Espresso Talk Today

Did you know that systemic racism can cause depression, anxiety, hypertension, insomnia, and other serious health conditions? Black Americans suffer high levels of stress from the daily experience of anti-Black racism.  In this special episode, the Espresso Talk Today team is joined by Professor William Smith who has conducted extensive study on this serious condition. He discusses the physiological processes leading to Racial Battle Fatigue, the symptoms, and healthy coping strategies to protect one's health. He also identifies unhealthy strategies that people use to cope but that often have dire consequences. Join the ETT Team in this important episode. 

Bonus Materials:

Quote: “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.~ Audre Lorde

Post-Podcast Self-Care Activity: Affirmations

Affirmations are a powerful tool for nurturing positive self-perception and resilience. Here are five affirmations to reinforce your sense of purpose, empowerment, and well-being:

1. I am resilient, and my strength is a force for positive change.

2. I embrace my identity and stand proud in the face of adversity.

3. I am worthy of respect, understanding, and justice.

4. My well-being matters, and I prioritize self-care in the pursuit of liberation.

5. I contribute to a community of support, and together, we empower each other.

Use these affirmations during the Breather Break (36:40) or immediately following the show. 

In this powerful final episode of Black History Month on Espresso Talk Today, we dive deep into the heart of what it means to be a history maker. Guided by the wisdom of the courageous and brilliant philosopher and activist, Angela Davis, we explore how every one of us, through our everyday actions, contributes to making history. From the stories of young activists reshaping our communities to the affirmations that fuel our inner strength, this episode is a call to recognize our collective power and responsibility.

We delve into the lives of individuals who, from youth to young adulthood, have stood up, spoken out, and acted to create change, proving that history is shaped by the everyday actions of ordinary people. Our discussion extends beyond the past, focusing on how we are actively crafting the future with our choices, voices, and actions today.

This episode is not just a reflection on Black History Month but a beacon for the ongoing journey of self-empowerment and collective action. Join us as we embrace the present with the knowledge that we are all, indeed, making history.

Bonus Materials:

Quote: “It is essential to resist the depiction of history as the work of heroic individuals for people today to recognize their potential agency as a part of an ever-expanding community of struggle.” ~ Angela Davis

Self-Care Activity

Affirmations are a powerful tool for nurturing positive self-perception and resilience. Here are five affirmations to reinforce your sense of purpose, empowerment, and well-being:

1. "I am a conduit of change; my actions, no matter how small, ripple out into the world, creating waves of positive impact."

2. "My worth is not measured by the scale of my achievements but by the sincerity of my efforts and the kindness in my heart."

3. "I give myself permission to rest and recharge, recognizing that self-care is not selfish but essential to sustain my passion and purpose."

4. "I stand on the shoulders of giants, drawing strength from those who came before me, and I too, am laying the foundations for future generations."

5. "My voice matters, my actions count, and my presence makes a difference in the tapestry of history, woven one thread at a time."

Repeat these affirmations daily, especially during moments of doubt or fatigue. 

Do you find Black history depressing? I did! Then I learned that this was my "miseducation" about the real history of Black people in America.  In this episode, host Ama-Robin rejects the "inferiorized" Black history that we have been taught and discusses the empowered history of resilience, resistance, and joy that is the true experience of Black America.  Then she challenges you to find the joy in the history that you are making today. Grab an espresso and join us!

Black Joy is found in many places. One of my favorite "Black Joy" activities comes from storytelling and skilled storytellers. 

Storytellers have always held important roles in Black communities--from Africa to Detroit. Storytelling connects us with our roots in Africa where the oral tradition was used to remember family history, acknowledge special events, and teach societal norms. This oral tradition allowed storytellers to adapt the story, message, and performance to the audience for maximum impact and enjoyment.  

The Espresso Talk Today team is pleased to have Master Storyteller, Mitch Capel, aka Gran'daddy Junebug, to the show to discuss the importance of storytelling.

Gran'daddy Junebug will also present some of his most popular stories and poems.  You don't want to miss this uncommon and joyful episode!

