In the second half of this episode, my guest Asia and I discuss his process with writing poetry, lessons he is teaching his son, lessons he was taught as a child, and elements of his Filipino culture. Asia closes out the show with one last powerful poem about his son, which brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it. Such a wonderful episode, so let's get into it!

In this episode of the show, I interview an amazingly talented Asian American poet by the name of Asia Samson. The episode begins with a live performance of a recent poem entitled, Sleeping Dragons, which he wrote in response to the hate crimes that took place earlier this year. He also takes time to share his thoughts on the history of racism in America, media's impact on society, his personal experiences, and an opinion of the Asian community on these topics. This one is super special, so let's get into it!

In this episode of the show, I interview my former colleague, Arlene, who happens to be a proud Newurican (Puerto Rican from New York) from Brooklyn, NY. She talks with me about how growing up in a diverse neighborhood and family has shaped the way that she navigates the world. Arlene also talks with me about raising her two biracial girls in these racially charged times. Arlene wraps up the episode with a powerful message where she makes some calls to action. It's certainly a conversation you won't want to miss!

In this episode of the show, I interview Patricia Newman who is the supervisor of the Adult Mental Health Case Mgmt team at the RACSB in Fredericksburg. She stops by to share details about her experiences as a White mom raising 2 Sons of Color in America. We also get into a discussion about how we can make an impact in the intersection of mental health, policing, and racial equity. Patricia and I put our heads together to come up with some great action steps for making change in the community!

Hey there, KL here! Dropping in really quickly to tell you some exciting news. The Killing Softly Podcast's 1 year anniversary is coming up on Labor Day Weekend, and I want you to come celebrate with me! I have a few surprises on the way, and some really fun ideas for new episodes. As always, nothing happened without the fans, so before I move forward I need feedback from you guys! Please email me directly at [email protected] if you are willing to answer a few quick questions for me. All those who participate will be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift card; winners choice. I do the show for you guys, so let me know what you need from me. Cant wait to hear from you!

Love always,

KL

It is under the most heartbreaking & tragic of circumstances that I must step away from the show for a while. Unfortunate events took place within my family, and I had to make some hard decisions that will forever change the course of my life. I finally realized that I would break if I kept trying to do it all. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for listening to the show, for encouraging me, for being willing to learn, and helping to create an Authentic American for all. As always the episodes yet to be released will be conversation you won't want to miss. Until then, have a fantastic summer and Ill see you soon. Love Always, KL

In this episode of the show, I interview one of my best friends, Krystal, and her husband, Douglas. She is the new Accounting manager at her job and he is Richmond,, VA's 1st ever Poet Laureate! 

Our discussion in this episode focuses on the joys and challenges of raising Children of Color in America. They encourage parents to tackle conversations about race, discrimination, colorism, and current events head on. We all agree that children need space to express their concerns, and to have adults help them navigate the complexities of American society. 

In this episode of the show, I am joined once again by the amazing and incomparable Dr. Janice Gassam Asare. We jump right into talking about Chapters 6 & 8 of her latest book, The Pink Elephant. We discuss things to avoid when trying to have productive conversations about race AND practical ways that companies can support their most marginalized employees. Dr. Janice explains how each of us as Americans can be working to uplift the most vulnerable individuals in our society. Lets' get into it!

In this episode of the show, I interview Dr. Janice Gassam Asare, owner of the award-winning DEI consultancy BWG Business Solutions. Dr. Janice is also a college professor, an author, and the host of the Dirty Diversity Podcast. She joins me to talk about her latest book called The Pink Elephant, which discusses ways that organizations can promote anti-racism in the workplace. We identify different aspects of privilege, and discuss ways that people can use their privilege to liberate, amplify, and uplift the voices of the most vulnerable and marginalized people. In my opinion, Dr. Janice's suggestions are truly remarkable, and they could revolutionize the way we do DEI. 

In this episode of the show, I am speaking with Dr. Jessica Young Brown about her book called Making Space at the Well, which addresses the intersection of faith, race, and mental health. She talks about how people need to feel safe enough to share all of what they are going through, without fear of judgement. Dr. Brown says we need to make space for and celebrate individuals who are brave enough to share their mental health burdens, and how this allows God to work in, through, and around us.