Podcasts about tuskegee

Born and raised in Chicago, Cheryl Whitlow Thompson's career in journalism goes back more than four decades — from her days as a student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, to hard-hitting investigative work at the Washington Post and NPR. Thompson is also the daughter of one of the Tuskegee Airmen, William E. Whitlow Jr. Her forthcoming book, Forgotten Souls: The Search for the Lost Tuskegee Airmen, tells the stories of Tuskegee pilots who were killed in action.

Send us a textThe SIAC Sit Down with Sly and Jamie is back! This week, we break down a wild weekend across HBCU football's Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) — from Morehouse's back-to-back wins to Kentucky State's growing championship buzz.

Listen to JCO's Art of Oncology article, "A Fight Bigger Than Myeloma” by Dr. Adeel Khan, an Assistant Professor of Medicine and Public Health at UT Southwestern. The article is followed by an interview with Dr. Adeel Khan and host Dr. Mikkael Sekeres. Dr. Khan shares the story of a patient whose multiple myeloma diagnosis and treatment serves as a reminder of the civil liberties progress we've made and that we have more to go. TRANSCRIPT Narrator: A Fighter Bigger Than Myeloma, by Adeel M. Khan, MD, MPH, MS  I met her during the early part of my clinical training in hematology/oncology. She was in her late 70s, dressed in a rust-colored cardigan and a headwrap with patterns that reminded me of Ghanaian kente cloth. Her eyes were sharp, her tone polite but direct. You could tell from the moment she spoke that she had lived a life where she had to advocate—for herself, for her family, for her place in rooms that were not always welcoming.  Her chart said “multiple myeloma, R-ISS II,” but it did not say that she had first come to an emergency room at least a year earlier complaining of back pain and fatigue and had been told it was probably arthritis or old age. It did not mention that she had seen three different doctors before someone ordered the laboratory tests that finally began to work up her anemia and increasingly compromised kidney function. It would take another trio of doctors to eventually order a magnetic resonance imaging whose ghostly lytic lesions led down the path to a bone marrow biopsy and her cancer diagnosis. When I brought this up gently during one of our early appointments, she looked at me and said, “They don't hear pain the same when it comes from someone like me.” As a Black woman from the Deep South, she had grown up learning how to navigate a health care system that did not always believe her. She told me stories about being dismissed, misdiagnosed, and interrupted. She was born into an era of structural violence where she would be ignored at best and mistreated at worst. She carried the weight of those moments, but she also carried strength, and clarity, and the kind of dignity that made people sit up straighter in their leather chairs when she entered the room. She was one of the most quietly revolutionary people I have ever known, having grown up during a time of civil rights activism. She had even taken part in bending Dr King's long arc of the moral universe toward justice and could share story upon story from her glory days. Her myeloma treatments were not easy. Chemotherapy rarely is. She shared that there were days when her body was tired of fighting, when her bones ached, her blood counts dropped, and her neuropathic pain throbbed. In the back of my mind, I thought how tragic it was that her delayed diagnosis added unnecessary complications and whether she too thought of that. She was fully mindful of the issues people with her skin color faced in our American healthcare system and society as a whole and revealed how that motivated her to carry forward. “If I don't take up space here,” she told me once, “then someone else like me won't either.” Over the course of our visits, I came to understand that she did not see her myeloma as the hardest fight of her life. Not by a long shot. Her primary struggle was centered on life in Birmingham in the 1950s where separate but equal was still the law of the land; her mother cleaned houses, her father worked odd jobs, and her own prospects were uncertain. She admired the writings of Richard Wright and Jean Toomer and was not shy in sharing her passions. One day, during a particularly tough visit—her disease had progressed and we were down to limited options—I found myself meandering. We went through the usual workup and discussions: laboratory test results, symptoms, and treatment options. I offered the prospect of clinical trials, but she shook her head gently and said, “I've done my time in experiments—I can't give myself to a system that gave my people so little.” I paused. It was the first hint of what would become a larger conversation—not just about medicine, but about history. She was well aware of the atrocities of the Tuskegee syphilis trials in her home state, the Kligman experiments on incarcerated Black men, and the forced sterilization of women of color. As dependent upon medicine as she was in her old age, it carried a bloody stain of dehumanizing racism that soured her against it. Outwardly, I had little in common with her. As a young South Asian man growing up in times more conscious of racial injustice, I was far removed from these historical crimes. Although I learned of them during my education, I did not internalize their impact on the patients in front of me in clinic. But through her I came to comprehend just how scarring and enduring these events can be and how they can rob someone of trust. And the truth is the health care system had not treated her well. She had personal stories of doctors who did not believe her pain, nurses who assumed she was uneducated,  and being passed over for better options, better care, and better answers. “But I kept showing up,” she said. “Because that's what we do. We show up even when we're not wanted.” Her stories to me were revelations. In her younger years, she had helped organize teachers at her school when they tried to fire a fellow Black teacher who seemingly spoke too loud in a meeting. She had lived through redlining, through the crack epidemic, through watching young Black men vanish into prisons, and still she rose every day and worked as a public school teacher for decades. She worked for a system that largely did not work for her. I came to admire that about her—that in simply living day-to-day life with plain dignity and acute awareness of society's issues, she promoted change by living it. “You want to talk about cancer?” she once said, half laughing. “Try walking into a bank in 1972 with a good credit score and a Black face. That's a disease this country still hasn't cured.” Curiously, she did not say these things with bitterness. Not even anger, really. Just clarity. Like someone who had long ago made peace with the truth, even if it was sharp. In clinic, she challenged my every assumption—about treatment tolerance, about compliance, about who is difficult, and who is “advocating.” And she taught me to look differently at the ways bias lingers in medicine. Not just in data or policies, but in subtle moments: the tone we use when explaining options, the hesitations in our tests and referrals, and the assumptions we may not even realize we are making. And she did not just expect good care—she demanded it. She told me early on, “Don't you treat me like I'm anything other than your mother.” That landed. And in seeing patients before me now, I remind myself to wonder who they were in their past lives, what baggage burdens them, and how it all shapes their perspectives. So from my view, she fought multiple myeloma with everything she had, but from hers, she fought something bigger: an entire system shaped by inequality. And ultimately, she made me better to realize that, not just as a doctor, but as a human being. In my years since knowing her, completing my training, and beginning my practice, I reflect on her grace. I think not just about her life, but what it means to practice medicine in a world that often forgets what patients carry with them into the clinic—generations of weight, of injustice, of strength. Mikkael Sekeres: Welcome back to JCO's Cancer Stories, The Art of Oncology. This ASCO podcast features intimate narratives and perspectives from authors exploring their experiences in oncology. I'm your host, Mikkael Sekeres. I'm Professor of Medicine and Chief of the Division of Hematology at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami. I am so happy that today we are joined by Adeel Khan, who's Assistant Professor of Medicine and Public Health at UT Southwestern in Dallas to talk about his Journal of Clinical Oncology article, “A Fight Bigger than Myeloma.” Our guest's disclosures will be linked in the transcript. Adeel, thank you so much for contributing to JCO and for joining us to discuss your article. Adeel Khan: Thank you so much for having me. It's a pleasure to be here. Mikkael Sekeres: Adeel, I don't want to be disingenuous to our readers by acting as if we've just met. You and I have known each other for a decade since you were still in your training. I wonder if for our listeners you can tell us a little bit about yourself, where are you from and and walk us through your career so far. Adeel Khan: More than happy to. So, I grew up mostly in Oklahoma, but I've sort of lived around in the Northeast and here in the Southwest where I am currently. I did college at the University of Oklahoma. I did medical school at the University of Michigan. I did residency with good fortune at the Cleveland Clinic where I happened to get to know you and have continued to know you since. I did my fellowship then in hematology oncology at Beth Israel Deaconess in the Harvard system and along the way of all that I did a Masters of Public Health at Harvard and a Masters of Science and Epidemiology at Columbia, and that pinball finally settled here to UT Southwestern here in Dallas which I am very happy to make my second home. Mikkael Sekeres: That's great. I will say just for our listeners you've been a superstar since the moment you were a resident. It's been a real treat for me to get to know you over the years. Adeel Khan: Thank you so much. Mikkael Sekeres: Can you tell us a little bit about your own story as a writer? You're a good writer. We get submissions from some really good writers every single week. It's a real privilege to be an editor for the Art of Oncology section and it's always reinvigorating to me to see how many good writers there are in medicine. How did you start your journey as a writer and how long have you been writing reflective narrative pieces? Adeel Khan: I would say if I went back to let's say high school, you know, people tend to be divided into kind of like the sciency types versus the literary arts types and you're kind of an either/or, you know, you didn't really have as much crossover then. But you know, I actually didn't mind when we had an essay due and I liked writing back then, and when I entered college I did a minor in English because I actually did enjoy that and I just liked the idea of being able to put your thoughts on paper in a way immortalizing them. Adeel Khan: And then as I sort of pursuing medicine more and more, publishing is really- it has all kinds of flavors to it and scientific publishing is obviously what has been emphasized, but you know, there's so many things to talk about within medicine. There's the science and the art of the field, and as I've moved along, I've written different pieces focusing really on patient stories and interactions. And I think my motivation has always been that as I have gotten particularly nowadays increasingly busy, I've had the fortune and misfortune of becoming more and more busy, it's easy to lose the opportunity to really connect with people that makes what we do meaningful. And so in those times when you know, and they can be rare, but when you really get to connect with someone in front of you who you're helping to care for, it's really refreshing and it's rejuvenating and I've tried to keep that with me as long as I can as I've gone through my journey. Mikkael Sekeres: There's a lot of jumping off points from what you just said, Adeel. I wonder if I can start with do you consider yourself an English major who's good at science or do you consider yourself a scientist who's a good writer? Adeel Khan: I think I'm too humble to say either. I think I was really a science major who just happened to like writing and reading and kept that as a part of myself. Mikkael Sekeres: Because I think there are a cadre of doctors who are actually English majors and have learned to turn science into storytelling and that's their entrée into science and medicine. I remember I talked for a while with David Scadden about this. He's a brilliant translational scientist who's based at Mass General who also teaches a writing course to the Harvard undergrads and who was an English major when he was an undergrad at Case Western. We've talked about this, about how there are people, I'll include myself in this, who just think different, who probably have these liberal arts brains and they figured out a way to convert science into a way a liberal arts person can understand it. Adeel Khan: Yeah, I mean narrative medicine has been I think around all along and it has only kind of been recently named as a field, but I mean it very much speaks to that that there's so much more than just G proteins in medicine. Mikkael Sekeres: I'm thrilled to hear that by the way. You mentioned you were an English minor. Are there particular writers who are an influence on you or can you talk about what's the most recent book or article you've read? Adeel Khan: Oh, that is a great question. Paulo Coelho is someone I've liked for a long time, The Alchemist. I really liked it because I read it after I had lived in Egypt. I lived in Egypt between college and med school as a study abroad program, and I had actually been to the Faiyum Oasis where the protagonist in that story ends up. And so it was just a fascinating story to me that I could trace some of the steps that are discussed in the book and it's so much- it's a story about self discovery which at that phase of life that I was in was you know, very much a theme of my own life. And so that's one that definitely stands out in my head. Mikkael Sekeres: Do you think reading pieces outside of medicine makes you a better scientist? Adeel Khan: I think absolutely. I think it makes you a better human being. In some ways I lament that so much of what I do reading now is so much just about what's in the field, what's new in myeloma, what's new in hematology oncology and I sort of miss the escape to reading other things and being able to pursue it. And even broader than just what a novel really offers. I mean, I grew up reading comic books too and I've always loved superheroes and fiction whether it's Star Wars and other things. And really they're just stories and the medium- there might be connotations whether it's a comic book or a or a novel, but they're just different mediums, but the fact that they're just stories is fundamental. I actually think to myself that it's so fascinating that the earliest piece of writing that we've really retained as human beings is we believe, the Epic of Gilgamesh, which is really a story of a superhero when you think about it, you know, and it's it's fiction, it's phantasmic in so many ways. But it speaks to how stories are just vital as people. Mikkael Sekeres: And what is it about graphic novels or my kids now of course call them graphic novels. We're not allowed to call them comic books. Adeel Khan: As they've been renamed, yeah. Mikkael Sekeres: What is it about graphic novels or comic books or the story of a hero that appeals to us in medicine? Adeel Khan: I think it's in some ways a parable of what we're doing. There's something so powerful and fundamental about this idea of good-evil and we can rename it in different ways, but that you're trying to overcome something that's an issue, an obstacle. And when you think about what we do in- particularly in oncology, that's very much what we're trying to do. We're trying to overcome an illness, a disease, to try to help the person in front of us. And it has different aspects to it. It could be someone pursuing something in a lab, it can be treating someone in front of you in clinic, but that simple dichotomy of there's something good about what you're doing because there's something bad in front of you is just the fundamental that runs through it all. Mikkael Sekeres: It's fascinating. I wonder if 30, 40, 50 years ago people would have said, “Oh, it's because the doctor is the hero,” but we don't view ourselves that way anymore. The patient is the hero. I love how you posit this as a good versus evil, the evil of course being cancer and the good everything that our patients do and that we try to to help to do to overcome that. Adeel Khan: For sure. Mikkael Sekeres: You wrote a really great essay about a woman who was a patient of yours. Can you tell me a little bit about what inspired you this time to make this connection and to write about this woman? Adeel Khan: Within the past year or so as I had been just really- the fortune and misfortune of getting busier, I lamented that I just wasn't able to spend as much time with patients in the way that I used to. One of the beauties of medical school and you know, to some degree residency and certainly fellowship is that you just have a little bit more time as a trainee, student and trainee where you can really bond with your patients I think a little bit more. And so in trying to kind of refresh my motivation, I was thinking about just kind of randomly some stories that I've kept in the back of my mind and this patient's story is one that stood out to me as I was recalling things. It was so fascinating to me because she had the disease which I now focus on. And the way that she viewed it and the way that she viewed it as a part of her life was just so different than what I think most people think of. And in that way it was very revitalizing that her focus in her life was part of a broader theme of the way that I think she viewed society. And this was just one piece of her own part of that much, much larger puzzle. Mikkael Sekeres: You really write lovingly about her and about how meaningful her context was in how you cared for her and what her experience was in the medical system. I wonder if I can read a little bit of what you wrote because it really did grab me as well. I'm going to start out by quoting you where you say, “Outwardly, I had little in common with her. As a young South Asian man growing up in times more conscious of racial injustice, I was far removed from these historical crimes. Though I learned of them during my education, I did not internalize their impact on the patients in front of me in clinic. But through her, I came to comprehend just how scarring and enduring these events can be and how they can rob someone of trust.” Wow, there's a lot there. Could you start with what was your perspective as a young South Asian man growing up in Oklahoma and what your view was of racial injustice compared to what her experience was of racial injustice? Adeel Khan: Yeah, I have to admit I don't know that I thought that much of it back then and I think that that's part of what it is. You know, being someone who was South Asian, I'm Pakistani, I have Indian roots, and coming into American history and as we learned about it there's so much about slavery and the theme of slavery unfortunately and and the struggles that enslaved peoples have. And you know, as a relatively recent immigrant, I didn't see myself in that narrative. I didn't see myself in that historical reality. But I knew about it intellectually, you know, I knew about the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiments, you know, I learned about all these things and and you learned about how atrocious so much of it is. But again, not being so directly connected, I did not put myself in that same role as someone to view it so close to myself. I will say it hit a little bit more after 9/11 when you know, I was randomly stopped at airport security a little bit more often in those days and again, I think that speaks to racial injustices, you know, I was certainly profiled looking back then, I've been held by TSA in the past, but even that is very minor compared to what African Americans have dealt with here. And this patient in just kind of sharing her tidbits during our time together, I was not directly asking her so much of this. She was really offering a lot of it to me as we would talk and she would be very generous in sharing parts of her story. And over time I kind of understood the broader narrative of her life. You know, it was clear how much of all that was actually in the forefront of her head. Adeel Khan: And I think she might have been a little bit more unique in the way that she kept it there, but she was hyper vigilant of issues of society and the roots that brought a given society to where it is here. I kind of got to know her, this is during the COVID pandemic and this was after the injustice of what happened to George Floyd and so it was a theme that I think people were talking about more and so I think she felt comfortable in saying really what was quite a bit that was stewing in the back of her head seemingly at all times. Mikkael Sekeres: It's so interesting you talk about what you endured after 9/11 as being, I'm going to quote you now, “minor” compared to what she's been through, but even a minor affront like that can really compromise your trust. You write about her, “As a Black woman from the deep South, she had grown up learning how to navigate a healthcare system that did not always believe her.” Can you expand on that a little bit? How is it that the healthcare system didn't believe her and what can we do going into interactions with patients from different backgrounds where we're incorporating that there's a compromise of trust and we have to make up for that? Adeel Khan: Yeah, and I think you know, it's so unfortunate that so many people have stories like this where, in her case really it was back pain that was her presenting symptom. This is long before she knew me. And she'd had the back pain for quite some time, but being an older woman, she was in her 70s at that time, she was not in phenomenal health for other reasons. It sounds like she was just kind of ignored, told that it was old age, tendon changes, she did not have meaningful imaging for some time. When she finally did after seeing a slew of different providers, that's when it was revealed like there's something more significant here. And then when you kind of piece that a little bit retrospectively and I think she certainly sensed this and I did when I- hindsight's always 20/20, when I looked through things, it's like, well, this probably could have been caught much earlier. It's just that no one really I think listened to what she was speaking to with her pain and the gravity that was actually behind it. And it just speaks to the fact that I think we have to be more thoughtful in what we take away from patients and not to ignore even small comments because they might be revealing of something much bigger behind them. Mikkael Sekeres: You quote her, you have some really great quotes in your essay where you just listen to what she says and transcribe it because what she says is very meaningful. And one of the quotes you provide from her is, “They don't hear pain the same when it comes from someone like me.” Wow. “When it comes from someone like me,” someone like her, how was it that people weren't hearing her description of pain, something that was different that was going on in her body and how can we be more attentive to people when they complain about things like pain? Adeel Khan: It's unfortunate that there's even known data to show how depending upon a patient's melanin content in their skin, how likely they are to get pain medications and what happens to them is different and this is an unfortunate example of that where I think she just wasn't heard properly. And so it wasn't addressed properly and she was not shy about saying that. I mean I think she sensed that. She was very clear in feeling that herself and in wanting to have better care, she was still prevented and hence why she had to go from provider to provider. Mikkael Sekeres: You've lived in a bunch of different places in the country. I mean, following your path, you've been in Oklahoma, you've been in Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, and now Texas. Do you think that we as providers have to have different levels of sensitivity depending on where in the country we're practicing and how some of our patients' trust in healthcare may have been compromised in those different parts of the country? Adeel Khan: I think absolutely. I mean this particular patient was from Alabama which has a heavy history that she was again very aware of and for those of us reading history books are also very aware of too. And it's interesting how, while the U.S. is in some ways- has some aspects that are monolithic, but it's very much not so. It's very patchy and people are different, you know, if I take one theme that we're talking about here is obviously racial injustice, but if you take something like obesity, you know, prevalence rates are very different throughout the country and attitudes surrounding it are also very different. And I think we do- ought to be mindful that in treating the patient in front of us, it's not done without context. And so how they view their illness and their situation is going to be different depending upon the state, depending upon the city, depending upon actually even the era that they grew up in. So I would say now, if you took actually a similar patient, but you put her in a very modern context post-year 2000, she's likely to have different feelings of the situation around her than someone who was born in this case in the 1940s. And that just speaks to the fact that circumstances change and we should be recognizing that as providers, even though it's not always easy to. Mikkael Sekeres: Well, it just emphasizes how very important it is to know the history of the place where we practice and how it's affected our patients' perceptions of healthcare and trust and being cared for, particularly now as there's such a movement to whitewash that history and eliminate it from major institutions like the Smithsonian. It has been such a pleasure to have Adeel Khan here. He is Assistant Professor of Medicine, Public Health at UT Southwestern in Dallas and wrote just a great JCO article called “A Fight Bigger Than Myeloma.” Adeel, thank you so much for submitting your article and for joining us today. Dr. Adeel Khan: Thank you so much for having me. It's been a pleasure. Mikkael Sekeres: If you've enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or colleague or leave us a review. Your feedback and support helps us continue to have these important conversations. If you're looking for more episodes and context, follow our show on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen and explore more from ASCO at ASCO.org/podcasts. Until next time, this has been Mikkael Sekeres for JCO Cancer Stories: The Art of Oncology. The purpose of this podcast is to educate and to inform. This is not a substitute for professional medical care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests on this podcast express their own opinions, experience, and conclusions. Guest statements on the podcast do not express the opinions of ASCO. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity, or therapy should not be construed as an ASCO endorsement.   Show Notes Like, share and subscribe so you never miss an episode and leave a rating or review.  Guest Bio: Dr Adeel Khan is an Assistant Professor of Medicine and Public Health at UT Southwestern.

