Words in the Wild Podcast - Show Notes

In this emotionally charged finale, Melanie and Tiffany reflect on the impactful themes, character arcs, and key moments from My Government Means to Kill Me. They explore the rapid transformation of Trey as an activist, the symbolic significance of his experiences, and the unresolved questions about loyalty, love, and justice. Plus, they discuss potential adaptations and their personal takeaways from the story.

09:50 - Trey’s activism and rapid transformation

15:01 - The Martin storyline and its unresolved narrative

20:02 - Trey's moral dilemmas and blackmail plot against the senator

24:21 - The relationship between Trey and Angie, loyalty, and possible symbolism

28:32 - Reflection on Trey’s final decisions and the ending’s perceived rushed nature

32:58 - Trey’s future ambitions and his relationship with his mother

39:26 - Personal ratings and critiques of pacing and character arcs

43:48 - Gregory and Trey’s broken friendship and its inevitability

46:13 - Thoughts on potential TV adaptations and the importance of reading the book first

53:08 - Words of the week from Tracy Ellis Ross about authenticity and self-love

54:37 - Announcing the next reading: Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler

• Author Website: Rasheed Newson
• Words of the Week: Tracee Ellis Ross on Aspire
• Black Owned Book Store Directory
• Directory of Public Libraries

• 📸 Instagram: @wordsinthewildpod
• 🎥 YouTube: @wordsinthewildpod
• 💬 Join the Discussion on Facebook
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Email List: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip

Remember to share your thoughts, predictions, and recommendations. Thanks for listening and being part of the journey!

Words in the Wild Podcast - Show Notes

Unpacking Activism, Relationships, and Historical Myths on "Words in the Wild"

In this episode, Melanie and Tiffany delve into lessons 11 through 14 of My Government Means to Kill Me, exploring the nuanced dynamics of activism, friendship, and history's staged narratives. They reflect on how personal identities evolve amidst political movements and what it truly takes to make a difference.

• 01:03 - Personal updates: California trip and climbing experiences
• 11:11 - Summary of lessons 11 to 14 and thematic exploration
• 13:13 - Reflection on alliance dynamics and activists’ approaches
• 22:55 - Insights on ACT UP and staged civil rights protests
• 45:24 - The ethics of nepotism and career choices in activism
• 55:13 - Preview of next book: Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler
• 58:55 - Words of the week from Janelle James on following passions

• Author Website
• ACT UP New York
• Janelle James of Abbott Elementary with Scott Evans on House Guest
• Black Owned Book Store Directory
• Directory of Public Libraries

• 📸 Instagram: @wordsinthewildpod
• 🎥 YouTube: @wordsinthewildpod
• 💬 Join the Discussion on Facebook
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Email List: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip

Remember to share your thoughts, predictions, and recommendations. Thanks for listening and being part of the journey!

Words in the Wild Podcast - Show Notes

Navigating Winter Blues, Digital Libraries & Atonement in 'My Government Means to Kill Me'

In this episode of Words in the Wild, hosts Melanie and Tiffany keep it candid discussing the relentless New York winter, their personal struggles, and the joy of discovering the Libby app for digital reading. The hosts then dive into lessons 6 through 10 of 'My Government Means to Kill Me' by Rasheed Newson. They explore Trey's victories in activism, the complexities of romantic love, and his journey towards finding purpose and atonement for past actions. The discussion also touches on the ethics of quiet success and the importance of finding joy amidst activism. Tune in for deep reflections, relatable experiences, and some heartfelt recommendations for personal growth.

00:13 Introduction

00:31 Winter Woes and Weather Complaints

03:15 Travel Plans and Libby Love

09:31 Book Discussion: My Government Means to Kill Me

12:06 Trey's Activism and Personal Growth

22:03 Revealing Trey's Past and Family Tragedy

31:44 Exploring Trey's Need for Parental Approval

32:30 The Complexity of Maintaining a Lie

34:49 Trey's Guilt and Search for Redemption

38:13 Romantic Notions and Self-Worth

43:52 The Burden of Quiet Success

47:24 Carrying the Weight of the Past

52:33 Balancing Selfish Goals and Collective Good

01:01:27 Finding Joy Amidst Struggles

• Author Website
• Words of the Week by @chrisvolcy on Tik Tok
• Learn about Libby - E-book/Audio Books for Libraries
• Black Owned Book Store Directory
• Directory of Public Libraries

• 📸 Instagram: @wordsinthewildpod
• 🎥 YouTube: @wordsinthewildpod
• 💬 Join the Discussion on Facebook
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Email List: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip

Remember to share your thoughts, predictions, and recommendations. Thanks for listening and being part of the journey!

