You Ain't Imagining This!

Do you need a will? What is probate?  Can I avoid making a will or going through the probate process? What is a trust? What about taxes? Great questions. The lawyers in this episode discuss these and other important questions about wills, trusts, probate, taxes, and even fraud! Many people don't think about making a will or they don't know why they might need one. They might not know what other legal instrument is better suited for them.  Join attorneys, Barry and Mel as well as dynamic paralegal Janice to learn more about these important issues.  You need this information! *Remember that estate planning is different in every state.

Police violence. Reparations. DC Statehood. Death of DMX. Everything is on the table in this "uncommon" news show--from a Black perspective. Join host, Ben Koponen, on this show as he deliberates about the news and events and their effects on the Black community. Time to get real. Join the convo!

Financial hardships can happen to anyone. Anytime.  But there are ways to protect your income and future--and it's easier than ever! Yet many people remain unprotected and vulnerable. If you like tax-free cash income then join us to discuss the power of life insurance. In this show, financial educator, Jorick Gaines with WealthWave, Inc. will discuss the importance and power of life insurance. No, it is not only for after death! No, it is not only for older people! Life insurance is one of the most important parts of your financial portfolio and you can reap the benefits right now.  Already have life insurance?  Great, if it's the right kind and right amount.   Jorick discusses ways to protect your income and financial future using life insurance and by creating an emergency fund.  His advice works for people in all income categories and age groups. Join Robin and Marlene as they ask both easy and complex questions about ways to protect your financial future.  The time to start is now!

Muhammed Ali. Wilma Rudolph. Colin Kaepernick. All of these African Americans were great athletes. But they were also great activists fighting for racial and social justice. Many people forget the important contributions made by Black athlete activists. Yet they have had an incredible impact on highlighting racial and social injustices--and changing the world. In this episode, we discuss these athlete activists, their contributions, and the consequences they suffered for their activism.  We also discuss ways that we can support them. Grab an espresso and join this uncommon discussion!

The lawnmower. The key chain. The gas mask. The video security system. The modern traffic signal. These were invented by African Americans. And there is so much more! Yet we learn and hear so little about the numerous inventions by African Americans. This show changes this perception of Black inventors and scientists!  The ETT team discusses Black inventions and their backstories. We also discuss the challenges faced by Black inventors today and how we can support their research, work, and contributions to society. Join us!

How can you support Black economic empowerment? The easiest yet most powerful way is to buy from Black businesses. Invest in Black businesses. Donate. Collaborate. And always buy Black first! There are more than two million Black-owned businesses in the United States. They provide important goods and services, jobs, and needed revenue for the community. Black businesses also support the culture and encourage unity.  However, many of these small businesses struggle every month. If they fail, then the individual and the community suffers. But when they succeed, the community and generations of Black families are empowered. Wealth needs generations to develop. And buying from Black businesses starts the cycle of wealth generation. In this follow-up episode on Black economic empowerment, Robin and Marlene discuss the reasons to buy Black first as well as other ways to support Black businesses. Listen to this important episode to learn how to find and support Black businesses. It's easier than you might think. It makes a difference. Join us!

Black Wall Street. Madame C.J. Walker. BET. OWN. Vista Equity Partners. Black Americans have always worked for economic power and independence. There have been notable successes--and many obstacles. Today, there are more than 2 million Black-owned businesses in America. Why is economic empowerment important in the Black community? What have been the obstacles faced by Black entrepreneurs? How can we support Black businesses?  We discuss all these questions and a lot more in this show.  Listen in and learn what you can do every day to support Black businesses and encourage economic empowerment in the Black community. 

An "uncommon" monthly news perspective show that reflects on  events and their effects in the Black community. Join March host, Ben Koponen, in this show about March news events. From the Academy Award nominations to voter suppression, March was filled with important and memorable events. Join the convo!

The ETT Team has a lively inter-generational discussion on the existence and effects of Black stereotyping in the media. Whew! From King Kong through YouTube, we discuss the differing social and emotional effects of early and modern Black stereotypes. Everything was on the table for discussion. The generational views, opinions, and approaches differed and sometimes clashed. All opinions were valid. All opinions were respected. This was one of the most lively discussions about an issue upon which everyone agreed: Black stereotypes are dangerous to Black people--and must be stopped NOW. 

Stereotypes exist in every part of society. Modern movies and television shows are not immune to this problem.  It's frustrating. It's persistent. It's inexcusable. And today we call it out. Join Marlene and Ben as they rant about these degrading and demeaning stereotypes. They also discuss the limited roles available to Black actors and how these stereotypical roles are accepted and encouraged in the "diverse and inclusive" entertainment industry.  Some of these roles might surprise you!  We don't want to ruin your entertainment experience but these stereotypes are dangerous. Awareness is the first step toward eliminating these portrayals in entertainment and other parts of society.