On this episode of the BobbyCast, Bobby sits down with music icon, Lionel Richie at the State Theater in Austin, Texas to have a one-hour candid conversation about Lionel's new memoir titled 'Truly'. Lionel opens up like never before — taking us from his childhood in Tuskegee, Alabama, to the global stages that made him a household name. He shares how his grandmother’s wisdom shaped his outlook on life, the humor that helped him navigate the Jim Crow South, and the moment music truly became his purpose. Lionel looks back on the Commodores forming while in college, what it was like opening for the Jackson Five, and the stories behind timeless hits like “Hello,” “Lady,” and “All Night Long.” He also reflects on the magic of “We Are the World,” the sacrifices behind success, and why family still anchors everything he does.It’s a warm, inspiring conversation filled with laughter, lessons, and a few unforgettable stories from one of music’s most enduring legends. Check out Lionel's memoir titled Truly HERE: He tells stories about his early life in Tuskegee, Alabama, being super shy as a kid, joining The Commodores, struggles, loss, faith and more. Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does leadership look like at the highest levels of service?  SUMMARY In this episode of Long Blue Leadership, Col. (Ret.) Michael Black '85 discusses his journey from cadet to commanding the White House Communications Agency. He reflects on what it means to be a calm, steady presence in high-pressure environments — and how small daily practices can shape a lifetime of leadership. The full episode is now available.   SHARE THIS PODCAST FACEBOOK  |  LINKEDIN   MICHAEL'S LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS Develop a personal leadership philosophy that guides your actions (like Michael's 5F's: Family, Fitness, Flying, Fairness, and Fun). Always be aware that people are watching you and learning from your example, even when you don't realize it. Nurture relationships continuously - they are critical for long-term success and mentorship. Practice empathy and compassion, especially during difficult moments like delivering challenging news Maintain a holistic approach to fitness - physical, mental, and spiritual well-being are interconnected. Take pride in leaving organizations better than you found them and focus on developing future leaders. Be fair and be perceived as fair - understanding different perspectives is crucial to effective leadership. Incorporate fun and balance into your professional life to maintain team morale and personal resilience. Stay connected to your roots and be willing to mentor the next generation, sharing your experiences and lessons learned. Continuously practice self-reflection and ensure you're living up to your core values and leadership principles.   CHAPTERS Chapter 1 - 0:00:00 - 0:08:55: Family and Military Roots   Michael Black shares his background as a military brat and the educational legacy of his family. Chapter 2 - 0:08:55 - 0:12:10: Delivering a Difficult Notification A profound leadership moment where Black sensitively delivers news of a combat-related death to a staff sergeant's family. Chapter 3 - 0:12:10 - 0:18:40: The 5F Leadership Philosophy Introduction Col. Black explains the origin and core components of his leadership framework: Family, Fitness, Flying, Fairness, and Fun. Chapter 4 - 0:18:40 - 0:25:59: Detailed Exploration of 5F Philosophy   In-depth breakdown of each leadership principle, including personal anecdotes and practical applications. Chapter 5 - 0:25:59 - 0:32:21: Family Legacy and Academy Experience   Discussion of his son's Air Force Academy journey and the importance of nurturing relationships across generations. Chapter 6 - 0:32:21 - 0:38:36: Mentorship and Relationship Building Michael shares his approach to mentoring cadets and the significance of maintaining long-term professional connections. Chapter 7 - 0:38:36 - 0:40:13: Leadership in Civilian and Nonprofit Sectors Reflection on applying military leadership principles in private and nonprofit environments. Chapter 8 - 0:40:13 - 0:41:28: Personal Reflection and Leadership Advice  Final thoughts on leadership, self-improvement, and the importance of continuous personal development.   ABOUT COL. BLACK BIO Michael “Mike” B. Black, vice president for Defense, joined the nonprofit Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association International in July 2022. He is a senior cyber/information technology leader with more than four decades of experience in cyber operations, communications, project/program management, leadership disciplines and organizational development. As AFCEA's vice president for Defense, Col. Black builds strong professional relationships with government, industry and academia partners to position AFCEA International as a leader in the cyber, defense, security, intelligence and related information technology disciplines. Col. Black leads defense operations in support of planning and executing global, large-scale, technically focused, trade shows/conferences supporting Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Operations, Cyber and Homeland Security.  Col. Black is focused on providing opportunities for engagement between and among government, industry and academia. Prior to joining AFCEA International, Col. Black served as chief operating officer at Concise Network Solutions for four years, directly supporting the CEO in developing, executing and managing CNS's master business plan. Prior to joining CNS, he served as the COO and chief corporate development officer at JMA Solutions for two and a half years, working in concert with senior executives to lead operations and the planning and execution of strategies. Prior to joining JMA Solutions, he served as the COO at Premier Management Corporation for four years, where he was responsible for day-to-day operations, all business units and the company's profit and loss. Prior to joining the private sector, Col. Black spent 26 years in the U.S. Air Force holding various communications and leadership positions at many levels. He culminated his distinguished military career as a colonel, commander, White House Communications Agency, leading a 1,200-person team of selectively manned military, then-Department of Defense civilian and contract personnel to provide “no fail” telecommunications services for the president, vice president, named successors, first lady, senior White House staff, National Security staff, U.S. Secret Service and the White House Military Office. Col. Black holds a Bachelor of Science in basic science from the U.S. Air Force Academy, where he was a Distinguished Military Graduate. He holds a Master of Science in national resource strategy, with an information operations concentration, from the National Defense University, Industrial College of the Armed Forces; a Master's Degree in military arts and science from the Army Command & General Staff College; and a Master of Arts Degree in management from Webster University. He is a published author, including writing several leadership articles for The New Face of Leadership Magazine as well the thesis Coalition Command, Control, Communication, and Intelligence Systems Interoperability: A Necessity or Wishful Thinking? BIO EXCERPTED FROM AFCEA.ORG   CONNECT WITH MICHAEL IG: @chequethemike FB: @michael black LinkedIn: Michael Black   CONNECT WITH THE LONG BLUE LEADERSHIP PODCAST NETWORK TEAM Send your feedback or nominate a guest: socialmedia@usafa.org Ted Robertson | Producer:  Ted.Robertson@USAFA.org    Ryan Hall | Director:  Ryan.Hall@USAFA.org  Bryan Grossman | Copy Editor:  Bryan.Grossman@USAFA.org Wyatt Hornsby | Executive Producer:  Wyatt.Hornsby@USAFA.org      ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS   TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Guest, Col. (Ret.) Michael Black '85 | Host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99   Naviere Walkewicz Welcome to Long Blue Leadership, where transformative journeys of Air Force Academy graduates come to life. There are moments in a leader's life that leave a permanent mark. For my guest today, Col. (Ret.) Michael Black, USAFA Class of '85, one such moment came when he was actually sent to deliver news of a combat-related death. It was the first time he'd ever been tasked with that duty, and knew he only had one chance to get it right. As he sat with the widow, Michael found the strength to guide the family through their grief. That part of Michael's story speaks to the depth of his empathy and the calm steadiness that defines him as a leader. We'll explore much more of Michael's journey, from leading the White House Communications team to mentoring cadets at the Academy to daily practices that ground him and the framework that guides him today, what he calls the five Fs of leadership: family, fitness, flying, fairness and fun a guide not only for his life, but for the leaders he inspires. Michael, welcome to Long Blue Leadership. Michael Black Naviere, thank you for having me, and thank you for that very kind introduction. I'm so happy to be here, and I'm just thankful for what you guys do, the AOG and putting this together and telling stories. I think this is amazing. So thank you for the opportunity. Naviere Walkewicz Well, we're grateful you're here. You got your silver on. You got your ‘85 Best Alive, you know, I mean, I'm just blown away here. The class crest… Michael Black Yeah, got it all, you know, the crest and the two squadrons that I was in. I'm just excited, back here for our 40th reunion. Yeah. So that's amazing. So fellowship and fun with your classmates, and just seeing the mountains, you know. Getting off the plane and looking west and seeing the mountains and seeing God's creation is just amazing. And then, of course, the Academy in the background, you know, pretty excited. Naviere Walkewicz Wonderful, wonderful. Well, we're going to jump right in. And actually, the topic is a bit sensitive, but I think it's really important, because we know that when we all raise our right hand, some are prepared and they give all. But not everyone has to actually give the news to the family when their loved one is lost, so maybe you can share what that was like. Michael Black Thank you for allowing me to talk about that. You hit the nail on the head when you said you only have one chance to get it right when you're talking to the family. And so I had a young staff sergeant that was deployed down range at the Horn of Africa, and he happened to be a radio operator in a helicopter supporting the Marines. And there was a mid-air collision that happened while he was deployed, and he was one of the people that perished. So the first notification that I had to make was duty status: whereabouts unknown — to say that to the family. And of course, you can think about the range of emotions that are associated with that. They don't know. We don't know.   Naviere Walkewicz There's still hope. There's not hope.   Michael Black So that was the first day. So going over there with my first sergeant, a medical team, chaplain, you know, that kind of thing, to support us and the family.   Naviere Walkewicz And what rank were you at that time?   Michael Black So I was a lieutenant colonel. So I was a squadron commander of the 1st Comm Squadron at Langley Air Force Base. And I like to say, you don't get to practice that. You have one time to get it right. At least back then, there was not a lot of training to do that. It doesn't happen that often, and so having to make that notification was a tough thing. It was one of the hardest things, if not the hardest thing, I had to do in the service. Two young boys. He had two sons, and at the time, his spouse was military as well, so I go over there to do that the first day. You can imagine, you know, knocking on the door, right, and I'm in uniform, and just the emotions that they can be going through. So we're sitting on the couch in their house, two young boys. I believe their ages were 3 and 5 at the time, they were very young. And I explained to Michelle what we knew. And again, it's scripted. I can't say more or less than that, because 1) don't know, right? And 2), you just don't want to speculate on anything. And then we're waiting to find out his status. So then I have to go back the next day to make that notification, and you're representing the chief of staff of the United States Air Force, and that's kind of something that's scripted for you. “I'm here on the behalf of the Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force, and I regret to inform you of the untimely death of your spouse.” The part that was even more heartening for me was after I told her, and with the boys sitting, I believe, on either side of me, she said, “And now Col. Black is going to tell you what happened to your dad.” That was a tough thing to do. And I would say it was the hardest thing that I had to do in the Air Force, in my career, and reflect on “you have one chance to get that right.” I believe we got it right, me and my team, but that was tough. Naviere Walkewicz Wow. Have you kept in touch with the family? Michael Black Yes, I keep in touch with Michelle, just from — just a personal because I'm very personal, outgoing, as you know. And so I've kept in touch with Michelle and the boys. But we're forever bonded by that, and I think that's important to stay in touch. And that's kind of one of my things I think we'll get into a little bit later in the conversation, but that's what I do. Naviere Walkewicz Well, it touches, certainly into, I think, that the family aspect of the five Fs, and because it seems like you even take in them as your family. And I'm curious about your family, because when you're going through that, I mean, you have at least a son — you have son, right?   Michael Black Yes, and two daughters.   Naviere Walkewicz Two daughters. So were you thinking about — did you put on your dad hat in that moment?   Michael Black I certainly did put on my dad hat and, and I think that helped in things. And I think all of the training that I got along the way about dealing with tough situations, and being a leader, it helped. But I took it upon myself after that to talk to other commanders. And in fact, my wing commander at the time, Burt Field, Gen. field was a '79 grad, and we talked, and that also brought him and I closer, because he also asked me to brief the other squadron commanders on that process and how I handled that. And I know when — to this day, Gen. Field and I are still very connected, and he's pretty engaged right now with the Air Force Association's birthday and all that. But a great mentor of mine who also helped in dealing with that. But he was extremely supportive and, and I think that had a factor in just how he evaluated me, right, how I handled that situation?   Naviere Walkewicz Well, it sounds like you certainly picked up some of those traits of taking care of your people recognizing empathy within processes and sharing it. I'm curious, were you always like this, or did you see some of this emulated from your family? Michael Black No, it's a great question. I am a military brat. My dad was in the Army. My dad went to Tuskegee — it was called Tuskegee Institute at that time. My mom went to Alabama A&M, so two schools in Alabama. They're from a very small towns in Alabama. My dad's from Beatrice, Alabama — which is less than 200 people today — and my mom is from Vredenburgh, Alabama. It's about 15 miles away, and it's even smaller than Beatrice. But they went to the same elementary school and high school, so high school sweethearts, and then they went off to college. And then dad got a direct commission in the Army, the Signal Corps. Well, he started out Medical Service Corps, but getting back to your question, so yes, family with that, and even take a step further back to my grandparents, on both sides of the family, but particularly with my paternal grandparents, they went out and visited the Tuskegee Institute at that time, and they saw the statue of Lifting the Veil of Ignorance there, and they decided at that point that they wanted their kids to go to that school. And so there's seven kids within my dad's family, and six of them went to Tuskegee. Naviere Walkewicz   Wow. So I want to fast forward a little bit, and you can certainly share whether it was during the Academy or after graduation, but you have kind of had this great foundation from your family. Let's talk a little bit about the Academy or after-Academy experience, where you had seen additional time where you had grown as a leader. Was there a particular experience that can come to mind, where another shaping of this leadership journey that you've been on? Michael Black Yeah, I think there's multiple throughout my career. I mean, I went to the Army Command and General Staff College for my intermediate professional military education. And there's a story there too. My dad was in the Army, and so I wanted to experience some of the things that my dad did, even though I was Air Force. And so one of my mentors, now-retired Lt. Gen. Harry Raduege, was instrumental in me getting selected for Army Command and General Staff College. And so I went there, and I think that was a big portion of my shaping, although had mentors and folks and coaches in my life leading up to that were, you know, helped shape me, but going to that school… And what I noticed when I got there that the Army was very serious about leadership and leadership philosophy, so much so that we took a class on that where we had to develop a leadership philosophy. And so in taking that class, before the Christmas break, I found out that I was going to be a squadron commander. So I was a major, and I was going to be a squadron commander. And so in that leadership course, I said, “Well, I'm going to go be a squadron commander. I'm going to the fifth combat con group in Georgia. Let me make this philosophy that I'm doing in class be my philosophy, so that when I get there…” And that was really the first time that I thought very serious about, “OK, what is my leadership philosophy?” And I had been a flight commander before, and had people under my tutelage, if you will. But being a squadron commander, you know, being on G series orders. And you know, we know how the military takes the importance of being a commander. And so having that so I did decide to develop my philosophy during that time. And you mentioned the five Fs earlier. And so that was — that became the opportunity to develop that. So family, that's what it was. That's when I developed that — in that course. So family, fitness, flying, fairness and fun — the five Fs. I worked on that when I got there. And so then when I got to take command, I had prepared all of that stuff in this academic environment, and I used it to a T and I briefed the squadron after I took command. I think this is my command philosophy, the five Fs. I subsequently had the opportunity to command two more times after that, another squadron, and then at the White House Communications Agency, which is now wing command equivalent. So had the opportunity to tweak and refine, but the foundation was still the five Fs. And so in doing that, and I can go into a little detail. So you know, family is your immediate family, your your blood family, and that that kind of thing. But family also encompasses your unit, your extended family, you know, and part of that. And so I always tell people you know, your family, you don't want to be the only one at your retirement ceremony because you neglected your family. And I've done many retirement ceremonies. In fact, I've done 25-plus since I retired. Well, that shows you really made no so family is, is important, take care of your family. And I, you know, one of the things I said about that to the folks was if you in your unit, if folks are getting assigned unit, permanent changes, station, PCS to your unit, and they haven't found the place to live in the due time and whatever the house hunting days are, I always gave my folks the option of give them some more time to find a place. They may be looking for schools, I mean looking for a place that just fits the environment that they need. And let's give them that time now, because they're not going to be effective in the organization if they're worried about where they have to live, where their kids are going to go to school and that kind of thing. So take care of all of that, and then get them to work, and they'll be that much more effective because they won't have to worry about where they're living, where the kids are going to school. So take care of your family fitness. You understand physical fitness and what you do and all of that, and I admire all of your accomplishments in that. And so physical fitness in the military kind of goes without saying. You have to maintain certain standards and do that, and do a PT and take a test and that kind of thing. But fitness is more than just physical fitness. It's spiritual and mental fitness. Now I would never be one to tell somebody this is how you need to nurture your spiritual and mental fitness. I think that's personal. But if your spiritual mental fitness is not being nourished, you're not going to be doing yourself any good, your team any good. And honestly, you would be able to tell if an individual is struggling with their spiritual or mental fitness, particularly as a leader and just kind of looking and observing characteristics and the behavior of folks. So I basically told my team, I want you to do whatever it takes to nurture your spiritual and mental fitness, whatever you need to do — if it's meditating, if it's praying, if it's walking, whatever is personal to you, but make sure that it's nurtured. But I also told my folks that if you think my spiritual fitness and mental fitness is out of balance, I want you to tell me, because I might have blinders on. I could be focused on things, just like they could be focused on things, and I would tell them. And I think folks really appreciated the candor and the openness of the leader, the commander, you know, saying that, yes, I want you to tell me if you think my spiritual mental fitness is, you know, is out of balance.   Naviere Walkewicz Did you ever have anyone tell you that?   