In Paul Laurence Dunbar's poem “We Wear the Mask,” he wrote of a smile that “grins and lies” referring to our inability to show our authentic selves and feelings. This week on Blacktivities, we talk about what it means to take off the mask—especially while moving through workplaces and the world. Shannon, Lisa, and KK talk finding safe spaces, what diversity and inclusion was supposed to look like, and how culture and food can bring people together.

We also share our own “unmasking” moments, from podcasting to showing up more authentically at work, plus a hilarious conversation about why Carnival Cruise thinks y’all are doing too much.

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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

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Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

In this episode of Blacktivities, Shannon, Lisa, and KK unpack the parenting phrases we grew up hearing—and how many of them still echo in our adult lives and therapy sessions. From “Because I said so” to “I brought you in this world, I can take you out,” we’re talking about how generational trauma gets passed down, sometimes biologically, and how we’re working to break the cycle for the next generation.

We dive into:

• Common phrases Black parents said—and what they really meant
• The mental health gap in the Black community and why so few seek therapy
• Epigenetics: how trauma gets passed through generations
• Shifting from survival-based parenting to emotionally healthy communication
• Why Black folks need therapy, support, and permission to grow

Plus, Mona Lisa delivers a beautiful off-the-cuff poetic moment about Black motherhood and resilience. And of course, we leave you with powerful calls to action for the culture.

CALL TO ACTION:

Let’s talk—what’s something your parents used to say that stuck with you (for better or worse)? Drop a comment, DM us, or leave a review.

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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

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• The Struggle of Growing Up With Black Parents
• How Parents' Trauma Leaves Biological Traces in Children | Scientific American
• Can trauma Be Inherited Through Genes?
• Intergenerational transmission of trauma effects: putative role of epigenetic mechanisms - PMC
• Understanding Mental Health in Black Communities

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

We all got 'em—those moments where our Black card might get snatched! In this lighter episode of Blacktivities, Shannon and KK trade Black Card Confessions—from not knowing how to play Spades to secret love for Wilson Phillips and white folks' footwear. But as always, we keep it rooted with a Big Facts segment on the history of the "Black card" and how it connects to the One-Drop Rule.

The episode dives into:

• The cultural remix of the "Black card" and its historical roots
• Spades, oxtails, Birkenstocks, and other so-called violations
• The Wire, The Chi, BMF, and why TV taste is not a revocable offense
• Music confessions, 90s love, and why Kendrick’s anthem might’ve been a little overplayed
• The fine line between levity and trauma, and a heartfelt call to keep spreading Black joy

Call to Action:

Got a Black Card Confession? Leave us a 5-star review and drop your “violations” in the comments or tag us on socials @blacktivitiespod. We might read yours on the next show!

#blacktivities #blackcardconfessions #spadesrules #blackjoy #blackpodcasts #onedroprule #blackculture

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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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• "Crossing the Color Line: Racial Migration and the One-Drop Rule, 1600-" by Daniel J. Sharfstein
• The 'One Drop Rule' in America, a story - African American Registry

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

In this episode of Blacktivities, Shannon, Mona Lisa, and KK dive into a conversation that’s long overdue — the fetishization of Black men. From historical roots to what it looks like in dating, porn, and pop culture today, the hosts unpack the ways Black men are turned into objects instead of being seen as full, complex people. They share personal stories, research-backed facts, and a few laughs along the way. Spoiler: it’s not a compliment. It’s a call for respect.

Key Takeaways:

• Fetishization has deep roots in slavery and colonialism.
• It still shows up in media, dating apps, and everyday conversations.
• Black men often get objectified based on myths about their bodies or masculinity.
• Some men might be into it, but many aren’t — and it’s not the same as genuine attraction.
• Even we, as Black folks, sometimes repeat harmful stereotypes without realizing it.
• It’s time to see Black men as more than just a “look” or a “vibe.” They’re thinkers, builders, creators — full human beings.

Call to Action:

Black men — have you experienced fetishization? How did it make you feel? Drop a comment, DM, or email us your story. This convo ain’t over.

Sound Bites:

• “Why are people searching Mandingo porn and finding us?”
• “Live your truth, know your worth, King.”
• “You want a Black baby, but can you protect a Black child?”

