Live From the Bronx
By Jason and Kevin
Live From the BronxApr 18, 2024
Love Yourz with Alicia Guevera, CEO of Big Brothers, Big Sisters
On this episode we sit down with Alicia Guevera, the first female identifying CEO of Big Brother Big Sister NYC. Alicia shares stories about her Cuban heritage, growing up in the BX, and her love for hip hop. From a young age, her family taught her to love her community, and the importance of giving back. All of this led her to the work that she is doing now with BBBS NYC, and specifically their Be Bronx Be Big campaign. This is a powerful episode, and it reminds you to Love Yourz!
What's Brewin in The Bronx with Hector Carvajal
On this episode we kick it with the Bronx's very own, Hector Carvajal, Founder of Don Carvajal Café. At the core of Hector's coffee business is a blend of his Dominican roots and his Bronx culture. Hector reminds us that authenticity is everything, and that you truly have to believe in yourself in order to be an entrepreneur. Sometimes that means maxing out your credit cards when you have no other option because you believe in yourself enough to know you will one day get all the money back! You don't want to miss this one!
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Chatting Con Omi
On this episode we sit down with Omi Hopper, celebrity chef, influencer, and contestant on season 2 of Next Level Chef. Omi reminds us the importance of authenticity as she shares her career journey and how she started her Cooking Con Omi platform. She is a proud Puerto Rican and brings that energy everywhere she goes. Omi is easy to talk to, and a lot of fun. This is one that will def feed your spirit.
Be You Stay True w/ Andrew Curiel
On this episode we sit down with the founder of the Be You Stay True Basketball Camp, and the Director of the Center for Leadership at the College of Mount Saint Vincent; Andrew Curiel. Andrew talks about the importance of staying true to yourself in a world that is constantly trying to change you. As he shares his story growing up in the Bronx you can't help but root for him. Andrew is an entrepreneur in the truest sense of the word, he started the Be You Stay True Basketball Camp while still a student at Mount Saint Vincent College. He is thoughtful, compassionate and has really dope energy. This is a really fun one!
Poetry in Motion w/Haydil Henriquez
On this episode we sit down with Haydil Henriquez the first ever Bronx Poet Laureate. Haydil is a poet, author, scholar and activist. Haydil talks about her journey in the Bronx, her love of spoken word, her poetry inspirations, and the power and beauty in language. She is dynamic, thoughtful, and gives us much to think about. This is one you don't want to miss!
All in the Family w/ The Ramirez Brothers
On this episode we sit down with the Ramirez Brothers, the founders of From The Bronx, Taste of the Bronx, Mainland Media, and The Bronx Beer Hall! These guys are the definition of building from the ground up. Whether it is through creating a multimedia brand, capturing dope photos that highlight the beauty of The Bronx, or serving your favorite beers, these are three inspiring brother who have had a big impact on The Bronx, so get your pens and pads for this one.
Blessings and Lessons w/ DJ Bless Tha Child
DJ Bless Tha Child is locally known and internationally respected. He understands how to level up, which is why he is still around. Although he has a lot he could brag about he remains humble, keeps dope people around him, and is forever a student of the game. This is a fun one!
Bronx 2 The Future w/Mugzy McFly
On this episode we travel uptown to McFly Studios to kick it with the one and only, Mugzy McFly! Mugzy McFly is a celebrity fashion designer, visionary, and a leader in the culture. He is humble, but also knows his ish when it comes to fashion. He has probably designed for some of your favorite celebrities, and is always thinking about his next move. This episode is high energy and Mugzy is hilarious. Check out the episode than go cop some merch either online or at his store!
To the Moon/with Bronx Crypto
Digital Currency isn't going anywhere, so you can get with the movement or get left behind. The dudes at Bronx Crypto are sharp, funny and knowledgeable about the crypto space. But more than any of that they are purpose driven. They are trying to put on for their borough, and teach black and brown folks the financial literacy of the next generation. This one is educational so make sure you have your pen and paper ready!
I be on my Suit and Tie ish....w/Dandy in The Bronx
Make sure you grab a pen and paper for this one because you don't want to miss these gems. On this episode we sit down with fashion influencer, content creator, and menswear expert Diego aka Dandy in The Bronx. Diego shares his journey with us, he describes his passion for menswear, and speaks about the influence The Bronx has on his brand. If you want to know the right way to wear a suit for yourself, or for someone in your life, you won't want to miss this.
