show episodes
 
Artwork

1
Blackbelt Voices

Blackbelt Media LLC

Unsubscribe
Unsubscribe
Monatlich
 
The Blackbelt Voices podcast tells stories from and about Black folks down South that honor our history, celebrate our culture, and shape our future. Through first-person narratives and in-depth conversations, hosts Adena J. White, Kara Wilkins, and Katrina Dupins share the experiences of Black Southerners living in, loving, and reconciling with the region we call home. Music: Prentice Dupins Jr. Logo Design: Kara Darling Creative
  continue reading
 
Bourbon connoisseur, sneaker head, girl dad, community promoter and gym rat Leo Cummings III takes you on a journey through the human experience, diving into today’s hot topics through open-minded conversations with intriguing people. So pour you a drink, turn up your volume, and Pull Up A Chair.
  continue reading
 
Loading …
show series
 
In episode 28, we pull up a chair with Selena Ulasewich, a leadership and executive coach and CEO of Impact Life Coaching . Originally from Florida and a proud fan of the Florida Gators, Selena’s journey has taken her from the excitement of performing in the national championship as part of the Gators' marching band to finding her home in Conway, A…
  continue reading
 
Choosing Arkansas with Dr. Karama Neal shares stories of those who chose Arkansas as their home. In this episode, Dr. Neal talks to Shamim Okolloh. Shamim was born in Nairobi, Kenya, and came to the U.S. at age 19 for college. Unsure about staying or returning home, she moved to Little Rock to attend the Clinton School of Public Service. She fell i…
  continue reading
 
Choosing Arkansas with Dr. Karama Neal shares stories of those who chose Arkansas as their home. In this episode, Dr. Neal talks to Jean Block, the CEO of the Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority. We hope these conversations inspire you to learn more about professional, educational, social and other opportunities in Arkansas, and soon, choose Ar…
  continue reading
 
Choosing Arkansas with Dr. Karama Neal shares stories of those who chose Arkansas as their home. We want to help you make the Natural State your natural choice. On today's episode, we talk to Samantha Evans about what brought her back to her home state after living away for many years. We hope these conversations inspire you to learn more about pro…
  continue reading
 
Dr. Karama Neal, principal of Neal Firm, aspires to help Arkansas achieve its full potential as a place where Black people can thrive. Achieving this potential requires not only the engagement of current Black Arkansans but also the economic, social, and political involvement of Black people with ties to the state — whether it's through kinship, fr…
  continue reading
 
Tune in to my chat with Adena White, founder of Blackbelt Media. In Episode 27, Adena’s passion for community and connection is clear as she shares her journey and her vision of fostering a stronger and more united community through authenticity, belonging and connection. Don’t miss this fun and inspirational conversation!…
  continue reading
 
This is part two of our dive into urban agriculture. We’re talking about how Black farmers and growers are creating solutions to the lack of healthy food options in their communities. Be sure to listen to Episode 41 with Leroi Emerson, who serves on the board for Urban Patchwork. In this episode, we’re talking to Gabriyel El-Bey, the owner and oper…
  continue reading
 
This two-part episode of the Blackbelt podcast explores how Urban Patchwork, a Little Rock-based nonprofit network of farmers and backyard gardeners, aims to build a sustainable local food economy and promote interdependence among residents. In part one, we hear from LeRoi Emerson, a board member for Urban Patchwork. He joins host Adena White to ta…
  continue reading
 
On Episode 26, I sat down with Branson Van Landingham, a successful entrepreneur, visionary, and community builder. As the CEO and co-founder of Natty State Sports, a cutting-edge digital media platform, Branson is reshaping the landscape of sports media and digital media in general. Branson's mantra, "We lived it," speaks volumes about his dedicat…
  continue reading
 
We're back in the saddle! In this episode, Adena and Kara discuss the relaunch of Blackbelt Voices as a platform for authentic storytelling. After completing a Social Impact Storytelling program at Georgetown University and a fellowship with Solutions Journalism Network, Adena has come back with fresh ideas of how Blackbelt Voices can emphasize the…
  continue reading
 
Don't miss Episode 25 featuring the incredible Aaron Davis—a keynote speaker, author, cancer survivor, and former national champion football player! We dive deep into the power of motivation, maintaining a positive attitude, consistency, and overcoming obstacles. Tune into this one for his invaluable insights and inspiring journey!…
  continue reading
 
