Free Black Thought Podcast

Michael DC Bowen and Wink Twyman dive into wide-ranging conversations about writing, the stock market, AI, and Black identity. They explore how personal experience, culture, and technology shape the way we live and think today—always with curiosity and a fresh perspective.

Poet Tim Seibles discusses his journey into poetry, influenced by his mother's love for literature and a college creative writing class. He reflects on growing up in a predominantly black Philadelphia neighborhood and how the 1960s shaped his political perspective. Tim emphasizes the importance of accessible poetry that resonates emotionally and connects with audiences. He shares insights on the creative process, the responsibilities of artists, and the power of poetry to address personal and political themes.

Show notes:

• Tim’s Website
• Purchase Tim’s books
• Poetry and Bass
• Tim’s Ted Talk

Miriam Thompson opens up about her journey from facing learning struggles to thriving in academia. She and host Connie Morgan speak on how COVID affected students, why it’s crucial to hear different perspectives, and the tricky territory of discussing controversial issues in school. Miriam also touches on preparing students for real life, staying open-minded, and the role of therapy.

Show notes:

• Miriam’s “The Courage to Disagree in Academia” for the Journal of Free Black Thought
• Mind & Behavior Assessment Clinic directed by Miriam

In this conversation, Daryl Davis talks about growing up around the world, facing racism as a kid, and what led him to sit down with members of the KKK. It’s a wild, powerful story about curiosity, fear, and how real conversations can change minds.

Show notes:

• Daryl’s book The Klan Whisperer
• Daryl’s website
• Prohuman Foundation

In this colorful conversation, Daniel Aldridge shares his journey from a civil rights-focused upbringing to life as a public defender and professor. He talks about the importance of self-education in black history, personal responsibility, and pushing past a victim mindset. Dan challenges romanticized views of crime, critiques how history is taught, and urges individuals to take charge of their own growth—regardless of background.

Show notes:

• Dan’s Becoming American: The African American Quest for Civil Rights, 1861 - 1976
• Dan on X

Tess Chakkalakal chats with Connie Morgan about her deep dive into the life and work of Charles W. Chesnutt. They explore race, identity, and the challenges black writers face, especially when expectations clash with lived experience. The conversation highlights Chesnutt’s impact, his key relationships, and why his work still matters today.

Show notes:

• Tess’s A Matter of Complexion: The Life and Fictions of Charles W. Chesnutt

Anthony Bradley is an expert on family structure and its impact on academic success. He and host Connie Morgan discuss the importance of marriage, fatherhood, and strong family dynamics.

Show notes:

• Anthony on X
• Anthony on Substack
• Anthony’s Heroic Fraternities: How College Men Can Save Universities and America

Dr. Sheena Mason opens up about her tough childhood and how it shaped her passion for racial justice and education. She talks about the role literature played in her life, and her journey into academia, where she developed her views on race and anti-racism. Sheena shares her vision of the Togetherness Wayfinder, a framework to challenge racial constructs and promote unity.

Show notes

• Sheena’s book The Raceless Antiracist: Why Ending Race Is the Future of Antiracism
• Sheena’s book Theory of Racelessness: A Case for Antirace(ism)
• Sheena’s “I Am American” for the Journal of Free Black Thought
• Sheena’s “Theory of Racelessness: A Case for Antirace(ism)” for the Journal of Free Black Thought
• Sheena on X
• Togetherness Wayfinder
• Sheena on YouTube

Mike and Wink dive into topics like U.S. military actions in Yemen, the impact of asymmetrical warfare, and media influence. They talk about the pros and cons of economic sanctions versus military intervention, plus the role of independent thinkers in today’s media. The conversation also touches on AI's limitations, its impact on society, and its potential for the future. They explore how tech, race, and identity intersect, and discuss the importance of staying connected to authentic human experiences in a tech-driven world.

In this fun conversation, the Chocolate Knox shares his journey from a charismatic upbringing to embracing Reformed theology. Chocolate Knox also dives into his experiences in ministry, his move to Idaho, and his approach to parenting, highlighting the importance of nurturing each child’s unique talents. An episode for those who like discussing faith and family

Show notes:

• Cross Politic
• Chocolate Knox on X