Style and Grace w/ Ashley Hall
On this episode we get to kick it with fashion influencer, content creator, artist, and sneakerhead; Ashley Hall. Ashley shares her Bronx story and journey as a fashion influencer. She also shares with us where her love of sneakers stems from, she tells us about some of the rarest shoes she has been able to cop, and she talks about breaking into the fashion industry as a sneaker enthusiast. Ashley is unfiltered, fun, and authentic. She is changing the game one pair of sneakers at a time, and you will probably want to cop a pair (or a couple of pairs) of shoes after this one. Definitely big Bronx energy on this episode.
Just kickin it w/Sis, Listen to This Podcast
Kick off your shoes and relax your feet Live From The Bronx, and Sis, Listen to This podcast is in these streets. We know how to get deep on a variety of serious topics, but sometimes we just want to have fun. On this episode we do just that when we sit down with our homegirls from Sis, Listen to This Podcast. They are a whole vibe! We discuss everyone's plans now that the streets are open, dating this summer, and what it means to have a "hot girl" summer. This a dope episode! Also, make sure to check out their show; they have some good stuff happening over there!
The Case for Black Joy w/ Roya Marsh
Black Joy is real, necessary, and so present in this week's episode. We get the opportunity to sit down with Roya Marsh the co-founder of the Bronx Poet Laureate. Roya is an artist, activist, author, sneakerhead, and all-around dope human. She has a strong sense of who she is, and what she is here to do. Her art is vulnerable and honest. Roya takes us on a journey on this one, so you def want to stay for the ride.
Journey of an L.A. Boy
Your name is your legacy! We were reminded of that when we sat down with Lawrence Raysor aka the LA Boy! Lawrence is a teacher, historian, author, husband, and father. He shares his journey navigating fatherhood. Lawrence had to learn and unlearn so much to raise his sons (The LA Boys). In the basketball world, Lawrence has made a name for himself through coaching, but also the Ballers Journey, where he shares the stories of hoopers from around the world. Lawrence is a great conversationalist, he is funny, but most importantly he is a man on a mission. Everything he does is in the liberation of our people-so you gotta respect it. This is a fun episode, but it is powerful.
Beat the Bank w/Trevor Cassaberry
Being able to see the alignment in things that others can't immediately see is almost like a superpower, and can be profitable. Trevor Cassaberry, the CEO of Cassaberry consulting, is fortunate enough to have these gifts. Trevor provides support to businesses to become more efficient. Besides being a logistics consultant he is also a husband, an author, and all-around dope dude. On this episode, we discuss everything from the stock market, to cryptocurrencies, to the NBA playoffs. It's a fun one and if you pay attention you might learn some tips on how you can beat the bank!
Hoop Dreams: An Underdog Story
Basketball is Life is a phrase that is heard in the hood so often! However, with the right level of determination, finesse, skill, and hard work hoop dreams can become a reality. For Roman Perez this is his story; the story of the underdog. Roman was never the biggest or strongest but he outworked so much of his competition to make it as a pro basketball player. He has played basketball around the world, been featured in movies, and mentors the next generation of athletes through his academy. Roman is nice on the court, but what makes this episode so special is what a humble genuine dude he is off the court.
The Art of Food w/ Jason Alicea of Empanology
Imagine Chopped Cheese, pizza or red velvet inside of an Empanada. At Empanology you don’t have to imagine. These are just a few of the amazing flavors you will find. On this episode, we sit down with Jason Alicea the co-founder of Empanology. Jason takes us on his entrepreneurial food journey from dishwasher, to hosting pop up events, to having his own brand. Jason has traveled around the world cooking but he knows where home is-BX stand up.
