavior, school leadership, emotional intelligence, relationship-centered education, or creating healthier school communities, this episode is for you.Connect with Joshua StamperEmail: Joshua@joshstamper.comWebsite:https://joshstamper.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@joshuastamperExplore Joshua's books and podcasts, including Aspire to Lead, The Language of Behavior, and the VibeEDU Podcast.Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#AspireToLead #TheLanguageOfBehavior #VibeEDU #EducationalLeadership #SchoolLeadership #EducatorWellness #TeacherBurnout #StudentBehavior #RelationshipCenteredEducation #EmotionalIntelligence

What does it truly mean to raise caring, moral, and engaged young people?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with Harvard educator and Making Caring Common founder Professor Richard Weissbourd to discuss empathy, morality, purpose, civic responsibility, and the pressures shaping educators and students today.They explore why schools must look beyond academic achievement, how listening builds empathy, why young people need help finding truth in a divided media landscape, and why we cannot afford to become indifferent.This conversation is for educators, parents, and anyone committed to helping young people become thoughtful, compassionate, and engaged human beings.Connect with Professor Richard WeissbourdEmail: richard_weissbourd@gse.harvard.eduLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/making-caring-common-at-hgseConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#SocialEmotionalLearning #EmotionalSafety #MoralDevelopment #CivicEngagement #StudentWellbeing #PurposeAndMeaning

01. Club De Combat - All The Single Ladies 02. Spoofang - South Side 03. Roel, Mns (Ita) - About Listening 04. Bagdie - Move It 05. Leyo, Native - Wake Up 06. Leyo - Banana 07. Leo Riva - Respect 08. Dan Ojeda, Jaii O - Get Down Tonight 09. Chinonegro, Andre Butano - Check Out 10. Nimino, Claptone - I Only Smoke When I Drink 11. Re-Tide, Daniel Jaze - Don't Need U 12. Mo'Cream, Sebb Junior - Sugar 13. Dj Christian B - Rising 14. Man Without A Clue - In Full Effect 15. Ame, Busiswa, Tsha - Pha Na Pha 16. Carlo Caldareri, Chemars - First Of Many 17. Steve Robinson (Uk) - Hey Bass Kids 18. Flatty Tatcher - Time Machine 19. Luis Bravo, Sunfloat - Raw Clicks 20. Gousso - Gimme 21. Chemars - I Got The Music 22. Eisen - Silhouette 23. Laurent Simeca - Funky Sound 24. Goosey - Bodyshake 25. Zetbee - Givin' Me A Rush 26. Thomas Newson - Passion 27. Dj Accia, Seramasamy, Swatkat - Make it Down 28. Ossie - That's a Vibe 29. Claus Casper, Freiboitar - Savage Strings 30. 2 Good Souls, Roland Clark, Martijn Ten Velden - Death of Technics 31. Hellmate, Santiago & Carlitos, Chantal Lewis-Brown - Show Me Love 32. Sharam, Millean - Party All The Time 33. Juliet Thurbz - Rich Man 34. Dj Tennis, Ashee - I Wanna Know 35. Thonis - Shifting Realities 36. Michel De Hey, Job De Jong - Get On Up 37. Paolo Solo - Basement 38. Burnr - Grand Tech Auto 39. Jayc, Christo - D & C 40. Chris Damon - The System 41. Lightleak - Mambos 42. Leyo, Thierry Ganz - Dance Dance 43. Kevin Yost, Mo'Cream - Messing With My Soul 44. Kevin Andrews - I Cant' Wait 45. Mattei & Omich, Bro Berri - Funk You Up 46. Mochakk - Maria 47. Kyle Icardi - Rock Your Body 48. Samo - Better For Me 49. Harlem Dance Club, Hdc - Secrets 50. Luca Garaboni, Fabiola Osorio, Marco Lys - Nino 51. Tony Romera, Jamie Coins - Bounce Bass 52. Ashanti, Ja Rule - Always On Time (Proppa Treatment) 53. Bell Mesk, Steevie Milliner - Check 54. Erre - UNODOSTREZ 55. Josh Butler - Only Eight 56. Raffa Guido, Hills - Famax 57. Stogov - Cazador 58. Chico Rose - Take Our Time 59. Paul Johnson, Dan Heale - Get Get Down 60. Ridney, Luca Guerrieri - Luv Musica 61. Jdhsbdy - LET ME GO 62. Random Soul - Mesmerizing 63. Leyo, 3Ddy - Safe To Say 64. Jason Cadden, Olly K, 0Ne4Rm - My Obsession 65. Toomy Disco - Mind Over Matter 66. Luke Alessi - Pay To Play 67. Jaded, Indira May - Mirror 68. Stvn Leon - Gimme Vibes 69. Chinonegro - Funky Beat 70. Johan S, Divine (Nl) - Do Me No Wrong 71. Agent Stereo - L.A. 2 Chicago 72. Obscure Shape, Urban Cc, Traumer Stop - Mana 73. Delacour, Natalie Maida - Soul Ties 74. B&S Concept, Zetbee - Memory 75. Central Cee, Sammy Porter - Doja 76. Kaddu - De Dro 77. Wza - U Know Somethin'

