My Unexpected Pilgrimage through Black History
Espresso Talk Today
Join Ama-Robin on a profound journey through America's most iconic museums and libraries. In this episode, we dive into what makes a pilgrimage more than just a trip as Ama-Robin retraces the steps of pivotal African American figures and explores key artifacts that shape the narrative of African American resilience and culture. From the hallowed halls of the National Museum of African American History and Culture to the artistic corridors of The Met and the historic collections of The Legacy Museum in Montgomery, discover how connecting with our heritage can transform our understanding of the...
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Everyday Discrimination Scale: Confronting Racial Stress in the Workplace
Espresso Talk Today
Join Ama-Robin and Mel on a powerful episode of Espresso Talk Today, where today's brew is rich with insight and empowerment. Diving deep into the Every Day Discrimination Scale (EDDS), this episode tackles the often-overlooked yet deeply impactful issue of workplace discrimination and harassment. Discover how subtle, daily acts of discrimination shape our professional environments and personal well-being. Through vivid real-life examples, Ama-Robin and Mel explore each question of the EDDS, shedding light on the invisible forces at play in workspaces. Tune in for an empowering discussion that...
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Black & Bold: Core Values ain't just for White folks!
Espresso Talk Today
Join us in a thought-provoking episode as we delve into the unique journey of identifying and living by core values as Black folks. Racism, a pervasive force, often acts as a formidable obstacle, diverting our focus and energy from our guiding principles. Through powerful anecdotes and insightful analysis, we explore how racism can disrupt our alignment with core values, making it a challenging endeavor. Yet, amidst adversity, there's empowerment. Discover how embracing core values serves as a source of strength, resilience, and liberation against the effects of racism. From practical steps to...
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More than Just Words: Core Values for Empowered Living
Espresso Talk Today
At Espresso Talk Today, empowerment is at the heart of everything we do. In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of core values—the guiding principles that shape our decisions and actions. Knowing your core values is more than just an introspective exercise—it's a tool for empowerment. It empowers you to reduce stress, set meaningful goals, and live a life that aligns with your true essence. Join us as we explore the profound impact of core values and how they can lead you toward a more fulfilling and empowered life. This is the episode that you didn't know that you needed!...
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Breaking Barriers: Black Women in Outdoor Spaces
Espresso Talk Today
Join Ama-Robin and Mel as they interview Demiesha Dennis, founder of . Dive into Demiesha's inspiring journey from self-taught fly-fisher to advocate for Black women in nature. We discuss: 1. The challenges faced by women of color in outdoor spaces, from racial profiling to lack of representation. 2. How is reshaping the narrative on who belongs outdoors and fostering inclusivity through education and community. 3. The transformative power of nature as a form of Black empowerment and liberation. Tune in to hear firsthand accounts and insights from women who are defying...
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Healing from Racial Stress and Trauma: A 4-Step Approach
Espresso Talk Today
Today, we bravely dive into the topic of managing racial trauma. We are uniquely guided by Professor William A. Smith's framework of trauma-informed care: the 4Rs. By realizing, recognizing, responding, and resisting, we can navigate the complexities of racial trauma and foster healing within ourselves and our communities. Join us on our journey of diving into each R and exploring actionable--and effective!--steps for healing and empowerment. The 4Rs of Trauma Care: Realize the nature of systemic racism. Recognize the symptoms of racial trauma. Respond to the symptoms of racial trauma....
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Five Uncomfortable Truths about Racial Stress
Espresso Talk Today
Racial stress is a fact of life for most Black Americans. We suffer its physical and mental effects daily at work, at school, in public spaces, anywhere or anytime. Headaches. Hypertension. Insomnia. Anxiety. Depression. These are a few of the symptoms of racial stress, or Racial Battle Fatigue. We have learned about Racial Battle Fatigue from its founder, Professor William A. Smith, a psychologist from the University of Utah. By popular demand, we are addressing five statements by Professor Smith about racial stress. These "Uncomfortable Truths" are difficult to hear but important to know....
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Racial Battle Fatigue is Real: Learn how it can affect your Health
Espresso Talk Today
Did you know that systemic racism can cause depression, anxiety, hypertension, insomnia, and other serious health conditions? Black Americans suffer high levels of stress from the daily experience of anti-Black racism. In this special episode, the Espresso Talk Today team is joined by Professor William Smith who has conducted extensive study on this serious condition. He discusses the physiological processes leading to Racial Battle Fatigue, the symptoms, and healthy coping strategies to protect one's health. He also identifies unhealthy strategies that people use to cope but that often...
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From Past to Present: Embracing Our Role as History Makers Today
Espresso Talk Today
In this powerful final episode of Black History Month on Espresso Talk Today, we dive deep into the heart of what it means to be a history maker. Guided by the wisdom of the courageous and brilliant philosopher and activist, Angela Davis, we explore how every one of us, through our everyday actions, contributes to making history. From the stories of young activists reshaping our communities to the affirmations that fuel our inner strength, this episode is a call to recognize our collective power and responsibility. We delve into the lives of individuals who, from youth to young adulthood, have...
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Black History is NOT Depressing!
Espresso Talk Today
Do you find Black history depressing? I did! Then I learned that this was my "miseducation" about the real history of Black people in America. In this episode, host Ama-Robin rejects the "inferiorized" Black history that we have been taught and discusses the empowered history of resilience, resistance, and joy that is the true experience of Black America. Then she challenges you to find the joy in the history that you are making today. Grab an espresso and join us!
info_outlineJohn Henry, the famous steel-driving man, was a Black Freedman born in the 19th century. He was known for his strength and hard-work ethic. In a famous challenge, he faced and defeated the steam machine. He became a legend. But his story is true. The Espresso Talk Today team is honored to share his amazing story with you. The story is read by storyteller, Ben Koponen.