Sticky Note Conversations

Sticky Note Conversations

By Erika WashingtonSociety & CultureNewsPolitics
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Sticky Note Conversations episodes

  • Derek Washington - "Wang Dang Doodle"

    Erika Washington and birthday guest Derek Washington lighten the season with a wide-ranging Oscars 2026 (98th Academy Awards) prediction chat ahead of the ceremony hosted by Conan O’Brien. They discuss the historic nomination haul for the Black film “Sinners,” connect it to the legacy of #OscarsSoWhite and the Will Smith–Chris Rock incident, and debate whether the Academy will reward a film with “no white savior.” They share opinions on Best Picture contenders (including “One Battle After Another,” which Erika critiques for length and its portrayal of Teyana Taylor), acting races featuring Michael B. Jordan, Timothée Chalamet, and others, plus directing, screenplay, and documentary nominees like “The Perfect Neighbor” and “The Alabama Solution.” They end with plans to recap results and red-carpet fashion online.

    • (00:00) - SNC S3 Ep6 Derek Washington FINAL RADIO
  • (00:42) - Introduction
  • (01:29) - Derek's Birthday
  • (05:21) - Best Picture Nominees
  • (06:38) - Oscar So White
  • (14:15) - One Battle After Another Review
  • (25:02) - Best Actor Nominees
  • (33:55) - Best Supporting Actor
  • (38:27) - Best Actress Nominees
  • (40:34) - Best Supporting Actress
  • (43:26) - Documentary Features
  • (46:22) - Best Director Category
  • (49:46) - Ryan Coogler's Impact
  • (58:52) - Wrap Up
  • 1 hr
  • Dr. Tricia Braxton - "Standing for Something"

    Erika Washington celebrates Women’s History Month on Sticky Note Conversations and frames education as part of reproductive justice, emphasizing safe, well-resourced schools and accurate curriculum. She interviews Dr. Tricia Braxton, an HBCU graduate, former New York City police officer, longtime Nevada resident, and first-time elected member of the Nevada State Board of Education representing District 1. Braxton shares why her family moved to Las Vegas, how Emerge Nevada helped her find her political voice, and why representation and accountability motivated her to run. She explains Nevada’s education governance structure, including the difference between local school boards, the Nevada Department of Education, and the 11-member State Board, and how the public can follow meetings, livestreams, and submit comment. Braxton discusses how rankings depend on criteria and funding, how law enforcement and family experiences shape her approach, and the legacy she hopes to leave.
    https://www.triciabraxton4nv.com/
    https://doe.nv.gov/boards-commissions-councils/publicmeetings/

    • (00:00) - Introduction
  • (00:57) - Welcome & Guest Introduction
  • (06:08) - Why Las Vegas?
  • (09:11) - Running for Office
  • (10:48) - Emerge Program
  • (15:40) - Goals on the State Board
  • (18:21) - School Choice & Individualized Education
  • (24:26) - Nevada's Education Rankings
  • (29:48) - State Board Structure & Function
  • (39:34) - Policy vs Implementation
  • (50:00) - Tricia's Mom - Breaking Barriers in NYPD
  • (54:25) - Being the First
  • (58:13) - Law Enforcement Background & Education
  • (01:09:58) - Board Meetings & Public Engagement
  • (01:12:49) - Who is Dr. Tricia?
  • (01:14:54) - The American Dream
  • (01:16:51) - Legacy
  • (01:19:50) - Closing
  • 1 hr 21 min
  • Adam Johnson - "A Change Is Gonna Come"

    Host Erika Washington interviews Adam Johnson, an appointed Clark County School District trustee, College Board executive director, and vice chair at Democracy Prep, during Black History Month about improving education in Southern Nevada. They discuss CCSD’s size, challenges, and efforts to become a “destination district,” including the decision to start high school later. Johnson shares how his father’s late-career teaching inspired his move from corporate work into education through Teach For America and then Democracy Prep, and how his all-male high school shaped his focus on academics, service, and expanding opportunity. They explore charter schools versus traditional and magnet options, emphasizing student fit and strong accountability for results. The conversation also addresses bridging parent-teacher divides through culturally competent communication, clear expectations, flexibility, and persistent outreach to build true school-family partnerships.

