The Matrix, The Alchemist, KRS-One, and community-defined strategies for sustainable change.

In this episode I talk to social worker and "hip hop therapy" pioneer Tomás Alvarez III who is the Founder and CEO of Beats Rhymes and Life, an Oakland-based organization that uses the process of creating rap music as a tool for promoting mental health and healing among urban youth uninterested in traditional talk therapy.

Music

Show Opener: Salt-n-Pepa, Pharrell Williams (with Justin Timberlake), Melanie and Kanye West (feat. Rhymefest)

They Don't Do It LiKE THiS - Soul Touch, Young Te', Stuny, Mastah Flex, Larrinator, ZENO & Rude Boi

I Luv Myself - Feat. DJ Mo Mo, Steph the Jet, Zeno, Lil Von, Frank Vencci

I Got The Power - Beats Rhymes and Life, Inc.

CROSS OVER - Jhon, Young Te', Damariae & Trevon

Public Service Announcement (P.S.A.) - Feat. Watzreal, Frank Vencci, Rotate, Soul Touch

Step Into a World (Rapture's Delight) - KRS-One

Show Closer: DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Tricky, Dusty Springfield and Isaac Hayes

Reading List

Rap Therapy: A Practical Guide for Communicating With Youth and Young Adults Through Rap Music, by Don Elligan

The Alchemist, by Paolo Coehlo

Watch List

Hip Hop Therapy for At-Risk Youth | Ashoka Fellow Tomás Alvarez III

A Lovely Day Film

KRS One Beats Rhymes and Life Freestyle

Reimagine P.S.A. by Beats Rhymes and Life, Inc.

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