Michael Black I did. I had strong relationships with my first sergeant, or my command sergeant major, the senior enlisted adviser. So we were, you know, we're hand-in-hand and all the places I was at. And so, yes, I've had them. I've had my wife tell me that. So I think that's important. I just — like I said, you can easily have blinders on and maybe just not see that or have blind spots. And speaking of that, I've written a leadership article on blind spots. I've kind of studied that and understand that. Flying — at the time the primary mission of the Air Force was flying. And so I'd always say, “What is your role in supporting the primary mission, or what is our role in supporting the primary mission of the Air Force?” So make sure you understand that. As a communicator, how do you contribute to the primary mission, or as a logistician, or as information management? But understand what your role is in the primary mission of the Air Force. Fairness, as a leader — it is so important for the leader to be fair, right? It can affect good order and discipline if you're not fair, but equally important is to be perceived as being fair. So I could think I'm being fair, I could think that I'm being fair, but if the perception of the unit, the team, is that I'm not being fair, that's just as detrimental to the mission as actually not being fair. And so I think perceptions are important, and you need to understand that. You need to be aware of the perceptions; you need to be ready to receive the information and the feedback from your team on that. And so I stress the importance of also the perception people have different management. I could be looking at something over there, and I say, “OK, yeah, sky is blue over there,” but somebody's looking at it from a different you know, they may see a touch of some clouds in there, and so they see some light in there, and from their vantage point. And it's just like that in life: Respect everybody's vantage point in things. And so that was the fairness aspect. Then finally, fun. I'm a person that likes to have fun.   Naviere Walkewicz You are?!   Michael Black Yes, I am. I'm a person that loves to have fun. And so for me, I grew up playing sports. And so I played sports throughout my Air Force career. So that was kind of one of the things I did for fun, intramurals.   Naviere Walkewicz What was your favorite sport?   Michael Black My favorite sport was baseball growing up. I mean, I dreamed about trying to play in the Major Leagues and that kind of stuff. And I played on a lot of baseball teams growing up, and then when I got into the service, played softball, and I played competitive softball. Back in the day, they have base softball teams, and so you would, you know, try out for the team, and I would try out, and I played on base team at probably at least four or five bases that I was at. So I was, these are my own words: I was good. So I played and was very competitive in intramurals. That's another way to bring your team together — camaraderie. They see the boss out there playing. And I always would tell folks that on the squadron team: They're not playing me because I'm the commander. They're playing me because I'm good. I can contribute to the wins in a game. But so it's very competitive. I wasn't a win at all costs, but it wasn't fun to lose. So being competitive and fun. So that's one of the things I did for fun. I also follow professional sports. San Antonio Spurs is my basketball team; Washington Commanders, my football team. So I would go to those events, those games, those contests and stuff like that. Music, concerts, still do that kind of stuff with my kids and my family incorporate fun into — so it's not all work and no play. I think you do yourself justice by, winding down relaxing a little bit and having fun and that kind of thing. And so I encourage my team to do that. Wasn't gonna tell people what they needed to do for fun. I think that's personal, but having fun is important and it helps strike that balance. So that's really the five Fs. And I carried that, as I said, every time I command, every time I've, you know, unit that I've been associated with, particularly after the 2000 graduation from Army Command and Staff College. And I still carry that five Fs today And incidentally, I think the if you bump into somebody who was in one of my units, they're going to remember the five Fs, or some portion of it. In fact, I have a couple mentees that commanded after me, and they adopted the five Fs as their command philosophy. And that's kind of something that's very satisfying as a leader to have somebody adopt your leadership style. They think that it was good for them while they were in the unit. And it's very flattering to see that afterwards. I mean, so much so that I've had people that were in my unit, and then they got assigned to one of my mentee's unit, and they would call me up and they'd say, “Hey, Col. Black, you know, Col. Packler says his command philosophy is the five Fs.” Yeah, I said Marc was in my unit at Langley, and he probably felt that. But that's, that's a true story. Naviere Walkewicz That's a legacy, right there; that's wonderful. Well, speaking of legacy, you have a son that's also a graduate. So talk about that. I mean, you were expected to go to college. It wasn't an if, it was where? How about your children? Was that kind of the expectation? Michael Black So my wife is a college graduate. She's a nurse as well. And so we preached education throughout. And just as an aside, shout out to my wife, who just completed her Ph.D.   Naviere Walkewicz Wow, congratulations!   Michael Black Yes. Wilda Black, last week, in doing that. And so between my family, my immediate family — so my wife, and my two daughters and my son, there are 15 degrees between us.   Naviere Walkewicz And you?   Michael Black And me. So five us, there are 15 degrees. My wife has two master's, a bachelor's and now a Ph.D. My oldest daughter has a bachelor's and two master's. My son has a bachelor's and a master's. My younger daughter has a bachelor's and a master's, and I have a bachelor's and three master's degrees. So I think that adds up to 15.   Naviere Walkewicz I lost count. Social sciences major here.   Michael Black So yes, education. And so my son — he really liked quality things, likes quality things growing up. And so he was looking at schools and researching and looking at the Ivy League, some of the Ivy League schools, and some other schools that, you know, had strong reputations. I purposely did not push the Air Force Academy to him because I didn't want him to go for the wrong reasons. I didn't want him to go because I went there and that kind of thing. But late in the game, you know, in his summer, going into his senior year of high school, he came to me and said, “Hey…” and I'm paraphrasing a little bit, “Dad, you know, your alma mater is pretty good, you know, pretty, you know, pretty has a strong reputation.” And I said, “Yeah, you know, you know, strong academic curriculum and everything else there.” So that summer he said, “Well, I'm thinking I might want to go there.” And I'm thinking to myself, “That's a little bit late in the game, like the summer going into senior year.”   Naviere Walkewicz Did you recruit your mom again?   Michael Black Mom got involved. And then I think you know Carolyn Benyshek. So Carolyn was the director of admissions. I reached out to her and just said, “Hey, I got my son that's interested.” They were actually coming to Baltimore, I believe, for a…   Naviere Walkewicz The Falcon Experience. Right.   Michael Black And so we went to see her, and I'll just kind of say the rest is history. Through her help and guidance, through my son's qualifications — he was able to get in. He went to the Prep School, which is great, and I just want to give a shout out to the Prep School for that. I did not attend the Prep School, but I saw the value of my son going to the Prep School and then coming to the Academy. So I just to this day, thankful for our Prep School and how they prepare folks.   Naviere Walkewicz We feel similarly about that.   Michael Black So, yeah. So he went. And so, of course, a proud dad, right? Your son following in your footsteps, and that kind of thing. So Clinton, Clinton Black is in the Space Force now, and he's assigned to Vandenberg. But my son, he was a soccer player growing up, played a lot of competitive soccer, came here and decided that he wanted to do Wings of Blue, and so he was on Wings of Blue parachute team. And the neat thing about that is that the jump wings that my son wears are the jump wings that my dad earned at Airborne School in 1964, '65 — sometime in the early ‘60s. And so my dad was still living at the time and so he was able to come out here and pin the wings on Clinton. So it skipped a generation because I didn't jump or anything. But my son jumped, and he has mid-500 number of jumps that he's had. And so my dad was able to see him jump, and that was even though Airborne is a teeny bit different than free fall, but still, you know, parachuting, and all of that. So getting to see Clinton excel and do that and see him jump into the stadium, and that kind of thing. He jumped with some of the former Navy SEALs in the X Games, you know, in the mountains. So that was just a proud parent moment. Naviere Walkewicz Wow. That is very exciting. And so, through all of these experiences that you had, I keep wanting to go back to the five Fs .yYu had mentioned earlier that you did some refinement to it. So where you are now, how are you using them? How have they been refined? I mean, flying. What is that? Michael Black So, I asked people to take a little bit of a leap in that, understand where it came from, in my 5s but that aspect refers to the mission, right? And so the Air Force mission has evolved to include space and that kind of thing. But even on the private side, the civilian side, I still use the five F's. And so the flying aspect just refers to the mission, or whatever the mission of your organization is. And so there was some refinement as we brought in space into our mission, but it really reflected on the mission. And so I had different AFSCs that worked for me in in the different units that I was at, and also different services. And so understanding the service aspect of things also was something that I had to take into consideration as far as keeping and refining that, at the White House Communications Agency, about 1,200 military — more Army than Air Force, more Air Force than Navy, more Navy than Marine Corps, and more Marine Corps than Coast Guard. And so being an Air Force commander of a joint unit that had more Army folks in it, you have to understand that lingo, and be able to speak cool and that kind of thing. Dad loved that. And so going to the Army Command General Staff College, and, getting some of that philosophy and understanding that. And then I went to what's now called the Eisenhower School, now ICAF, the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, which is another joint school. And so being around that helped me in those aspects. But really applying that throughout and after I retired, I did 10 years in the private sector with a couple of different small businesses that were government contracted focused, providing professional services, but still, as the chief operating officer of each one of those, it's a pretty high leadership position within the company and so I talked about the five Fs in some terms that my team could understand that, and so still apply that. And then now, with three years working for the nonprofit, the AFCEA organization, where we bring government, industry and academia together to do IT, cyber kind of things, machine learning, artificial intelligence — I still have that philosophy to buy that and what I do, I think it's something that's applicable across the board, not just military. At least I've made it applicable. Naviere Walkewicz I was just gonna ask that, because talk about the private sector and — some of our listeners, they take off the uniform, but they still have that foundation of the military, but they're working with people who maybe don't have that foundation of the military. So how did you translate that in a way that they could feel that same foundation, even though they hadn't gone through a military family or through the Air Force Academy? Michael Black Yeah, no, that's a great question, Naviere. And I think, as a leader, you have to be aware of that. You have to be aware of your team and their background and their experiences. You also you have to speak their lingo, right? I mean, I can't talk just Air Force or military lingo. We talk a lot in acronyms. Naviere Walkewicz Like AFCEA. And I'm sure many know it but would you mind spelling it out? Michael Black Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association. And even though we have that we are more than the armed forces now, so we really are known by just AFCEA, even though that's what that acronym stands for. So I mean, I work with Homeland Security, VA and that kind of thing. But to your point, getting folks to understand where I'm coming from, and I need to understand where they're coming from, you have to take the time, put in the work to do that, so that you can communicate with your folks, and so that they understand where you're coming from, and also, so that they feel valued, right? That you understand where they're coming from. And I think all of that is important. And I tried to make sure that I did that, and I had coaches, mentors and sponsors along the way. So I learned when some of my mentors transition from the military time, and so when they went to go work in the private sector, I still lean on them. “OK, how did you make this transition? And what is it about? And what are the similarities and what are the differences? What do I need to consider in doing that?” And I'm thankful, and that goes back to one key point that I want to make about relationships and nurturing that relationship. I mentioned Gen. Field, worked for him in the early 2000s. But here we are, 2025, and he's in my contacts, he will take my call, he will respond to a text, and vice versa. You know, building that relationship. And so he's with a nonprofit now, and so I still stay in touch with him. The director of the White House Military Office was a Navy admiral that I worked for when I was at the White House. He is now the president and CEO of the United States Naval Institute — Adm. Spicer. You know, 20-something, 15 years ago, worked for him and now we're working together on a big conference. But those relationships are important in nurturing those relationships. And I learned about nurturing from my family. You know, my grandparents, who did that. My grandfather was a farmer. He had to nurture his crops for them to produce. So the same thing, analogy applies in relationships; you have to nurture that relationship. And you know, it circled all the way back to, you know, our 40-year reunion now, and my classmates that are here and nurturing those relationships with those classmates over the years is important to me. I'm the connector within my class, or the nucleus. I mean, those are two nicknames that my classmates have given me: the Col. Connector and Nucleus, and I embrace those. Naviere Walkewicz Yes, that's wonderful. I know that you also mentor cadets. And I think my question for you, from the aspect of some of our listeners, is, did you seek out the cadets? Did they seek you out? How does that mentorship relationship start? Because you talked about how, like, for example, Gen. Field, you had that relationship years ago. That's kind of carried through. But how do you know when that mentorship is beginning? Michael Black I think both of those aspects, as you mentioned. Do they seek that? There are cadets that seek that based upon just what they've experienced and what they've learned. And then some of the cadets know people that I know, and so they've been referred to me, and all that. Some were — like their parents, I worked with their parents. I mean, particularly in the Class of 2023 there are three young ladies that I mentored in the Class of 2023 one whose father worked with me on the White House Communications Agency, one whose mother babysat my kids OK. And then one who's ROTC instructor in junior in high school was my first sergeant. So in those three instances, I was connected to those folks through relationship with either their parents or somebody that worked for me and that that kind of thing. And that was a neat thing to, you know, to be here. I did the march back with those young ladies, and then I connected those three young ladies who did not know each other at the march back, when we got back on the Terrazzo, I found all three of them and explained my relationship with each of them. And they were able to be connected throughout and two of them I actually commissioned, So that was really, really nice. And so, you know, seeking mentorship is, well, mentorship has just been important to me. I benefited from mentorship, and I want to return that favor. I am the chairman of the Air Force Cadet Officer Mentor Association, AFCOMA, whose foundation is mentorship, fellowship and scholarship, and so I'm passionate about mentorship and doing that. I've seen the benefits of it. People did it for me, and I think you can shorten the learning curve. I think you can just help folks along the way. So I'm very passionate about that. Naviere Walkewicz Well, this has been amazing. I think there's two questions I have left for you. The first one being — and I think we've learned a lot about this along the way — but if you were to summarize, what is something you are doing every day to be better as a leader? Michael Black I think every day I take a deep look inside myself, and am I living and breathing my core values? And what am I doing to help the next generation? You know, trying to put that on my schedule, on my radar, that's important to me. And whether I'm at work with AFCEA, whether I'm out here at my 40th reunion, whether I'm on vacation, I always take the time to mentor folks and pass on that. I think that's something that's passionate for me. You mentioned, when we talked about the retirement ceremonies. I mean, I've done 20-plus since I retired. In fact, I have one in November, but it will be my 27th retirement ceremony since I retired. And those things are important to me. And so I reflect, I try to keep my fitness — my physical, spiritual and mental fitness, in balance every day so that I can be effective and operate at a peak performance at the drop of the hat. You know, being ready. And so that's important to me. So there's some self-analysis, and I do live and breathe the five F's. I think that's important. And I think I've proven to myself that that is something that is relatable, not only to my time in the military, but my time in the private sector, and now my time in a nonprofit. And I just continue to do that so self-reflection and really practicing particularly the fitness aspect of the five Fs. Naviere Walkewicz Wow, that's outstanding. And then you probably share this with your mentees. But what is something that you would help our aspiring leaders — those who are already in leadership roles in any facet of it — but what is something that they can do today so that they will be more effective as a leader? Michael Black So I think being aware that people are watching you and your actions. Even when you think that somebody is not watching, they are watching. And so they are trying to learn what to do next, and to be aware of that. And so I think, again, that goes with what you asked me first: What do I do every day. But also being aware of that, so that you can be that example to folks. And then take the time, have some pride in leaving the organization better than it was when you got there. I mean, it's a cliche, but I think I take a lot of pride in that. And then, when the team does good, everybody does good, so you shouldn't necessarily be out there for any kind of glory. That's going to come. But do it for the right reasons. And provide… give the people the tools, the resources and the environment to be successful. And in… I just take satisfaction when I see one of my mentees get squadron command, go do something like the current commander of the White House Communications Agency, Col. Kevin Childs. He was a captain and a major in the organization when I was there. Nothing makes me happier than to see my mentees excel. And then, in this particular instance, he's holding a job that I had, and we still talk. I mean, he had me come out there to speak to the unit about a month ago. And those things give me a lot of pride and satisfaction and confirmation that I am doing the right thing. And so I'm excited about that. Naviere Walkewicz Well, I can say, from the time that I met you a few years ago, you are living what your five Fs. I see it every time you help champion others. Every time I'm around you I'm  energized. So this has been a true joy. Has there been anything that I haven't asked you that you would like to share with our listeners? Michael Black Well, I do want to say personally, thank you to you for all that you do and what the association is doing here. This Long Blue conversation, Long Blue Line — I think this is important to share. There's a Class of 1970 that's in the hotel with us, and I don't know, really, any of those folks, but when I see them walking around with their red hat on — that was their color — and I think about, “OK, 15 years before me.” And so I'm 62. These guys are, if I did the public math, right, 77, 78, maybe even older, depending upon what they did, and still out there doing things, and some of them here with their spouses and that kind of thing. I was just talking to one of the classmates this morning, I said, “You know, I wonder if we're going to be like this when our 55th reunion is,” and they were walking around, and most were in good health and able to do things. So that gives a lot of pride. But, what you're doing, what the rest of the folks here are doing, I think this is amazing. I love the new building, the studio that we're in. This is my first time in the new building, so I'm thankful for this opportunity, and just excited about what you guys do. Naviere Walkewicz Well, thank you so much for that. It's been an absolute pleasure having you on Long Blue Leadership. Michael Black Well, I appreciate it. It's been an honor, and I'm glad you guys timed this for my '85 Best Alive reunion and in the new studio. Naviere Walkewicz Yes, wonderful. Well, as we bring today's conversation to a close, Michael left a reminder for us that stands to me. As a leader, you're always on, you're always being watched. You know your steady presence and deep empathy were forged in life's hardest moments, from guiding a young family through unimaginable loss to breaking the barriers at the highest levels of service to mentoring cadets who will carry forward the legacy of leadership. And then there's that framework he lived by, the five Fs of leadership. It is practical as it is powerful, family, fitness, flying mission, fairness and fun, each one a reminder that leadership is about balance grounding and the courage to keep perspective no matter the challenge. His story reminds us that true leaders create more leaders, and when we anchor ourselves in purpose, faith and these five Fs, we leave behind a legacy that lasts. Thank you for listening to Long Blue Leadership. I'm Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz. Until next time. KEYWORDS Michael Black, Air Force leadership, 5F leadership philosophy, military mentorship, leadership development, combat communication, White House Communications, Space Force, veteran leadership, empathetic leadership, military career progression, leadership principles, professional growth, organizational effectiveness, cadet mentoring, military communication strategy, leadership resilience, Air Force Academy graduate, leadership philosophy, team building, professional relationships.       The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation    

