Uncovering Hidden Racism: The Everyday Behaviors We Need to Confront
Release Date: 08/30/2024
Literacy Beyond Whiteness: Reading as Resistance, Storytelling as Power
Espresso Talk Today
Black people have always valued knowledge—through books, through songs, through music, and even through memory. In this fireside reflection, Ama-Robin explores why reading has always been a form of resistance and an expression of joy, why storytelling matters, the importance of music, drumming, dance, and other forms of communication and repositories of knowledge. Most importantly, she discusses how we can reclaim literacy without centering whiteness. In this powerful fireside chat, Ama-Robin reflects on the deep connection between Black identity and literacy—from surviving...
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You are never alone in a Black Bookstore - A Village Story
Espresso Talk Today
In this story, we will step inside a Black-owned bookstore. Feel the warmth. Hear the conversations. Smell the books and the spice of chai in the air. This isn’t just a shop—it’s a sanctuary, a meeting place, a revolution in the making. In this story-driven episode, I take you inside a Black bookstore where knowledge is resistance, elders share wisdom, and a single quote can change everything. Let’s explore what makes Black bookstores more than bookstores—they are home.
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Your Comforting Moment for Black History Month
Espresso Talk Today
Hujambo community, and welcome to Espresso Talk today. Today I'll be guiding you through a heartfelt reflection as we close out Black History Month. We'll start by grounding ourselves in the wisdom of our ancestors and celebrating the lessons, stories, and triumphs we've explored this month. Dr. Carter G. Woodson's vision for Black History Month serves as a reminder of the power in knowing our history. Asante sana for being on this journey with me. Let’s continue to honor, celebrate, and make Black history every day 🌍🕯️. #blackempowerment #podcast #blackculture...
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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.
info_outlineIn this powerful episode of Espresso Talk Today, we dive deep into the often-overlooked world of covert racism—the subtle, everyday behaviors and attitudes that many people don’t even realize are racist. From denying racism’s existence to ignoring white privilege and making harmful stereotypes, we unpack how these actions perpetuate systemic racism in ways that are insidious but no less damaging.
I also introduce the Socialized Racism Scale, a tool designed to help you assess your own unconscious biases and understand where you stand in the fight against racism. Along the way, we explore the 3Cs—Courage, Character, and Compassion—that are essential for confronting and dismantling these hidden prejudices.
Whether you’re just beginning to examine your own biases or are a seasoned ally, this episode offers vital insights and actionable steps to help you be a part of the solution. This isn’t just a conversation for one group—it’s for everyone who’s committed to creating an anti-racist world.
Tune in, listen, and let’s uncover and confront these hidden biases together.