Dive into a revolutionary journey with Espresso Talk Today's special episode for Black History Month.

Host Ama-Robin takes you through an empowering exploration of learning Black history as an act of radical liberation. This episode highlights the pivotal roles of figures like W.E.B. Du Bois and Angela Davis in reshaping the narrative of Black empowerment. Uncover the untold stories of resilience and excellence that form the foundation of our fight against systemic racism.

Join Ama-Robin in this powerful call to action, emphasizing that learning Black history is more than education—it's a rebellion and a path to true liberation. Tune in for an inspiring journey of discovery and empowerment, where our history becomes our strength.

Racism is making us sick!  A Black person dies every seven minutes because of systemic racism.  

What can we do?

The first step is to use the Every Day Discrimination Scale--a test that measures the effect of racism in our lives. 

The second step is to practice self-care. I

In this episode, Ama-Robin discusses different types of self-care, but she also encourages you to focus on the self-care that works for you. This is Black empowerment and liberation at its finest. Join this show. It could save your life. 

Join Ama-Robin and Mel for this uncommon conversation about how racism affects Black health. They also use and discuss the Every Day Discrimination Scale (EDDS) that was created by Psychologist David R. Williams. You can find the Every Day Discrimination Scale on the Espresso Talk Today website at www.espressotalktoday.com. 

Meet the fearless visionary, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.--just in time for Martin Luther King Jr. Day! Explore the bold and unapologetic side of Dr. King that history often hides from us.

From the challenges of making MLK Day a reality to the radical messages that resonate today, this show will empower and inspire to action. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, speak out, and make a difference in your community, because this is where radical courage meets actionable change.

Join Ama-Robin for this uncommon and inspirational show!

"The master's tools will never dismantle the master's house." Black feminist activist Audre Lorde spoke these words in 1979. She envisioned the dismantling of the global systems of oppression against Black and Brown people. As we enter 2024, Espresso Talk Today examines what has changed in the 45 years since Audre Lorde's poignant speech. We also examine what tools we have that can dismantle the machinery of white supremacy. Join us for this uncommon New Year's talk that reminds us of our individual and collective power.

Habari Gani! Let's celebrate Kwanzaa! Learn the basics about Kwanzaa from Master Storyteller Mama Edie. Learn why Kwanzaa was started, who started it, how to celebrate it, and how you can live the Kwanzaa principles. Great fun and wonderful traditions for the whole family, friends, or just you and the Espresso Talk Today team. At the end of the show, Mama Edie will tell an uplifting Kwanzaa story. Great show for the whole family! 

Join Ama-Robin and Mel for this uncommon conversation about how racism affects Black health. They also take and discuss the Every Day Discrimination Scale (EDDS) that was created by Psychologist David R. Williams. You can find the Every Day Discrimination Scale on the Espresso Talk Today website at www.espressotalktoday.com. 

Doing Dashiki Fridays. Studying Black history. Learning a (non-colonial) African language. Visiting an African country. Cooking foods from Black heritage. Singing the Black National Anthem. There are so many ways to connect with and celebrate Black culture!  In this Real Talk episode, Mel and Robin discuss their favorite ways to connect with Black culture--some surprises here!--and why they feel that it is important, especially now. Join this Real Talk! Bonus: Get a free download of the Embrace your Blackness e-book. 

Robert E. Lee Memorial Statue (Richmond, VA). Edmund Pettus Bridge (Selma, AL). Confederate Soldiers & Sailors Obelisk (Birmingham, AL). Buffalo Bill Cultural Center (Kansas). Columbus Day holiday. Gone with the Wind. What do these have in common? They remember the history of White Americans.  However, many people—particularly people of color—are denouncing these public remembrances for their idealization of slavery, segregation, genocide, mass rape, and other atrocities.  The Espresso Talk Today team approaches these difficult questions and gives their opinions about what should be done about these historical sites. Join us in this lively discussion about White supremacy hidden in plain sight. Enough is enough! 

Back by popular demand!

Jorick Gaines returns to talk about wealth building--and getting out of that "Sucker Cycle"!

