Be the Bridge Podcast with Latasha Morrison
By Be the Bridge
Esau McCaulley on Advocating for Justice as Families and as Local Churches
In this conversation, Latasha Morrison and Esau McCaulley talk about Esau's latest children's book, Andy Johnson and the March for Justice and the significance of children's literature in addressing social justice issues. Esau shares insights on the need for healthy churches that reflect the values of their congregants. The discussion also highlights the importance of cultural identity and faith in children's books, aiming to provide resources that affirm both.
They discuss the historical role of the church in advocating for justice and the importance of cultural expressions of faith. They explore the theme of empathy and the complexities of faith within the African-American Christian experience. The conversation emphasizes God's vision for a diverse kingdom and the hope found in community and shared faith.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
A Conversation on Representation in the Marvel Cinematic Universe
In this episode, we take BTB into the MCU with a conversation between Dion Evans and Cole Middleton as they explore the intersection of superheroes, cultural representation, and racial reconciliation. They discuss the importance of entertainment as a means of taking care of yourself, the significance of diverse characters like Black Panther, and the complexities faced by Sam Wilson as Captain America.
The conversation delves into the societal implications of these narratives and how they reflect real-world issues of justice and identity. They talk about Stan Lee's intentionality in creating these characters. They also critique the trend of race swapping in superhero films. Ultimately, Dion and Cole highlight the importance of representation in pop culture in helping individuals feel seen and understood.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Connect with Be the Bridge:
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Join the online community BTB Connect
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Quina Aragon on the Enduring Love of God and God's Heart for Migrants
In this conversation, Latasha Morrison is joined by Quina Aragon to explore the themes of racial healing, personal struggles, and the centrality of God's love in their lives and work. Quina shares her multicultural background, her journey to faith, and how her experiences of pain and trauma have shaped her writing especially with her most recent book, Love Has a Story: 100 Meditations on the Enduring Love of God. They discuss the importance of lamenting and the role of storytelling in fostering understanding and justice within communities. They talk through the themes of migration, compassion, and justice through a biblical lens. Quina also shares her spoken word piece, What's a Woman Worth. This episode is full of biblical wisdom and calls to compassion!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Connect with Quina Aragon:
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Join the online community BTB Connect
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
BTB University - The New Presidency from Students' Perspectives
In this conversation, Jefferson Jones is joined by a group of young adults (Sebastian, Christal, and Regan) to discuss the impact of the Trump presidency on various aspects of society, the political climate on college campuses, the weaponization of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and the influence of these dynamics on Christianity. They share their personal feelings and observations, emphasizing the importance of community, hope, and faith amidst political turmoil. We are grateful for the opportunity to listen and learn from BTB students!
Want to learn more about our Youth and University Program? Find out more here. Follow the Y&U Instagram here. Or email Jefferson@bethebridge.com to see how you can get connected.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young on the Importance of Children's Books in Bridge Building and on Journeying through Grief
In this episode of the Be the Bridge Podcast, Latasha Morrison interviews author, speaker, and Bible teacher, Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young. Her recently released picture book, Kailani's Gift, celebrates family, Filipino heritage, and dance while showing the importance of perseverance and cultural expression. Dorina shares about her journey as a writer, and they discuss how children's books can serve as tools for racial justice. Dorina also shares her personal experience with grief.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
What is DEI?
What actually is DEI?
We invite you to listen to Elizabeth, one of our BTB Educators, share about diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives - the history, the need for them, and our work with them at Be the Bridge.
If you learned something, please let us know! We’d love to hear how this equips you with language to better explain to others what DEI is and to advocate for it.
Find this on social media to share there as well: BTB Instagram post, Facebook post.
Want more teaching like this? Find courses in the Be the Bridge Academy! Or email training@bethebridge.com to get information on bringing our educators to you!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Dr. Nicholas Rowe and Sheila Wise Rowe on Healing Leadership Trauma
Jefferson and Gina from the Be the Bridge team co-host an insightful conversation with Dr. Nicholas Rowe and Sheila Wise Rowe where they delve into the themes of leadership, healing, and self-awareness. They discuss their new book, Healing Leadership Trauma: Finding Emotional Health and Helping Others Flourish. The conversation emphasizes the need for cross-ethnic reconciliation and the role of systemic issues in leadership dynamics. Ultimately, they highlight the hope found in nurturing relationships and the transformative power of God in the journey of leadership.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Connect with Dr. Nicholas Rowe and Sheila Wise Rowe:
Purchase Healing Leadership Trauma
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
A Look at the History of the Public Sector and Black Americans
Corregan Brown is one of the educators on our Be the Bridge Training team. He takes a few minutes to share a little history with the BTB Community. He talks about the significant role of the public sector in building Black wealth and the Black middle class in the United States. He explores historical interactions between Black Americans and the public sector, the impact of key historical events such as Reconstruction and the Civil Rights Movement, and the ongoing challenges faced today in achieving equality of opportunity. Corregan leaves us with an important question to ponder.
Find the video of this on our social media pages and share to spread racial literacy! Interested in learning more history like this? Visit the Be the Bridge Academy or reach out to training@bethebridge.com for information about bringing one of our trainings to you!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
Become a Donor of Be the Bridge
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Connect with Be the Bridge:
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Connect with Latasha Morrison:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Dr. Ed Uszynski on Untangling Critical Race Theory
In this episode of the Be the Bridge podcast, guest host Darryl Ford engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Ed Uszynski about critical race theory and its implications for racial reconciliation within the church. They explore Ed's book,Untangling Critical Race Theory, and the historical context of CRT. You'll hear about the importance of understanding systemic racism and the role of the church in addressing issues of race and justice. Their discussion is for everyone and will bring clarity and discernment to a topic mostly misunderstood and mischaracterized.
