You can’t have a part one without a part two and this really is a continuation of an incredible story filled with incredible wisdom and advice. Chloe describes her grandfather as an unapologetic leader. She shares his astute capability to navigate through inequality to achieve equality for his family, friends, and community. She goes on to say that we shouldn’t apologize for being who we are - innately. “We are the sum total of those who came before us.”

At a time when the teaching of African American history is under attack, it is a great feeling to hear Chloe speak of her grandfather with so much reverence. She acknowledged his struggles, his focus, his empowerment, his successes, and his will to learn and teach. Chloe’s interview is a testament to understanding that History Is Personal.

Mary, who is one of the best known cooks and bakers in Columbus, Georgia, is going to school us on the craft of cooking with Crisco. She is old school and qualified to speak on the history of cooking with Crisco in the black community. Her mother cooked with Crisco as well as my mother. This episode reminded me of some steps that I had forgotten. What are your thoughts and memories of cooking with Crisco?

This is the first episode of a new series titled, History Is Personal. Charnita and I spoke for the first time to schedule an interview which ended up happening following our brief introduction to each other. When she spoke, I could hear so many things: Her loving fondness of knowing her ancestry; a good feeling about being recognized as an Old Soul; and much more. I really enjoyed our conversation and this episode. I look forward to interviewing Charnita, again.

This was a requested episode from my family based on an evening out we shared at Cheddar’s restaurant in Columbus, Georgia. My nephews was surprised to hear about some of the stories I began to share with them and wanted them added to the Old School Thoughts podcast. My “Big Brother” was told about the stories and also requested to hear them via the podcast. So, here are a couple of stories. Here are two corrections: 5 boys/3 girls and Kinfolk Corner. My Mama Was A Green Beret!

First, I would like to publicly thank Pastor James Daniels for accepting my abrupt invitation to speak on the impact and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Pastor Daniels is the pastor of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church located in Villula, Alabama. Pastor Daniels talks about staying focused (keeping your eyes on the back door), remembering the basics, knowing that God’s words will always point towards truth (the ultimate azimuth), and more. Please pass this episode on to others.

I’m back! Old School Thoughts is back! Happy New Year to all of my podcast family! I have missed you and look forward to our conversations this year of 2022! Thank you for all of your support in 2021! Now, let’s reflect and project! I love all of you! Be good!

During this time of year, most of us begin to reflect on the importance of family and friends. We think about those we’ve lost and the blessings for those of us who are still alive. We become sentimental about so much! This episode is being published as a reminder for me and others. I hope you enjoy it. Happy Holidays to all you and your families. Be good!

I am concerned about the future of our children. Instead of fire drills at school, they are now learning drills on how to save themselves from active student shooters inside their respective schools. They have to keep their senses up for unexpected attacks while playing outdoors. As a lifetime community organizer, I am concerned about their safety. What are your thoughts?

On 24 November 2021, a jury comprised of 11 Whites and 1 African American convicted 3 White defendants in the murder trial of Ahmaud Arbery in Brunswick, Georgia.