On this episode of the BobbyCast, Bobby sits down with music icon, Lionel Richie at the State Theater in Austin, Texas to have a one-hour candid conversation about Lionel's new memoir titled 'Truly'. Lionel opens up like never before — taking us from his childhood in Tuskegee, Alabama, to the global stages that made him a household name. He shares how his grandmother’s wisdom shaped his outlook on life, the humor that helped him navigate the Jim Crow South, and the moment music truly became his purpose. Lionel looks back on the Commodores forming while in college, what it was like opening for the Jackson Five, and the stories behind timeless hits like “Hello,” “Lady,” and “All Night Long.” He also reflects on the magic of “We Are the World,” the sacrifices behind success, and why family still anchors everything he does.It’s a warm, inspiring conversation filled with laughter, lessons, and a few unforgettable stories from one of music’s most enduring legends. Check out Lionel's memoir titled Truly HERE: He tells stories about his early life in Tuskegee, Alabama, being super shy as a kid, joining The Commodores, struggles, loss, faith and more. Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textEpisode Five of HBCU Road Warriors opens with a heartfelt message from Steven J. Gaither following the recent shootings surrounding HBCU homecomings. SJG delivers a passionate plea to take care of our institutions, our students, and one another before diving into a weekend full of statement wins and emotional moments across Black college football.In this week's B2A (Belt To A$$) segment, the crew breaks down dominant performances from Jackson State, Texas Southern, and others who left no doubt on the scoreboard. Then it's on to Almost Doesn't Count, where Prairie View, North Carolina A&T, and Hampton came painfully close but couldn't seal the deal.The D2 spotlight shines bright this week — Johnson C. Smith stuns Virginia State, Fayetteville State dominates Bowie, Morehouse ends a long drought with a win over Tuskegee, and Bluefield State makes history with its first CIAA victory since 1954.Cobi checks in on Delaware State, Josh analyzes Virginia Union's commanding win over Winston-Salem State, and SJG asks the question: “Which way is up?” as teams across the HBCU landscape try to find their footing.Before wrapping up, the crew hands out Helmet Stickers to standout players, coaches, and moments that embodied the “Road Warrior” spirit of the week.It's reflection, respect, and real talk — all rooted in HBCU pride. Tap in, join the conversation, and keep showing love to the culture that raised us.Support the show