(Episode Note - this conversation was recorded prior to the November 5, 2024 election)
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Connect with Dr. Ed Uszynski:
Find more information at untanglingcrt.com
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
BTB University - Black History Month and Justice from Students' Perspectives
In this episode of the Be the Bridge podcast, Jefferson Jones hosts three university students (Sebastian, Regan, and Christal) to discuss the significance of Black History Month and their evolving perspectives of it. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and celebrating Black history, the role of young people in advocating for racial healing, and the personal connections that shape their views. They share their insights on justice, activism, and the need for self-awareness and vulnerability in the pursuit of change. These three students share wisdom on the collective responsibility of the younger generation to educate themselves and others.
Want to learn more about our Youth and University Program? Find out more here. Follow the Y&U Instagram here. Or email Jefferson@bethebridge.com to see how you can get connected.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
A Conversation on Holding the Tensions of Inauguration Day and MLK Day 2025 (part 2)
In the second part of this conversation, Latasha, Jefferson, and Sarah dive deeper into the words of Jesus and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. They look at the Sermon on the Mount and King's book "Where Do We Go From Here." As you listen you'll be called to have a divine dissatisfaction and encouraged to not grow weary.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
A Conversation on Holding the Tensions of Inauguration Day and MLK Day 2025 (part 1)
In this conversation, Latasha Morrison, Jefferson Jones, and Sarah Connatser invite the Be the Bridge community to acknowledge their feelings and find ways to move onward together. They discuss their emotions around Inauguration Day and the complexities of this cultural moment. They talk about the ways different people can engage in this work in a healthy way. You'll be reminded that bridge building is a lifestyle that requires innovation and collaboration across generations.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Danielle Coke Balfour on Art as Activism and Having a Heart on Fire
To start our 2025 year on the Be the Bridge Podcast, Danielle Coke Balfour joins Latasha Morrison to discuss the evolution of her work as an artist and activist, focusing on racial justice and community empowerment. They explore the challenges and changes in the current cultural landscape, the importance of hope and personal values in activism, and the role of art in educating and inspiring others. They touch on the significance of community care, the importance of voting, and the need to rest.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Advent 2024 - Love through a Lens of Justice with Cam Lee Small
In our final Advent episode of the Be the Bridge Podcast, Gina from the Be the Bridge team talks with Counselor, Advocate, TEDx Speaker, and Author of The Adoptee's Journey Cam Lee Small. They delve into the complexities of love within the context of adoption. They discuss how love is often oversimplified in adoption narratives, masking the deeper issues of loss, trauma, and identity struggles faced by adoptees.
Cam shares his insights as both an adoptee and a licensed counselor, emphasizing the importance of humanizing the adoptee experience and validating their feelings. The conversation also explores the systemic issues surrounding adoption and the need for activism and collective responsibility to address these injustices. They remind listeners that love must be accompanied by justice to be truly meaningful.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Advent 2024 - Joy through a Lens of Justice with Terry Wildman
In this conversation, Terry Wildman joins Sarah Connatser to explore the themes of joy, storytelling, and Indigenous perspectives during the Advent season. Terry shares about his new children's book Birth of the Chosen One, and they talk about the importance of names.
They discuss different passages of Scripture (specifically in the First Nations Version) and the connections between joy, suffering, and spiritual growth. This conversation will inspire you and invite you into a refreshing understanding of Christmas.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Advent 2024 - Peace through a Lens of Justice with Sandra María Van Opstal
Be the Bridge Board Member, Dr. Will Gravely hosts this conversation with second-generation Latina pastor, activist, author, leading voice on the intersection of faith and justice, and executive director of Chasing Justice Sandra Van Opstal. They explore the concept of peace, particularly in the context of Advent. They discuss the biblical understanding of peace as shalom, which encompasses wholeness, well-being, and communal flourishing.
Sandra emphasizes the importance of justice as a response to the absence of peace and the role of individuals in making peace within their communities. Sandra shares her experiences in the West Bank, empowering us to truly walk in shalom. They explore the theological barriers that prevent Christians in the west from fully loving their neighbors and talk about importance of understanding suffering in a global context. They connect these themes to the season of Advent, highlighting justice as a central aspect of the gospel message. Don't miss this powerful episode of the Be the Bridge Podcast!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Advent 2024 - Hope through a Lens of Justice with Dieula Previlon
Welcome to Advent! This is the first episode in our Advent 2024 series. We invited Dieula Previlon (a licensed professional counselor, certified life purpose coach, ordained minister, and author) to talk to the Be the Bridge community about hope. Latasha Morrison hosts this conversation.
As a Haitian American woman, Dieula brings a wealth of wisdom, knowledge, and intention to her words. She shares her culture, her people, and her experience with us. She and Latasha discuss the importance of listening to our bodies and prioritizing rest in this season. They dive into a deep conversation about holding both lament and hope. You will be encouraged that God sees you!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
300 - A Conversation about Mental Wellness and Self-Care During this Season
We round out our election season conversations with an episode dedicated to our mental wellness. In this episode of Ashley Bryant-Wenz and Angela Gonzalez join Sarah Connatser on the Be the Bridge Podcast for a heartfelt discussion about mental wellness and self-care, particularly in the context of the emotional aftermath of the recent election. They explore the importance of acknowledging grief, the necessity of self-care practices, and the value of creating safe spaces of compassion and empathy. They address the topics of being political and being partisan. You will be encouraged to prioritize your mental health, set boundaries, and remember that you are worthy of care.