01. Club De Combat - All The Single Ladies 02. Spoofang - South Side 03. Roel, Mns (Ita) - About Listening 04. Bagdie - Move It 05. Leyo, Native - Wake Up 06. Leyo - Banana 07. Leo Riva - Respect 08. Dan Ojeda, Jaii O - Get Down Tonight 09. Chinonegro, Andre Butano - Check Out 10. Nimino, Claptone - I Only Smoke When I Drink 11. Re-Tide, Daniel Jaze - Don't Need U 12. Mo'Cream, Sebb Junior - Sugar 13. Dj Christian B - Rising 14. Man Without A Clue - In Full Effect 15. Ame, Busiswa, Tsha - Pha Na Pha 16. Carlo Caldareri, Chemars - First Of Many 17. Steve Robinson (Uk) - Hey Bass Kids 18. Flatty Tatcher - Time Machine 19. Luis Bravo, Sunfloat - Raw Clicks 20. Gousso - Gimme 21. Chemars - I Got The Music 22. Eisen - Silhouette 23. Laurent Simeca - Funky Sound 24. Goosey - Bodyshake 25. Zetbee - Givin' Me A Rush 26. Thomas Newson - Passion 27. Dj Accia, Seramasamy, Swatkat - Make it Down 28. Ossie - That's a Vibe 29. Claus Casper, Freiboitar - Savage Strings 30. 2 Good Souls, Roland Clark, Martijn Ten Velden - Death of Technics 31. Hellmate, Santiago & Carlitos, Chantal Lewis-Brown - Show Me Love 32. Sharam, Millean - Party All The Time 33. Juliet Thurbz - Rich Man 34. Dj Tennis, Ashee - I Wanna Know 35. Thonis - Shifting Realities 36. Michel De Hey, Job De Jong - Get On Up 37. Paolo Solo - Basement 38. Burnr - Grand Tech Auto 39. Jayc, Christo - D & C 40. Chris Damon - The System 41. Lightleak - Mambos 42. Leyo, Thierry Ganz - Dance Dance 43. Kevin Yost, Mo'Cream - Messing With My Soul 44. Kevin Andrews - I Cant' Wait 45. Mattei & Omich, Bro Berri - Funk You Up 46. Mochakk - Maria 47. Kyle Icardi - Rock Your Body 48. Samo - Better For Me 49. Harlem Dance Club, Hdc - Secrets 50. Luca Garaboni, Fabiola Osorio, Marco Lys - Nino 51. Tony Romera, Jamie Coins - Bounce Bass 52. Ashanti, Ja Rule - Always On Time (Proppa Treatment) 53. Bell Mesk, Steevie Milliner - Check 54. Erre - UNODOSTREZ 55. Josh Butler - Only Eight 56. Raffa Guido, Hills - Famax 57. Stogov - Cazador 58. Chico Rose - Take Our Time 59. Paul Johnson, Dan Heale - Get Get Down 60. Ridney, Luca Guerrieri - Luv Musica 61. Jdhsbdy - LET ME GO 62. Random Soul - Mesmerizing 63. Leyo, 3Ddy - Safe To Say 64. Jason Cadden, Olly K, 0Ne4Rm - My Obsession 65. Toomy Disco - Mind Over Matter 66. Luke Alessi - Pay To Play 67. Jaded, Indira May - Mirror 68. Stvn Leon - Gimme Vibes 69. Chinonegro - Funky Beat 70. Johan S, Divine (Nl) - Do Me No Wrong 71. Agent Stereo - L.A. 2 Chicago 72. Obscure Shape, Urban Cc, Traumer Stop - Mana 73. Delacour, Natalie Maida - Soul Ties 74. B&S Concept, Zetbee - Memory 75. Central Cee, Sammy Porter - Doja 76. Kaddu - De Dro 77. Wza - U Know Somethin'