In 1932, the U.S. Public Health Service launched what they claimed was a study on “bad blood” in rural Alabama. In reality, it was a 40-year-long lie: hundreds of Black men with syphilis were deliberately left untreated, even after penicillin became the standard cure. Known today as the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment, this shocking violation of trust exposed deep systemic racism and reshaped the way medical research is conducted.

From major changes coming to Air Force Basic Training  (11:37), to reviewing SecWar's speech (27:56), to remembering one of the last original Tuskegee Airmen who lived to be 100 (54:14), this episode covers both today's headlines and hidden stories from the past.  We also play the “Guess the Score” game with military biography movies (58:47), and take a deep dive into Project Iceworm—the Cold War plan to build nuclear missile sites under the ice of Greenland in 1959 (01:13:21). A mix of history, news, and fun that you don't want to miss! https://lateforchangeover.com/

Send us a textWeek 5 of SIAC football did not disappoint! Jamie Walker and Sly Williams break down all the action across the HBCU landscape:

We just got back from our annual trip to a National Park, so we are doing another fast and furious episode of short inspirational stories this week while we catch up. We have a teen fighting for the survival of orangutans, some of the first female park rangers, the rebirth of the Tuskegee air program, and a project that helps keeps kids in hospitals connected with their friends and family. Come get inspired!#BeKind#WeStandWithUkraineWe would love to hear from you. Send us your comments or even your own inspirational stories at tangentialinspiration@gmail.com.Follow us on our social media:Instagram: tangentialinspirationpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/tangentialinspirationTwitter: https://twitter.com/TangentialInsp1Produced and Edited by Craig Wymetalek Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a text Sly and Jamie break down an action-packed Week Four in the SIAC! From Benedict's offensive explosion against Tuskegee to Allen's dominance in Columbia, we dive deep into who's real and who's not. Savannah State shows flashes, Kentucky State keeps building momentum, and Fort Valley suffers heartbreak in a thriller. Plus, we unveil our updated SIAC power rankings and preview next week's matchups, including Albany State vs. Allen, Benedict vs. Clark Atlanta, and more.Don't miss the hottest takes, insider analysis, and plenty of laughs as we recap and predict all things SIAC football. Subscribe to HBCU Gameday for more HBCU sports coverage!Support the show

Send us a textEpisode Five of the HBCU Gameday D2 Show is here! Steven J. Gaither and Kris Ferguson break down another wild week of CIAA and SIAC football, from blowouts and heartbreakers to big-time bounce backs.We start with our Game of the Week, where Virginia Union knocked off Johnson C. Smith in Richmond. Hear from Coach Alvin Parker and what this win means for the Panthers moving forward.Then it's time for our favorite segments:B2A: Fayetteville State's offensive explosion, Savannah State cruising, and Benedict's huge win over Tuskegee.Cut The Check: Alabama A&M and Bethune-Cookman handle business against D2 opponents.Almost Doesn't Count: Heartbreak for Fort Valley, Bowie State's missed kick at Livingstone, and WSSU's one-point loss to Virginia State.QTNA: Should Virginia Union still be ranked? What about Edward Waters?Buying or Selling: Is Fayetteville State's offense for real? Can Benedict's attack sustain? Is Livingstone a true contender?BTA Watch: Miles vs. Morgan State, Edward Waters vs. Morehouse, and VUU vs. Shaw headline the D2 vs. FCS watch list.We close with a look ahead at this week's key matchups:Clark Atlanta vs. BenedictVirginia State vs. Fayetteville StateTuskegee vs. Fort Valley StateWinston-Salem State at Bowie State — with Coach Massey's “must-win” comments setting the stage.It's another packed episode full of highlights, analysis, and classic D2 energy. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay locked in with HBCU Gameday for all things CIAA and SIAC football!Support the show

Fourth week of September, what'd you miss in vet med?Modern Animal closes $47M Series DMedivet appoints former CVS deputy CEOGallant passes FDA hurdleUC Davis huge fundraisingTuskegee breaks ground on $18M facilityLive at VetForum!Helpful links:The Bird Bath substackNVA - Associate Veterinarian Humber Veterinary Clinic: Job Description

#DrKenyattaCavil #SportsLab #HBCUsports"Inside the HBCU Sports Lab" episode 711 with Doc, Charles, Bryan Fulford, AD Drew and Wilton Jackson II discussing the latest in HBCU sports news and taking a look at this week's HBCU Football Major Division and Mid-Major Division match-ups. TOPICS:SWAC Football Weekly Awards: Sept. 15 MEAC Announces Weekly Football Honors Watch SWAC Football Week Four Most attended games from week 3 of the HBCU football season from HBCUSports.com Alcorn State's trip to SEC country tops this list of the 10 most attended games from week three of the HBCU football season. 1. Alcorn State vs. Mississippi State: 49,158 2. Norfolk State vs. Rutgers: 41,011 3. Southern vs. Fresno State: 37,210 4. Morgan State vs. Toledo: 22,846 5. Prairie View A&M vs. Rice: 22,260 6. Jackson State vs. Tuskegee: 18,642 7. Alabama State vs. Miles: 18,101 8. Howard vs. Morehouse: 16,248 9. North Carolina A&T vs. Hampton: 15,806 10. Florida A&M vs. Albany State: 14,370 HBCU Mid-Major Division Top Seven Poll Rankings@InsidetheHBCUSportsLab on Facebook Live and Spreaker.‬Contributions welcome at CashApp $JafusCavil

"Inside the HBCU Sports Lab" episode 711 with Doc, Charles, Bryan Fulford, AD Drew and Wilton Jackson II discussing the latest in HBCU sports news and taking a look at this week's HBCU Football Major Division and Mid-Major Division match-ups. 00:00 - Intro; First segment -- HBCU Football Honors and HBCU Marching Band rankings31:00 - 1st commercial break34:11 - Second segment -- NC Central vs NC A&THampton at HowardSaint Francis at Delaware StateEast Texas A&M at Grambling State48:44 - 2nd commercial break51:37 - Third segment -- Lane at Alabama A&MNorthwestern State at Prairie View A&MEdward Waters at Bethune-Cookman01:01:08 - HBCU Football Poll Ranking teaserTOPICS:SWAC Football Weekly Awards: Sept. 15 MEAC Announces Weekly Football Honors Watch SWAC Football Week Four Most attended games from week 3 of the HBCU football season from HBCUSports.com Alcorn State's trip to SEC country tops this list of the 10 most attended games from week three of the HBCU football season. 1. Alcorn State vs. Mississippi State: 49,158 2. Norfolk State vs. Rutgers: 41,011 3. Southern vs. Fresno State: 37,210 4. Morgan State vs. Toledo: 22,846 5. Prairie View A&M vs. Rice: 22,260 6. Jackson State vs. Tuskegee: 18,642 7. Alabama State vs. Miles: 18,101 8. Howard vs. Morehouse: 16,248 9. North Carolina A&T vs. Hampton: 15,806 10. Florida A&M vs. Albany State: 14,370 HBCU Mid-Major Division Top Seven Poll Rankings@InsidetheHBCUSportsLab on Facebook Live and Spreaker.‬Contributions welcome at CashApp $JafusCavil#DrKenyattaCavil #SportsLab #HBCUsports

As part of our shameful history series, today we dive into the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiments of the 1930s, 40s, 50s, 60s and into the 70s.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textGet ready for another jam-packed breakdown of SIAC football!

