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Ever been curious about the intricate relationship between perception, representation, and the Black experience? You're in for an enlightening ride with my guest Matthew Speamer, a curious mix of a stand-up comedian and dedicated teacher, who takes us through his personal journey. We delve into his evolution towards self-acceptance, and his incredible work in educating young Black and brown children. He gives us some profound insights into changing the negative perceptions associated with Black youth, emphasizing the importance of self-perception and representation.
Have you ever thought about the pervasive influence that media, particularly hip-hop and sports, has on your life? I probe deep into this complex terrain with Matthew, exploring the potential negative impacts of false narratives spread by celebrities and the power of social media in shaping our understanding of success. Reflecting on the past and present societal sensitivities and priorities, Matthew offers an engaging comparison. We also tackle some heavy issues, including generational trauma experienced by Black people, its impact on everyday life, and the powerful concept of Black joy as a form of resilience and resistance.
About Matthew Speamer:
Speamer became the CUE Community Fellow with Homewood Children’s Village in March 2022. He works with the nonprofit to provide educational services and learning support for youth and their families in Homewood. The first project he worked on was Learn and Earn, a summer youth employment initiative. Speamer coordinated with parents and organizations across Pittsburgh’s East End to ensure meaningful experiences for students. “The kids loved it, working a job and learning something they’re interested in,” Speamer said of the Learn and Earn program. “I think the parents would agree that it was a great experience.” Now he is initiating a pilot of the Village Learning Hub, which will provide an equitable support system for families who are homeschooling. Speamer says working with youth is what drives him in his work to improve urban education. “Kids have that light within them, and I think we should nurture and support that,” he says. “If we can do that the right way, generationally speaking, we can make the world a better place.”
Support the show
Show Credits:
Richard Dodds (Host/Producer): @Doddsism
Show Music: @IAmTheDjBlue
Podcast Website: StillTalkingBlack.com
Still Talking Black is a production of Crowned Culture Media LLC. All rights reserved.
By Richard “Rick” Dodds | Crowned Culture Media5
44 ratings
Send us a text
Ever been curious about the intricate relationship between perception, representation, and the Black experience? You're in for an enlightening ride with my guest Matthew Speamer, a curious mix of a stand-up comedian and dedicated teacher, who takes us through his personal journey. We delve into his evolution towards self-acceptance, and his incredible work in educating young Black and brown children. He gives us some profound insights into changing the negative perceptions associated with Black youth, emphasizing the importance of self-perception and representation.
Have you ever thought about the pervasive influence that media, particularly hip-hop and sports, has on your life? I probe deep into this complex terrain with Matthew, exploring the potential negative impacts of false narratives spread by celebrities and the power of social media in shaping our understanding of success. Reflecting on the past and present societal sensitivities and priorities, Matthew offers an engaging comparison. We also tackle some heavy issues, including generational trauma experienced by Black people, its impact on everyday life, and the powerful concept of Black joy as a form of resilience and resistance.
About Matthew Speamer:
Speamer became the CUE Community Fellow with Homewood Children’s Village in March 2022. He works with the nonprofit to provide educational services and learning support for youth and their families in Homewood. The first project he worked on was Learn and Earn, a summer youth employment initiative. Speamer coordinated with parents and organizations across Pittsburgh’s East End to ensure meaningful experiences for students. “The kids loved it, working a job and learning something they’re interested in,” Speamer said of the Learn and Earn program. “I think the parents would agree that it was a great experience.” Now he is initiating a pilot of the Village Learning Hub, which will provide an equitable support system for families who are homeschooling. Speamer says working with youth is what drives him in his work to improve urban education. “Kids have that light within them, and I think we should nurture and support that,” he says. “If we can do that the right way, generationally speaking, we can make the world a better place.”
Support the show
Show Credits:
Richard Dodds (Host/Producer): @Doddsism
Show Music: @IAmTheDjBlue
Podcast Website: StillTalkingBlack.com
Still Talking Black is a production of Crowned Culture Media LLC. All rights reserved.