What does it take to get a room of ex-military festival-goers in rural Wiltshire to agree Britain should return its stolen gold? And why does an obsolete Victorian law still make it a criminal offence for the British Museum to give any of it back? Afua Hirsch just spent a week testing both — with a Buckingham Palace thought experiment, a courtroom-style cross-examination, and a verdict on two centuries of looted treasure that even British Museum members found hard to argue with.Afua brings Peter inside two sold-out tents at the Chalke Valley History Festival — one on the Ashanti gold Britain still won't return, the other on the German peasants written out of history. Welcome to Legacy Inbox, a new lighter-touch addition to the feed.Join Legacy Plus for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more.legacy.supportingcast.fm[0:00] Afua's back from Chalke Valley, sold-out crowds and all[4:10] Barnaby Phillips and a sequel to Loot bring Ashanti gold into the tent[12:05] A sacked palace, a stolen throne, and a case Afua calls open and shut[18:55] Her answer to "it's illegal to give it back": test it in court[21:52] The 2024 loan Britain calls generosity — and Ghana calls something else[24:00] A blacked-out England XI, and what it says about the British Museum[25:38] Why a tent full of skeptics left more hopeful than they arrivedStay connected with Legacy:Instagram: @originallegacypodcastTikTok: @legacy_productionsExplore more from Peter and Afua — essays, sources, and ideas:Substack: peterfrankopan.substack.com | afuahirsch.substack.comJoin Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more.legacy.supportingcast.fmStay connected with Legacy:Instagram: @originallegacypodcastTikTok: @legacy_productionsExplore more from Peter and Afua — essays, sources, and ideas: Substack: peterfrankopan.substack.com | afuahirsch.substack.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a historian, educator, and cultural critic invites us to think more deeply about the masks we wear, the stories we inherit, and the truths we often avoid?In this powerful episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with historian, professor, author, and public scholar Dr. Frederick Gooding Jr. Known for his work exploring African American history, race, culture, and representation, Dr. Gooding brings both intellectual depth and personal reflection to a conversation about identity, education, and emotional truth.Ashanti and Dr. Gooding unpack the realities many Black men navigate every day, the tension between who they are and who the world expects them to be, the exhaustion of code-switching, and the emotional weight carried beneath carefully constructed masks.This conversation dives into:The concept of front-stage and backstage behaviorW.E.B. Du Bois' idea of double consciousnessWhy many young men hide vulnerability behind humor and performanceThe emotional safety students need before authentic connection can happenHip-hop as an overlooked educational and cultural teaching toolHow schools often overlook the strengths students bring from homeThe relationship between empathy, history, and educationThe hidden pain that can exist behind passion and advocacyWhy teaching honest history is essential to understanding the presentThe challenges and opportunities of being a Black male educator todayThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Dr. Gooding explore what it means to lead with authenticity while navigating systems that often demand performance. Together, they challenge listeners to think differently about masculinity, education, empathy, and the power of human connection.If you care about education, history, emotional wellness, racial equity, authentic leadership, or helping young people feel seen and understood, this episode is for you.Connect with Dr. Frederick Gooding Jr.LinkedIn: Dr. Frederick Gooding Jr.Email: f.gooding@tcu.eduUpcoming Books:A book exploring Black statues and monuments in Washington, D.C., and what they reveal about visibility, memory, and representation in America.A Disturbance in the Force: Making Space for Race in the Star Wars Space, examining race, identity, and representation throughout the Star Wars universe.Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #AuthenticMasculinity #BlackMaleEducators #EmotionalSafety #TeachingHonestHistory #EducationalEquity

The squad attempts to mediate a heavy Homie Helpline after a mother reveals her Samoan husband is forcing their introverted daughter to have a Quinceañera against her wishes for a Hawaii trip. Between the family drama, the crew exposes the truth behind Ashanti ghostwriting J-Lo's biggest hits while Ja Rule was busy taking a nap and warns listeners about the "explosive" consequences of the latest lettuce recall. [Edited by @iamdyre

We're breaking down the "Ain't It Funny" nucleus as Ja Rule reveals how Diddy inspired the track and why he had Ashanti finish his homework while he caught some Z's. On the Homie Helpline, the phones blow up as listeners share their raw regrets about skipping their Quinceañeras for cars and trips that didn't last. Chisme highlights the ultimate romantic gesture from Benny Blanco, who is currently crossing the Atlantic on a ship to see Selena Gomez because he's terrified of flying. Plus, the crew discusses facing their biggest fears, from marriage to tattooing a partner's name across an entire forearm.