Ashley Bryant-Wenz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Clinical Supervisor who is Trauma Therapy Certified and DBT trained based in Orlando, Florida. Angela Gonzalez is the Founder and Executive Director of The Nurture Place, a nonprofit organization serving the West Orange County community in Central Florida with mental wellness, mental health, and family support services.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
299 - A Conversation about Navigating this Presidential Election Day in the United States
Earlier this year, Elizabeth Behrens and Corregan Brown led a course in the Be the Bridge Academy entitled "Politics as Bridge Builders." They discussed how the history of our political divides, the nature of conflict and styles of conflict, and the neuroscience behind conflict and debate in order to have more productive conversations. It was a fantastic course!
As we navigate election day in the United States, Elizabeth and Corregan share some ways to stay grounded, stay engaged, and stay hopeful. Even today, we can be bridge builders!
Find the Be the Bridge Academy courses here!
Want information about our trainings that include presentations like this? Email training@bethebridge.com!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
298 - A Conversation about Black Christian Political Engagement with Dr. Jemar Tisby
Recently, Historian, Author, and Speaker, Dr. Jemar Tisby joined the Be the Bridge Youth & University Program for a virtual event entitled "From Chains to Change: Faith, Freedom, and the Black Vote." Dr. Tisby spoke to our community about the historical context of Black Christian political engagement, the importance of the Black vote, and why it is important for students to be informed and involved.
This conversation needed to be an episode of the Be the Bridge Podcast because of the historical perspective, the current realities, and the hopeful reminder that God is at work. This is needed for teens, students, and young adults, but also for adults to better navigate this election season and the ones to come!
Find the Be the Bridge Youth & University Instagram here!
Want information about our Youth & University Program that includes events and conversations like this? Email jefferson@bethebridge.com!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Episode Host - Jefferson Jones
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
297 - A Conversation about Engaging in Politics Online as Bridge Builders
Earlier this year, Elizabeth Behrens and Corregan Brown led a course in the Be the Bridge Academy entitled "Politics as Bridge Builders." They discussed how the history of our political divides, the nature of conflict and styles of conflict, and the neuroscience behind conflict and debate in order to have more productive conversations. It was a fantastic course!
As we are a month out from the 2024 Presidential Election, we wanted to give you a taste of the wisdom Elizabeth and Corregan brought to the course. This conversation will give you hope and help you engage in politics in a healthy way in the days to come. Even now, we can be bridge builders!
Find the Be the Bridge Academy courses here!
Want information about our trainings that include presentations like this? Email training@bethebridge.com!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
296 - An Invitation to Hold the Sacred Stories of Church Girls with Bible Teacher and Psychotherapist Dr. Sarita Lyons
Dr. Sarita Lyons is a wife, mother, speaker, bible teacher, and psychotherapist. She is on staff at Epiphany Fellowship Church in Philadelphia as the Director of Discipleship and Women’s Ministry. Dr. Sarita speaks, writes, and advocates about the intersections of faith, mental health, and justice, as well as women’s issues in and outside of the church.
You'll hear Dr. Sarita's wealth of wisdom in this conversation with Latasha Morrison about her book, Church Girl. And you will be so encouraged by Dr. Sarita's words and reminders of God's faithfulness.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
295 - Being a Sanctuary with Author, Bible Teacher, and Coach Pricelis Perreaux-Dominguez
Pricelis Perreaux-Dominguez is an author, Bible teacher, and coach. She is full of wisdom, creativity, and a compelling vision for the Church as the Founder of Full Collective and Creator of the Sowers Summit. Pri is on mission to help the body of Christ be healthy and holy; she does exactly that in her book, Being a Sanctuary, which releases today! She and Latasha discuss her book, her conference, and her pride in being Black Latina in this uplifting and authentic conversation.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Her Website
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
294 - A Conversation about Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" Speech
August 28th marks the anniversary of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. Latasha Morrison and Jefferson Jones sit down to talk about the historical context of the speech, common misconceptions of it, what sticks out to them, and what we can continue to learn from it. 61 years later we still move onward to that dream!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Producer - Sarah Connatser
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
293 - What to Do When Faith Disappoints with Apologist and Author Lisa Fields
Lisa Fields joins Latasha Morrison on the Be the Bridge Podcast to talk about her new book, When Faith Disappoints: The Gap Between What We Believe and What We Experience, her work with Jude 3 Project, and the upcoming Courageous Conversations Conference. We talk through biblical literacy, how to find hope when your pain doesn't make sense, and having permission to wrestle with God.
We had Lisa on the podcast two years ago to dive into her work with Jude 3 Project. We talked about why it is necessary to have Black leaders in theological spaces, to truly listen to people’s questions, and to hold a humble hermeneutic. So, you definitely want to go back and listen!
Grab a copy of Lisa's book today! https://amzn.to/3yqUsZT
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Producer - Sarah Connatser
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Be the Bridge 8th Anniversary! REIMAGINE with BTB Trainings and the BTB Academy!
June around Be the Bridge means we celebrate because it’s our anniversary month! 2024 marks 8 years of Be the Bridge! So we are taking this month to look at the work we are doing and the impact we are making collectively.
In this episode, we are focusing on the Be the Bridge training department and diving into the JEDI (justice, equity, diversity, inclusion) Trainings we offer as well as our Be the Bridge Academy. Tange Johnson, Gina Fimbel, Elizabeth Behrens, Dion Evans, and Darryl Ford share about their roles at Be the Bridge and invite you to reimagine with us!
