In this episode of Leading by History, we sit down with Dr. Mary Isibor, Nigerian historian and scholar, for a powerful conversation on African scholarship and the vital role of diasporic connection in reshaping global historical narratives. Dr. Isibor reflects on her early academic journey before guiding us into a broader discussion of African and African American intellectual traditions. Together, we explore how connecting the continent’s histories with the work of Black scholars in the Americas challenges erasure, strengthens collective memory, and reframes African and Black scholarship as deeply interconnected rather than separate. This episode underscores the importance of historical work, intellectual preservation, and honoring the ideas of the African mind across time and geography.

In this episode, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul sits down with the Shockoe Institute's President and CEO Marland Buckner. The Shockoe Institute is a national organization based in Richmond, Virginia, dedicated to uncovering and understanding the lasting impact of racial slavery on the American experience. We discuss the Institute’s powerful mission, the challenges of truth-telling in public history, and the vision driving their work to transform collective understanding and inspire action toward justice.*Don't miss this first episode of our new season!*

In this episode, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul speaks with Regina Chaney of HOMEVA (Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia, Inc.). HOMEVA was born out of the necessity to enforce the Fair Housing Act. As long as discriminatory practices prevent access to housing, HOMEVA is there to protect the rights of all Virginians. They tackle systemically divisive housing practices through fair housing enforcement, research, advocacy, and statewide policy work. They also aid first-time homebuyers and those under the threat of foreclosure. When unequal access to housing and credit contributes most to our growing wealth gap, they serve as a powerful catalyst toward furthering fair housing.*You don't want to miss this episode*

In this fun and insightful episode, ending the recent series on Jewish history, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul sits down with inspirational speaker and Kosher rapper Zechariya Levine aka L'Chaim OG. They discuss practical Torah as a lifestyle, making Aliyah to Israel and how to pursue one's goals in spite of the odds. This inspiring episode will make you laugh as well as reflect on what's really important in life. Take a listen and share!

In this episode of Leading By History, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul continues his dialogue with historian and colleague Dr. Adam Ewing about Marcus Garvey and Black Spirituality. Discussing Garvey's influence on religious movements in the Americas, the duo discuss their views of Garvey and the power of his movement to spark the flame of critical thinking about Blackness and spirituality.

In this episode of Leading By History, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul engages in a dialogue with historian and colleague Dr. Adam Ewing about Marcus Garvey and Black Spirituality. Discussing Garvey's influence on religious movements in the Americas, the duo discuss their views of Garvey and the power of his movement to spark the flame of critical thinking about Blackness and spirituality. This is just part 1!

In this episode, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul sits down with Dr. Michael Miller to discuss Jewish Mysticism and African Hebrew Israelite Theodicy. Are you interested in the seemingly elusive mysterious ideas of "inner Judaism"? From Kabbala to Zohar to Masonry, this long-awaited episode is set to provide great insight for the listener. Welcome back to LBH!

In this episode, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul sits down with Dr. Micha Perry from the University of Haifa in Israel to discuss the Medieval world and the impact of literacy and writing on religious communities. Covering topics like Eldad the Danite, the Babylonian Talmud and the Book of Eli film, this episode is a nice teaser for the newly initiated into this area of history. Have you ever wondered if religious texts have been edited over time or whether religious ideas have changed over time? This episode is not one that you want to miss!

In this episode, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul sits down with Dr. Rachel McMillian to discuss her work in Black education and critical prison studies. In this dialogue they discuss their personal experiences with those in prison and address a broken criminal system of punishment that leads to recidivism and not progressive change. It is important to remember those who are trapped behind bars and to advocate for the acknowledgement of their humanity in a society that has long discounted them as positive members. This is not an episode to take lightly.

In this first episode of the season, Dr. Ma'asehyahu Isra-Ul sits down with Dr. Lauren Henley at the University of Richmond to discuss the little known but highly interesting story of Sarah Rector. Dubbed "The Richest Black Girl in America", Rector's story is one of blessing, fear, courage and resilience. Rector was the daughter of Black farmers whose ancestors had been enslaved by the Creek tribe in Oklahoma. Because of this, the family was allotted free land by the federal government as a form of reparations. Everything changed in 1913, when land began gushing oil and Rector became the first youngest Black millionaire in American history. Want to know more? Then tune in to this episode immediately! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- You can read more about Sarah Rector and Dr. Henley's research here and here.