Why do Star Wars, Harry Potter, and other sci-fi/fantasy stories resonate so deeply with us? What do they reveal about power, identity, and spirituality? In this episode of we sit down with historian and educator AJ Musewe to explore the power of myth, the narratives we inherit, and how reclaiming lost stories shapes our understanding of ourselves and the world.

From the parallels between Anakin Skywalker and Harry Potter to the hidden histories of the Civil Rights movement, this conversation dives into how fantasy, sci-fi, and real-life struggles intersect in our search for meaning.

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About Our Guest:

AJ Musewe is a passionate community educator deeply dedicated to preserving unvarnished Black history and culture. Specializing in designing and managing interactive educational programs, AJ has a profound knack for creating immersive experiences that connect the dots between the past and present. Her role as the founder of With Reverence Co-op exemplifies her innovative approach, offering dynamic educational sessions that delve into sustainable actions and foster community connections through storytelling and historical tours. These sessions often focus on Black culture and heritage, underscoring AJ’s commitment to celebrating and understanding the profound contributions of Black communities.

AJ honed her educational strategies by focusing on education training programs and curricula to support neurodiverse and neurotypical learners, making history accessible and relevant. AJ’s extensive background also includes roles in equity consulting and community building, where she has facilitated critical discussions and engagements that bridge gaps in understanding and foster a collective commitment to justice and inclusivity. With her engaging manner and deep expertise, AJ continues to inspire and educate communities, guiding them toward a more enlightened and empathetic understanding of historical contexts and their impact on contemporary society, especially within Black communities.

Where to find AJ:

Papers For My Acres—a narrative podcast about history, culture, and the shared human experiences of the Black diaspora.

IG: @Ajandthebeanies

Website: withreverence.org