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Welcome Back, Blacktivities!
• 02:12 – The Big Facts: Fetishization of Black Men
• 08:47 – Real Talk & Personal Stories
• 14:13 – Do Some Men Like It?
• 22:42 – Do We Reinforce These Stereotypes?
• 26:30 – Private Conversations with Black Men
• 33:00 – Celebs, Media, and Jamie Foxx?!
• 36:26 – Lisa’s Pieces: “Dear Black Man” (Poem)
• 41:53 – Call 2 Action 4 The Culture

Tags: #BlackMen #Fetishization #BlackLove #RespectBlackMen #Blacktivities

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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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• No, Not the Broadcasting Company: A Brief History of Black Men’s Hypersexualization — Sexual Health Alliance
• The Fetishization of Black Men
• What Is Fetishization And How Does It Contribute To Racism?
• Feeling Like a Fetish: Racialized Feelings, Fetishization, and the Contours of Sexual Racism on Gay Dating Apps
• The fetishisation of black masculinity | British GQ

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

In this powerful episode of Blacktivities, Shannon welcomes special guest Rick Willis — a proud HBCU alum, veteran, journalist, and outspoken advocate for Black empowerment — to unpack the growing backlash against Black culture, history, and unity.

From banned books and rewritten curriculums to erasure in media and targeted attacks on Black progress, this conversation exposes the patterns of fear, propaganda, and historical amnesia that continue to impact our communities. Through storytelling, facts, and unapologetic truth-telling, Shannon and Rick examine the difference between playing the victim and naming injustice, the danger of the "white victimhood" narrative, and what Black folks can do to resist erasure, restore pride, and go on offense.

Topics Covered:

• The historical and modern-day backlash against Black progress
• Big Facts: documented attacks on Black political power and education
• Why white fear is fueling efforts to silence Black truth
• The myth of meritocracy and the reality of stolen opportunity
• The emotional and strategic dilemma of protecting Black spaces
• DEI, CRT, and the "incompetence" narrative
• What solidarity between Black men and women should look like
• The call to action: love each other louder, lead with truth, and educate our own

Guest Info:

Follow Rick Willis on Facebook and Instagram:

• Facebook: Rick Willis
• Instagram: @rodinman5

🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share to support the movement.

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Hear more episodes - Blacktivities website

About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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• White Supremacy, Terrorism, and the Failure of Reconstruction in the United States
• https://www.levin-center.org/congress-investigates-kkk-violence-during-reconstruction/
• Nearly 2,000 Black Americans Were Lynched During Reconstruction
• Documenting Reconstruction Violence - Equal Justice Initiative Reports

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

Black creativity has always been the blueprint. From the music we vibe to, to the dances that go viral, to the art that shapes culture—Black folks have BEEN leading the way. But history shows us a pattern: when the genius comes from Black communities, the credit often goes elsewhere.

In this episode of Blacktivities, Shannon, Lisa, and KK unpack the long, painful legacy of cultural appropriation in the arts as we celebrate Black Music Month. From rock and roll and Big Mama Thornton to Black TikTok creators, we explore how Black brilliance has been borrowed, sanitized, and sold—while the originators get left behind.

Whether it's Elvis becoming the "King of Rock ‘n’ Roll" or white influencers going viral off Black dance moves, this episode dives deep into how credit, compensation, and control have been denied to Black artists for generations. And still—Black excellence persists.

Discussion Questions We Explore:

• Why is this conversation important? Or is it just “divisive” like some folks say?
• What’s the difference between appreciating Black culture and just taking from it?
• As Black creators, have you ever had your work appropriated?
• What can we do to make sure Black creators get their due?

Bring Blacktivities to your inbox - stay posted on what's happening with the pod... more black culture, black history, black perspectives, and black panache!

Baddies with Business is a national network that supports Black women entrepreneurs in years 0-5 through storytelling via their podcast community building (in-person and on-line), and access to social capital.

Join the Baddies with Business online community.

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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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• 5 Empowering Gems I Gathered About Being A Black Creative From A Major Record Label Art Director - Blavity
• opyright, Culture & (and) Black Music: A Legacy of Unequal Copyright, Culture & (and) Black Music: A Legacy of Unequal Protection
• 3 of Elvis Presley’s Musical Influences That Really (Really) Did Not Like Him Back
• 'Copynorms,' Black Cultural Production, and the Debate Over African-American Reparations
• Black artists and appropriation | Why Race Matters

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

We’re back—and a lot has gone down.

In this season opener, we catch you up on the major stories that have shaped Black culture, politics, and resistance since our last episode. From boycotts and burning plantations to Black dandyism on the red carpet, we connect the dots between history and the headlines.