In this episode, we sit down with Ashanti Thomas, entrepreneur, creative visionary, and owner of SWIFF Brand. Originally from Charleston, South Carolina, Ashanti has built SWIFF into a lifestyle brand focused on creativity, culture, and community.We dive into Ashanti's journey from idea to brand, the realities of building a business from the ground up, overcoming challenges, creating a lasting legacy, and what it takes to stand out in today's competitive marketplace. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or someone looking for motivation to pursue your vision, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.Thank you so much for listening! If you would like to see more from SWIFF, you can find them here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swiffbrand/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swiffbrand/Website: https://swiffbrand.com/This episode is sponsored by Columbia Family Chiropractic: https://www.cfcforhealth.comhttps://www.instagram.com/columbiafamilychiropracticThis episode is sponsored by Gallup Design Build: ⁠https://www.gallupdesignbuild.com⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/gallupdesignbuild⁠If you would like to follow us, we are on everything at Here For The Health Of It Podcast:https://www.instagram.com/columbiashottestpodcast/https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hereforthehealthofit

Kia ora e te ball bags! Producer Arun here putting together all the best bits you missed from the show today, FYI no Fame today so it might sound a lil different: Storme mixes up Storme’s Diary by doing a show and tell. If Tegan is stressed, look for these signs. Nickson reveals his worst fear. Hera wins a $5,000 travel voucher thanks to Disney’s Moana! Storme is playing silly games at his local pub… Storme reckons he can get any Māori to sing with these songs… The R&B queen that is Ashanti joins us on the show to talk about her tour! Thanks for listening ya mongrels! Lots of love Producer Arun, Producer A-aron, Producer Alonaa, Producer Kanuka, Producer Mah BROTHAH, Bad Boy Alan! xx

Welcome back to your two favorite girlies!! Today's episode can be summed up in one word: EMPOWERING!!! (Trigger warning we do talk about sensitive topics including SA)   Maddy stumbled onto Ashanti one day on TikTok and was immediately triggered by what she was saying… in the BEST way possible.   This episode NEEDS to be shared to every single woman possible!! We can't wait to hear what you think!   About our amazing guest:  Ashanti is the founder of Unpunishable Woman, an independent media platform exploring the social, cultural and economic realities facing single women. After leaving a high-control religious environment and undergoing a significant personal transformation, including losing more than 120 pounds, she began creating content exploring womanhood, singleness, autonomy and social change. Her work reaches hundreds of thousands of women across social media.  Ashanti is currently developing The Single Woman Economy, a body of work exploring the economic impact and cultural significance of the growing population of single women worldwide. You can find all of Ashanti's platforms here: https://linktr.ee/unpunishablewoman  Message Ali MOMBUTT to get the mom butt guide or AUTOPILOT to get the meals you can make on autopilot  Find Ali here on  instagram:https://www.instagram.com/aliwagnercoaching/   Follow maddy's dating page here: https://www.instagram.com/its.maddymartinez?igsh=MXNvODZkNndlem5haA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr  Maddy's favorite redlight here and save: https://tinyurl.com/kindahot-hooga  Maddy's favorite Matcha brand:  https://tinyurl.com/kindahot-matcha  Maddy's favorite makeup: https://tinyurl.com/kindahot-subtlbeauty  Make sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and send us your health / relationship / life / just need advice on, submit your questions here: https://bit.ly/KHKH-ask-my-question Find us on all streaming platforms here, including the full video experience on our YouTube channel

