You Ain't Imagining This!

Happy Black History Month!  The Espresso Talk Today Team is focusing this wellness show on an African (Akan) theme from Ghana called Sankofa. Robin will discuss the principle of Sankofa more in this podcast show but it basically expresses the importance of learning from past knowledge (from the ancestors) and using this knowledge to create a better future. This special Sankofa show features a short story by the eminent poet and playwright, Paul Laurence Dunbar. The story is called "The Scapegoat" and it is one of the first stories in the protest literature genre. Storytelling at its finest! So get comfortable and enjoy this experience in Black history!

Many White people want to join the fight for racial justice and equality. But they don't know what steps will be both effective and respectful. This show will give you great ideas!  Ben and Marlene discuss this dilemma and the article "103 Ways White People Can Fight For Racial Justice." They also discuss present ideas that they disagree with.  From watching Black history movies and reading books about the African American experience to boycotting companies that use prison labor to "banking Black", the ETT team examines the author's (Corinne Shutack) suggestions and make a few of their own.  Listen to this dynamic podcast show then join the discussion on Facebook and Twitter. 

Two weeks at the U.S. Capitol witnessed two monumental events: A violent insurrection and a Presidential Inauguration. The first event was suppressed. The second is taking the country to a period of hope and unity. The ETT Team lead by Mel, Wayne, and Marlene discuss these events and how they will change the country in the coming years. It's another lively discussion by the Espresso Talk Today team. Join this uncommon convo!

"There are some things within this social order to which I am proud to be maladjusted. I never intend to adjust myself to segregation and discrimination."  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was one of the most quotable and memorable people who ever lived. On this celebration of Martin Luther King Day, the Espresso Talk Today team remembers some of their favourite quotes by Dr. King.  In this time of upheaval and crisis facing the country and the world, Dr. King continues to bring insight and inspiration. Robin and Hans selected their favourite quotes--not an easy task!--and discuss them in personal, political, and historical context. Join them for this celebration and remembrance of this great man of faith who changed the country and left a legacy of love, nonviolence, and service to others.

On January 6, 2021, the United States (and, indeed, the rest of the world) was shocked to witness the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol led by Trump loyalists.  The attack happened during a joint session of Congress as representatives were certifying the result of the 2020 election, which decided Joe Biden would be the next president of the United States. Shock, fear, and anger were felt by millions as they watched the storming of the Capitol building. The Espresso Talk Today team changed its publishing calendar to approach and discuss the attempted coup. White supremacy? White Nationalism? Racism? Domestic terrorism? Treason? Authoritarianism? American exceptionalism? Everything is on the table for discussion by the Espresso Talk Today team.  Join us for a lively and insightful discussion about this attack on democracy. 

Espresso Talk Today Senior Content Analyst, Hans Hyppolite, provides us with a special report of the five most important events in 2020 for African Americans.  We all know that it was a busy year with both highs and lows that we should remember. In this opening podcast for 2021, we will review these events and how they will affect us in the new year. Join Hans for a quick espresso and remember these important events!

What is your perspective? Choose wisely. Perspective is your window to the world. It determines your thoughts, behavior, and ultimately life experience. In this first wellness show of the year, Robin discusses the importance of determining perspective and knowing whether it is helping or hurting you. The Stoics are brought in to discuss the importance of perspective and how a view from above can elevate one's outlook. Join us for this important and uplifting wellness show. The show concludes with an excellent meditation.   

Habari Gani! Imani!

Join Robin, Hans, Ben, Marlene, Mel, and Wayne--yes, the Espresso Talk Today Team!-- to celebrate the seventh and final day of Kwanzaa. Today, we focus on faith (Imani in Swahili). This is an extra special day! Happy New Year!

Lay down your Kwanzaa mat (mkeka in Swahili).  

Place your candleholder (kinara in Swahili). Light the last green candle. Take a moment to admire the beautiful and fully lit Kinara, representing the African people, the struggle of the African people, and the future of the African people.

Fill your Unity cups (kikombe cha umoja in Swahili). 

See you there!

Habari Gani! Kuumba!

Join Wayne and the Espresso Talk Today Team to celebrate the sixth day of Kwanzaa. Today, we focus on creativity (Kuumba in Swahili). This is an extra special day!

Lay down your Kwanzaa mat (mkeka in Swahili).  

Place your candleholder (kinara in Swahili). Light the last red candle.

Fill your Unity cups (kikombe cha umoja in Swahili). 

See you there!

Habari Gani! Nia!

Join Mel and the Espresso Talk Today Team to celebrate the fifth day of Kwanzaa. Today, we focus on purpose (Nia in Swahili).

Lay down your Kwanzaa mat (mkeka in Swahili).  

Place your candleholder (kinara in Swahili). Light another green candle.

Fill your Unity cups (kikombe cha umoja in Swahili). 

See you there!