Together, we can bring transformation and flourishing. Go to bethebridge.com/give to financially partner with us. We are connected and the work continues!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer - Sarah Connatser
Be the Bridge 8th Anniversary! RECOMMIT with the Be the Bridge Development Department!
June around Be the Bridge means we celebrate because it’s our anniversary month! 2024 marks 8 years of Be the Bridge! So we are taking this month to look at the work we are doing and the impact we are making collectively.
In this episode, we are focusing on the Be the Bridge Development Department. Dr. Shondrika Moss-Bouldin share about their roles at the Be the Bridge and invite you to recommit to Be the Bridge! You'll also hear from Michelle Williams and Hilary Slout about the impact Be the Bridge has had on their lives and why they are donors.
Together, we can bring transformation and flourishing. Go to bit.ly/btb8years to financially partner with us. We are connected and the work continues!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer - Sarah Connatser
Be the Bridge 8th Anniversary! REENGAGE with BTB Community Groups and the BTB Youth & University Program!
June around Be the Bridge means we celebrate because it’s our anniversary month! 2024 marks 8 years of Be the Bridge! So we are taking this month to look at the work we are doing and the impact we are making collectively.
In this episode, we are focusing on the Be the Bridge programs department and diving into our Community Groups and Youth and University Program. Tange Johnson, Andrea Middleton, Jefferson Jones, and Tanya Rogers share about their roles at the Be the Bridge and invite you to teengage with us! You'll also hear from Cole Middleton and Ben Scholes about the impact Be the Bridge has had on their lives.
Together, we can bring transformation and flourishing. Go to bethebridge.com/give to financially partner with us. We are connected and the work continues!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer - Sarah Connatser
292- A Conversation Between Latasha Morrison and Jen Hatmaker to Celebrate the Launch of Brown Faces, White Spaces & Chapter 1 of the Audiobook
Latasha Morrison's new book, Brown Faces, White Spaces is out today! To celebrate this exciting book launch, we invited Jen Hatmaker to join Latasha on the Be the Bridge Podcast because she was with Latasha in the beginning of Be the Bridge and has supported the work until now.
In this conversation, you'll hear Latasha and Jen go back to the beginning of Be the Bridge, look at where culture is now, and look ahead at the work still to do in the racial justice space. You'll be inspired and empowered to keep persevering!
And after their conversation, you can hear chapter 1 of the audiobook of Brown Faces, White Spaces read by Latasha. Help us celebrate this book launch and grab a copy of the book today!
Excerpted with permission of Penguin Random House Audio from Brown Faces, White Spaces: Confronting Systemic Racism to Bring Healing and Restoration by Latasha Morrison; Foreword by Eugene Cho; Afterword by Dr. Anita Phillips; Read by Latasha Morrison, Dr. Anita Phillips and David Lee Huynh © 2024, Latasha Morrison, ℗ Penguin Random House, LLC.
291 - Learning to Not Give Up Before It Gets Good with Gospel Artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard
Gospel artist, pastor, and entrepreneur Tasha Cobbs Leonard joins Latasha Morrison on the Be the Bridge Podcast to talk about her debut book, Do It Anyway: Don’t Give Up Before It Gets Good.
At Be the Bridge, we talk about hope often. It is what pushes us onward and allows us to persevere. Tasha Cobbs Leonard vulnerably shares parts of her story that will inspire and empower others. She offers hope to our community!
About Tasha Cobbs Leonard:
A pastor’s daughter born and raised in Georgia, Leonard first emerged to widespread acclaim with her breakout 2013 release, Grace, which garnered a GRAMMY, three Doves, and three Stellar Awards on the strength of its chart-topping, platinum-selling lead single, “Break Every Chain.” In the years that followed, Leonard would go on to establish herself as a genuine “gospel sensation” (NPR), racking up more than two billion streams across platforms, landing three more #1 singles and five #1 albums, performing with everyone from Common and Nicki Minaj to Ne-Yo and Ciara, and making national television appearances on Good Morning America, CNN’s Fourth of July, BET’s Black Girls Rock, CBC’s A Day Of Healing, and the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration.
A tireless advocate for empowerment and positivity, Leonard has also risen to success as an author, actress, entrepreneur, and worship leader at The Purpose Place Church in her adopted home of South Carolina, where she co-pastors with her husband and producer, Kenneth Leonard, Jr.
290 - Honoring the Ritual of Wash Day and Viewing Art as an Act of Justice with Photographer Tomesha Faxio
Tomesha Faxio is a self-taught documentary photographer dedicated to portraying and centering the Black experience. She specializes in portraits of Black women and women of color. Tomesha strives to tell authentic stories that both inform and inspire, and her photography has been featured across media outlets. Before becoming a photographer, Tomesha was a lawyer working as Legal Counsel for Spanx. She is a graduate of Spelman College (B.A., Psychology) and Vanderbilt University (J.D., Law), and now lives with her husband and two daughters in Atlanta, Georgia.
289 - Becoming Kingdom Basement Dwellers and Living Upside Down Lives with Podcaster and Influencer Tim Ross
Tim Ross is a professional podcaster, social media influencer, author, preacher and businessman. You've probably heard him on his podcast, The Basement, and seen him on social media. He just recently released his book “Welcome to the Basement: An Upside Down Guide to Greatness.”
You will love this conversation between Tim and Latasha as they laugh together, hold grief together, and show us the importance of embracing the tensions in life.
288 - Holding Compassionate Conversations around Immigration with Women of Welcome Director Bri Stensrud
Bri Stensrud is an author, human dignity advocate, and the Director of Women of Welcome. She has authored two books: Start with Welcome: The Journey toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation, and a children's book: The Biggest Best Light: Shining God's Light into the World Around You. Bri holds a Masters of Biblical & Theological Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary and her voice has been highlighted across news platforms.