It's hard not to be motivated by Rebecca @ladyanglerlentz's incredible journey. As an army veteran, two-time cancer survivor, and relentless go-getter, she shares invaluable wisdom on overcoming trauma, fueling personal growth, and not being afraid to try new things. Check out episode 24 today!Von Leo Cummings III
  continue reading
 
Kuma Roberts, Executive Coach, and Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce President pulls up a chair in this episode. The Tulsa native talks about growing up in Tulsa, the world of DEI, and the idea that a lot more connects us than separates us. Kuma was a joy to talk to and I think you’ll enjoy our conversation. Check it out!…
  continue reading
 
Todd Cate, co-creator and co-host of the now-retired Black Dude White Dude, a long-time friend and weight-loss expert pulls a chair, and just like that, the band was together again. Todd and I recounted the good ole days of BDWD and quickly launched into a variety of topics. The old-school BDWD banter was in full effect as we talked about the benef…
  continue reading
 
Mural artist Jessica Jones pulls up a chair for the first episode of 2024. We dive into the journey that led her to Conway, the logistics of painting a 30-foot mural, and the devastating, life-changing event that pushed her to be a full-time artist. Her story of creativity and perseverance is one you don’t want to miss!…
  continue reading
 
Jake Briley, Army veteran and airport director, pulls up a chair for the last episode of the year! From growing up in a military family to being appointed director of the Conway Municipal Airport, Jake offers a unique perspective on life after military service and the importance of aviation to community building.…
  continue reading
 
Clint Schaff, a seasoned marketing executive, educator, and accomplished entrepreneur pulls up a chair. In this episode, Clint reflects on the path that has shaped his journey, offering a glimpse into the serendipitous moments that have contributed to his success. Since beginning his career in education, Clint has marketed international brands incl…
  continue reading
 
In this episode, speaker and social entrepreneur Lorenzo Lewis pulls up a chair and shares his inspiring journey of transforming pain into purpose. After literally being born in prison, Lorenzo overcame major obstacles and emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment. Lorenzo founded The Confess Project, empowering barbers to become mental health ad…
  continue reading
 
Ray Walker, CEO and Artistic Director of Saint Cloud Bourbon, pulls up a chair and tells his story of leaving corporate America behind to pursue his passion for wine. He then went on to use that same passion to create Saint Cloud Bourbon, where he combines his love of art with an interest in creating great bourbon.…
  continue reading
 
Marybeth Hill pulls up a chair and tells her inspirational story of recovery. From using and selling drugs to surviving domestic violence, she recounts her life story and how she has used that experience to help and impact others that are suffering from addiction. This episode is one you won’t want to miss!…
  continue reading
 
Chuck Reece, editor of Salvation South, pulled up a “virtual” chair and talked with me about the magazine, why he left the Bitter Southerner, and why he’s hopeful for the future of the South. Salvation South is an online magazine inspired by hope, healing and — most importantly — the desire to create a place on the web and a community of people whe…
  continue reading
 
The extremely talented @rahoward pulls up a chair. Howard and I conversed about his filmmaking, his old hip hop career and he shares why he’s a Griot (and shares his definition of the word). R.A. shares about his book, Beautiful People, and the inspiration behind it. Lastly the pair traversed into why community work and leaving a legacy can hit har…
  continue reading
 
If you ever wondered if you could be a professional hula hooper, your wondering can now cease. Professional hula hoop performer and artist, Katie Wilson aka Katie Sunshine, pulls up a chair for some conversation with Leo. The two chat about how she was introduced to hooping, how she stepped up her hula hoop game, and the moment when her skills gain…
  continue reading
 
Artist (and Composer) Faye Hedera pulls up a chair and talks about the inspiration and desire to do the 100 Faces of Conway Project. Faye and Leo get into why she got into art in the first place, how a life changing event impacted her story, and what else is on the horizon for her career. Per usual, every conversation ends with the hot seat questio…
  continue reading
 
Whispering Willow Farm CEO, owner and garden grower Jill Ragan pulls up a chair with Leo. They get into how she got her start in growing, and more importantly why it's so important to her. She dives into the inspiration for her book "Tiny But Mighty Farm", and explains how what she is doing is far more than teaching others to grow. Jill is such a p…
  continue reading
 
