The art world often feels inaccessible, shrouded in secrecy, and exclusive to a select few. But what happens when collectors and patrons of color step in to share knowledge, demystify the process, and make art collecting more equitable? In this segment with Conrad Woody, we explore how art can be both a passion and a tool for advancing equity, building networks, and connecting to purpose. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just curious, this conversation will inspire you to see art in a whole new light.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep17-the-privilege-you-should-embrace-not-feel-guilty/id1696548133?i=1000643472241

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/395Ey2xLlDVbv6Yq5Sj8t4?si=84d489fa90ff4e65

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIA6JgngFJ8

RESOURCES

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Conrad Woody

IG | @cwoodyjr 

LinkedIn | conradwoody

Twitter | @cwoodyjr 

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this thought-provoking episode, Amber sits down with Thomas James, Curator of Arts & Culture and Executive Director of the Last Resort Artist Retreat (TLRAR), to explore equity in the arts and the transformative power of rest for Black creatives.

Thomas shares his inspiring journey from promoting Go-Go music shows to curating art exhibitions and leading a groundbreaking retreat that prioritizes rest, rejuvenation, and restoration for Black artists. Founded in 2020 by artist Derrick Adams, TLRAR offers a unique sanctuary for creatives to reconnect with themselves and their craft, fostering long-term sustainability in the arts.

Amber and Thomas delve into the importance of community, representation, and ownership for Black and Brown artists in the fine art world. They discuss how intentional relationships, equitable opportunities, and active support from collectors can cultivate a thriving, inclusive art ecosystem.

Don’t miss this conversation about reshaping the future of art through equity, rest, and community care.

KEY POINTS

- Thomas’s introduction to his early career years

- The retreat's mission and its impactful services 

- On the founding and vision of Last Resort Artist Retreat (TLRAR) 

- On creating a safe space for individuals and building meaningful connections

- Amber’s personal experience at the Last Resort

- The concept of leisure therapy and its importance for the black community

- The pivotal role of joy and rejuvenation without financial burden

- From historical exclusion to having access to the art world for people of color artists

- The importance of building a network and showing up for other artists

- Challenges and strategies for emerging artists

- The privilege James refuses to feel guilty about

QUOTES 

“When we curate these dinner programs, overnight cohorts, [or] weekend-long cohorts, etc., we try to bring together groups of very interesting people. We are in the arts ecosystem. – Thomas James

“We had curators, artists, directors of arts, nonprofits, [and] folks in the financial sector who are advocates of the arts—over dinner, games that we played, or even just sitting around in the living room. We not only have fun and get to know each other but there is that space for these really impactful conversations.” – Thomas James

GUEST RESOURCES

Thomas James 

LinkedIn | @thomas-james

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

How do you cultivate the energy you need to show up as your best self? In this segment, we explore a thoughtful approach to staying calibrated and connected to what matters most. From daily rituals to a powerful "deserted island" thought experiment, discover five key elements to building the energy you need to thrive in work and life.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep16-burnout-amanda-miller-littlejohn-speaks-about/id1696548133?i=1000641794030

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/72kUMa4CEthNwD6drIsMbN?si=939af4d4e80a4fdd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYNXgXt5RGU

RESOURCES

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Amanda Miller Littlejohn

IG | @iamamandamillerlittlejohn

LinkedIn | @amillerlittlejohn

Twitter | @amandamogul

Facebook | @AmandaMillerLittlejohn

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this transformative episode, Amber sits down with her cousin, Ruby Lathon, who shares her powerful journey of healing from thyroid cancer through holistic nutrition. Ruby reveals how she defied expectations, explored natural treatment options, and found her purpose in helping others heal through plant-based diets and emotional wellness.

From her career pivot from engineering to holistic nutrition to her strategies for addressing emotional and mental barriers to healing, Ruby’s story is one of courage, empowerment, and resilience. Together, Amber and Ruby discuss the power of visualization, the role of food as medicine, and the profound impact of mental and emotional balance on overall health.

Whether you’re curious about holistic nutrition or looking for inspiration to take control of your health, this episode offers insights and actionable tips for living a more vibrant life.

KEY POINTS

- Ruby’s career transition from engineering to nutrition 

- On navigating natural treatment options

- Mind power, healthy eating, and emotional wellness

- Ruby’s journey of healing from thyroid cancer

- What are the pillars for healing? 

