In today’s conversation, Dr. Darin Gray delves into the world of STEM education and design, exploring its intersection with society, equity, and core American values. Our guest unpacks the importance of representation and access in STEM fields, particularly for black students, and examines strategies for breaking down barriers and promoting diverse talent pipelines. We discuss the role of community engagement in nurturing local talent and preventing the brain drain phenomenon, with insights from Dr. Gray’s experiences at USC and beyond. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.

In today’s conversation Dr. Ricardo Nazario Colón, the Senior Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at SUNY, and I dissect the importance of embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion as foundational pillars of education. Drawing on his wealth of experiences and insights, Dr. Nazario offers practical strategies for creating inclusive spaces, promoting interdisciplinary dialogue, and addressing systemic inequalities within higher education. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.

In today’s conversation, Dr. Lisa Guenther and I explore the intersection of race, education, and the US prison system, delving into its embedded exploitation of labor, and the transformative potential of restorative justice and critical pedagogy. Dr. Guenther shares her firsthand experiences within the prison education system, from her involvement in inside-out programs to her critiques of carceral power structures and financial incentives driving mass incarceration.

Hi! In today’s episode, I spoke with Dr. Naomi Zack, a Professor of Philosophy at Lehman College, CUNY. We unpack the complex history and implications of affirmative action policies in higher education, against the backdrop of recent seismic shifts in the US legal landscape. We begin with its inception as a mechanism for inclusivity to its recent dismantlement by the US Supreme Court, prompting a crucial reevaluation of race, representation, and access in academia.

In today’s conversation, Dr. Lewis Gordon returns to the podcast to discuss race, poverty, and history. Today we explore the distinction between racialism and racism, reflect on the cyclical nature of poverty and race in certain neighborhoods, and the challenges of discussing these topics without perpetuating stereotypes.

In today’s episode, Dr. George Yancy returns to continue our conversation on race. Today we explore Dr. Yancy’s journey to becoming a philosopher, diving into his research and his childhood experiences. We reflect on the complex interplay between division and unity, questioning whether erasing one line of division may simply result in another. We then delve into philosophical inquiries on recognizing differences, deconstructing frameworks, and rethinking humanism in the face of systemic structures. We conclude the conversation exploring themes of vulnerability, honesty, and transformative learning in education, as Dr. Yancy shares personal experiences and reflections on anti-black racism and systemic oppression.

In today’s conversation, Rowan Baptiste and Keith Thomson share their experiences working with supporting at-risk youth. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, Rowan and Keith shed light on the multifaceted nature of this challenge, emphasizing the need for genuine understanding and engagement. We explore strategies for motivating and empowering young people, as well as the role of exposure and reintegration in shaping their futures. From creative resource utilization to the transformative power of education, we discuss practical approaches for guiding youth toward success despite systemic barriers. The conversation culminates in a thoughtful examination of the detention and reintegration process for juveniles, highlighting the importance of respect, inclusivity, and guidance. I really loved this conversation and I hope you do too!

In today’s conversation, Dr. George Yancy and I navigate the intersections of race, safety, and education, grappling with systemic structures and dominant cultural narratives. We attempt to challenge conventional frameworks and deconstruct hierarchies, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting differences without reinforcing power imbalances.
We explore Dr. Yancy’s personal experiences of anti-black racism and the embodied traumas that shape perceptions of identity and belonging. We conclude by connecting race back to education, where Dr. Yancy
advocates for honesty, self-critique, and transformative learning. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!

In today’s conversation Dr. Gordan Lewis and I delve into the intricate concept of race. From its historical and mythological origins in medieval Spain and Portugal to its impact on societies today globally, we explore the evolution of the term 'race.' Unpacking its violent constructs, we discuss how race goes beyond physical attributes, influencing socio-economic status and cultural backgrounds. We then discuss the intertwining of race and tribalism, the circumstances of Columbus's voyage, and the historical narratives that have shaped understanding of human behavior. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!