Ashanti gets it

Overnight, some very important dresses dropped on our timelines after a major red carpet in London delivered pure style magic. We reveal how a style icon's team managed an impossible fashion dash from a Paris runway straight to a London red carpet in mere hours, and why a beloved pregnant actress just delivered her best press look in years.Plus, a major fashion house just wrapped its haute couture show in Paris with a bridal runway moment that has the internet completely spiralling. We decode the highly suspicious timing and the delicate design choices that look like major wedding dress crumbs from the world's biggest pop star…Finally, host Tina Burke is fresh off a plane from a massive fan convention in Los Angeles with all the exclusive backstage gossip. We reveal exactly what the Off Campus stars told us about the introduction of a new leading lady for season two; why Lily Reinhart was terrified to cast her romantic opposite for The Love Hypothesis; and Tina shared her shock run-in with Jennifer Lopez.Take The Spill's monthly pop culture quiz here and test your knowledge!Remember The Spill drops the tea twice a day in this feed so follow us for all the latest entertainment news OR you can WATCH our show in full length video on the Apple Podcast app - make sure your phone is up to date and enjoy the watch! Link here. THE END BITS Find and follow us on socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespillpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thespillpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thespillpodcast/ Read all the latest entertainment news on Mamamia: https://mamamia.com.au/entertainment/ Support Independent Women’s Media. Your subscription helps us continue to tell the stories that matter to women. Want to join the conversation? Have feedback or a topic you want us to discuss? Send us a voice message or email us at thespill@mamamia.com.au and we’ll get back to you ASAP! Executive Producer: Monisha Iswaran Audio & Video Producer: Michael Kean Mamamia acknowledges the traditional owners of the land on which we have recorded this podcast.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're chatting with Gabriella and Janelle — the co-founders of Isle of Monday, the first on-demand rental platform for women's luxury vintage archival clothing. Gabriella is the sourcing powerhouse behind the brand, while Janelle leads marketing and growth — and I'm so excited for you to hear how two friends turned a shared love of vintage into a platform that's redefining how women access designer archival fashion. Gabriella's path to vintage started young — she's been collecting and reselling, all while working as a model from age 16, which put her in close contact with stylists and sparked her obsession with archival pieces. Janelle came at vintage from a different angle entirely, falling in love with vintage furniture and interior design. The two met at a pop-up at Canal Street Market, where Janelle spotted Gabriella's collection and the rest was history! After running future pop-ups together and getting certain requests from their customers over and over, they saw the gap rental could fill. They officially became business partners in January 2024, building out a rental platform with bespoke logistics, cleaning, and a proprietary pricing model built specifically for one-of-one archival pieces. Isle of Monday launched into beta on December 1st of 2025 and officially opened to the public on May 18th — and the growth since has been staggering, from under 2,000 followers pre-launch to nearly 50,000 today, with pieces recently worn by Keke Palmer, Doechii, and Ashley Graham, among others. On today's episode, we get into all of it — their now-famous Roberto Cavalli dress that went viral on TikTok before they'd even launched, what it's really like fundraising as two female founders in the still-misunderstood fashion tech industry, and why they believe archival vintage is becoming an investment-grade asset class in its own right. Let's dive right in! DISCUSSED IN THE EPISODE: [4:38] Gabriella's path to vintage started young — she's been collecting and reselling, all while working as a model from age 16 [6:13] Janelle came to vintage from a love for vintage furniture and interior design. [12:02] They met at a vintage pop-up and became fast friends and collaborators.  [14:26] Why they decided to innovate in rental instead of resale.  [19:46] Building a proprietary pricing tool for archival, one-of-one vintage rentals  [22:50] How they think about sourcing "rentable" pieces as opposed to resale inventory.  [34:16] Fundraising as two female founders in the fashion tech industry [39:40] Archival vintage becoming an investment-grade asset class in its own right. [41:34] Gabriella and Janelle's own personal vintage collections and style  EPISODE MENTIONS:  Isle of Monday @isleofmonday Janelle's 2003 Roberto Cavalli gown  Ashanti in Roberto Cavalli S/S 2003 at the American Music Awards  Doechii wearing Isle of Monday Keke Palmer wearing Isle of Monday The Bluemarine dress from Uptown Girls  Sabrina Carpenter S/S 2003 Ralph Lauren dress Blummier Gone Archive 3 Sisters Seacret Vintage LET'S CONNECT: 