- The importance of having a clean and plant-based diet

- On addressing emotional, mental, and energetic blocks in healing

- Veganism, dairy reduction, and healthy eating habits

- Some meal plan recommendations 

- What does Ruby refuse to feel guilty about? 

QUOTES 

“I learned more about meditation and taking control of that visualization. Worry is just negative visualization.” –  Ruby Lathon

“If you can take all the supplements in the world and eat the cleanest diet, and if you're still holding on to resentment, anger, and just putrid emotions, it's not gonna work.” –  Ruby Lathon

Ruby Lathon

IG | @rubylathon 

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

Being a single mom and thriving in a demanding career is no easy feat. In this heartfelt segment, Amber and her guest dive into the challenges of balancing motherhood with professional aspirations, the sacrifices made along the way, and the ongoing quest to create space for family while pursuing passion.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep15-the-courage-to-create-change-and-championing/id1696548133?i=1000640283119

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Y2hkGnw3Cmc03lK6PHLs1?si=1c8627607abf4a8f

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRChs2STUuI

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Felita Harris

IG | @msfelitaharris

LinkedIn | feharris

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this episode, Amber sits down with Danielle Finney, founder of DFinney Photography, to explore the art and heart of photography. Danielle shares her journey of empowering women of color and families through her lens, revealing how lighting, editing, and thoughtful preparation transform everyday moments into stunning visual stories.

They discuss the deeper aspects of photography beyond technique, from fostering client trust to the importance of self-care and mental health in sustaining creativity. Danielle opens up about her process, from wardrobe tips to managing insecurities, showing how she helps clients see themselves in their best light.

Whether you're an aspiring photographer or someone seeking inspiration to bring authenticity to your creative work, this episode is packed with actionable advice and meaningful insights.

KEY POINTS

- Photography skills and business growth

- Different essential techniques in photo sessions

- The importance of wardrobe preparation

- The vital role of comfort & trust in the photographer-client relationship

- On having cultural sensitivity to diverse skin tones

- The importance of lighting and editing in photography 

- Danielle’s passion for photographing women of color and families

- Self-care: On dealing with mental health struggles

- On being inspired and connecting with a supportive community

- The importance of communication and setting expectations

- Something that Danielle refuses to be guilty about 

QUOTES 

“One of the other things that I super recommend [is] you need to make sure you're shooting with a photographer that you will be comfortable with, and that can't be overstated.”– Danielle Finney

“I do not feel guilty about the way that I see things. My creative eye is the reason for things being the way that they are — and that's a privilege.” – Danielle Finney

RESOURCES

Danielle Finney 

Website | www.dfinneyphoto.co

IG | @dfinneyphoto

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

Amber Cabral speaks with Lisa Cunningham about her powerful TED Talk on Atlanta’s journey toward becoming a safe haven for those seeking freedom from discrimination. Lisa discusses the stark contrasts in equity between neighboring cities and highlights the ongoing need for systemic change. Sharing her personal experience as a more masculine-presenting woman, Lisa reveals the anxiety and challenges she faces even with everyday actions, like using public restrooms, underscoring the importance of inclusive, equitable spaces.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/14-creating-equity-one-story-at-a-time-with-lisa-cunningham/id1696548133?i=1000639030341

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2xoWMTbHdSlkR6RbNKNibl?si=dd67a0c6c4c54680

Youtube: https://youtu.be/N3iQ3Pz_cc0

RESOURCES

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Lisa Cunningham

IG | @captcunningham

Twitter | @captcunningham

Facebook | captcunninghamatl

LinkedIn | captcunningham

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

Amber Cabral sits down with Tanika Gray Valbrun, Founder & CEO of The White Dress Project, Inc. and a CNN Content Producer, for a powerful conversation on women’s reproductive health and advocacy. Tanika shares her deeply personal journey with uterine fibroids, from misdiagnoses in her teens to the search for meaningful support and answers. She discusses the impact of systemic biases on women of color and the critical importance of accurate diagnoses and adequate resources.

In this episode, Tanika also delves into the role of The White Dress Project in bringing awareness and change, from community support to the official designation of July as Fibroid Awareness Month. She underscores the need for funding and research, as well as the importance of seeking informed medical opinions and exploring diagnostic options like MRIs.