    • (00:00) - Introduction
  • (02:22) - Welcome and Guest Introduction
  • (07:44) - Who is Adam Johnson?
  • (10:19) - Journey into Education
  • (14:33) - Charter Schools vs. Public Schools
  • (19:35) - Magnet Schools Discussion
  • (22:26) - All-Male High School Experience
  • (25:27) - Parent-Teacher Communication
  • (40:35) - School Start Time Decision
  • (43:10) - Is CCSD Too Big?
  • (47:06) - Running for Office
  • (54:12) - What is Democracy?
  • (58:43) - The American Dream
  • (01:05:20) - Closing Thoughts
  • 1 hr 7 min
  • Gwen Frisbie-Fulton - "Coal"

    On this episode of Sticky Note Conversations, host Erika Washington talks with writer Gwen Frisbie-Fulton (Working Class Storytelling) about how white nationalist groups recruit, rebrand, and move closer to mainstream power. Gwen shares living near the neo-Nazi Vinlanders in Indianapolis in the mid-2000s, how they targeted a struggling neighborhood to recruit young men, and how later arrests and violence connected to the group resurfaced years later. They discuss why stereotyping Appalachians and poor Southerners hides the real threat, how events like Charlottesville and January 6 involved many middle-class and wealthy participants, and how organizers can respond by meeting material needs (healthcare, housing, wages), exposing extremist strategy, and building stronger multiracial political homes and narratives.

    • (00:00) - Introduction
  • (03:44) - Gwen's Background and the Vinlanders
  • (06:46) - The Indianapolis Neighborhood
  • (14:31) - How White Nationalist Groups Have Changed
  • (20:02) - Rebranding and Going Mainstream
  • (22:54) - Misconceptions About White Nationalists
  • (26:32) - Building Political Homes and Community
  • (30:46) - The Fusion Movement and Wilmington Massacre
  • (33:30) - Recruiting Young People
  • (40:55) - JD Vance and White Grievance
  • (50:15) - Stories of Division vs. Solidarity
  • (55:21) - How to Combat White Nationalism
  • (59:37) - Avoiding the Wedge
  • (01:05:32) - Why Gwen Loves the South
  • (01:11:03) - Democracy and the American Dream
  • (01:14:24) - Closing Thoughts
  • 1 hr 19 min
  • Dr. Toni M. Bond - "Man in the Mirror'

    Host and executive producer Erika Washington welcomes back Dr. Toni Bond, a classically trained Womanist ethicist and ethics professor, for a wide-ranging conversation about ethics, morality, faith, and the United States’ political climate in 2026. They distinguish ethics (social rules of conduct) from morals (individual principles), and Dr. Bond explains key normative ethical approaches—utilitarianism, deontological duty ethics, and virtue ethics—using a classroom dilemma about whether a parent should tell authorities a son is hiding after allegedly robbing a beloved elderly neighbor. The discussion expands into Christian and theological ethics, including how biblical interpretation varies by translation and historical context, and how scripture has been weaponized for oppression; they also explore consent and a Womanist reading through the story of Mary and the birth of Jesus. Turning to current events, they address immigration enforcement and ethical questions about human rights, critique the nation’s “broken” moral compass and the historic problems of U.S. democracy, and discuss unjust laws, voting, mutual aid, and the need for courageous activism amid threats to speech and dissent. They close by debating the ethics and strategy of protesting inside a church over alleged ICE ties, weighing private property, consistency, and whether actions advance justice or deepen division, and end with a call to work together toward liberation and community care.

