Today we are diving into the captivating life story of Attorney, Artist & Activist (Reginald) Dwayne Betts, a man whose path took unexpected turns, leading him to discover the boundless potential within himself.

As we journey through Dwayne's life, we'll explore the profound impact of literature on his transformation, his encounters with influential poets like Sonia Sanchez, and the survival strategies that poetry offered him during his incarceration.

Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link. 

Things mentioned

Freedom Reads- Organization founded by Dwayne Betts that aims to place millions of books into prisons

Kiese LeMond- ambassador of Freedom Reads

Traci Thomas-  podcast host of the Stacks

Sherley Anne Williams - American Poet

Lucille Cliffton- American poet

Eldridge cleaver- author and activist

What to Read

Makes me Wanna Holler - Nathan McCall

The Black Poets- Dudley Randall

Homegirls and Hand Grenades- Sonia Sanchez

The Art of War- Sun Tzu

Crazy as Hell, (the best book on black history you'll ever read)- Dwayne Betts  coming soon

What to listen to

We the People - A Tribe Called Quest

Living For The City - Stevie Wonder

The Message - Grandmaster Flash

Who to follow

Website: https://www.dwaynebetts.com/

IG: Reginald Betts (@dwaynebetts)

TW:  Dwayne Betts (@dwaynebetts)

This conversation was recorded on July 13, 2023.

Host Dario Calmese 

Producer:  K.T. Thompson

Visual Art Direction and Designs: River Wildmen

Director of Digital Content: Vicky Garcia

Production Asst:  Noa Lesche

Original Music composed by Adam Radice

Audio Edited by Adam Radice

Visit us at blackimagination.com 

Watch other episodes on YouTube at The Institute of Black Imagination.