Words in the Wild: Season 2 Premiere - Trey's New York Adventures Begin

In the season 2 premiere of 'Words in the Wild,' Melanie and Tiffany kick off the episode with an excited celebration of their return. They dive into the first five lessons from 'My Government Means to Kill Me' by Rasheed Newson, discussing themes of personal growth, identity exploration, and overcoming societal constraints. Melanie and Tiffany discuss their personal experiences, linking them to the book's narrative about a young, gay Black man's journey in 1980s New York City. The episode concludes with motivational words from Jill Scott, setting an inspiring tone for the new season.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter

02:04 New Year Reflections and Personal Updates

10:51 Diving into Fiction: My Government Means To Kill Me

16:03 Protagonist's Background and Initial Struggles

20:30 Lessons from the Book: Affection and Sanctuary

37:01 Finding Your Tribe: Embrace Your Weirdness

39:22 Lesson Three: Don't Wear Straight Jackets

41:57 Transformations and Self-Discovery

51:55 Lesson Four: Enemies Have Their Value

01:00:49 Lesson Five: A Big Lie Can Build Character

01:05:52 Final Thoughts and Predictions

01:11:08 Words of the Week: Inspiration from Jill Scott

• My Government Means to Kill Me by Rasheed Newson (support your local library or Black-owned book store)
• Jill Scott On First Album In A Decade, Being Feminine Force In Music & Acting | Angie Martinez IRL
• Watch "Rustin" on Netflix

• 📸 Instagram: @wordsinthewildpod
• 🎥 YouTube: @wordsinthewildpod
• 💬 Join the Discussion on Facebook
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Email List: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip

In this special preview episode of Season 2, we unveil some exciting changes, including a new name for the podcast—'Words in the Wild,' reflecting our broader adventure narrative beyond just bouldering. We discuss our shift to a more diverse range of book genres, aiming to enhance wellness and escape through various literary styles. Tune in for a new adventure as we connect with fellow adventurers and expand our book club. This season, we'll release weekly audio-only episodes, with additional engaging video content on our social pages. Join us as we kick off season two reading Lessons 1-5 from "My Government Means to Kill Me" by Rasheed Newson starting February 2nd!

00:00 Welcome Back: Season Two Begins!

00:20 New Name, New Identity

01:34 Expanding Our Book Horizons

03:48 Connecting with Our Community

05:24 Podcast Format Changes

FOLLOW US ON OUR NEW SOCIAL PAGES:

Tik Tok @wordsinthewildpod

Instagram @wordsinthewildpod

YouTube @wordsinthewildpod

Books and Boulders Podcast - Episode Show Notes

In the final episode of Books and Boulders season one, hosts Melanie and Tiffany discuss the conclusion of 'Enough' by Melissa Arnot Reed. They delve into the remaining chapters and epilogue, touching on Melissa's transformative journey, her relationship with Tyler, and her ultimate accomplishment of summiting Everest without oxygen. 

• 00:00 Introduction & Updates
• 08: 36 Chapter 18: Liberation
• 23:03 Chapter 19: Manifest
• 51:45 Chapter 20: All that Glitters
• 01:21:12 Epilogue

• Enough by Melissa Arnot Reid (support your local library or independent book store)

• 🎥 YouTube: blackgirlsboulder
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Discussion: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip

Books and Boulders Podcast - Show Notes

In the latest episode of 'Books in Boulders,' hosts Melanie and Tiffany dive into part four of Melissa Arnot Reid's 'Altitude.' They explore Melissa's tumultuous marriage, her relentless pursuit of Everest summits, and a series of tragic events that challenge her emotional fortitude. Discussion revolves around Melissa's complicated relationships, the impact of climbing tragedies, and her struggles with personal demons. Join the hosts for an emotional and intense examination of Melissa's journey both on and off the mountains.