    • (00:00) - Introduction & Welcome
  • (04:22) - What is a Womanist Ethicist?
  • (04:55) - Three Normative Ethical Approaches
  • (07:15) - The Moral Dilemma: Protecting Your Son
  • (10:52) - Justice vs. Family Loyalty
  • (12:50) - Ethics in Everyday Life
  • (13:59) - Classical vs. Christian Ethics
  • (16:59) - Laws, Morality & Human Sexuality
  • (18:43) - Biblical Interpretation & Context
  • (20:39) - The Bible & Human Sexuality
  • (21:57) - Mary's Consent & Divine Will
  • (27:54) - Reading the Bible with Open Eyes
  • (30:35) - The Bible as a Tool of Oppression
  • (31:02) - Free Will & The Problem of Evil
  • (35:42) - God's Nature & Human Suffering
  • (40:04) - Current Political Moment & Immigration
  • (43:33) - America's Broken Moral Compass
  • (44:05) - The Founding Fathers' Problematic Legacy
  • (49:55) - Unjust Laws & Radical Action
  • (51:08) - Mutual Aid & Community Care
  • (52:56) - Courageous Activism in Dangerous Times
  • (55:10) - Organizing vs. Electoral Politics
  • (58:56) - Church Protest Debate: Ethics of Activism
  • (01:06:42) - Finding Common Ground
  • (01:07:49) - Closing Thoughts
  • 1 hr 10 min
  • Alvin "Jackpot" Hill - "Boy's Don't Cry"

    In the first episode of Season 3 of 'Sticky Note Conversations,' host Erika Washington welcomes back Alvin Hill, also known as Jackpot, to discuss pop culture, future predictions for 2026, and shifts in conversations surrounding emotions, particularly crying. Alvin shares personal stories about his upbringing, parenting, and perspectives on church culture, touching on personal experiences with grief and how it has impacted his family. Erika and Alvin also delve into the implications of crying and emotional expression, particularly for men, and explore the broader impacts of religious and cultural expectations. Tune in for an engaging discussion intertwining personal anecdotes with broader societal themes.

    1 hr
  • Revisiting Leng Leng Chancey - "An Immigrant's View on Democracy"

    Join Erika Washington, host of Sticky Note Conversations, in an engaging replay episode featuring a deep conversation with her good friend Leng Leng Chancy, a strategic advisor to philanthropy and former executive director of 9to5 for working women. They discuss Leng Le

    • (00:00) - Introduction and Host's Personal Story
  • (02:20) - Introducing Leng Leng Chancey
  • (02:47) - Leng Leng's Journey to America
  • (07:37) - Cultural Differences and Communication
  • (10:32) - First Steps in Organizing
  • (13:30) - Reproductive Justice Advocacy
  • (27:26) - Family and Political Engagement
  • (31:36) - Questioning Democracy in America
  • (34:17) - Colonialism's Impact on Singapore
  • (35:55) - Navigating Language and Identity
  • (44:38) - The Immigrant Experience
  • (46:51) - Political Concerns and the 2024 Election
  • (49:39) - Youth Activism and Political Engagement
  • (54:33) - Potential Consequences of a Trump Presidency
  • (56:45) - Final Thoughts and Farewell
  • ng's immigrant experience from Singapore to America, the impact of colonialism, reproductive justice, and engaging young people in politics. Listen as they share personal stories and thoughts on the importance of global perspectives, democracy, and the upcoming 2024 elections. Don't miss this insightful episode filled with thoughtful dialogue on pressing social and political issues.
    1 hr
  • Revisiting Erica Gallegos - "Building Blocks of Care"

    Join host Erika Washington in conversation with Erica Gallegos, co-director of the Childcare for Every Family Network, as they discuss the 12-year fight to pass New Mexico's groundbreaking constitutional amendment for universal childcare and early education.

    In this powerful episode, Erica Gallegos shares her journey from childcare provider making $12.50/hour to becoming a leading organizer who helped secure funding for birth-through-12 education in New Mexico. They explore the racist history of childcare, why providers aren't recognized as teachers, and the legislative battles that required organizing parents, providers, and communities to change the system.

