Espresso Talk Today

In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, we're diving into how to prepare for and manage the racial chaos in the healthcare system. I know many of you—especially my young audience—feel nervous, afraid, or even powerless when facing medical appointments. This episode is for you.

We're shifting gears from recognizing the red flags of medical racism to discussing real, practical steps you can take to protect your health and advocate for yourself. From finding a culturally competent doctor to using the B.R.A.I.N. system, I’m giving you the tools you need to reclaim your power in healthcare.

Your voice matters, and I'm here to remind you that you have the right to ask questions, speak up, and demand the best care. We'll break down strategies to help you prepare, stay calm, and confront any dismissive behavior you encounter. Remember, Black health is Black empowerment.

Tune in and empower yourself to take control of your health journey!

#BelieveBlackPeople

Hujambo, beautiful people! In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, we confront the subtle yet pervasive racial chaos in the healthcare system.

Join host Ama-Robin as she uncovers the microaggressions, hidden biases, and other red flags that Black people often face during medical treatment. From dismissal of pain to offensive stereotypes, we get real about how racism affects our health. This episode equips you with the knowledge to identify when your care might be compromised by medical racism.

Empower yourself, share with your community, and get ready to take control of your healthcare journey.

Trigger warning:  We are presenting real-life experiences of medical racism. This may trigger trauma or stress. Please practice self-care.  We will take 3 short breather breaks during this episode.

Next week, we’ll explore how to confront and challenge these situations in healthful and effective ways. Don’t miss it!

In this eye-opening episode, Deirdre Cooper Owens, Ph.D, a leading historian of medicine, reveals the disturbing history of medical racism against Black women.

From the origins of American gynecology during the period of enslavement to the persistence of biased treatment today, Dr. Cooper Owens exposes the systemic issues that Black women face in healthcare. She provides crucial advice on self-advocacy, patient advocacy, and the power of story-sharing as tools to reclaim and protect our health.

This is a must-listen for anyone committed to understanding and fighting against medical racism!

Note: Hans Hyppolite introduces this episode from our vintage collection.

In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, Dr. Greg Hall, a leading expert on Black health, joins us for an empowering conversation on the critical importance of self-advocacy and personal health care. Dr. Hall shares powerful insights on how systemic barriers and racial biases in the healthcare system have historically impacted Black communities—and continue to do so today.

We dive into the actionable steps that Black people can take to protect their health, from knowing your vital health numbers to making dietary changes and understanding the importance of mental health. Dr. Hall also highlights the value of finding trustworthy healthcare providers and how advocating for yourself in medical settings can lead to better outcomes.

This episode isn’t just about diagnosing the problem; it’s about solutions. Dr. Hall’s candid discussion on the trauma many Black Americans carry from their healthcare experiences underscores the need for change—and why taking control of your health is an essential part of Black empowerment.

Tune in for an enlightening and motivational conversation packed with practical advice to ensure you’re prioritizing your health and taking power back into your hands. Because Black health is Black power.

[Note: This episode is from the vintage collection.]

Have you ever wanted to have a (free and authentic) conversation with a cardiologist?

That's what the Espresso Talk Today team wanted--and that's what we had!

We met with Dr. Clyde Yancy, cardiologist and spokesperson of the American Heart Association! Nothing was off the table. We discussed everything from heart fairlure to heart health.

Dr. Yancy discussed:

• The 8 essential steps for optimal heart health and
• The four symptoms that you should never ignore.
• The 80 percent rule for effective weight loss

And, of course, we discussed the effects of racism in Black health.  

You can also discover why people in certain communities live the longest and the happiest. (The answer will surprise you!)

Join us for this uncommon and informative conversation. 

[Note: This episode is from the Espresso Talk Today vintage collection.]

Resources:

Association of Black Cardiologists

American Heart Association

In this powerful episode of Espresso Talk Today, we dive deep into the often-overlooked world of covert racism—the subtle, everyday behaviors and attitudes that many people don’t even realize are racist. From denying racism’s existence to ignoring white privilege and making harmful stereotypes, we unpack how these actions perpetuate systemic racism in ways that are insidious but no less damaging.

I also introduce the Socialized Racism Scale, a tool designed to help you assess your own unconscious biases and understand where you stand in the fight against racism. Along the way, we explore the 3Cs—Courage, Character, and Compassion—that are essential for confronting and dismantling these hidden prejudices.

Whether you’re just beginning to examine your own biases or are a seasoned ally, this episode offers vital insights and actionable steps to help you be a part of the solution. This isn’t just a conversation for one group—it’s for everyone who’s committed to creating an anti-racist world.