Nationally known and respected, Police Officer Tommy Norman, pulls up a chair in this episode and it made for a great convo. The always humble Norman gets into what first led him to the police force and why his method of community policing is so effective and why it's led to him being on national television several times. Leo and Officer Norman als…
  continue reading
 
Best-selling author, Tedx Speaker, and content creator Jessica Zimmerman pulls up a chair. She gets into her new series: Uncovering Divine Femininity. That led to conversations about taking control of your life, expectations thrust upon you, and relationships, including a transparent conversation about some of her own relationships. You'll want to …
  continue reading
 
In this episode Hilary Downey pulls up a chair to discuss her journey of health, confidence, and consistency. Her story is not only one of motivation but also success. Give it a listen and you’ll soon see why she’s now coaching others across the world and why her story has been told on Good Morning America, Access Hollywood, The Today Show, The Drs…
  continue reading
 
Adena and Kara talk to writer and self-proclaimed Wypipologist Michael Harriot. The South Carolina native is well known for his wit, cultural commentary, and gift of mixing humor and historical context. In this episode, Michael breaks down the discipline of Wypipology, Black humor, and the story behind his coining of the phrase "invited to the cook…
  continue reading
 
La'Twana Scott, the owner of Sweet Mama T's in El Dorado, Arkansas, developed a reputation as a great cook at an early age. The El Dorado native enjoys cooking for people and got her start from helping her mom as a child. Eventually, with the help of Southern Bancorp, Scott found the perfect location for her restaurant. Find out more about Sweet Ma…
  continue reading
 
Episode 100 is up and it’s a very special one. In this episode, we recap all the fun we’ve had making this podcast over the last six years. Listen in as the dudes talk through the history of the pod, fun episodes, the never before talked about dark episodes, and other things that spun off from the podcast. We also talk about how the 100th episode i…
  continue reading
 
On episode 37 of Blackbelt Voices, we continue our conversation about Black food, this time focusing on barbecue. Guest Michael “Mike D” De Los Santos of North Carolina walks us through his journey of becoming an expert on the topic, which eventually led to him creating his own sauces and rubs and selling through his company, Mike D’s. Mike’s journ…
  continue reading
 
Black Dude is joined by fellow black dude, podcast alumnus (Episode 33) and Razorback, Lerinezo Robinson. The duo get into Juwan Howard, Brian Flores, and of course, Lerinezo's show, Keep It Real. The last half they get into a serious debate about their favorite superhero and what super powers they’d want to have! Check it out!…
  continue reading
 
In episode 36 of Blackbelt Voices, Adena and Kara continue the conversation about Black food culture – this time from an agricultural angle. Our guest, Gerald Harris, along with his partners Derek Beasley and Gabrielle E.W. Carter (who was featured in the Netflix series High on the Hog as well as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal)start…
  continue reading
 
We’re starting a new series of episodes about Black Food Culture, which is a very broad topic to tackle. It can be fun, but it is also deep. Ashante Reese, Ph.D. is a writer, teacher, and anthropologist who works at the intersection of critical food studies and Black geographies. Her latest book, “Black Food Matters: Racial Justice in the Wake of F…
  continue reading
 
Black Dude got back in the studio and was joined again by, former guest, Dr. Tony Manning (Episode 52). They talked New Years Resolutions, Winter Olympics, which event they would compete in, diplomatic boycotts, and shared a few stories that’ll bring a smile to your face. Check it out!Von Leo Cummings III
  continue reading
 
Jennifer Williams of Cleveland, Mississippi, always knew she wanted to be a teacher. When she was a girl, her favorite game was playing school. Williams is teaching future teachers at the Cleveland Career Development and Technology Center. Once a week, her students get to serve as teacher's assistants, giving them a realistic feel of what it could …
  continue reading
 
On episode 33 of the Blackbelt Voices podcast, we are continuing our discussion on the Cost of Racism. This week we’re focused on building community wealth with Tim Lampkin, the CEO and founder of Higher Purpose Co., a 501(c)(3) economic justice nonprofit that supports and encourages ownership of financial, cultural, and political power in Black co…
  continue reading
 
Loading …

Kurzanleitung