Financial advisor and educator, Jorick Gaines with WealthWave, Inc., discusses the road to financial security and wealth building.

It all begins with having a wealth-focused mindset.

Jorick discusses the elements of the wealth mindset, the importance of financial literacy, and the actions needed for financial security. His advice helps people in all income categories and age groups.

Join Ben, Marlene, and Ama-Robin (and Jorick Gaines!) for this enlightening, uplifting, and educational episode.  This show can change your current financial situation and your future financial status. The time to start is now!

Real Talk is getting uncomfortable in Montgomery. Ama-Robin, Mel, and Ben visit the historical town of Montgomery, Alabama. The town is home to the Equal Justice Initiative which works to challenge racial and economic injustice in the United States.

The ETT team discusses the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park. The city of Montgomery is also a living museum. This was an "unforgettable journey through American History." We confront racial terror and reflect on America's conflicting and racist rhetoric and experiences. 

Join us for this "uncomfortable" journey of healing in one of America's most historically racist spaces. 

Asante sana to the Equal Justice Initiative for its continuing work towards racial justice. You can learn more about their work and support them at eji.org.

Are you prejudiced against yourself? Internalized racism is real and persistent. Where does it come from? What does it look like?

In this uncommon podcast episode, Ama-Robin presents the "7 Signs that You Might be Prejudiced against Yourself." Learn solutions and ways to heal from the effects of internalized racism. She also presents great stories of Black people who have successfully navigated through this hidden web of white supremacy. 

Join us for this deep dive into this misunderstood form of racism. No judgment. No criticism. Just awareness.

What is a wealth mindset? In this financial empowerment show, financial advisor and educator, Jorick Gaines with WealthWave, Inc., discusses the road to financial security and wealth building. It all begins with having a wealth-focused mindset.

Jorick Gaines discusses the elements of the wealth mindset, the importance of financial literacy, and the actions needed for financial security. His advice helps people in all income categories and age groups.

Join the Espresso Talk Today team for this enlightening, uplifting, and educational episode.  This show can change your current financial situation and your future financial status. The time to start is now!

In this uncommon and interactive episode of Espresso Talk Today, Ama-Robin leads a timely 10-question "check-in" to dive into the intricate relationship between our pursuit of success and the health impact of racism. Through a comprehensive--and short!--questionnaire, you will assess how high-effort coping skills, often vital in battling racial challenges, might be silently affecting your health and well-being. 

Join us in this essential discussion as we uncover these invisible but real costs and empower ourselves with knowledge and awareness.

An episode not to be missed by any Black person navigating the path to success.

On this September "Talks with Docs & Profs" show, we are joined by the esteemed heart-failure specialist, Kevin Alexander, M.D., to shed light on ATTR-CM – a grave yet under-discussed disease that affects Black people. In this engaging dialogue, we unravel the intricacies of ATTR-CM, exploring its symptoms, prognosis, and the latest advancements in treatment.

Emphasizing its significance within the Black community, Dr. Alexander articulates how awareness and knowledge about this disease are vital components of Black medical care, empowerment and health advocacy. This episode is a harmonious blend of deep discussion about a serious condition and uplifting conversation on community empowerment, promising to leave listeners informed and inspired. Join host Ama-Robin or this uncommon conversation!

:35 Intro and Background

6:10 Kevin Alexander, M.D. discusses ATTR-CM

1:05:15 Outro

In a world where diversity could be celebrated, the reality for many Black people can be described as "Feeling Alone in a Crowd." 

Join host Ama-Robin on a journey of empowerment, resilience, and radical change as she tackles the complex and often uncomfortable topic of racial isolation. Through candid discussion, personal stories, and expert insights, this podcast episode brings to light the challenges we face in predominantly white spaces—whether at work, in the community, or in everyday life.

Ama-Robin fearlessly explores the emotional toll of racial isolation, its mental health effects, and the power of collective action.  Whether you're Black, an ally, or simply curious about dismantling racial barriers, this podcast is your call to action. Join us in the fight for unity, understanding, and a world where no one has to feel alone in a crowd.

Remember to subscribe now and be part of the change!