This conversation is both a call to action and a reminder of the power of personal advocacy.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion that highlights the importance of awareness, community, and equitable healthcare for all women.

KEY POINTS:

- How Tanika founded the White Dress Project in 2024 and its mission 

- The importance of providing support for women dealing with reproductive health issues

- On misconceptions women face in diagnosing and treating fibroids

- On addressing the medical bias and racial disparities in the treatment of fibroids

- Awareness: WDP’s success in creating Fibroid Awareness Month 

- Tanika's experience with multiple fibroids and its impact on her motherhood dream 

- The power of storytelling and advocating for change in the reproductive health space

- Tanika’s advice for women who want to advocate for public health issues 

- What is one privilege that Tanika refuses to feel guilty about?

QUOTABLES:

"It is what I'm here to do — advocate for people who are managing life with fibroids and managing life with reproductive health issues." – Tanika Gray Valbrun

“One of the things I wish I could have done immediately after was almost give people a guidebook of questions to ask – no matter what these things –and if you are uncomfortable with the answers, you should find another doctor." – Amber Cabral

“I wanted to create community. I wanted people to understand that they could advocate for themselves, that they were the CEOs of their bodies.” – Tanika Gray Valbrun

GUEST RESOURCES

Tanika Gray Valbrun

IG | @tgvwearswhite

LinkedIn | @tanikagrayvalbrun

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this segment, Bahja Johnson and Amber dives into the often-overlooked dynamics of leadership accountability and community-driven business. She challenges leaders to see the impact of their choices on community trust and financial success, calling for a mindset shift toward equity and belonging. Bahja explores why quick decisions to abandon new ideas can lead to long-term business struggles, emphasizing the importance of giving initiatives time to build trust. This conversation offers insights on connecting authentically with communities, understanding real customer needs, and taking the time to build brand loyalty.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/13-achieving-inclusion-isnt-just-talk-bahja-johnson/id1696548133?i=1000637515630

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/21mvIpl7LHUv5BCL9YG1Pq?si=2c602c4cef3e404a

Youtube: https://youtu.be/lWforuuOfIA

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Bahja Johnson

IG | @bahjaleila

LinkedIn | bahjajohnson

Facebook | bahja.johnson

Twitter | @bahjaleila

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this episode, Amber sits down with Nicka Sewell Smith, an expert genealogist, speaker, and consultant with over 20 years of experience in family history and ancestral research. Together, they discuss the profound power and privilege in uncovering one’s heritage and the importance of documenting family stories to preserve legacies. Nicka shares moving personal stories from her own genealogical journey, revealing how connecting with living relatives and discovering hidden ancestral ties can deepen one’s sense of identity and belonging.

They also dive into the latest in genealogical technology, including DNA testing advancements that can unlock family secrets hidden for generations. Nicka provides practical tips on gathering, documenting, and safeguarding family history, offering advice on connecting with relatives, even across generations, and using creative methods to preserve precious memories.

This episode is an inspiring reminder of the gift of family history and the responsibility we each carry to pass down our heritage. Join Amber and Nicka to discover how honoring your roots can shape your future.

KEY POINTS:

- What is genealogy?

- The value of preserving family history and cultural heritage

- Digitalization: Ancestry from storytelling to DNA testing 

- The powerful story behind A Dream Delivered: The Lost Letters of Hawkins Wilson film 

- Connecting with African-American ancestors through genealogy research

- The importance of privacy in DNA testing

- The pivotal role of relationship-building 

- Preserving history: How photography connects with storytelling 

- A preview of what Black Progen is 

- What’s one thing that Nicka refuses to be guilty about? 

QUOTABLES:

“As a family historian, as a genealogist, you have to be a connector. You're like the heartbeat of your family… And I do that in my life. I do that in my family.” – Nicka Sewell Smith

“What I've learned in researching this community is that the remnants of these people who survived the transatlantic slave trade brought together these communities with people they don't know. They make a community for themselves, and their children intermarry, and then that's how we end up.” – Nicka Sewell Smith

GUEST RESOURCES

Nicka Sewell Smith

LinkedIn | @nickasewellsmith

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network