Episode 1: Let Black Boys Play! with Dr. Nathaniel Bryan
Challenging Systemic Inequities In the inaugural episode of the Blackboard podcast, host Dr. Michelle DeJohnette introduces the podcast’s focus on the experiences of Black children in early childhood education, highlighting systemic inequities and discussing solutions. Dr. DeJohnette's first guest is Dr. Nathaniel Bryan, a scholar whose research centers on the identities and pedagogical styles of black male teachers, the schooling realities of black boys, and teacher preparation for urban early childhood education.
Dr. Bryan shares insights into his pioneering frameworks, Black Boy Crit Pedagogy and Black Play Crit, which aim to challenge and dismantle anti-blackness in education. The discussion covers the impact of racial and gendered inequities on black boys' education, the importance of creating humane and liberating educational spaces, and the role of educators, policymakers, and families in fostering environments that support Black children's joy and learning.
Dr. Bryan also recounts his personal motivations stemming from the tragic death of Tamir Rice and underscores the need for a societal shift towards genuinely valuing the humanity of black children.
00:00 Introduction to the Blackboard Podcast 00:26 Meet Dr. Nathaniel Bryan
02:56 The Importance of Discussing Black Boyhood
06:21 The Impact of Tamir Rice's Story
15:13 Black Boy Crit Pedagogy and Black Play Crit
41:05 Broader Implications and Future Directions
50:19 Closing Thoughts and Staying Connected
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About the host
Dr. Michelle DeJohnette is an Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Studies at Cal Poly Pomona. Her work focuses on preparing early childhood educators to teach critically and responsibly through anti-racist and social justice frameworks. Drawing on critical theories and culturally responsible pedagogy, her research interrogates how systems of discipline, punishment, and surveillance reproduce inequities and anti-Blackness in Black children’s early learning experiences.
Across her teaching, research, and public scholarship, Dr. DeJohnette is committed to building inclusive, liberatory learning spaces where all children and families are seen, valued, and supported.
Credits
- Cover art by: Emporium Designs; Podcast Branding
- Outro Music: "Lift Every Voice and Sing" Thomasina Petrus & Kashimana Ahua
Stay connected
- Follow on Instagram: @theblackboardpodcast
- Subscribe to The Blackboard Podcast
- Share this episode with an educator, parent, or colleague
