Gumbo, Grits, and Gathering: Black Food is Black History
Espresso Talk Today
In this Espresso Talk Today episode, we step into the rich, vibrant world of Black food spaces with the story A Taste of Home. This story is more than a sensory experience—it’s an exploration of how food connects us to our history, our culture, and our sense of belonging. Through the bustling African-Caribbean marketplace, the aroma of smoked paprika, the warmth of Big Mama’s kitchen, and the lively spirit of a small barbecue shack, A Taste of Home reminds us that food is more than nourishment. It is history, resilience, and love—passed down from generation to generation. But this...
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A Seat at the Table: Conversations with Historical Black Figures
Espresso Talk Today
Hujambo fam and Akwaaba (welcome!). Join me as I take you on a journey into my dream where I sit with great Black figures like Frederick Douglass, Ida B. Wells, and Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Together, we discuss the significance of Black history, and the importance of reclaiming our narratives and lighting the way for future generations. ✨💡 In this episode, you’ll experience a historical roundtable discussion, a traditional libation ceremony, and a moment of reflection. We will also go "beyond the story" to the deeper story of Black History Month and how we can use it as a tool...
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Black History Month Reflection: Symbols, Stories, and the Power of History
Espresso Talk Today
What connects you to your history? For Ama-Robin, it was a wooden map of Africa that hung in my childhood home—a powerful symbol of identity, pride, and resilience. In this episode, Ama-Robin shares a deeply personal story about how this map, despite being ridiculed, became a source of strength and a reminder of the greatness of Black history. We’ll reflect on the power of symbols, the lessons of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, and the importance of reclaiming our stories. Join me for storytelling, a cultural cleansing ritual, and a moment of quiet reflection to honor our connection to Black...
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Beyond "Rugged Individualism": The Power of Collective Core Values
Espresso Talk Today
Western society glorifies rugged individualism, but in the Black community, we know the truth—our power has always been collective. From Black Wall Street to the Black Panther Party, from HBCUs to our multigenerational families, we have built, protected, and uplifted each other through shared core values like unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility. Yet, these values have been ignored—or worse, attacked—by a society that fears our strength. In this episode, we confront this erasure and celebrate the Black collectives that have shaped our past, empowered our present, and...
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Black Empowerment Starts Here: Living by Your Core Values
Espresso Talk Today
What are core values? Why should I care about them? Core values aren’t just a “white thing”—they’re the foundation of Black empowerment. In this episode, Black empowerment educator Ama-Robin explores how our core values are challenged and undermined in a world that often questions our humanity. She's talking directly to the skeptics, showing how core values ground us, guide us, and help us live authentically and unapologetically. Plus, we break down 4 essential steps to defining and living by your values. This isn’t about resolutions or goals—it’s about building a life...
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Stop Making Resolutions: Harnessing the Power of Core Values
Espresso Talk Today
In this episode, we’re ditching resolutions and diving deep into the transformative power of core values. Discover how values like resilience, unity, and freedom can ground and empower us, especially as Black individuals navigating racial chaos. Core values aren’t just personal—they’re revolutionary tools for empowerment and liberation. Let’s explore how living by our truth can inspire change for ourselves and our communities. Key Points: Core Values Ground Us Amid the Racial Chaos Core values like resilience, freedom, and compassion serve as our foundation, keeping us grounded and...
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An African American Christmas Poem
Espresso Talk Today
In this poem titled, "The Christmas Reunion Down in Martinsville," Augustus Hodges (1854 - 1916) presents an African American version of a Christmas poem. Hodges was an American editor, writer, journalist, and political organizer. In 1876, He was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. Presented by musician and teacher, . Follow him on YouTube @wadispeaks Warning: The "N-word" is used twice in this poem.
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Kwanzaa: Principles for Liberation and Believing Black People
Espresso Talk Today
Habarigani! Discover the power of Kwanzaa as a celebration of Black culture, resilience, and liberation. This episode explores the seven principles of Kwanzaa, connecting each to the inspiring stories of Black historical figures and the importance of the #BelieveBlackPeople movement. Join us for reflection, empowerment, and a call to action for liberation.
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BelieveBlackPeople: From Supportive Spaces to Standing Strong
Espresso Talk Today
In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin dives deeper into the #BelieveBlackPeople movement. This isn’t just a hashtag—it’s a revolutionary call to honor and trust Black voices, celebrate our achievements, and challenge the stereotypes and biases that have silenced us for too long. Ama-Robin breaks down what it means to believe Black people in everyday life, from creating supportive spaces to practicing self-reflection and standing strong in our stories. This conversation is powerful, reflective, and filled with actionable ways to build a culture of belief and respect...
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#BelieveBlackPeople: More Than a Hashtag, It’s a Movement
Espresso Talk Today
BelieveBlackPeople is more than words--it's a call to action! In this episode, we break down what it means to believe Black people and why it matters now more than ever. Hosted by Ama-Robin, this episode explores why believing Black people is essential—from recognizing everyday encounters with racism and bias to celebrating Black excellence that’s too often overlooked. Listen in as we discuss the powerful message behind #BelieveBlackPeople and share specific steps everyone can take to join the mission. Key Topics Covered: What #BelieveBlackPeople means and why it’s more than just...
info_outlineIn this electrifying episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin demands Black liberation and discusses dismantling the existing white supremacist structures that force us to "make a way out of no way." We explore the true cost of resilience and the necessity of envisioning a world where Black people thrive, not just survive.
Drawing on the powerful words of Audre Lorde and the transformative work of Angela Davis, Kali Akuno, and Bryan Stevenson, Ama-Robin calls for the dismantling of oppressive systems and the creation of new ones founded on justice, equity, and liberation. Through radical rest, cultural healing, and community empowerment, we reimagine a society where Black lives truly matter.
Tune in for an inspiring journey of collective action, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to a liberated future.
Bonus Content: 6 Steps Toward Achieving Black Liberation
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Educate Ourselves: Take the time to learn about the history and mechanisms of oppression, including systemic racism, sexism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination. Understanding the roots of these systems is essential for challenging them effectively.
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Imagine Alternatives: Engage in speculative thinking and imagine alternative futures where oppressive systems have been dismantled. Afro-futurist literature and art can provide valuable inspiration for envisioning new possibilities beyond the constraints of the present.
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Challenge Assumptions: Question the assumptions and norms that underpin existing systems of oppression. Challenge stereotypes, biases, and hierarchies that perpetuate inequality and limit individual potential.
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Build Solidarity: Foster connections and build alliances with individuals and communities that share a commitment to social justice and liberation. Collective action is essential for challenging entrenched power structures and effecting meaningful change.
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Take Action: Take concrete steps to challenge oppression and advocate for justice in your community and beyond. This can include participating in protests, supporting grassroots organizations, advocating for policy changes, and engaging in acts of solidarity and resistance.
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Practice Self-Reflection: Reflect on your privileges and biases, and commit to ongoing self-education and personal growth. Recognize how you may unknowingly perpetuate systems of oppression, and strive to be an ally and accomplice in the fight for liberation.
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