What if the most dominant record label of the early 2000s never faced federal charges?   In this episode of Hip Hop What Ifs, hosts D and 12 Kyle break down the rise, the fall, and the alternate history of Murder Inc. Records. From Irv Gotti's hit-making formula—pairing gritty lyrics with smooth R&B hooks—to the meteoric rise of Ja Rule and Ashanti, Murder Inc. was once the undisputed king of radio. But in 2003, the momentum hit a wall when federal agents raided the offices, alleging ties to the "Supreme Team" and Kenneth "Supreme" McGriff. We discuss whether it was truly the federal investigation that killed the label's momentum, or if the ruthless 50 Cent vs. Ja Rule rivalry was the real nail in the coffin.   In this episode, we discuss: -The genius of Irv Gotti and the blueprint for the early 2000s sound. -The "What If" factor: Could Murder Inc. have survived the shift to the G-Unit era?   -The impact of the 50 Cent and Ja Rule feud on the label's credibility.  -The legacy of Ja Rule and Ashanti as enduring icons.  0:00 Intro: Exploring Hip Hop What Ifs 1:50 The Rise of Murder Inc. & Irv Gotti's Vision 9:52 Ja Rule's Impact & The "Hard Lyrics/Soft Hooks" Formula 18:42 The Supreme McGriff Allegations & The Fed Raids 23:35 The 50 Cent vs. Ja Rule Rivalry 33:14 Did 50 Cent Kill Murder Inc.? 41:25 The Reality of New York Beefs 49:53 Ashanti's Rise & The Label's Legacy 54:31 Closing Thoughts: What Could Have Been Brand new voicemail: ‪(314) 649-3113‬ Subscribe to the Everyone Needs an Aquarius Patreon https://bit.ly/3tXnnCz  Email the show at straightolc@gmail.com           Follow SOLC Network online Instagram: https://bit.ly/39VL542                                    Twitter: https://bit.ly/39aL395                                     Facebook: https://bit.ly/3sQn7je                            To Listen to the podcast Podbean https://bit.ly/3t7SDJH                                YouTube http://bit.ly/3ouZqJU                                Spotify http://spoti.fi/3pwZZnJ                                Apple http://apple.co/39rwjD1                                                         IHeartRadio http://ihr.fm/2L0A2y 

GRAMMY® Balloted Club Nouveau, Timex Social ClubGrammy Award Balloted singer and music label executive, Jay King, was elected CEO/President of the California Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) in June of 2019.GRAMMY® Award Balloted Jay King/Club Nouveau's music & samples have been featured in many TV & Film Soundtracks including the #1 Hit Movie "US" by Director Jordan Peele! "Jealousy" also made an appearance on the soundtrack for the film Modern Girls. "Why You Treat Me So Bad" was interpolated by the hip-hop duo Luniz, on its hit single "I Got 5 on It", and subsequently by rapper/record producer Puff Daddy on his #1 R&B single "Satisfy You".This week, I look at how a brand can stay relevant decade after decade.As a veteran mogul Jay King brings as much humility to the field as he does what has been called his genius. With three decades of continuous achievements in music, management, film/TV/radio, consulting and publishing; King has made an indelible impression. He claims Northern California in general as his hometown due to a nomadic youth spent between many of the Bay Area's cities; as well as Alaska for birthing his career. There was a deep musical undercurrent added to his early years by a clan which boasted a number of ministers, extending from his great-grandfather through a number of cousins, who all played instruments as well. His great uncle, Saunders King, a respected jazz/blues guitarist, offered the West Coast the first family hit in the 1940's—‘The S.K. Blues'—adding to the musical backdrop of King's childhood. In 1986, King starting the independent record label JAY Records to release the Timex Social Club hit ‘Rumors' and ushered in the biggest selling single of 1986 (3.5 million copies) and becoming the #1 R&B single on the Billboard Charts. With a Top 10 single on the Billboard Pop charts for over 56 weeks, King watched his life change as his music became an unprecedented hit. What he'd produced was history-making, as nobody had before taken an R&B song from an indie label to such heights. Although having independently produced, pressed and marketed his own music King was without the money to compete at radio plays and had to be creative with promoting. “There were challenges. You couldn't reach out to stores, and social media didn't exist then so you couldn't let people know with a click of a button that you had something out. You had to get out and hustle. People were making fun of me and laughing because I was out hustling records.” Bypassing traditional methods, King utilized Macola Records because of its position as an indie manufacturer with no association to a major label.Club Nouveau's music is in heavy demand commercially in movies and is sampled in many of today's artists hit makers like Ashanti, Chris Brown and many more.The group is STILL on the scene, performing hundreds of LIVE concert a year & recording NEW music!© 2026 All Rights Reserved© 2026  Building Abundant Success!!Join Me on ~ iHeart Media @ https://tinyurl.com/iHeartBASSpot Me on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yxuy23baAmazon Music ~ https://tinyurl.com/AmzBASAudacy:  https://tinyurl.com/BASAud