287 - How the Bible has Shaped American Politics with Author, Speaker, and Podcast Host Kaitlyn Schiess
We are thrilled to have author, speaker, perpetual theology student, and co-host of The Holy Post Podcast, Kaitlyn Schiess join the Be the Bridge Podcast with Latasha Morrison for an episode all about this American political life as followers of Jesus. They discuss Kaitlyn's new book, The Ballot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from Here, which gives historical context for where we are now.
They talk about how looking to see what people in history missed in their ethics and Bible reading can help us not miss the same, the Bible in the Civil War and in the Civil Rights Movement, as well as the importance of seeing how Black Americans used Scripture in our history.
They offer both practical and hopeful words to our community as we navigate this presidential election year.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Links:
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
286 - Celebrating Black Culture with Latasha Morrison and Friends & Learning How to Hope with Dr. Will Gravely
This is an episode full of joy and hope for Black History Month! We have asked a few friends of Be the Bridge to share what they love about Black culture. Their responses remind us of God’s distinct, beautiful, intentional creativity and design. They remind us of the power of perseverance and resilience.
Resilience is connected with another theme we’ve been holding on to at Be the Bridge - hope. So we are also bringing a word of encouragement from one of our board members, Dr. Will Gravely. He gave a message at our Leadership Summit that we had to bring you. So we invite you to listen to the scholar, pastor, strategist, and creative Dr. Will Gravely share HOPE: The Marathon and the Sprint - Spiritual Strategies for Endurance, Effectiveness, and Execution.
285 - Getting More out of Black History Month with Historian, Author, and Speaker Jemar Tisby
For Black History Month, historian, author, and speaker Jemar Tisby joins Latasha Morrison and Jefferson Jones on the Be the Bridge Podcast. This full conversation brings wisdom, context, and encouragement as they talk about current headlines, the importance of context in history, white Chritian nationalism, navigating church, and more.
Jemar wraps up the conversation by saying, “God makes His biggest moves with the smallest resources. So hang in there.” And ultimately that is what we hope this episode reminds you - God is at work and together we can persevere.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
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Bonus Episode - Cultural Views: A Conversation on if American has Ever Been a Racist Country
Has America ever been a racist country? Jefferson Jones, the BTB Youth & University Manager, and Elizabeth Behrens, a BTB Educator and the Learning & Content Developer, sit down to discuss this question and the conversations happening around it. They talk about the importance of understanding narratives, origin stories, and different types of conflicts. They also encourage the community to not be driven by outrage but be fueled by things that are sustainable.
Join the conversation in the Be the Bridge Facebook Group and on the Be the Bridge Youth and University Instagram.
Find the BTB Recommended Resources here.
284 - Holding on to Hope in 2024 with the Latasha Morrison, Tange Johnson, and Micah Smith of the Be the Bridge Executive Team
Whether you are feeling hopeful or struggling to find hope right now, pull up a chair for this conversation. Join the Be the Bridge Executive Team as they talk about the impact of a yes, what true peace looks like, and how our stories are connected. Latasha Morrison, Tange Johnson, and Micah Smith discuss how God can use us to impact others and how we can cling to hope even in the midst of things falling apart. They lean into lament and remind us that hope is not wishful thinking or optimism. This episode will help the Be the Bridge community prepare our hearts and minds for whatever is to come this year.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“We have to have hope in this work that we do to persevere.” -Latasha Morrison
“There are people out there learning how to think as bridge builders, learning how to engage as bridge builders. We're seeing people who are transforming into these cross racial communities that live differently and act more justly because of it. And that's something that really gives me hope out of the work of Be the Bridge.” -Micah Smith
“We may not know the ways that God is working. We may not always know the people whose lives we're touching. But it's happening. I try to stay in a perpetual state of awe of God, because that keeps me in a place of hope for our future and my now.” -Tange Johnson
“Be around people that can empower you, so that you in turn can empower other people that need some help and hope in times of uncertainty.” -Latasha Morrison
Links:
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Shop the Be the Bridge Online Shop
Resources Mentioned:
Maverick City Music audio clipBe the Bridge book by Latasha Morrison
Born a Crime book by Trevor Noah
Be the Bridge Recommended Resources
Be the Bridge Youth and University
Pre-order Brown Faces, White Spaces book by Latasha Morrison
Connect with Be the Bridge:
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
A New Years Greeting from Latasha
Happy New Year Be the Bridge community! We hope you are having a joyous start to 2024! The Be the Bridge Podcast is on a break this week, so we encourage you to take this opportunity to catch up on a few episodes and share some of your favorite conversations with us on social media! We will be back on the 23rd with a conversation centered around hope. Until then, stay grounded in truth.