Tuskegee University is celebrating a milestone in aviation education. Isaiah Hand, a senior from Tallahassee, Florida, has earned his private pilot license at Moton Field — the first Tuskegee student to do so in nearly 80 years. The achievement comes as Tuskegee relaunches its four-year Aviation Science degree program, with nearly 50 students now enrolled. The accomplishment recalls the university's historic legacy in flight training and opens new doors for the next generation of aviation professionals. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#DrKenyattaCavil #SportsLab #HBCUsports"Inside the HBCU Sports Lab" episode 707 with Doc, Charles, Bryan Fulford, AD Drew and Wilton Jackson II discussing the latest in HBCU sports news and taking a look at this week's HBCU Football Major Division and Mid-Major Division match-ups. 00:00 - Intro; First segment -- we must remain vigilant; HBCU Sports Ecosystem Series19:57 - 1st commercial break22:42 - Second segment -- Tuskegee vs Jackson State; Bethune-Cookman vs South Carolina State;Miles College at Alabama State;31:09 - 2nd commercial break33:57 - Third segment -- Fayetteville State at NC Central;Alabama A&M at Tennessee State;Morehouse at Howard;Bowie State at Delaware State47:36 - 3rd commercial break49:22 - Final segment -- Kentucky State at Grambling State;Virginia Union at Edward Waters;Johnson C. Smith at Elizabeth City State;Albany State at Florida A&M;Lamar at Texas Southern;SE Louisiana at Mississippi Valley State01:06:00 - HBCU Football Poll RankingsSouth Carolina State issued apology by Christian school after commentary from HBCUGameday.com Most attended games from week 2 of the HBCU football season from HBCUSports.comTampa Bay Classic won't take place at NFL stadium, moves back to Daytona HBCUGameday.comHistoric wins highlight the 5 biggest takeaways from week 2 of the HBCU football season from HBCUSports.comMoney Game Beatdown ‘Not Worth It' for NCAT Coach from HBCUGameday.comAggies Struggle Through Injuries and Blowout UCF Coach Shows Respect, Notes Resource Gap Bigger Debate for HBCU Football Watch SWAC Football Week Three - Saturday, September 13 @InsidetheHBCUSportsLab on Facebook Live and Spreaker.‬Contributions welcome at CashApp $JafusCavil

"Inside the HBCU Sports Lab" episode 707 with Doc, Charles, Bryan Fulford, AD Drew and Wilton Jackson II discussing the latest in HBCU sports news and taking a look at this week's HBCU Football Major Division and Mid-Major Division match-ups. 00:00 - Intro; First segment -- we must remain vigilant; HBCU Sports Ecosystem Series19:02 - 1st commercial break21:47 - Second segment -- Tuskegee vs Jackson State; Bethune-Cookman vs South Carolina State;Miles College at Alabama State30:14 - 2nd commercial break33:02 - Third segment -- Fayetteville State at NC Central;Alabama A&M at Tennessee State;Morehouse at Howard;Bowie State at Delaware State46:41 - 3rd commercial break48:27 - Final segment -- Kentucky State at Grambling State;Virginia Union at Edward Waters;Johnson C. Smith at Elizabeth City State;Albany State at Florida A&M;Lamar at Texas Southern;SE Louisiana at Mississippi Valley State01:05:08 - HBCU Football Poll RankingsSouth Carolina State issued apology by Christian school after commentary from HBCUGameday.com Most attended games from week 2 of the HBCU football season from HBCUSports.comTampa Bay Classic won't take place at NFL stadium, moves back to Daytona HBCUGameday.comHistoric wins highlight the 5 biggest takeaways from week 2 of the HBCU football season from HBCUSports.comMoney Game Beatdown ‘Not Worth It' for NCAT Coach from HBCUGameday.comAggies Struggle Through Injuries and Blowout UCF Coach Shows Respect, Notes Resource Gap Bigger Debate for HBCU Football Watch SWAC Football Week Three - Saturday, September 13 @InsidetheHBCUSportsLab on Facebook Live and Spreaker.‬Contributions welcome at CashApp $JafusCavil#DrKenyattaCavil #SportsLab #HBCUsports

start shenanigans00:05:00 Game of the Week (Jackson State v. Tuskegee)00:20:00 Week 2 picks00:37:00 Black QB play in the NFL00:54:00 Pick 6: Favorite Things About OUR HBCUs

Democrats release drawing allegedly made by Trump for Epstein birthday book; Six Israelis killed in terror attack at bus stop; Next generation of Tuskegee pilots ready to take flight; and more on tonight's broadcast.

Send us a textThis episode of HBCU Road Warriors takes you inside a wild weekend of HBCU football, from marathon weather delays to rivalry showdowns and quarterback controversies.0:00 – Opening banter: surviving weather delays and long game days2:00 – War stories from past HBCU games (Hurricane Matthew, Celebration Bowl delays)5:20 – Alabama State vs South Carolina State: could this be a Celebration Bowl preview?6:00 – Morgan State's fight against FBS opponents and staying in every game7:10 – North Carolina A&T debate: “The Dallas Cowboys of HBCUs”?10:30 – How A&T's rise aligned with the Celebration Bowl era12:30 – Why people care when A&T is down and what it means for the MEAC/CAA14:30 – Coaching talk: alternate universe with Coach Gibbs at FAMU?15:00 – Quinn Gray at FAMU and Brian Jenkins at Bethune-Cookman setting up big weeks ahead16:10 – CIAA & SIAC update: JCSU, Virginia State, Virginia Union, Tuskegee, and more18:15 – Livingstone vs Allen: “The Amazing Classic” and Methodist rivalries20:00 – Jackson State holds its own vs Southern Miss; SC State vs South Carolina22:15 – Norfolk State vs Virginia State: atmosphere, rivalry, and Rashaan Matthews' breakout24:00 – Michael Vick's quarterback decision and Otto's fourth-quarter heroics27:15 – Fan energy, security issues, and the postgame tunnel scene30:00 – Virginia State coach Henry Frazier's history and almost landing at Norfolk State34:00 – QB battle at Norfolk State: Israel Carter vs Otto38:00 – Michael Vick's sideline energy and leadership evolution40:00 – Attendance numbers at Norfolk State and what it means for the program43:00 – Around the horn: where the crew is heading next week (FAMU, VUU, Livingstone, WSSU, JCSU, etc.)47:00 – Travis Hunter talk, FAMU spotlight, and HBCU culture moments53:00 – Elizabeth City nearly upsets Hampton, Johnson C. Smith adjustments, and more CIAA talk59:00 – Wrapping up: WSSU home opener, new light show at Bowman Gray, and closing shoutouts Subscribe to HBCU Gameday on YouTube and follow the podcast on Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Download the HBCU Gameday app for scores, news, and alerts straight to your phone.1:52sjgMP3 Support the show

Send us a textTuskegee University AD Reginald Ruffin has set the HBCU world on fire with his latest Facebook statement — and the reactions have been just as strong. In this episode of Verified Sources with SJG, we break down Ruffin's bold message to former players and alumni about sideline access, free tickets, and the importance of supporting your alma mater financially.From his no-nonsense “buy your damn ticket” stance to his call for sustained alumni giving, Ruffin's words sparked nearly 200,000 views and a storm of debate across social media. We dive into what he said, why it matters, and how HBCU communities should think about balancing tradition, access, and accountability.You'll hear perspectives from Tuskegee supporters, former student-athletes, and HBCU alumni nationwide — some applauding Ruffin's tough love, others questioning the delivery. We also put his comments in the larger context of HBCU athletics, alumni engagement, and the financial realities our institutions face.This is a conversation every HBCU supporter needs to hear. Tap in, share your thoughts, and don't forget to subscribe to the HBCU Gameday podcast for more authentic coverage and commentary.2:21sjgMP3 Support the show

Send us a textThe road warriors of HBCU Game Day hit multiple states to bring you comprehensive coverage of college football's opening weekend, witnessing everything from NFL legend Michael Vick's coaching debut to nail-biting classics that set the tone for the 2023 season.The most anticipated storyline belonged to Vick at Norfolk State, where approximately 19,000 fans—the largest non-homecoming crowd in years—packed the stadium donning every jersey from his illustrious playing career. The electric atmosphere couldn't translate to on-field success as the Spartans fell 27-7 to Towson. Observers noted Vick seemed to blend into the sideline rather than commanding it, perhaps showing the learning curve from player to head coach. Despite the loss, Norfolk State fans remained optimistic: "It's just the first game, y'all. We're going to be back."Meanwhile, the John Merritt Classic delivered heart-stopping drama as Tennessee State survived North Carolina A&T's late comeback attempt when they blocked a potential game-tying field goal to secure a 24-21 victory. A&T's quarterback change to a redshirt freshman sparked their offense, leading many to believe they'll secure their first Division I win since September 2023 in the coming weeks—perhaps even at homecoming.The Red Tails Classic in Montgomery featured Winston-Salem State and Tuskegee battling before 15,000 fans on ESPNU. Beyond the on-field action, both schools participated in a giving challenge that raised substantial scholarship funds, including one remarkable $100,000 donation to Tuskegee. The SIAC conference claimed a 3-2 advantage over the CIAA in their cross-conference matchups.Looking ahead to Week Two, Virginia State enters as a surprising 3.5-point favorite over Division I Norfolk State in what could be a telling matchup. As one host boldly stated, "If they let little state go on and take over big state...I'll know everything I need to know" about Norfolk State's potential under Vick's leadership.Whether you're planning to attend games or watching from home, download our app for exclusive content, breaking news, and in-depth analysis from the people who are actually in the stands witnessing HBCU football history as it unfolds.Support the show

This Day in Legal History: George Wallace Calls out the Alabama National GuardOn September 2, 1963, Alabama Governor George Wallace once again attempted to defy federal court orders mandating school integration, this time at Tuskegee High School. Just months after his infamous “Stand in the Schoolhouse Door” to block Black students from enrolling at the University of Alabama, Wallace ordered the Alabama National Guard to surround Tuskegee High in an effort to prevent the enrollment of thirteen Black students. The integration was ordered by a federal court in Lee v. Macon County Board of Education, a pivotal case that would eventually lead to sweeping desegregation across Alabama's public school system.Wallace's use of the state Guard was a direct challenge to federal authority and part of his broader campaign to maintain segregation under the banner of “states' rights.” In response, President John F. Kennedy swiftly invoked his constitutional authority as commander-in-chief and federalized the Alabama National Guard. Once under federal control, the troops were ordered to stand down and return to their barracks, removing the immediate threat of military-enforced segregation.The confrontation at Tuskegee High marked another flashpoint in the broader struggle between federal civil rights enforcement and Southern resistance. Wallace's actions highlighted the lengths to which segregationist officials would go to preserve Jim Crow, even in the face of binding federal court orders. The federal response signaled a growing willingness by the Kennedy administration to use executive power to enforce civil rights rulings on the ground. The Lee v. Macon litigation would go on to become one of the most significant desegregation cases in the post-Brown era, eventually placing all Alabama schools under court supervision. This incident at Tuskegee underscored both the volatility of the era and the legal system's central role in dismantling systemic segregation.Legal technology companies are facing increasing pressure to distinguish themselves from general-purpose AI models like ChatGPT and Claude, which continue to improve in accuracy, usability, and affordability. A recent MIT report highlighted a corporate lawyer who preferred using ChatGPT over a $50,000 specialized contract analysis tool, underlining the dilemma: why pay more for tools that may not perform better? While legal tech startups have attracted about $2.2 billion in investment since 2024—80% of it going to AI-focused ventures—they risk being outpaced unless they can offer superior user experience and domain-specific functionality.Specialized tools often rely on the same large foundation models that power general AI, making differentiation more difficult. However, legal tech firms argue their value lies not in the raw language models but in how they tailor those tools for legal workflows. For example, IP CoPilot identifies patentable ideas—a complex task not easily replicated by general AI. Some legal AI systems, such as Harvey (used by DLA Piper), have gained traction among attorneys, though many still favor ChatGPT.Studies comparing general and legal-specific tools show mixed results: while general models sometimes outperform on clarity or accuracy, niche tools often prove more valuable in daily legal work. Legal tech companies aim to stay ahead by integrating ethical compliance, user-centered design, and security into their offerings. Unlike general models, they can be customized to reflect a law firm's risk appetite or case strategy. Some legal AI tools also incorporate retrieval-augmented generation or are trained solely on legal data, increasing their relevance and precision.Legal Tech Battles to Set Itself Apart From General AI ModelsAs Congress returns from its August recess on September 2, lawmakers face an urgent deadline to fund the government before the current funding expires on September 30. Among the contentious issues is the fate of the IRS budget. House Republicans are pushing to cut $2.8 billion from the agency, particularly targeting funding for tax compliance and blocking resources for the IRS's Direct File tool, which allows free online tax filing. Democrats, meanwhile, are opposing the cuts, citing recent staff layoffs and the need to rebuild the agency's capacity. A temporary funding measure could delay decisions but would disrupt preparations for the next tax season.The Senate has yet to offer a formal counterproposal but has a history of softening House spending cuts, thanks in part to the chamber's 60-vote legislative threshold. Democrats are expected to advocate for continued funding, especially for auditing high-income taxpayers and improving customer service. IRS employees and their union are calling on Congress to fully fund the agency to strengthen enforcement and reduce the deficit.Complicating matters further, several leadership vacancies emerged over the summer, including the IRS chief and a top Treasury post. Nominations are moving slowly, with some being blocked by political disputes, such as over clean energy tax credits. At the same time, Republicans are already considering another tax bill, possibly to amend or expand provisions from the July tax law signed by President Trump. This includes industry-backed changes like increased deductions for pass-through entities and revisiting limits on gambling loss deductions. Expiring tax credits—such as ACA health insurance subsidies—could also trigger legislative action, particularly as midterm elections approach.IRS Funding on Tap as Congress Returns From Summer RecessU.S. District Judge Jia Cobb halted two Trump administration policies that sought to expand fast-track deportations across the country. These policies, enacted in January, allowed immigration authorities to deport non-citizens found anywhere in the U.S. without a court hearing if they couldn't prove two years of continuous residence. Traditionally, expedited removal applied only to migrants caught near the border shortly after entry, but the expansion would have affected millions more already living within the country.Judge Cobb ruled that this broadened approach violated the Fifth Amendment's due process protections, emphasizing that people who had settled in the U.S. had a stronger liberty interest in remaining and were entitled to more than a rushed removal process. She criticized the government for not adapting procedural safeguards for this larger and more established group of immigrants, calling the existing process “skimpy” and likely to result in wrongful deportations.The Department of Homeland Security defended the policy, claiming Trump had legal authority to enforce deportations. However, Cobb refused to delay her ruling pending appeal, effectively stopping the expanded deportation plan immediately. The lawsuit was brought by Make the Road New York, represented by the ACLU. Earlier in the month, Cobb had also blocked another Trump deportation policy targeting immigrants paroled into the U.S. under Biden's humanitarian programs.US judge halts Trump effort to expand fast-track deportations | ReutersA divided U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruled that most of President Trump's tariffs are illegal, significantly weakening a cornerstone of his second-term economic policy. The 7–4 decision found that Trump had overstepped his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which he used to justify new tariffs in April and February. The court emphasized that IEEPA does not grant the president explicit authority to impose taxes or tariffs, only to regulate or restrict imports during national emergencies.The ruling does not affect tariffs issued under other laws, such as those on steel and aluminum. However, it casts serious doubt on Trump's broader use of tariffs as leverage in foreign policy and trade negotiations. The decision stems from lawsuits brought by small businesses and Democratic-led states arguing that only Congress has the constitutional authority to impose tariffs, and that any delegation of this power must be narrowly defined.The appeals court allowed the tariffs to remain in effect until October 14 to give the administration time to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. Trump criticized the decision as partisan but predicted a reversal. Experts believe the administration was anticipating the ruling and may try to shift its legal strategy. This case now sets the stage for a major Supreme Court confrontation, especially as Trump also challenges the Federal Reserve's independence.Most Trump tariffs are not legal, US appeals court rules | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Send us a textCollege football's transfer portal era has fundamentally transformed Division II HBCU programs, shifting from player development over years to a season-by-season scramble for talent. On this season premiere, we explore how this new reality affects championship contenders in both the CIAA and SIAC conferences.Virginia Union, the defending CIAA champions, navigated this landscape successfully last season but now must replace star running back Jada Byers. Meanwhile, Miles College faces complete reconstruction after winning the SIAC championship, losing head coach Shadrick Shade to Alabama A&M along with several key players. These situations highlight the constant tension between success and stability at the D2 level.The coaching carousel spun wildly this offseason, with multiple programs experiencing significant changes. Shaw's Adrian Jones landed at Elizabeth City State after being dismissed despite a winning record. Edward Waters brought in former Bethune-Cookman coach Brian Jenkins following Toriano Morgan's departure to Tennessee State. Fort Valley State begins a new era without Sean Gibbs, who left for North Carolina A&T. These transitions create both challenges and opportunities across the D2 HBCU landscape.We also break down the exciting Week Zero matchups between CIAA and SIAC programs, including Virginia Union vs. Miles, Fayetteville State vs. Benedict, and Winston-Salem State vs. Tuskegee in the Red Tails Classic. These early cross-conference battles provide immediate tests for championship contenders while offering national exposure on ESPN platforms.NCAA changes bring fresh opportunities this season, with expanded playoffs (32 teams), automatic bids, and Super Region realignment potentially creating more postseason paths for HBCU programs. For traditional powers like Winston-Salem State and Tuskegee seeking to reclaim past glory, the stakes have never been higher.Subscribe to the D2HBCU Show for weekly insights, analysis, and exclusive interviews throughout the Division II HBCU football season. Download the HBCU Game Day app for complete coverage across all platforms.Support the show