Tune in, listen, and let’s uncover and confront these hidden biases together.

Join Ama-Robin on Espresso Talk Today as we dive into the profound significance of August 28th in Black history—a day marked by moments of pain, progress, and power. From Emmett Till’s tragic lynching to Dr. King’s iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, we explore the events that have shaped our journey toward justice and equality.

This episode is a powerful call to remember, reflect, and take action as we honor the legacy of those who came before us and continue the fight for Black liberation. Don’t miss this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation!

Five Ways to Honor August 28th:

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Take time to learn about the historical significance of August 28th and share that knowledge with your community. Host a discussion, share resources on social media, or teach your children about the key events that occurred on this day.

2. Support Black-Owned Businesses: Use August 28th as a day to intentionally support Black entrepreneurs and businesses. Your dollars can make a difference in strengthening economic empowerment within the Black community.

3. Engage in Community Service: Honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom and justice by giving back. Volunteer at a local organization, participate in a community cleanup, or mentor a young person. Your service can help uplift and empower others.

4. Participate in or Organize a Peaceful Protest: Stand up against systemic racism and injustice by joining or organizing a peaceful protest or rally. Use your voice to demand change and keep the spirit of the civil rights movement alive.

5. Reflect and Set Intentions: Take a moment of quiet reflection to honor the sacrifices made by Black revolutionaries and set intentions for how you will continue their work. Whether through activism, education, or community building, commit to making a difference in the fight for justice and equality.

In this episode, host Ama-Robin dives deep into a challenging yet vital discussion:

"You probably don’t think that you’re racist. But you are!"

Many white people, even those who consider themselves allies, unknowingly perpetuate racism through ingrained and socialized behaviors. This episode isn’t about blame or shame—it's about understanding and taking action.

Join Ama-Robin as she explores the concept of racial socialization and how society, through avenues like media and education, subtly reinforces white supremacy.

You will learn:

• Sources of Socialized Racism
• 20 Common Actions that white people don't realize are racist
• 3Cs of effective allyship: Courage, Character, and Compassion

Ready to reflect, learn, and grow? Tune in for a conversation that challenges you to see beyond your own biases and take meaningful steps toward racial equity.

It’s time to get deep, get real, and do the work.

Listen now to start your journey toward being a better ally.

Hujambo, beautiful people! I’m Ama-Robin, host of Espresso Talk Today. In this episode, we're tackling the "C" word: complacency. Join me as we explore why complacency is a silent but powerful enemy in our fight for justice and equality. We'll discuss how complacency perpetuates injustice, creates a false sense of accomplishment, erodes empathy, and hinders collective action.

But don't worry—there's no blaming or shaming here. This episode is all about community, support, and collective action. Learn practical steps to overcome complacency and transform passive awareness into meaningful activism. Together, we can make a real difference.

Tune in now to become part of the solution!

Seven Ways to Overcome Complacency:

1. Educate Yourself Continuously: Stay informed about the issues you care about.
2. Reflect on Personal Values: Regularly reflect on your values and how they align with your actions.
3. Set Tangible Goals: Avoid vague commitments. Set specific, achievable goals for your activism.
4. Join or Support Grassroots Movements: Engage with grassroots organizations.
5. Challenge Comfort Zones: Step out of your comfort zone. Engage in difficult conversations and confront injustices.
6. Hold Yourself and Others Accountable: Accountability is key to combating complacency.
7. Practice Consistent Advocacy: Advocacy should be a consistent effort, not a sporadic response.

In this powerful episode, Black empowerment educator and host Ama-Robin dives into the unpredictable and irrational chaos of living Black in predominantly white spaces. Ama-Robin shares a recent "banking while Black" experience, highlighting the physical, mental, and emotional toll that racism takes on Black people as individuals and communities. This episode is a raw and relatable conversation about the constant attacks Black people face and the importance of preparedness and self-care.

Tune in to learn how to recognize and call out racism, understand its impact on your health, and discover practical self-care strategies like deep breathing, journaling, exercise, and community support. Join us as we empower ourselves to navigate and confront the chaos with strength and resilience.

Call to Action: Be aware, be prepared, and take care of your mental and physical health. Share your experiences, seek support, and stand up for change. Your well-being matters. Listen now and empower yourself on Espresso Talk Today.

Resources:

Cloudwalkcoaching with Roxanne Worden: Mindfulness information and coaching services.

Black Girls Thriving: Therapy for Black women and girls.

Therapy for Black Men: Strength still needs support.