    • (00:00) - Introduction
  • (04:49) - New Mexico's Constitutional Amendment Victory
  • (05:53) - Why Childcare Providers Aren't Considered Teachers
  • (09:26) - The 12-Year Fight at the Legislature
  • (14:16) - Becoming an Organizer
  • (16:54) - Albuquerque and New Mexico Culture
  • (20:54) - Family History and Lineage
  • (31:45) - Decolonizing the Mind
  • (37:13) - Childcare for Every Family Network
  • (41:04) - Community Care and Parenting
  • (47:23) - Democracy and the American Dream
  • (50:44) - Rest, Joy, and Breaking Generational Trauma
  • (57:55) - Closing Thoughts
  • 1 hr
  • Revisiting Kelvin Atkinson - "A Compassionate Release"

    In this episode of Sticky Note Conversations, host Erika Washington sits down with former Nevada State Senator Kelvin Atkinson. They discuss Atkinson's career, including his tenure as the first openly black gay senator, his time in prison, and his subsequent rebirth. The conversation covers his early life, the murder of his father, his political ascent, and his controversial incarceration. Atkinson opens up about his mistakes, the consequences, and the path to reclaiming his life. Tune in for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about transformation, resilience, and new beginnings.

    • (00:00) - Introduction to Sticky Note Conversations
  • (00:16) - Reflecting on Transformation and Reinvention
  • (01:03) - Interview with Former Senator Kelvin Atkinson
  • (03:14) - Kelvin's Early Life and Family Tragedy
  • (07:10) - Journey into Politics
  • (14:48) - Legislative Achievements and Challenges
  • (17:54) - Coming Out and Its Impact
  • (28:35) - The Reality of Being a Politician
  • (32:17) - Reflecting on Leadership and Achievements
  • (32:37) - The Start of Legal Troubles
  • (33:17) - Financial Missteps and Consequences
  • (35:09) - Campaigning and Community Support
  • (37:31) - Legal Battles and Personal Reflections
  • (42:41) - Racial Disparities in Politics
  • (48:17) - Advice for Future Politicians
  • (56:59) - New Beginnings and the American Dream
  • (01:01:17) - Final Thoughts and Gratitude
  • 1 hr 4 min
  • Revisiting Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley - "The Work Never Stops"

    Join Erika Washington in a special episode of Sticky Note Conversations as she sits down with Las Vegas Mayor Shelly Berkely. Mayor Berkely shares her inspiring journey from a granddaughter of immigrants to a seasoned politician with over 40 years of experience. This episode covers a broad range of topics including her love for public service, the state of Las Vegas, challenges facing the immigrant community, and much more. Get insights into the city's plans, the importance of education, democracy, and Mayor Berkely's personal and professional milestones. Tune in to understand how Las Vegas is navigating through its current issues and what lies ahead for its diverse community.

    • (00:00) - Introduction to Sticky Note Conversations
  • (00:18) - Erika Washington's Opening Remarks
  • (00:20) - Reflecting on Brown vs. Board of Education
  • (01:22) - Announcement of New Season and Replay
  • (01:36) - Conversation with Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Barkley
  • (03:27) - Introduction to Mayor Shelly Berkeley
  • (05:47) - Shelly Berkeley's Political Journey
  • (06:24) - Shelly Berkeley's Early Life and Career
  • (07:51) - Shelly Berkeley's Post-Congress Career
  • (13:44) - Running for Mayor of Las Vegas
  • (14:53) - Challenges and Rewards of Public Service
  • (22:01) - Shelly Berkeley on Immigration and Family
  • (24:49) - Hispanic Family's Trump Support
  • (25:53) - Immigrant Minority Complex
  • (26:55) - Las Vegas' Cultural Diversity
  • (28:13) - City's Stance on Racism and Protection of Immigrants
  • (31:42) - Challenges of Federal Cuts
  • (34:11) - Goals for Las Vegas
  • (37:03) - Homelessness Crisis
  • (41:55) - Advice for Aspiring Women in Politics
  • (44:15) - Defining Democracy
  • (49:58) - Conclusion and Gratitude
  • 53 min

About Sticky Note Conversations

From the publisher's feed

To keep my thoughts in order and my to-do lists remotely manageable I create arrays of sticky notes on my desk and wall. New idea? Stick note! Someone I want to meet with? Sticky Note! Need to remember to pay a parking ticket? Write it on a sticky note. Over the course of the last year, I have wanted to create a podcast that allowed me to dive deep into conversations with interesting people.. I wanted to have real conversations that were more than sound bites or regurgitated talking points about fluffy topics. My hope is that each episode feels like old friends catching up. Revealing great information but also humanity, struggle, victory, joy, grief, and possibly, a flicker of transcendence.