What happens when a certified educator, trauma-informed healing-centered facilitator, and community organizer starts asking deeper questions about masculinity, emotional safety, and the world our boys are growing up in?In this powerful episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Asahnti sits down with Mexican-American educator, former middle school teacher, community organizer, and Trauma-Informed Healing-Centered Facilitator, Fernando Deveras. is known for his thought-provoking commentary on history, politics, education, and current events through his growing online platforms and community work.Ashanti and Fernando unpack the emotional realities many young men carry behind the mask, the pressure to perform masculinity, the fear of vulnerability, and the impact of growing up in a world shaped by social media, violence, isolation, and emotional disconnection.This conversation dives into:What boys are really searching for beneath the surfaceWhy emotional safety matters in schools and communitiesThe hidden exhaustion educators carry behind the scenesTrauma, healing, and intergenerational patterns in Latino familiesThe role educators play in helping young people feel seenWhy “the kids don't have time for adults to wait to be ready”Masculinity, community accountability, and the bystander effectThe importance of speaking up, even when your platform feels smallFernando also shares his personal story growing up as the son of immigrants, becoming a father while in college, transitioning from classroom teaching into community organizing, and helping families heal through culturally grounded practices.If you care about young men, education, emotional wellness, restorative practices, or building safer communities this episode is for you.Connect with FernandoInstagram: @fernando.deverasYouTube: Fernando De VerasSubstack: Fernando De VerasLearn more about and their family healing workshopsConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub #EducationLeadership #HealthyMasculinity #YouthDevelopment #EmotionalSafety #CommunityHealing

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In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti Branch sits down with Nigel Williams, a longtime friend from Oakland, retired probation professional, high school basketball coach, father, entrepreneur, and founder of Future Rich.Nigel reflects on the masks he wears as a man who leads with heart, hope, and resilience, while carrying the hidden pressure of looking good, seeming like he has wealth figured out, and navigating the unspoken shame many men carry around money, health, and struggle.He shares his journey from Calvin Simmons Middle School and Fremont High School to 25 years in probation, where he worked with young people, challenged systems that were not serving youth well, and learned the importance of giving people resources before they reach crisis. Nigel also opens up about his health journey, including surviving a staph infection and facing prostate cancer with a commitment to early detection, honesty, and helping other men take their health seriously.In this episode, we talk about:The mask of looking like everything is figured out Why men often hide money struggles instead of talking about them Growing up in Oakland and learning from mentors, family, and community Nigel's 25-year career in probation and juvenile justice The difference between punishment, accountability, and real support Why young people need financial literacy earlierThe story behind Future RichCompound interest, the Rule of 72, and long-term discipline ETF dividend funds and building generational wealthWhy “future rich” is about freedom, not just money Men's health, early detection, and prostate cancer awarenessStarting today, even if you did not start yesterday0:00 Welcome and introduction1:18 Nigel's Oakland roots and Future Rich5:57 From engineering to education9:50 Nigel shares his mask16:43 Ashanti shares his mask21:22 Lessons from 25 years in probation29:32 The beginning of Future Rich36:14 Money, masculinity, and young men39:14 ETF dividend funds explained42:31 Compound interest and the Rule of 7247:52 Men's health and early detection51:03 PSA numbers, MRIs, and prostate cancer54:42 Start today57:46 Closing and Million Mask Movement invitationConnect with Nigel Williams Website: futurerichnow.com Also mentioned: buildfuturerichnow.com TikTok / Instagram / Facebook: Nigel Williams Project: Future Rich Book / Resource: Future Rich book, workbook, and teacher's guide Mentioned in this episode Future Rich Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #NigelWilliams #FutureRich #FinancialLiteracy #GenerationalWealth #MaleEducators #MensHealth #ProstateCancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #YouthMentorship #OaklandEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub

In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti Branch sits down with Jay Wamsted, a 20-year educator, father, writer, and author of The Lockdown Artist.Jay reflects on the masks he wears as a teacher, being in control, joyful, hopeful, and steady, while carrying the hidden weight of uncertainty, frustration, and concern about the future of public education.He shares his journey as a white educator in predominantly Black classrooms, how writing helped him process race and identity in schools, and why emotional safety matters deeply in math class. Jay also talks about replacing traditional warm-up problems with connection-building “cold opens,” using mistakes as teaching tools, and helping students feel like the classroom does not have to be a bad place.In this episode, we talk about:The hidden mask of classroom controlWhy students can “opt out” long before they leave the roomTeaching through COVID and learning what educators can and cannot fixRace, identity, and the myth of the neutral classroomJay's journey from math teacher to writerThe story behind The Lockdown ArtistWhy educators should write down classroom storiesBuilding emotional safety in math classUsing jokes, trivia, and authenticity to connect with studentsWhy making mistakes publicly can help students feel safer0:00 Welcome and introduction1:31 Jay opens with a classroom breathing practice3:31 Ashanti shares the front and back of his mask6:33 Jay reflects on control, hope, and what he carries behind the mask9:25 The public misunderstanding of teachers and summers off11:18 How Jay navigates the pressure of caring for students14:28 COVID, burnout, and learning what teachers cannot fix15:53 Jay's journey into writing16:11 Teaching as a white educator in predominantly Black classrooms18:06 Summer 2020 and writing about race in education19:35 The story behind The Lockdown Artist22:04 “Are you in or are you out?”23:37 Who The Lockdown Artist is written for25:28 Race, identity, and what adults call “neutral”30:56 Journaling, reflection, and writing classroom stories35:07 Emotional safety in math class36:43 Moving away from traditional warm-up problems38:35 Using “cold opens” to build connection43:19 Advice for educators who want to build more trust44:43 Being real with students in appropriate waysConnect with Jay WamstedWebsite: jaywamsted.comInstagram / TikTok / X: @jaywamstedJay WamstedBook: The Lockdown ArtistMentioned in this episodeThe Lockdown ArtistThe First Days of School by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. WongConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #PrincipalKafele #MillionMaskMovement #MaleEducators #SchoolLeadership #CulturallyRelevantPedagogy #EverForwardClub

Ashanti sits down with Clyde Cole, Principal of Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School, to explore identity, leadership, education, and the masks school leaders wear.Clyde reflects on his journey as the child of immigrants, his 35 years in education, and the classroom moment that shaped his calling. He also shares how calm leadership, transparency, and emotionally safe adults can help young men build trust and move beyond the mask.A powerful conversation for educators, school leaders, mentors, and anyone committed to helping young people feel seen.In this episode:The masks Ashanti and Clyde wear as educators and leadersWhy calm leadership can sometimes be misunderstood as not caringHow transparency helps students, families, and staff trust the decision-making processWhy young men need vocabulary to express what they are carryingThe fifth-grade teacher who changed Clyde's life by choosing elevation over punishmentWhy educators should look for opportunities to lift students up, even in disruptive momentsHow Cristo Rey Brooklyn supports students through academics, work-study, service, and community partnershipTimestamps:00:01 Welcome and introduction00:44 Clyde's background, identity, and Brooklyn roots02:26 Leading Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School04:48 Ashanti shares his educator mask08:32 Clyde shares his mask as a leader13:42 Calm leadership in difficult moments15:54 Using transparency to build trust19:14 The deeper work of education21:19 Helping young men move beyond the mask23:01 Giving young men language for their emotions26:17 Creating spaces for emotional risk-taking27:48 Why students need safe adults30:59 The teacher who changed Clyde's path32:28 Elevating students instead of punishing them36:19 Clyde's five domains of school leadership37:44 Academic leadership39:01 Cultural leadership40:01 Organizational leadership41:22 Team leadership42:28 Interpersonal leadership45:35 Cristo Rey Brooklyn's work-study model46:24 How to support Cristo Rey Brooklyn students48:21 Closing reflections and mask invitationResources & Links Mentioned:Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School: https://www.cristoreybrooklyn.org/ Faculty & Staff / Clyde Cole: https://www.cristoreybrooklyn.org/faculty-and-staffConnect with Clyde ColeWebsite: https://www.cristoreybrooklyn.org/ Email: ccole@cristoreybrooklyn.orgJoin/Contribute to our Young Men's Conference: https://everforwardclub.orgJoin our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345Submit Questions, Reflections, or Episode Ideas, Email us: totmpod100@gmail.comCreate your mask anonymously: https://millionmask.org/Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #EmotionalSafety #MaleEducators #AuthenticLeadership #SchoolLeadership #CristoReyBrooklyn #YoungMenMatter #BehindTheMask #EducatorWellbeing

In this episode, the fellas (finally) discuss Trick Daddy vs AKA, the insanity of the transfer portal in college basketball, why Tone is a bamma for not watching "The Boys" so we could talk about it, ITWAN at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., and Ashanti possibly being a first-ballot Meats Hall of Famer.