The Blueprint w/ Blue Rivera
Some of us are lucky enough to have a pretty dope life, but very few of us are able to live several dope lives. Our guest this week Blue Rivera can speak to that. He has been a club promoter, a brand ambassador, an urban mixologist, a food and beverage writer, a member of the US Army, and most recently the founder of Mission Helping Hand (I might have missed a few). MMHNYC is an organization that works to fight food insecurity in the Bronx. Through his work Blue makes sure to treat every person they serve with the respect they deserve. Blue cares about his community, he’s funny and gives a damn good interview. On this one we travel with Blue to the clubs of the Bronx in the 90s and end up at the community garden he just opened. You don’t want to skip this one.
Bronx Science w/ Alexi Palmer
Black women are dope! Black women are magic! And….Black women are scientists! Unfortunately, we do not see enough Black women as scientists, but they exist! On this episode we sit down with a particularly dope scientist, Alexi Palmer, who helped to work on the Pfizer vaccine. Alexi shares with us, her journey in the Bronx, how she fell in love with science, and the history of vaccines in this country. We have real talk about how the COVID-19 vaccine works. This episode is educational and dope, if we do say so ourselves!!
What's Brewing in the BX? w/ Hector Castillo Carvajal
There are some really dope things brewing in the Bronx, and on this episode KB and Jay tap into some of that when they sit down with the founder of Don Carvajal Café, Hector Castillo Carvajal. Hector is a 24 year old entrepreneur brewing his own coffee, and putting on for the Bronx. Hector is sharp, witty and embodies the hustler spirit. Through this convo we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey. If this episode doesn’t wake you up you better go cop some Don Carvajal coffee!!
Hustle and Motivate w/ Personalize Your Coaching
On this episode KB and Jay sit down with the founder of Personalize Your Coaching, Paula McMillian Perez. Paula is Bronx bred and she is proud of it. Paula shares how she started her coaching business and why she focuses on Black and LatinX folks specifically. Paula is conscientious, driven, and has great energy. The episode is fun and informative, which is a dope combination.
BX Dreams w/ Tim Lord & Jason Duchin of DreamYard
On this episode KB and Jay had the pleasure of speaking with the Co-Executive Directors of DreamYard, a Bronx-based nonprofit, mission-driven by the arts and social justice! We discuss everything from privilege, to arts, social justice, and community. Just know without DreamYard Live From The Bronx would not be here! They provided the foundational training for us to get this podcast off the ground! So definitely give them and this episode the respect it deserves!
Embracing Our Journey w/ April Hernandez-Castillo
On this episode, KB and Jay sit down with actress, TedX speaker, author, mother, and wife, April Hernandez-Castillo. April takes us through her journey growing up in the Bronx during the 80s and 90s. April is a survivor of Intimate Partner violence and uses her voice to help others who are going through similar situations. April also talks to us about her iconic role as Eva in the movie, Freedom Writers, and her experience as an actress. She is dynamic, fun, and thoughtful. She reminds us of the amazing things that can happen when we embrace our story.
This is Hip Hop w/ King Amadeus
On this episode Jay and KB sit down with Multi-Platinum producer King Amadeus. Amadeus shares stories about growing up in the Bronx, his foundation in the Church, and some of his experiences in the music industry. He talks about the importance of chasing your dreams, but also the sacrifice that is required. Amadeus has produced for some of the biggest artists in the world, but he still remains super humble. This interview is high energy and a lot of fun. You definitely want to check this one out.
Live From Bronx Native w/ Amaurys Grullon
We are back like we never left! The season 2 premiere is officially here! On this episode, we sit down with Amaurys Grullon creator of the Bronx Native clothing line. Bronx Native is more than just a store it is a movement. When you have the Bronx on your chest, people see the grit community resilience and swag! Check out the episode then go cop some Bronx Native merch!
Episode 33: Trust The Love You Are Given! w/ Joel Leon
The Live From The Bronx season finale is officially here! In this last episode, KB and Jay sit down with storyteller, author, TED Talk speaker, and MC, Joel Leon. You will quickly learn that Joel is unapologetically Black, and is on a mission to decolonize. Throughout this episode, he discusses the importance of fatherhood, love, and empathy. Joel has a really calming presence, and this episode will leave you hella inspired. He is such a thoughtful dude, and has a profound understanding of the human experience. Also, during the recording of this episode we officially found out that Harris/Biden won so it will also have a special place in our hearts! We also want to thank you for rocking
Episode 32: Bronx Harmonies w/ Dominique Mejia
On this Episode KB and Jay sit down with educator, singer, and Bronx native Dominique Mejia. You might know her from Making the Band, or from killing the Deborah Cox Challenge! But she is so much more than that! Learn about her Bronx story and journey on this episode.
Episode 31: Movements Over Moments w/Mike Partis
It's like Deja Vu all over again because on this episode KB and Jay once again get to sit down with the very talented, and thoughtful, Brother Mike Partis. Mike is the Executive Director of the Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative, and he is on the board for Youth Power Coalition (YPC). Outside of these titles he is a husband, a father, and an all around dope human. He has a very sharp political mind, and on this episode he uses it to discuss the results of the 2020 election. Mike gives us the blueprint for what POC need to do to make sure that this election isn’t just a moment, but rather part of a larger movement. It’s powerful stuff!
Episode 30: The Political Divide w/ J.C. Polanco
On this Episode, KB and Jay celebrate their 30th episode with attorney, political commentator, and BMCC faculty member, JC Polanco. JC brings tons of energy as he talks about growing up in the Bronx in the 80’s, attending Fordham Prep as a Latino male, and his work in politics. JC offers up a unique perspective as he explains the need for us as people of color to be aligned with both parties so that both parties are courting us for our votes. JC is a republican, but makes it very clear he is not aligned with this administration. Throughout the interview JC is smart, funny, and sharp. He reminds us of how important it is for us to vote in this election, but also every local education as well. If you haven’t already, go vote, and while you are on line at the ballot check out this episode.
Episode 29: If It Wasn't For The Bronx w/ Jonathan Berenguer
On this Episode KB & Jay sit down with educator, entrepreneur and motivational speaker Jonathan Berenguer. Out the gate Jonathan is extremely honest, vulnerable and humble as he speaks about being born premature and losing his parents at a young age. Jonathan knows about adversity, but through a combination of mentorship, spirituality and his own ingenuity he has been able to build a successful brand and business. Through his work Jonathan has been able to mentor and support thousands of students in the Bronx. I dare you to listen and not be inspired!
Episode 28: A Bronx Opera w/ Linda Collazo
A Bronx Opera singer??? Yes...you heard correctly! On this episode KB & Jay are joined by the Bronx's very own, amazing and talented Linda Collazo. Throughout this episode, Linda gets deep as she discusses her childhood, educational experience, and current career as a professional opera singer! We learned so much about her, the world of opera, and opportunities in The Bronx we didn't know existed. Tune in this one is pretty cool!
Episode 27: Melanin Magic: The State of Black Women
...and that’s on periodttt!
On this episode, Jay and KB sit down with three dope Black women from the Bronx to discuss the current state of Black women. Black women are so layered and multifaceted that one episode doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface, but it most definitely gets real on this one! We touch on everything from the injustice in the Breonna Taylor case, to the potential for our first Black woman Vice President in Kamala Harris, to the ways in which Black men can support Black women. Our panel includes, Denise Relf, who is a Senior Implementation Manager at a workforce agency, and founder of Never Stop Growing (NSG), her life and professional coaching business; Britnee Rock, the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for a hospitality group, and Tasha (Snobby), a lawyer whose work focuses on business and tax law, specifically supporting minority and women owned businesses. She is also the host of the dope podcast, Black Gyrl SOS-go check them out. We listened a lot more than we spoke on this one and learned so much. We are sure that you will too!
Episode 26: I'm Not a Business Man, I'm a Business...Man w/The Hungry Dominican!
On this episode KB and Jay sit down with Em aka The Hungry Dominican. Em is a writer, food blogger, and social media influencer. Em understands the power of social media, he understands food, and he has been able to marry the two to create an amazing lane for himself. He has a sizable following on social media, but he remains humble, and is willing to give advice to newer social media influencers. The Hungry Dominican is not a persona, but rather a part of who Em is. If you ever had questions about social media, or have been hungry to grow your own brand this is an episode you will want to check out!
Episode 25: The Bronx Keeps On Making It w/ John Sanchez
On this episode KB and Jay sit down with John Sanchez, the District Manager for Community Board 6 in the Bronx. John is currently a NYC Council Candidate for the 15th district in the Bronx. On this one we get real political as John tells us about his journey into politics, his love for the Bronx, and, his campaign for City Council. We talk about everything from the role of a community board to the importance of engaging young people in politics, to shifting how we do politics all together. This is a brother who truly believes in the Bronx. You are most definitely going to learn a thing or two from this episode so tune in and get political with us!
Episode 24: It Gotta Be The Shoes
On this episode Jay and KB sit down with educator, and sneaker enthusiast, Eric Burnside, to discuss sneakers and pop culture! Eric talks about how he first fell in love with sneakers and how sneaker culture has evolved over the years. We also discuss the way in which young people of color have even used sneakers to start businesses for themselves. Eric is fun, and so is the episode! Definitely give this one a listen!
Episode 23: Disrupting Racism Through Mindfulness w/ Dr. Napoleon Wells
On this episode KB and Jay sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Napoleon Wells. Napoleon discusses the importance of people of color getting mental health support, as a method for breaking generational curses. We also get to discuss his dynamic Ted Talk about how mindfulness can be used to combat racism. Napoleon is a deep thinker, he is passionate, and he is Boogie Down to the core. Napoleon has a powerful voice, and when he speaks you will want to listen. Sit back and enjoy!
Episode 22: Education My Way! w/Amber Peters
On this episode KB and Jay sit down with educator and entrepreneur, Amber Peters. Amber is the founder of the On Track for College app that supports students, families, and schools with the college application process. Amber shares parts of her own journey applying for college, and how some of her challenges inform her current work. She also talks about the nuances of being a Black woman in tech. Amber didn’t know how to create an app at first, but she knew she had a good idea so she pushed herself to learn. Amber also reminds us of the importance of knowing your worth as a business owner. Amber’s story is inspiring, and a reminder that if you want something bad enough, with a solid work ethic, resilience, and vision, you can achieve your dreams. This is a good one-and go download the On Track For College app dope advice.
Episode 21: A WELTHE of Knowledge w/Robert Pauley III (The Welthe Guy)
On this episode, KB & Jay sit down with Robert Pauley III, aka The Welthe Guy, aka The Professor of Style (he has a lot of nicknames, but I promise he’s earned all of them). Robert is a style expert and custom clothier. Robert takes us on a journey from his childhood growing up in the Soundview section of the Bronx to where he is today-a walking business. Robert is vulnerable when he shares with us his journey growing up in foster care, but always had a spirit of giving back. From young, Robert always had hustle, and it has served him well through his journey. He also talks about how he took a chance on himself, quitting his corporate job to build his own brand and legacy-that was the beginning of the WELTHE Guy. Robert is inspiring, humble, thoughtful, and hilarious. I know you will enjoy this interview as much as we did. And if you are looking to get fresh with a new coat or suit hit him up! He won’t disappoint!
Episode 20: Eating Good in the Hood w/ Omar Canales (Seis Vecinos)
On this episode, KB & Jay sit down with Omar Canales, the Social Media and Marketing Director of Seis Vecinos. Seis Vecinos is a Central American restaurant in the south Bronx that truly values community. Omar talks about how Seis Vecinos has managed to stay viable during COVID-19, and how they center The Bronx community by hiring Bronx natives and staying true to its roots. Omar knows food, but he also knows business. This is a particularly fun episode for KB since Omar is one of KB's childhood friends. If you like the Bronx, and you like food, you will love this episode. I dare you to listen and not get hungry.
Episode 19: Bodega Body w/ Rich Cebada
“Vulnerability doesn’t have to mean being sad all of the time...it’s showing what you’re thinking on the inside...”
KB & Jay are back at it again with episode 19! On this episode, we sit down with founder and editor of BodegaBody.com, and producer of the Bodega Body Podcast, Rich Cebada. If you want to feel inspired and motivated to start your health journey, this is not an episode you want to miss! Throughout this episode, Rich is honest as he shares his journey to losing 140 pounds while challenging us to think about the notions of toxic masculinity. Best believe you will want to get up and make a change after tuning in! Your health journey starts now!
Episode 18: We Run The Bronx w/ Lenny Grullon
On this episode Jay and KB get to run the streets with Lenny Grullon, the co-founder and one of the captains of the Boogie Down Bronx Runners (BDBR). The BDBR is a community running group whose mission is to help the Bronx become healthier through running. Throughout this episode, Lenny shares details about his own running journey. Lenny is honest when he shares the difficulties he faced when he first started. Overcoming his running struggles, Lenny has now traveled the world running, but one of his greatest accomplishments has been starting BDBR. This is a group that is particularly special to KB who became a runner through their support, guidance and mentorship. BDBR has been a source of community and inspiration for so many new runners in the Bronx. If you get the chance, lace up your sneakers and come on a community run with Boogie Down!
Episode 17: School of Hip Hop w/ Dr. Ian Levy
"Why did I feel like the only way I could relate to Black and LatinX students was by 'spitting' as a white dude"
Welcome to the School of Hip Hop with Dr. Ian Levy. On this episode Jay and KB dive deep into the world of school counseling with TED Talk speaker, professor, and MC, Dr. Ian Levy. Ian discusses his upbringing and love for school counseling while challenging us to consider Hip Hop as an approach to both counseling and youth development. He also interrogates his own identity and speaks about the importance of authenticity. He ends his interview by blessing the mic and spitting a few bars for the show. You don't want to miss this!
Episode 10: The Lost Tapes w/ Shafiqah Faust
Originally episode 10 was supposed to drop in late May, but after the murder of George Floyd and all the justifiable civil unrest around the country, it didn’t feel right to drop this episode then. Things are still not okay now, but even in the midst of everything going on in the world it is still important to find joy, and this episode is definitely full of Joy. KB and Jay get to sit down with entrepreneur, proud HBCU grad, and friend of the podcast, Shafiqah Faust. Shafiqah talks about her new project; The Black Degree, which is a game that highlights how dope HBCU’s are. We also talk about dating in general, but especially during COVID-19. We had a lot of fun and we laughed a lot. Thanks for listening to LFTB, and make sure to find joy today.
Episode 16: Growin' Up Hip Hop w/ Nikki Knowledge
On this episode KB and Jay sit down with Nicole Hudnell aka Nikki Knowledge! Nikki is the founder of How to Hip Hop, a youth development program that uses Hip Hop to teach literacy and entrepreneurship. Nikki is a scholar, battle rap journalist, and Seminary student. During this interview, Nikki shares stories about various battle rappers she has met over the years, who have also been amazing guests in her classroom, and discusses how she has maintained friendships with them. She also talks about being mentored by Dr. Chris Emdin, and how she brought battle rap to Harvard University by dissecting Lyrics from battle rap legend, Loaded Lux! As she shares all of her stories, it is from a place of honesty, humility, and humor. Nikki also discusses her religious foundation and how she was able to find scripture in Hip Hop lyrics. Nikki exists in the space between Hip Hop, academia, and religion; and it is a lane she created for herself. She walks in her truth, and is able to be authentic in the various spaces she occupies. Nikki Knowledge leads a pretty dope life, but she remains grounded. We enjoyed it, and we think you will as well.
Episode 15: Stage Presence w/Goodz
On this episode, KB and Jay “geek out” as they sit down with one of their favorite battle rap artist, the legendary Goodz. Whether you saw him on Sway in the morning spitting bars or standing toe-to-toe against his opponent on a battle rap stage, you know he is prepared to bless the mic. Throughout this episode, Goodz discusses strategy as he prepares to outshine opponents utilizing his humor, punchlines, and Bronx style to win over crowds. Goodz also talks about his upbringing in the Bronx, the beginning of his battle rap journey, entrepreneurship, and fashion. Goodz highlights the many ways in which battle rap prepared him for entrepreneurship and draws connections between the battle rap stage and being a business owner. Tune in now! You don’t want to miss this!
Episode 14: The Law of Attraction w/Magnetic 54
On this episode KB and Jay sit down with activist and community stakeholder, Magnetic 54 (Arthur). Magnetic is a proud product of the Cortland section of the Bronx. He takes us on a journey through his south Bronx neighborhood in the 80’s and describes the profound impact Hip Hop had on his development. Magnetic discusses the realities of growing up during this time and the way crack devastated the hood. What makes this episode so dope is that Magnetic shares his story of trials and triumph. He let’s us into his life as he talks about being convicted for murder and spending 25 years in prison. But the story doesn’t stop there. While in prison, Magnetic read 350 books and developed a profound understanding of his history and the greatness within his culture-Black culture. Magnetic shares what his transition was like after prison, and how he is able to continue pushing forward. Magnetic is knowledgeable, humble, and critical. He is a reminder that everyone has value and everyone can be redeemed, especially as we think about our brothers and sisters that are incarcerated. It's an eye opening interview.
Episode 13: I Got a Story to Tell/ w Daitwan David
“Your Personal Statement Is Your Debut Album To The World.”
On this episode KB and Jay sit down with educator, entrepreneur, and equity practitioner, Daitwan David. Daitwan is the founder and CEO of All My People LLC, a youth development organization that focuses on the tenants of engagement while emphasizing on the importance of decolonizing our identity. Daitwan discusses his relationship with students as they navigate the traumas of police brutality and COVID 19. In the face of adversity, he still encourages them to find joy. He further describes the importance of a personal statement as he assists young people through the college process. Utilizing Hip Hop as a strategic approach, Daitwan has the uncanny ability to draw the stories out of young people as he encourages them to consider their personal statements to be their debut albums to the world. Daitwan talks about how so much of his life is guided by hip hop, and how he uses it as a tool of engagement for his students. Daitwan is thoughtful, a visionary, and also hilarious. He provides dope examples for youth development work and engages in a fun interview. You will learn, you will laugh and you will think.
Episode 12: #SchoolDays w/ The BSA at Fordham University
On this Episode, Jay and KB get the opportunity to sit down with two Fordham University students, Alex and Gerald. Alex and Gerald are leaders in the Fordham community who hold e-board positions for Asili, the Black Student Association at Fordham University. Asili is a Swahili word that means roots or foundation. We discuss the power of knowing your history and understanding your roots. Alex and Gerald are honest, vulnerable, and have no problem speaking truth to power. They discuss Asili playing an integral role in demanding the President of the University release a statement about the injustice Black folks experience in this country. We learn more about the racism that is still happening on Fordham's campus and the disconnect between the Fordham community and local Bronxites. This is a very special episode for KB as he is very nostalgic thinking about his time as part of Asili. Unfortunately, a lot of things have not changed since KB graduated from Fordham, but we are hopeful. This group of Asili students have a wonderful legacy and foundation to build on, and they are brilliant, fearless, and purposeful. Many movements in history have had a strong presence on college campuses, why would now be any different? Asili has something to say; we need to listen.
Episode 11: You Can't Hide Behind the Badge w/Officer Ritchie Baez
What is your role in dismantling institutional racism? Can you dismantle racism from within the police force? On this episode Jay and KB sit down with a sixteen year NYPD veteran officer, Ritchie Baez. Although Ritchie is a member of law enforcement, he is both an Afro-Latino man and a servant of Christ first. Fully ready to engage in a discussion about our current state, Ritchie dives deep into history while describing the racism that exist within the NYPD. In fact, he is one of the NYPD 12, the 12 officers who are speaking out against systemic racism in the NYPD. He is also featured in the Emmy award winning documentary Crime and Punishment, now streaming on Hulu. During this episode Ritchie offers up some solutions to end racism in the NYPD. Despite whether you agree or disagree with what he says, it is a valuable discussion. We also had the opportunity to discuss the current climate of black folks and law enforcement after the murder of George Floyd. Officer Ritchie gives us much to think about, and we ask that you continue these conversations with your own communities. The work is still not done, and we need each other as we look to dismantle racism.
Episode 9: Black Liberation/w Mike Partis
On this episode KB & Jay are joined by Mike Partis, the Executive Director of the Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative. As a hip hop historian, a cultural anthropologist and all-around thought leader, Mike takes us on a deep journey into becoming a free Black man. We learn about Mike's origins in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx, the impact of the Garifuna Culture on his worldview, and becoming an independent thinker. We discuss the need for mentorship in hip hop, the importance of a healthy lifestyle and collective economics. Mike is brilliant, honest and unapologetic, but more than this he is a leader and liberator. His energy allows for a really dynamic conversation that will leave you with much to think about, so yes this episode is as heavy as the title suggests.