• 00:00 Introductions & Updates
• 14:24 Chapter 13: No Picket Fence
• 38:13 Chapter 14: Thinner Than Air
• 01:08:13 Chapter 15: Escape
• 01:24:38 Chapter 16: Unavoidable
• 01:37:33 Chapter 17: Peak Purity

• Enough by Melissa Arnot Reid (support your local library or independent book store)

• 🎥 YouTube: blackgirlsboulder
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Discussion: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip

Books and Boulders Podcast Show Notes

Release Date: November 17, 2025

In this episode of Books and Boulders, hosts Melanie and Tiffany dive into part three of 'Enough' by Melissa Arnot Reid. The discussion kicks off with Tiffany's new commitment to yoga and mindfulness, which segues into deeper reflections on personal growth and resilience. The hosts share their thoughts on Reid's tumultuous relationships and her resolve to summit Everest without oxygen.

00:00 Introduction to Books and Boulders

00:48 Personal Check-ins and Wellness Goals

01:50 Affirmations and Mental Health

05:35 Rediscovering Joy and Movement

12:19 Climbing Adventures and Reflections

15:07 Diving into 'Enough' by Melissa Arna Reid

16:46 Everest Expeditions and Challenges

21:38 Navigating Relationships and Self-Discovery

28:48 Mountaineering Goals and Team Dynamics

38:02 New Beginnings and Unexpected Proposals

47:35 Ian's Influence and Relationship Dynamics

50:17 Melissa's Need for Therapy and Friendships

54:08 Ian's Proposal and Relationship Issues

57:50 Melissa's Struggles and Tragic Events

01:00:56 Family Tensions and Reflections

01:05:51 Mountaineering Challenges and Tragedies

• Enough by Melissa Arnot Reid (support your local library or independent book store)

• 📸 Instagram: @tiffbfirst @melavision
• 🎥 YouTube: blackgirlsboulder
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Discussion: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip

Books and Boulders Podcast Show Notes

Release Date: November 3, 2025

In this episode of Books in Boulders, Melanie and Tiffany continue their discussion on 'Enough: Climbing Towards a True Self on Mount Everest' by Melissa Arnot Reed. Covering chapters 4 through 8, they unpack Melissa's evolving relationships, both personal and professional, as she navigates her climbing journey.

00:00 Introduction

09:38 Melissa's Early Life and First Climb

20:45 Becoming a Mountain Guide

21:37 Challenges and Competitions

47:11 Toxic Relationships and Career Moves

53:28 Debating Personal Choices

56:36 Brad's Manipulation

01:01:42 Mountaineering Challenges

01:19:11 Mike's Everest Proposal

01:38:33 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

• 📸 Instagram: @tiffbfirst
• 🎥 YouTube: blackgirlsboulder
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Discussion: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip

Books and Boulders Podcast - Episode Show Notes

Episode Title: "Enough" Part I

Release Date: October 20, 2025

In this episode of Books and Boulders, hosts Melanie and Tiffany dive into the first part of 'Enough: Climbing Toward a True Self on Mount Everest' by Melissa Arnot Reid. They discuss themes of parental relationships, emotional neglect, childhood trauma, and overcoming adversity as they unpack Melissa's tumultuous journey from her difficult upbringing in southern Colorado to her quest to summit Everest without supplemental oxygen. The hosts also touch on their own perspectives regarding parental discipline and the impact of generational trauma. Join them as they explore the profound and intimate struggles that shape Melissa's path to self-discovery and climactic achievement.

00:00 Introduction

13:54 Podcast Milestones and Book Introduction

14:51 Discussion of 'Enough' by Melissa Arnot Reed

41:54 Melissa's Complex Personality

47:16 DARE Program and Childhood Realizations

50:08 Chapter Three: Revelations

51:08 Parents Arrested for Growing Marijuana

54:49 Officer Jones: A Predatory Influence

01:12:03 Concluding Thoughts

• Enough by Melissa Arnot Reid (support your local library or book store)

• 📸 Instagram: @tiffbfirst
• 🎥 YouTube: blackgirlsboulder
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
• 💬 Join the Discussion: Join the Club
• 💰 Leave a Tip