Send us a textThe 2025 football season is finally here, and Winston-Salem State University is ready to make a statement. In this episode of WSSU Ram Nation, SJG breaks down the Week Zero matchup against Tuskegee in the Red Tails Classic on ESPN U, talks about Head Coach Robert Massey's bold “championship or bust” declaration, and what it means for the Rams in his contract year.We also dive into the expectations for the team after last season's breakthrough, the impact of alumni and fan support, and how WSSU stacks up against CIAA rivals. Plus, the Red Sea of Sound is back in the mix for the Red Lobster Band of the Year, with hopes of finally breaking into the top two and heading to Atlanta.This is more than football—it's about pride, history, and proving that WSSU is still one of the most dominant names in HBCU athletics. Game Info WSSU vs. Tuskegee | Red Tails ClassicMontgomery, Alabama7 PM EST | ESPN U Join the conversation: Do you agree with Coach Massey that it's “championship or bust” for WSSU this year?#WSSU #HBCU #RedTailsClassic #CIAA #Tuskegee #WSSURamNation (edited) Support the show

NPR, Mayor Frm Legislator, Councilman, U.S. Presidential Appointee, AmbassadorFord got his start in politics working for U.S. Sen. Robert Kennedy's presidential campaign, and he later worked for the U.S. Department of Justice Community Relations Service.A native of the great State of Alabama, Johnny Lawrence Ford grew up in Tuskegee, the home of Tuskegee University, “the Pride of the Swift-Growing South,” also the home of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. He graduated from Tuskegee Institute High School and received his B.A. degree in history and sociology from Knoxville College, Knoxville, Tennessee, and a Masters of Public Administration from Auburn University at Montgomery. He also received 5 honorary degrees including The Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Alabama A & M University in 2004.Elected as the 1st African-American Mayor of the City of Tuskegee in 1972, Mayor Ford served six consecutive terms from 1972 – 1996 and was again elected to that office in September, 2004 and 2012. In 1998, he was elected Representative from District 82 to the State Legislature, where he served on the County and Municipal Government Committee, the Lee County Legislation Committee, the Health Committee, and the Tourism and Travel Committee. The Honorable Ford retained his legislative position until his return to office as mayor of Tuskegee.As Founder of the World Conference of Mayors, Inc., The Honorable Ford also serves as Secretary General. He is a Founder and President-Emeritus of the National Conference of Black Mayors, Inc., and a former member of the Alabama Foreign Trade Commission and the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority. While Mayor, Banjul, The Gambia was designated as the Tuskegee Sister City; therefore, he has worked closely with the country, The Gambia, for many years. Furthermore, he has served as Co-Chairman of the National Policy Alliance, which is an arm of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies. The National Policy Alliance Center for Political and Economic Studies is comprised of The National Bar Association, The Congressional Black Caucus, The World Conference of Mayors, The National Conference of Black Mayors, The National Association of Black County Officials, The National Black Caucus of School Board Members, Blacks in Government, The National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, as well as the Joint Center For Political and Economic Development.The Honorable Ford has served as a former U.S. Presidential Appointee to the National Advisory Committee on Federalism, and the Intergovernmental Policy Advisory Committee on Trade. He is a past President of the Alabama League of Municipalities, and the first African-American in Alabama History to be elected to this statewide position.He is married to the Honorable Judge Joyce London Alexander, Retired, Former Chief U. S. Magistrate Judge, of the District of Massachusetts. She was the First Female Chief United States Magistrate Judge in the USA. She is Past Chair of the Judicial Council of the National Bar Association, and of the Board of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies.He is also the proud father of three adult children…John, Christopher, and Tiffany…The Honorable Ford has four grandchildren. The Fords have a second home on Garden Street in Cambridge, Massachusetts.© 2025 Building Abundant Success!!2025 All Rights ReservedJoin Me on ~ iHeart Media @ https://tinyurl.com/iHeartBASSpot Me on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yxuy23baAmazon Music ~ https://tinyurl.com/AmzBASAudacy:  https://tinyurl.com/BASAud

This week on Cold War Cinema, we discuss the 1953 Soviet science-fiction drama, Silvery Dust, directed by Abram Room and Pavel Armand, a film once again set in the United States. The film concerns an American scientist who has developed a powerful new weapon of mass destruction designed to wipe out populations within a large area while leaving no harmful radioactive residues or traces. In the film, the scientist colludes with a Nazi colleague and various private interests, who all conspire with the government to use innocent Black men as test subjects, without their knowledge or consent.  Join hosts Jason Christian, Anthony Ballas, and Paul T. Klein as we consider: The historical legacy of Operation Paperclip, a secret government program in which the US brought some 1,600 scientists, engineers, and technicians from former Nazi Germany to the US for government employment after the end of World War II.  The numerous government experiments conducted on minorities without their knowledge or consent, such as the Untreated Syphilis Study at Tuskegee (1932-1972) The contradiction, in the film, of critiquing racism in America while using white Russian actors in “black face.” Comparisons between American and Soviet propanda styles in the 1950s.  _____________________ We love to give book or film recommendations on the podcast, so here are ours for this episode:  Paul recommends the book, Building a Better Race: Gender, Sexuality, and Eugenics from the Turn of the Century to the Baby Boom by Wendy Kline Tony recommends the book, The Selected Works of Ho Chi Hinh by Ho Chi Minh Jason recommends the book, Deterring Democracy by Noam Chomsky. _____________________ Like and subscribe to Cold War Cinema, and don't forget to leave us a review! Want to continue the conversation? Drop us a line at any time at coldwarcinemapod@gmail.com. To stay up to date on Cold War Cinema, follow along at coldwarcinema.com, or find us online on Bluesky @coldwarcinema.com or on X at @Cold_War_Cinema.   

This week's show opens with a look at Ryan Coogler's new Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time docuseries, unpacking racism, government failures, and raw survivor stories. The crew reflects on why this deeper truth is only now being told and how a 2025 Katrina might play out differently. Rome then stirs things up with conspiracy theories we actually believe, from COINTELPRO to Tuskegee, and how some “wild” ideas have turned out to be real. That leads into the Workday hiring bias lawsuit, raising questions about AI discrimination against Black, older, and disabled applicants—and whether tech is helping or hurting equity. Jab takes on the bombshell news that BET has canceled the Hip Hop and Soul Train Awards, sparking a debate on their cultural importance, the impact of streaming, and who could revive them. The conversation flows into a bigger question: Hip hop culture vs. music—can you love the music without knowing the roots, and does gatekeeping still matter? In new music, the team reviews Gunna's The Last Wun, a 25-track blend of trap, R&B, and Afrobeats rumored to be his final YSL project, plus Bryson Tiller's The Vices—a confident, rap-heavy mixtape-style album ahead of his slower R&B release Solace in October.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Holly Cotton (breast cancer survivor, nurse, author) and Dewayne Charleston (stage 4 prostate cancer survivor). Topic: Raising awareness and eliminating disparities in Black men’s health, especially prostate cancer. 2. Holly Cotton’s Story Breast cancer survivor and nurse with a master’s degree. Author of Strong More Than Muscles. Uses her survivorship to inspire others and promote health awareness. Advocates for being a “life survivor,” not just a cancer survivor. 3. Rushion McDonald’s Personal Experience Thyroid cancer survivor since 2015. Shares how the diagnosis changed his perspective on life and purpose. Uses his platform to raise awareness and encourage proactive health decisions. 4. Dwayne’s Journey Diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer at age 46. All 16 biopsy samples came back positive. Told by MD Anderson urologist Dr. Lewis Sisler that only prayer could help. Fought cancer for 14 years and founded a prostate cancer awareness foundation. 5. Foundation Mission Educates Black men on prostate cancer, clinical trials, and health disparities. Addresses emotional, sexual, financial, and relational impacts of cancer. Aims to break silence and stigma around men’s health issues. 6. Breast Cancer Awareness vs. Prostate Cancer Awareness Holly explains the success of “Go Pink” campaigns for breast cancer. Dewayne and Holly aim to replicate that success with “Go Blue” for prostate cancer. Goal: Encourage men to prioritize their own health and get tested. 7. Community Impact Importance of storytelling and visibility at events like HBCU games. Emphasis on legacy, education, and proactive health care. Holly and Dewayne’s collaboration bridges gender and cancer awareness gaps. 8. Closing Rushon thanks guests for their advocacy and friendship. Encourages listeners to lead with their gifts and keep winning.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Holly Cotton (breast cancer survivor, nurse, author) and Dewayne Charleston (stage 4 prostate cancer survivor). Topic: Raising awareness and eliminating disparities in Black men’s health, especially prostate cancer. 2. Holly Cotton’s Story Breast cancer survivor and nurse with a master’s degree. Author of Strong More Than Muscles. Uses her survivorship to inspire others and promote health awareness. Advocates for being a “life survivor,” not just a cancer survivor. 3. Rushion McDonald’s Personal Experience Thyroid cancer survivor since 2015. Shares how the diagnosis changed his perspective on life and purpose. Uses his platform to raise awareness and encourage proactive health decisions. 4. Dwayne’s Journey Diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer at age 46. All 16 biopsy samples came back positive. Told by MD Anderson urologist Dr. Lewis Sisler that only prayer could help. Fought cancer for 14 years and founded a prostate cancer awareness foundation. 5. Foundation Mission Educates Black men on prostate cancer, clinical trials, and health disparities. Addresses emotional, sexual, financial, and relational impacts of cancer. Aims to break silence and stigma around men’s health issues. 6. Breast Cancer Awareness vs. Prostate Cancer Awareness Holly explains the success of “Go Pink” campaigns for breast cancer. Dewayne and Holly aim to replicate that success with “Go Blue” for prostate cancer. Goal: Encourage men to prioritize their own health and get tested. 7. Community Impact Importance of storytelling and visibility at events like HBCU games. Emphasis on legacy, education, and proactive health care. Holly and Dewayne’s collaboration bridges gender and cancer awareness gaps. 8. Closing Rushon thanks guests for their advocacy and friendship. Encourages listeners to lead with their gifts and keep winning.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Holly Cotton (breast cancer survivor, nurse, author) and Dewayne Charleston (stage 4 prostate cancer survivor). Topic: Raising awareness and eliminating disparities in Black men’s health, especially prostate cancer. 2. Holly Cotton’s Story Breast cancer survivor and nurse with a master’s degree. Author of Strong More Than Muscles. Uses her survivorship to inspire others and promote health awareness. Advocates for being a “life survivor,” not just a cancer survivor. 3. Rushion McDonald’s Personal Experience Thyroid cancer survivor since 2015. Shares how the diagnosis changed his perspective on life and purpose. Uses his platform to raise awareness and encourage proactive health decisions. 4. Dwayne’s Journey Diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer at age 46. All 16 biopsy samples came back positive. Told by MD Anderson urologist Dr. Lewis Sisler that only prayer could help. Fought cancer for 14 years and founded a prostate cancer awareness foundation. 5. Foundation Mission Educates Black men on prostate cancer, clinical trials, and health disparities. Addresses emotional, sexual, financial, and relational impacts of cancer. Aims to break silence and stigma around men’s health issues. 6. Breast Cancer Awareness vs. Prostate Cancer Awareness Holly explains the success of “Go Pink” campaigns for breast cancer. Dewayne and Holly aim to replicate that success with “Go Blue” for prostate cancer. Goal: Encourage men to prioritize their own health and get tested. 7. Community Impact Importance of storytelling and visibility at events like HBCU games. Emphasis on legacy, education, and proactive health care. Holly and Dewayne’s collaboration bridges gender and cancer awareness gaps. 8. Closing Rushon thanks guests for their advocacy and friendship. Encourages listeners to lead with their gifts and keep winning.