283 - The Generational Impact of Systemic Racism and the Glorious Hope of Advent with Author, Professor, and Public Theologian Dr. Esau McCaulley
Author, Professor, and Public Theologian, Dr. Esau McCaulley helps the Be the Bridge community make sense of God in the context of a racialized society in this podcast episode. He shares part of his own family’s story and lived experience of systemic injustice. And he talks about how the church in America hasn’t reckoned with its sin. Latasha and Esau laugh together and share words of hope as they talk about the hope of Advent and work of God.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“The impact of systemic racism is up close and personal with people that you know, and a lot of times we just don't talk about it.” -Latasha Morrison
“I think there's this fear that a deep confession is not something that the American church can survive.” -Esau McCaulley
“Repentance exists, because it presupposes sin. And if we can't repent, then we can't experience the fullness of redemption.” -Esau McCaulley
Links:
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Sign up for the Be the Bridge Newsletter
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Resources Mentioned:
Reading While Black book by Esau McCaulley
Josey Johnson’s Hair and the Holy Spirit book by Esau McCaulley
How Far to the Promised Land book by Esau McCaulley
How the Faith that Arose from the Cotton Fields Challenges Me article by Esau McCaulley
The Fullness of Time series edited by Esau McCaulley
Connect with Esau McCaulley:
Instagram
Connect with Be the Bridge:
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
282 - Chasing Fun, Honoring Grief, and Reading through the Gospels with Author, Speaker, and Podcaster Annie F. Downs
New York Times Best Selling Author Annie F. Downs joins Latasha Morrison on the Be the Bridge Podcast to talk through deep laments and fun hopes. Annie shares the beautiful story of her ordination and her journey to getting there. They talk about the difference of perspectives between predominantly white churches and Black churches when it comes to women as pastors.
Annie allows the Be the Bridge community to hear some of the tragedy and trauma that happened in her community with the Covenant School shooting. And they also talk about the beauty of living a yes and life - letting joy and sorrow coexist. The discussion about Reading through the Gospels is a reminder of who Jesus is and what He calls His followers to.
Be encouraged by Annie and Latasha’s conversation to stay grounded in the work you do, because it outlasts you>
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“To what degree am I privileged and how can I use that?" -Annie Downs
“Pains are never wasted.” -Latasha Morrison
Links:
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Sign up for the Be the Bridge Newsletter
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Shop the Be the Bridge Online Shop
Resources Mentioned:
That Sounds Fun Podcast Network
That Sounds Fun book by Annie F. Downs
Chase the Fun book by Annie F. Downs
100 Days to Brave book by Annie F. Downs
Remember God book by Annie F. Downs
Let's Read the Gospels Podcast
Connect with Annie F. Downs:
Connect with Be the Bridge:
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
281 - Ensuring No One Goes Unseen and Making Hope and Help Accessible to All with Hope Booth Visionary Gloria Umanah
Gloria Umanah, the visionary behind Hope Booth, uses her own lived experiences to passionately fight for those who feel invisible. In this episode, Gloria generously shares her story with the Be the Bridge community and the story behind Hope Booth. She and Latasha connect over their Yoruba names and over being Black women who lead non profits. They discuss mental health, the power of making someone feel seen and that they belong, and making hope and help accessible to all.
Gloria's story, words, and work will empower listeners to choose to keep living, to see hope all around, and to see themselves as worthy of being cared for. This conversation is full of reminders that God is at work and that no one is alone. The episode ends with Gloria sharing a powerful spoken word piece you do not want to miss.
*(We do want to offer a listener warning that suicide is mentioned in this episode.)
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“My scars are roadmaps to redemption for other people.” -Gloria Umanah
“There's a way of showing people their dignity and their worth when you acknowledge their existence.” -Latasha Morrison
Links:
If you’d like to partner with the Be the Bridge Podcast, please fill out our Advertise with Us form.
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Resources Mentioned:
Until All Are Seen documentary by Hope Booth
Equal Justice Initiative Legacy Sites
“See Me” spoken word video by Gloria Umanah
Connect with Gloria Umanah:
Connect with Hope Booth:
Connect with Be the Bridge:
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
280 - Shifting the Narrative Around Adoption and Centering Adoptees Voices with Counselor Cam Lee Small
Counselor, Author, and Speaker Cam Lee Small joins Latasha Morrison on the Be the Bridge Podcast during National Adoption Month to help shift the culture and church’s narrative surrounding adoption. As a transracial adoptee himself, Cam brings his lived experience and his professional work to this conversation.
They discuss the tension of being connected to two places, the necessity of centering adoptees’ voices and stories, and ways to honor heritages and birth families. They also dive into the importance of celebrating and submitting to leadership that is not centered on whiteness, as well as the need to reframe the language around adoption so that it is not compared to the gospel.
Cam generously shares some of his own journey of self discovery with the Be the Bridge community. And he encourages adoptees to have a community to be able to express their feelings. Everyone will leave this episode with more empathy, understanding, and language.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“I was a son before I was adopted”. -Cam Lee Small
“This work can't start when you adopt. The work has to start prior to that.” -Latasha Morrison
“Let's not have the adoptive parent be the first one to jump on stage and teach us about the adoptee journey. Let's ask adoptees about that.” -Cam Lee Small
Links:
If you’d like to partner with the Be the Bridge Podcast, please fill out our Advertise with Us form.
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Resources Mentioned:
Be the Bridge TRA Academy Course
The Inclusive Family Support Model
Connect with Cam Lee Small:
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Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
279 - Holding the Tension of Hope and Lament through Liturgies with Author and Podcaster Kayla Craig
Kayla Craig is a former journalist who brings deep curiosity and a prophetic voice to her writing in her books Every Season Sacred and To Light Their Way and on her popular Instagram account, Liturgies for Parents.
In this episode, Latasha and Kayla share hope and lament. They talk about the beauty and accessibility of liturgies in our faith journeys and the need to engage curiosity in our relationship with God and others. They discuss the importance of being honest about our history and being honest with God. And Kayla blesses the Be the Bridge community with readings from her book.
(Note: This conversation was recorded on September 14th, for context for listeners as to why some of the current global conflicts and recent national gun violence tragedies are not named in the laments.)