In this episode:

• Boycott of Dollar General: Pastor Dr. Jamal Bryant is leading a boycott over the rollback of DEI initiatives, calling for corporate accountability and investment in Black communities.
• The Fall of Nottoway Plantation: Louisiana’s largest antebellum mansion burns to the ground—sparking grief, reflection, and questions about historical memory.
• Diddy on Trial: Sean “Diddy” Combs faces serious federal charges involving sex trafficking and racketeering. We examine the allegations and cultural response.
• Refugee Status for White Afrikaners: The Trump administration fast-tracks white South African refugees while protections for Afghan allies are set to expire.
• DEI Under Attack: Trump’s new executive order targets museums like the Smithsonian, threatening the future of inclusive history and cultural representation.
• Black Dandyism at the Met Gala: This year’s Met celebrated Black fashion and identity with “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”—a powerful exhibition on Black self-expression and style.

We’re breaking it all down with context, analysis, and culture in mind.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.

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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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• Trump administration welcomed white Afrikaners while ending Afghan protections
• White South Africans arrive in US under Trump refugee plan
• Nottoway Historic Louisiana Plantation Destroyed
• Target sales fall sharply in 1st quarter and retailer warns they will slip for all of 2025 - CBS Minnesota
• Dollar General Boycott: What to Know About Key Difference From Others - Newsweek
• Everything to Know About the 2025 Met Gala: Theme, Hosts and More | Vogue
• Trump's Order to Sanitize Black History Meets Institutional Resistance
• Critics question why exhibits at the African American History Museum are rotating out
• Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History – The White House

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

At the beginning of the season, we said black women were going on a break, but the sabbatical is over! Lately, it seems like blackness is under attack and our civil rights are being threatened. We're sending out the bat signal for the 92%! It's all hands on deck... time to resist! Shan, Lisa, and KK discuss how our ancestors did it on the plantation, how our grandparents' generation did it during the Civil Rights Movement, and how we need to get in where we fit in today.

Bring Blacktivities to your inbox - stay posted on what's happening with the pod... more black culture, black history, black perspectives, and black panache!

Are you a single parent in college working on your degree who needs assistance? Apply today or support our sponsor H.O.P.E., Inc. @ https://hopbe.org

Listen to H.O.P.E.'s founder's story on U Talk, I'll Listen.

Collective PAC - https://collectivepac.org/

State of the People -

https://www.youtube.com/live/rOukFrDEWr8?si=-beqWpFtjQ3RmjoD

https://www.youtube.com/live/WFpGa3rZoqs?si=a6HDpn_qy70sunhy

Other Ways to Join in the Blacktivities:

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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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• Timeline of the American Civil Rights Movement | Britannica
• Civil rights movement - Wikipedia
• Martin Luther King Jr: A trailblazer of peaceful protesting
• On Violence and Nonviolence: The Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi - 2002-02
• Nonviolent Philosophy and Self Defense | Articles and Essays | Civil Rights History Project | Digital Collections | Library of Congress
• The Modern Civil Rights Movement, 1954-1964 - Civil Rights (U.S. National Park Service)
• The Civil Rights Movement | The Post War United States, 1945-1968 | U.S. History Primary Source Timeline | Classroom Materials at the Library of Congress | Library of Congress
• The US Civil Rights Movement (1942-1968) | ICNC

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

Social media has made us more connected, but it has also brought some new problems into the mix. According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, among those whose partner uses social media, 23% say they have felt jealous or unsure of their relationship because of the way their current partner interacts with others on social media. From "single" married men jumping into DMs and "couple goals" to the fetishization of black men and unrealistic expectations, the girls discuss the effects of social media on relationships.

Bring Blacktivities to your inbox - stay posted on what's happening with the pod... more black culture, black history, black perspectives, and black panache!

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Listen to H.O.P.E.'s founder's story on U Talk, I'll Listen.

1. Ask Black People - If you have a question you want us to answer on the show, use this link.
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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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• Social Media and Romantic Relationships
• How Social Media Affects Relationships in Modern Times
• Pew Research - Dating and Relationships in the Digital Age

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC

Kofi Siriboe, the chocolate brotha who played Ralph Angel in Queen Sugar and is in the current season of Harlem as Seth, recently became part of a headline because he said he practices ethical non-monogamy. Singer Ne-Yo has also made some headlines recently for having four girlfriends. So what is it? And is this what we're doing now? Shannon breaks down polyamory and what it entails, and the girls discuss whether they are really about that life.

Bring Blacktivities to your inbox - stay posted on what's happening with the pod... more black culture, black history, black perspectives, and black panache!

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Listen to H.O.P.E.'s founder's story on U Talk, I'll Listen.

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Hear more episodes - Blacktivities website

About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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• What’s the Difference Between Polyamory, Polygamy, and Ethical Non-Monogamy? — Poly Philia

Copyright 2022-2025 Black Panache, LLC