Ever wondered how a former attorney turns passion for science into a thriving distillery? Join Chanda Smith Baker as she dives deep with Chris Montana, founder of Du Nord Social Spirits. Discover the transformative power of mentorship, the gritty realities of fundraising, and the resilience needed to pivot during a pandemic. Hear how producing hand sanitizer for first responders and homeless shelters became a lifeline. This episode will inspire you to invest in people, embrace adaptability, and transform challenges into opportunities.

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Can police departments evolve to prioritize trust and accountability? Chanda and Assistant Chief Alice White explore the challenges and opportunities facing law enforcement, and what it takes to create lasting change.

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This is part of the Shaping the Future: Women in Law Enforcement Series. Join Chanda Smith Baker and retired Assistant Chief of the Minneapolis Police Department, Kris Arneson, as they navigate the urgent need for change in policing culture, community engagement, and the invaluable impact of women in law enforcement. Learn from Kris's 32-year journey about breaking barriers, fostering diversity, and championing ethical policing practices. Don't miss this conversation about reshaping the future of law enforcement and unleashing the potential of women leaders!

In this episode, Chanda Smith Baker and Dawn Selle sit with trailblazing guest Deborah Montgomery, the first female police officer in St. Paul, MN, in 1975. Now retired, Montgomery reflects on her remarkable career dedicated to breaking barriers, championing civil rights, and making a lasting impact on her community. They explore critical topics surrounding policing, community justice, and fostering genuine connections within the community. Emphasizing the vital roles of empathy, communication, and resourcefulness in crisis situations, Montgomery shares invaluable insights on effecting positive change. Additionally, they explore the importance of creating a more inclusive and respectful hiring process, advocating for better pay and benefits, and promoting opportunities for professional growth and development to enhance police recruitment and retention.

Join Chanda Smith Baker as she talks with Pulitzer Prize finalist Lee Hawkins about his journey to uncover years of family history, revealing the intertwined lives of Black and White families and the impact of historical trauma on contemporary America. Listen to the prelude "WHAT HAPPENED IN ALABAMA?" podcast at whathappenedinalabama.org and pre-order "I AM NOBODY’S SLAVE: How Uncovering My Family’s History Set Me Free" (HarperCollins 2025) on Amazon.

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https://a.co/d/9BBS3zl (Pre-order Book)

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In our latest episode of Conversations with Chanda, we are joined by Dr. Rachel R. Hardeman, a Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and Director of the Center for Antiracism Research for Health Equity and Simone Hardeman-Jones, Executive Director of GreenLight Fund Twin Cities, both trailblazers and twin sisters committed to equity and social justice. We explore the powerful legacies of black Minnesotan families and their impact on community service and leadership. The conversation uncovers how addressing the root causes of challenges can lead to meaningful change. Listen now to be inspired by these stories and empowered to take action for a more equitable and just world.

In this powerful episode of Centering Conversations, Dr. Gisele Shorter, President and CEO of the Nellie Mae Education Foundation, shares her deep belief that an equitable society starts with an equitable education system. With over 15 years of experience leading large-scale community-based programs, Dr. Shorter is committed to advancing education justice and closing the opportunity gap for Black and Brown youth. Tune in to hear her insights on building a more just and equitable world through education.

In this live event at the Medtronic Club, U.S. Bank Stadium, Chanda interviews panelists Alice White, Deborah Montgomery, and Kris Arneson on their experiences and insights in recruiting and retaining women in law enforcement. Alice White, currently the Assistant Chief of the Golden Valley Police Department, shares her journey from Community Service Officer to Sergeant, and her role in implementing Procedural Justice training. Deborah Montgomery, a trailblazer in law enforcement, made history as the first female African American police officer in St. Paul, Minnesota, and rose to the rank of Commander in her distinguished career. Kris Arneson, retired Assistant Chief of the Minneapolis Police Department, brings over 32 years of experience and highlights her work in community policing and improving relations with East African and African American communities. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives and strategies for promoting gender equality in the force and creating a safer, more inclusive community.

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Chanda, Dr. Tashion Macon, Culturalist and Communication + Cachet Catalyst, shares her inspiring journey and the secrets to achieving peak performance and successful outcomes. Dr. Tashion is a master at moving others to see where culture and the consumer are headed, making her an invaluable asset to individuals and institutions alike. From her humble beginnings in East St. Louis to her high-powered career in global entertainment and marketing, she shares her insights on spirituality, stardom, success, and the implications they have on the soul and society. Listen now to learn how Dr. Tashion empowers others to live their purpose and achieve unshakeable success.

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Antoinette Malveaux, Managing Director at Casey Family Programs, joins Chanda to discuss leadership development, social justice, racial equity, and philanthropy's role in driving systemic change. They explore the importance of inclusive leadership, listening, and accountability in creating a more just and equitable world.

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