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“I embrace history because it makes us who we are.” -Latasha Morrison
“Kids invite us into curiosity, because we start to unlearn that. When we embrace a posture of curiosity instead of having all the answers, we are drawing nearer to Christ.” -Kayla Craig
“Liturgy is prayers of the people.” -Kayla Craig
"When was Jesus ever comfortable? Why do we yearn for comfort?” -Latasha Morrison
Links:
If you’d like to partner with the Be the Bridge Podcast, please fill out our Advertise with Us form.
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Resources Mentioned:
Every Season Sacred book by Kayla Craig
To Light Their Way book by Kayla Craig
prayer for Dr. Martin Luther King Day
A Prayer for Gun Violence in Schools
With book by Skye Jethani
A Prayer for Talking about Racism with Children
Connect with Kayla Craig:
Liturgies for Parents Instagram
Connect with Be the Bridge:
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
278 - Sharing Creator’s Good Story and Honoring Indigenous Peoples through the First Nations Version with Terry Wildman and featuring Mariah Humphries
Terry Wildman, whose ancestry includes Ojibwe from Ontario, Canada and Yaqui from Sonora, Mexico, is the lead translator, general editor, and project manager of the First Nations Version. He serves as the director of spiritual growth and leadership development for Native InterVarsity. And in this episode, he shares the story behind how this beautiful translation came to be.
Mariah Humphries, a citizen of Mvskoke Nation and on the team of Be the Bridge as the Director of Marketing and Innovation, adds insight, joy, and depth to this conversation. Terry, Mariah, and Latasha remind listeners Jesus is always on the side of the oppressed and that giving up culture, language, traditions is not a necessity in following Jesus.
In fact, Creator hears you, sees you, understands you, and delights in you as he created you. You can follow Jesus in the context of your culture.
We hope you’ll pick up a copy of the First Nations Version and learn from Indigenous brothers and sisters, not just around Indigenous Peoples’ Day or Native American Heritage Month but throughout the year.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“There's so much beauty and there's so much good that Creator has put into our Native cultures that to see that disappear would be a terrible loss.” -Terry Wildman
“Being a Native Christian doesn't mean you have to compromise and assimilate into this other mindset. You can be truly who you were created to be and follow Creator in this beautiful way.” -Mariah Humphries
“A lot of people don't understand the influence of Western culture on the Bible, on tradition, on theology in what we have now.” -Latasha Morrison
Links:
If you’d like to partner with the Be the Bridge Podcast, please fill out our Advertise with Us form.
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Resources Mentioned:
Be the Bridge ICWA announcement Instagram video
Be the Bridge ICWA YouTube videoNative InterVarsityRain MinistriesThe Culture Is: Indigenous Women
OneBook Bible translationWould Jesus Eat Frybread?
Animated Video - Retelling the Good Story: A Day and a Night with Creator Sets Free
Animated Video - Water and Sand
Connect with Terry Wildman:
Connect with Be the Bridge:
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
277 - Creating Sustainable Change through Decolonized Restorative Justice & Transformative Justice Work with Life Coach and Human Rights Advocate Dr. Eloise Sepeda
Public Speaker, Life Coach, and Human Rights Advocate, Dr. Eloise Sepeda joins Latasha Morrison to talk about how we can prevent cycles of oppression and marginalization. Her lived experience and research informs her work in Restorative-Transformative Justice. Dr. Eloise and Latasha talk about discipline in schools, developing empathy, and appreciating different perspectives.
Dr. Eloise was one of the members of Latasha’s first Be the Bridge group in Austin! You'll hear the years of friendship and co-laboring in the work of racial justice between them in this episode that celebrates reimagining, thinking critically, and embracing curiosity. They also remind us that this work is not hopeless. We can break systemic cycles with intervention. Healing has a ripple effect!
Dr. Eloise Sepeda will be joining us at our Leadership Summit in January 2024!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“Peacemaking involves disruption.” -Eloise Sepeda
“Justice is about being. It's not just about doing. We want to do justice, but we also want to be just.” -Latasha Morrison
“Let's not shove people into these boxes that systems have developed for them.” -Eloise Sepeda
Links:
If you’d like to partner with the Be the Bridge Podcast, please fill out our Advertise with Us form.
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Listen & subscribe to Raising Boys & Girls - https://tinyurl.com/RaisingBoysAndGirlsPodcastSign up for the Be the Bridge Newsletter
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Resources Mentioned:
Be the Bridge Guides and Training Material - Be the Bridge Academy
Be the Bridge Leadership Summit
Be the Bridge Groups
Restorative Discipline Practices: A Journey in Implementation by a Community of Texas Educators book co-authored by Dr. Eloise Sepeda
Connect with Dr. Eloise Sepeda:
Connect with Be the Bridge:
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
Special Announcement - The Be the Bridge Academy!
The Be the Bridge Academy is the online learning platform that inspires, equips, and partners with people and organizations through training, programs, webinars, and courses using Be the Bridge content and resources from reputable thought leaders and institutions.
There will be some free resources available in the BTB Academy as well as paid resources, with new racial literacy material added quarterly!
It will include courses on:
- history
- the Bible and diversity
- culture (both white and BIPOC)
- healing from racial trauma
- Be the Bridge values
- racial reconciliation panels
- transracial adoption
- student leadership
- and more!
Be sure you're following us on social media so you can celebrate and share the launch with us! We hope you'll consider investing in your racial literacy through the Academy.
bethebridge.com/academy
276 - Leading a Be the Bridge Group, a Non-Profit, and a Mental Wellness Movement as a Latina Woman with TBRI Practitioner Angela Gonzalez
Social Impact Leader, TBRI Practitioner, and Executive Director of The Nurture Place, Angela Gonzalez shares her story of being part of a local Be the Bridge group on this episode of the Be the Bridge Podcast with Latasha Morrison during National Hispanic + Latine Heritage Month. They discuss how creating brave spaces allows people to share, learn, grow, and lament together. And Angela opens up about her personal shift of trying to be accepted in predominantly white institutions to accepting herself and her heritage.