Send us a textVet Life Reimagined guest is Dr. Tarron Herring. Less than 2% of veterinarians are black, and Dr. Herring has overcome many obstacles to achieve his childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian. His passion for preventative medicine took him to Banfield after vet school at Tuskegee. He has been recognized as one of the best veterinarians across Banfield Pet Hospital's 900 locations nationwide, achieving “Top 10” doctors of veterinary medicine several times. He is currently a veterinary practice owner of PetVet365. Resources: Video episode on YouTubeTarron's book, You Are Powerful: God Will Restore Your MarriageTarron's book, Ready, Vet, Go is a 7-month cohort veterinarian mentorship program with live mentorship, community, and real-world skills to help you grow your confidence. It's perfect for early-career vets and anyone transitioning into small animal practice, but anyone is welcome to join. New cohorts start in July and October. Enroll at https://readyvetgo.co/ Use code SPRINKLE for a 10% discount on enrollment!Support the showMore Vet Life Reimagined?

Conspiracy Shocks: Truth Unleashed! Join The Youngbloods Podcast as Devin and Grok expose a conspiracy truth—Pentagon war lies, Tuskegee horrors, Twitter censorship, VAERS cover-ups, and NSA spying—all proven real. We debate if government control hides more, from weather manipulation rumors to past deceptions. Recorded live, this clip dives deep into distrust and self-reliance. Watch this conspiracy truth unfold now! Subscribe at youtube.com/@theyoungbloodspodcast and hit the bell!

Join us for an incredible opportunity to engage with influential voices shaping our community! We are excited to welcome Mayor Johnny Ford, the esteemed founder of the World Conference of Mayors and the National Council of Black Mayors. He will be sharing valuable insights on Historic Black Settlements and his experiences as the former mayor of Tuskegee. Before Mayor Ford takes the stage, you'll hear from Professor Tyrene Wright, who will delve into her groundbreaking book, *Booker T. Washington and Africa: The Making of a Pan-Africanist*. Plus, Dr. Kelchi Egwin, Executive Director of Appeal Incorporated, will update us on the vital work of his organization. And don’t miss Pam Africa from MOVE, who will address the important issue of political prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textThe Vet Life Reimagined podcast is proud to welcome guest Dr. Eddie Robinson. A 1983 veterinary graduate from Tuskegee. Eddie recently retired but was a practice owner for several decades, leading teams and growing loyalty from generations of pet clients. Dr. Eddie continues to mentor veterinarians in Ready, Vet, Go programs. Dr. Eddie discusses how to successfully work with multiple generations under one practice as well as how to find time for family despite a time-intensive career.Ready, Vet, Go is a 7-month cohort veterinarian mentorship program with live mentorship, community, and real-world skills to help you grow your confidence. It's perfect for early-career vets and anyone transitioning into small animal practice, but anyone is welcome to join. New cohorts start in July and October. Enroll at https://readyvetgo.co/ Use code SPRINKLE for a 10% discount on enrollment!Support the showMore Vet Life Reimagined?

Share your Field Stories!Welcome back to Environmental Professionals Radio, Connecting the Environmental Professionals Community Through Conversation, with your hosts Laura Thorne and Nic Frederick! On today's episode, we talk with Natalie Edwards, Owner at Mahogany Environmental & Associates about Navigating Government Careers, Going from Fieldwork to Leadership, and Pursuing Passions.  Read her full bio below.Help us continue to create great content! If you'd like to sponsor a future episode hit the support podcast button or visit www.environmentalprofessionalsradio.com/sponsor-form Showtimes: 2:30 - Dealing with Difficult Coworkers9:36 - Interview with Natalie Edwards Starts23:22 - Natalies Favorite Work Projects28:15 - Not enough? Growing in ones Role48:30 - Natalies #Fieldnotes story!Please be sure to ✔️subscribe, ⭐rate and ✍review. This podcast is produced by the National Association of Environmental Professions (NAEP). Check out all the NAEP has to offer at NAEP.org.Connect with Natalie Edwards at https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-edwards-245a6bba/Guest Bio: Natalie Edwards spent her childhood growing up in the Pacific Northwest and then moved South to attend Tuskegee University in Tuskegee Alabama. After graduating from Tuskegee, she started her career as a Park Ranger with the US Army Corps of Engineers (Mobile District) and spent her time in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. She worked on several lake and river projects and a few hurricane relief/clean ups. After 5 years of being a Park Ranger, Natalie went to work for the Savannah District in the Atlanta Metro area. Where she got the opportunity to experience all kinds of projects and some very interesting personalities. In 2018, Natalie moved back to Portland Oregon and continued working with the Corps for another 2 years before leaving after 20 years of service. In 2022 Natalie founded Mahogany Environmental & Associates where it has allowed her to meet and forge new opportunities. Music CreditsIntro: Givin Me Eyes by Grace MesaOutro: Never Ending Soul Groove by Mattijs MullerSupport the showThanks for listening! A new episode drops every Friday. Like, share, subscribe, and/or sponsor to help support the continuation of the show. You can find us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and all your favorite podcast players.

We sit down with Kamau Sadiki, a renown Black scuba diver who is featured in the film DESCENDANT which tells the story of the Clotilda, the last ship to reach the US, carrying kidnapped and enslaved Africans. Kamau was part of the team that recovered the remains of the ship. Kamau was also on the team that recovered the remains of a Tuskegee airman's plane that crashed and sank in Lake Huron in Michigan.

For over a century, Black bodies were used—examined, experimented on, and exploited in the name of science. From plantation doctors perfecting procedures on enslaved women without anesthesia, to the government letting Black men die slow deaths in Tuskegee, to the stolen cells of a unsuspecting Black women changing medical history.This isn't ancient history. It's a pattern. And it shaped the way Black communities view medicine, hospitals, and doctors.So join us today for the dark history of the Medical ApartheidAudio Onemichistory.comFollow me on Instagram: @onemic_historyFollow me on Substack: https://onemicblackhistorypodcast.substack.com/Follow me on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@onemic_historyPlease support our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=25697914Buy me a Coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Countryboi2mSources:Medical Apartheid: The Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans by Harriet A. Washingtonhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henrietta_Lackshttps://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/henrietta-lacks https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuskegee_Syphilis_Studyhttps://www.history.com/articles/the-infamous-40-year-tuskegee-study https://www.history.com/articles/the-father-of-modern-gynecology-performed-shocking-experiments-on-slavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-mic-black-history--4557850/support.

Lionel Richie, born June 20, 1949, in Tuskegee, Alabama, turns 76 today. With more than 100 million records sold, Richie remains a defining voice in music, from his time with the Commodores to his solo career and role as a judge on “American Idol.” Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

start Tuskegee love00:19:00 SWAC opting in to the House v. NCAA settlement00:36:00 Tennessee State alums shine in UFL Championship00:47:00 Boondocks season 1 disc 2 review

On this day in 1957, Black residents of Tuskegee launched a powerful boycott to protest a racist redistricting law that disenfranchised them. Their sustained resistance led to a landmark 1960 Supreme Court decision striking down the law. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Inside the Headset, presented by CoachComm, we're joined by O.C. Williams, Defensive Coordinator at Tuskegee University. Coach Williams reflects on his coaching journey, emphasizing the importance of gaining diverse experiences, navigating career transitions, and learning at every step. From starting as a player-turned-coach to his recent role at Tuskegee, Coach Williams offers valuable insights into his growth, challenges, and successes in the coaching profession. Whether you're a coach, player, or football enthusiast, this episode is packed with lessons you won't want to miss! Episode Highlights: Starting in the coaching profession Transitioning from player to coach at your alma mater Lessons learned from coaching Special Teams Balancing career moves and personal growth Taking over the defense at Tuskegee and future plans Be sure to subscribe to Inside the Headset for weekly episodes featuring top football coaches and leaders. If you enjoy the show, leave us a review it helps others discover this content.

In this week's episode of Selective Ignorance, Mandii B sits down with her producers A-King and Jayson Rodriguez for a thought-provoking and often humorous conversation that ventures into the world of conspiracy theories, cultural mistrust, and the broader impact of cancel culture. Kicking things off with reflections from the audience and personal anecdotes (00:00, 08:06), the discussion quickly takes a deeper turn as they explore how conspiracy theories have historically — and often deliberately — targeted Black communities (09:04). From the trauma of the Tuskegee experiment to the controversial response to Hurricane Katrina and the narratives around 9/11 (17:10), Mandii and the crew unpack why many remain skeptical of mainstream narratives. They take a closer look at the role of the alleged secret societies in shaping political power and influence (28:26), and examine how alleged rituals, sacrifices, and elite memberships have fueled pop culture paranoia (29:04). Drawing connections between sci-fi themes and real-world suspicion, the group explores whether what we've accepted as fact — from space travel to artificial intelligence — may have layers yet to be uncovered (32:21, 35:18, 38:13). The episode also delves into modern theories around COVID-19, population control, and how the internet has amplified conspiratorial thinking (42:13, 45:36). With pop culture increasingly blurring the lines between speculation and reality, Mandii questions how much of what we consume is designed to inform—and how much is meant to manipulate (48:21). As the conversation closes, they examine the intersection of wealth, power, and scandal (52:07), asking whether today's public figures are truly victims of cancel culture or architects of their own downfall. With curiosity, humor, and a healthy dose of skepticism, this episode invites listeners to explore not just what they believe—but why they believe it. “No Holes Barred: A Dual Manifesto Of Sexual Exploration And Power” w/ Tempest X!Pre Sale LinkWatch the full videos of each episode by subscribing to Patreon at Patreon.com/selectiveignoranceFollow the host on Social MediaMandii B Instagram/X @fullcourtpumpsFollow the show on Social MediaInstagram @selectiveignorancepodTiktok @selective.ignoranceX/Twitter @selectiveigpod

May 16, 1997. Bill Clinton officially apologizes for the Tuskegee Experiment, in which the US government funded research into the effects of untreated syphilis on African American men between 1932 and 1972. This episode originally aired in 2023.Support the show! Join Into History for ad-free listening and more.History Daily is a co-production of Airship and Noiser.Go to HistoryDaily.com for more history, daily.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a co-anchor of ABC's Good Morning America, Robin Roberts is an icon in morning news. She's also a member of the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, a Peabody Award winner, an author of several books, a breast cancer survivor, and a Southerner. Robin was born in Tuskegee, Alabama, a daughter of one of the famed Tuskegee Airmen who fought in World War II and put that town on the map. Over the years, her family moved where her father's career took them, but once he retired, they settled in Pass Christian, Mississippi, which she considers her hometown. I caught up with Robin as she was headed to Western North Carolina for a special report on the lasting effects of Hurricane Helene, as well as the resilience of that community. We also talked about other disasters she's covered, including the very personal experience of reporting on Hurricane Katrina nearly 20 years ago. If you watch Robin on Good Morning America, you know she's a person who has a way of always looking on the bright side, even in the darkest of times. She talked with Sid about the way her faith helped her through a very public illness, the hymns her mother loved to play on the piano, and why she's always wanted to get her pilot's license. For more info visit: southernliving.com/biscuitsandjam Biscuits & Jam is produced by: Sid Evans - Editor-in-Chief, Southern Living Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer & Editor/Producer Jeremiah McVay - Producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Disability Series, #4 of 4. The Tuskegee Syphilis Study was an ethically problematic, to say the least, medical research project conducted in Alabama. Officially titled “The Effects of Untreated Syphilis in the Negro Male,” this government-sponsored research project was conducted by the United States Public Health Service in Macon County, Alabama, between 1932 and 1972. For four decades, researchers observed the progression of untreated syphilis in approximately 399 African American men without their informed consent. Many of the men thought they were being treated for “bad blood,” which had a variety of connotations. They were not aware that they were being actively blocked from receiving effective treatment, even after penicillin became the recognized standard of care for syphilis in the 1940s. Rather than viewing the study as an isolated event, we'll see how the Tuskegee study fits into a broader framework of American medical and disability history and racial discrimination.  Select Bibliography Jones, James H. Bad Blood: The Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment. (Simon and Schuster, 1993).  Lederer, Susan. “Experimentation on Human Beings.” OAH Magazine of History, Vol. 19, No. 5, Medicine and History (Sep., 2005), pp. 20-22. Reverby,  Susan Mokotoff. Examining Tuskegee: The Infamous Syphilis Study and Its Legacy. (University of North Carolina Press, 2009).  Sharma, Alankaar. “Diseased Race, Racialized Disease: The Story of the Negro Project of American Social Hygiene Association Against the Backdrop of the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment.” Journal of African American Studies, Vol. 14, No. 2 (June 2010), pp. 247-262.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices