Curtis Pitts Opening Address Speakers: Curtis Pitts Summary Curtis Pitts delivered an impassioned opening address focused on empowering Black communities through self-reliance and collective action. He emphasized the importance of building sustainable communities by leveraging education, economic resources, and cultural heritage to overcome systemic challenges. Key Topics - The importance of self-reliance and community empowerment. - Building sustainable Black families and communities. - Th...

Food Security - Addressing Hunger and Sustainability in Black America Speakers: Jamiah Hargins, Darciea Houston, Curtis Pitts Summary This session explored innovative approaches to achieving food security and sustainability within Black communities, focusing on local initiatives and the importance of self-reliance. Jamiah Hargins shared his experiences with CropSwap LA, emphasizing the need for community-driven solutions to address food scarcity and dependency. Key Topics - The concept of foo...

Urban Farming as a Solution to Food Deserts Speakers: Dr. Zelia Wiley, Dr. Olga Bolden-Tiller Summary In this session, Dr. Zelia Wiley and Dr. Olga Bolden-Tiller explore the potential of urban farming as a viable solution to address food deserts, emphasizing the role of education and technology in transforming agricultural practices. They discuss the importance of integrating modern technology such as artificial intelligence and hydroponics to enhance food security and provide economic opportu...

Mental and Spiritual Health for Holistic Healing Speakers: Pastor Chris Simmons, Nathaniel Wilkins Summary This session focused on the intersection of mental and spiritual health as a foundation for holistic healing. Pastor Chris Simmons shared insights from his 38-year ministry in South Dallas, emphasizing community engagement and trauma-informed care. Nathaniel Wilkins highlighted the importance of physical health and movement as integral to overall well-being. Key Topics - The role of the ...

Building a Self-Sustaining Black Economy Speakers: Donell E. Smith, Bill Thornton, Carl H. Sharperson Jr. Summary This session delves into strategies for building a self-sustaining Black economy, focusing on financial empowerment, community development, and leadership resilience. The speakers share personal experiences and practical advice to foster economic growth and community strength. Key Topics - Financial literacy and investment strategies for economic empowerment - The importance of c...

Opening Remarks and Financial Literacy Speakers: Donell E. Smith Summary In this engaging session, Donell E. Smith shares insights on transforming financial habits to achieve wealth and financial independence. Drawing from personal experiences and success stories, he emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and strategic investing to make money work for you. Key Topics - The concept of money working for you versus working for money - Importance of financial education and literacy - T...

In this episode of Soul Thursdays, Calvin sits down with Antwone Fisher — celebrated author, screenwriter, and one of the most compelling storytellers of our generation. From foster care to the Navy, from Hollywood to the page, Antwone shares the raw, unfiltered journey of a man who was never supposed to make it — and did. The conversation centers on forgiveness, not as a moment, but as a process. Antwone reframes fear, survival, and identity in ways that will stay with you long after the episo...

In this episode of Soul Thursdays, Calvin sits down with Elsa Mehary, an acclaimed identity architect and strategic creative advisor. Elsa shares her journey of navigating diverse cultural landscapes and breaking barriers in the publishing world, offering deep insights into the complex politics of identity within the Black diaspora. Description Elsa Mehary, born in Ethiopia and raised in the United States, brings a rich tapestry of multicultural experiences that have profoundly shaped her under...

Episode Summary In this powerful Soul Thursdays conversation, Dr. April Harris-Britt unpacks the “strong, silent Black woman” archetype—where it comes from, why it’s so deeply ingrained, and how it quietly harms Black women’s bodies, minds, and relationships. From her origin story growing up on a small farm in Durham with a hard-working single mom, to her work as a psychologist, researcher, and advocate, Dr. April traces how messages about silence, independence, and caretaking take root early....

In this engaging Soul Thursdays conversation, Dr. Tanecia Mitchell shares her journey as a scientist, author, and mentor, intertwining her passion for health with her faith. She discusses her early inspirations to pursue science, the challenges she faced, and how her experiences led her to write her book Renew the Inner You. The discussion emphasizes the importance of acknowledging emotions, the role of scripture in personal growth, and encouraging young women of color to pursue careers in STEM....

Summary In this engaging conversation, Calvin Rich sits down with Kendra Glasgow, an occupational therapy professional transitioning into entrepreneurship and relationship and intimacy coaching after her divorce. They explore Kendra's journey, the impact of family dynamics on relationships, and the lessons learned from loneliness in marriage. Kendra shares insights on intimacy issues and the shame surrounding them and offers practical advice for couples struggling with emotional connection. The...

Summary Anita P. Stoudmire, M.S., LPC. is a mental health professional and creator of the Better Love Movement, discusses topics such as loneliness, relationships, attachment styles, and narcissistic personality disorder. She emphasizes the importance of holding space for others, developing healthy friendships, and avoiding toxic individuals. Anita also addresses the impact of consumerism on mental health and the need for individuals to define their own success. She offers resources such as her...

Episode Summary This episode delves into redefining education through K-12 innovation with Jennifer Cantor, Principal and Co-Owner of Rivers Academy, an alternative school offering unique educational experiences. We discuss alternative education, its impact on mental health, and upcoming trends. Additionally, Katrina Leggins, LCSW, licensed clinical social worker and mental health advocate, shares insights on managing anxiety and depression for Gen Z. He also dispels misconceptions about the ge...

What impact is AI having on our workplaces? Calvin explores this question with two experts who share their insights on the implications of AI for employee privacy and workplace dynamics. Yanika Daniels, an HR consultant from Atlanta with a backgrou...

What does the pursuit of Black sovereignty look like through the lens of history and community activism? Calvin sits down with Dr. Timothy Nelson about this concept. Dr. Nelson shares his journey from a tough upbringing in Compton to being inspired b...

What can gardening teach us about nurturing and growth in education? Today’s episode of Southern Soul explores this question through the transformative experiences of two individuals: Alethea Victor, founder of GroLeafy, and Janelle Wood, founder of ...

Why is it essential to tailor advocacy efforts for neurodivergent children within the Black community? In this episode of the Southern Soul Livestream podcast, host Calvin introduces a panel discussion that explores this topic with detailed analyses ...

In this enlightening episode of Soul Thursdays, we embark on a profound exploration of natural hair care, with a particular focus on addressing alopecia and its potential remedies. Our esteemed guest, Evelyn Pettiford-Landrum, a recognized expert in ...

In this compelling episode, host Calvin Rich engages in a poignant conversation with Shanera Williamson, the dynamic force behind the "Brown Mama Bear" podcast on Empowering Parents: Navigating Black and Brown Youth in Aggressive Spaces, the episode ...

In a world filled with challenges and battles, Cynthia C. Farmer emerged as a guiding light in the realm of spiritual warfare. Her journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and the transformative power of healing and forgiveness. Through her candi...

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Gaskins, a remarkable individual who has not only survived multiple sclerosis (MS) but has also become a leading advocate for the use of cannabis in autoimmune care. Join us as we delve into her inspiring jo...

Overview In this illuminating episode, host our host engages in a profound conversation with Calvin Lawrence, the author of "Hidden in White Sight," as they delve into the intricate world of artificial intelligence and its impact on racial equity. To...

The episode explores Lynne's coined phrases, including "50 and Fed Up," "Career Deceleration," and "Flow from Frustration to Freedom." These phrases encapsulate the mid-career professional's journey, where individuals may feel stuck, frustrated, or u...

In the podcast, Dr. Carrie Rosario stands out as a strong advocate for overall well-being. Alongside Counseling Psychologist Tatyana Smith, Dr. Rosario engages in a dynamic conversation that puts her expertise at the forefront. Her thoughtful insight...