Angela passionately talks about why we should all be trauma-informed and be community focused. And she also shares why it is important for people receiving mental healthcare to see therapists that look like them. You will hear a call for churches and faith leaders to refer people to mental health care professionals. Latasha and Angela discuss the obstacles they have to overcome being leaders who are women of color.
This is a conversation that shares the impact of local Be the Bridge groups and that will help break the stigmas surrounding mental health!
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“A lot of the other things around us will burn, but God's justice will always prevail.” -Latasha Morrison
“Instead of asking the question: what is wrong with you? We ask the question: what happened to you? And that is a more compassionate way of seeing the world.” -Angela Gonzalez
"Therapists can help us to heal and become the people that we are supposed to be." -Angela Gonzalez
"There's not one group of people that can represent the totality of who God is. It takes every nation and every tribe. And when we fight against diversity, we're fighting against the will of God. We're fighting against the essence of who God is." -Latasha Morrison
Links:
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Resources Mentioned:
Trust-Based Relational Intervention
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Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
275 - Proclaiming Black Dignity and Fighting Revisionist History with Historian, Author, and Educator Jasmine Holmes
Historian, Author, and Educator Jasmine Holmes joins Latasha Morrison on this episode of the Be the Bridge Podcast to talk about her books, her Instagram classroom, and her own educational journey. They both share the crucial moments in their journeys of this work and how pivotal having a community of Black women has been to them.
Latasha touches on the trauma that comes from BIPOC not having pain recognized in church and not being seen or heard in predominantly white faith spaces. And together they lament the stronghold white supremacy has on the United States. They dive into the untold stories of Black missionaries and what voices are not highlighted in classical education.
As bridge builders, we can bring truth to the revisionist history happening and bring dignity to the stories often misrepresented. We can choose to lean into conversations like these and be educators and reconcilers in this current cultural climate.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“We know that anti-woke is really anti-Black.” -Latasha Morrison
“Finding the faithful stories of Black Christians who've gone before became this really empowering experience for me, a very transformative experience.” -Jasmine Holmes
“We are fighting tooth and nail not to reckon with the national sin of white supremacy.” -Jasmine Holmes
“The gospel is for everyone. But we completely leave out entire people groups when it comes to the history of the church.” -Latasha Morrison
Links:
If you’d like to partner with the Be the Bridge Podcast, please fill out our Advertise with Us form.
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Resources Mentioned:
Carved in Ebony book by Jasmine Holmes
Mother to Son book by Jasmine Holmes
His Testimonies, My Heritage book edited by Kristie Anyabwile
Never Cast Out book by Jasmine Holmes
King Leopold’s Ghost book by Adam Hochschild
Their Eyes were Watching God book by Zora Neale Hurston
Instagram post by Jasmine about Black teachers who fought revisionist history
Reading Everybody Black Challenge
Heritage Mom Blog on Instagram
Crowned with Glory book by Jasmine Holmes
Connect with Jasmine Holmes:
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Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.
274 - Committing to Democracy, Historical Truth-Telling, and Hope with America’s Government Teacher Sharon McMahon
As students and teachers go back to school, we are also going back to school on the Be the Bridge Podcast with America’s Government Teacher Sharon McMahon! You might know Sharon from her Instagram account, SharonSaysSo, or from her Podcast, Here’s Where It Gets Interesting. Sharon’s mission of curating facts, fun, and inspiration by educating Americans on democracy, politics, and history was the perfect pairing with the podcast because we value truth-telling and we believe that understanding can move us toward racial healing, racial equity, and racial reconciliation. Together, we are equipping people with truth.
In this episode, we take things to the classroom. Sharon shares the foundations of what makes a democracy and how critical thinking is developed. She gives homework to be proactive participants in this democracy and to be anti-racist. And she gives empowering reminders that we cannot afford to lose hope and we all have a part to play in this historical moment in time.Listen in for education and encouragement. Let’s be a movement of bridge builders that choose principles over party and hope over everything.
Join in the conversation on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn to let us know your thoughts on this episode!
Host & Executive Producer - Latasha Morrison
Senior Producer - Lauren C. Brown
Producer, Editor, & Music - Travon Potts with Integrated Entertainment Studios
Assistant Producer & Transcriber - Sarah Connatser
Quotes:
“If the problem seems too big and you feel overwhelmed, you need to make the problem smaller. You need to bring the problem down to a level that you feel that you can do even one thing about.” -Sharon McMahon
“Becoming educated on this topic is the foundation of being able to take action on it.” -Sharon McMahon“Racism has never led us to a destination worth going to.” -Sharon McMahon
“The work that we do is about politics, because politics is about people. It doesn't have to be partisan. We're making it partisan. It should be bipartisan.” -Latasha Morrison
Links:
If you’d like to partner with the Be the Bridge Podcast, please fill out our Advertise with Us form.
Ads:
Spotify for Podcasters [Record, edit, distribute your podcast. Download the Spotify for Podcasters app or go to www.spotify.com/podcasters to get started]
Become a Donor of Be the Bridge
Shop the Be the Bridge Online Shop
Connect with Sharon McMahon:
Her Website
Instagram
Facebook
Here’s Where It Gets Interesting Podcast
Connect with Be the Bridge:
Our Website
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Connect with Latasha Morrison:
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Not all views expressed in this interview reflect the values and beliefs of Latasha Morrison or the Be the Bridge organization.