Nikelola Balogun, who is not only an artist of many talents, but also a world traveler, teacher, and one who likes to go against the grain. Similar to a pearl that goes against the grain, she is working to get to that place where she'll become iridescent. 

LaNisa Williams, of Barista Life LA and Hustlers Cup is an incredible young woman. She learned what was needed and made her own path to follow her passion for coffee, brewing, and passing on her knowledge to others. You can find more info on her at: www.baristalifela.com, #baristalifela, #hustlerscup, and #blackinbrew.

In this episode I talk about the movie "Luce" in relation to transracial adoptions.  Mainly, I discuss the ideas of race, class, family, identity, and the assumptions that people make of others on those aspects. While the movie played out the ideas mentioned above, I felt that it did not really go deeply into any area. But, maybe that is what the director, Julius Onah, had wanted; to have a jumping point to start having these conversations about those very ideas and/or issues. So, let's start the conversations!

In Part 1, I talk about international adoptions. Specifically, adoptions of African children/youth that have taken place over the years. Adoptees from Eritrea, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Burundi, South Africa, Morocco, among others. And delve into the issues of Trans-racial adoptions particularly in the US. The subject is not really known nor talked about by the parents or adoptees. 

You can go to www.npr.og to read more on the ban on foreign adoptions. 

Gemini Soul is an artist that is truly dedicated to his art. He's also dedicated to sharing his artistic abilities with young adults and younger generations so that they know their history and culture. 

I interview Ali Rahmaan, who is the Manager for kankouran Dance Company. Ali has been with the KDC both as a drummer and a manager. He brings another element to the dance company's long history and talks about why it's important to pass on the history and traditions. 

In the second installment of my LA Stories series, I talk about my identity. Specifically, how my nationality had been invisible for many years. And, how the shift in the awareness of Africans in the US has caused people to ask a different question: are you Eritrean or Ethiopian?

Aron Tadesse, a musician in his own right and the owner of Industry Cafe & and Jazz in Culver City has supported musicians and live music. He lives and breathes music and has brought live music to his restaurant for the last 15 years! 

Baba Eziokwu, a staple of Leimert Park, has held west African traditions close to his heart for years.  He has shared the traditions with countless youth and adults in the L.A. area and taught them the importance of self-knowledge and her/history! 

Dr. Carter, a Professor of African Studies at the University of Arizona, surprised me during our conversation.  Not only does he teach about African Studies but he is known for his work in Digital Culture. And, how that translates in engaging students in all things digital. You can find more info about Dr. Carter here: https://africana.arizona.edu/people/bryancarter.