In a compelling return to the Reimagining Black Relations podcast, Dr. Rob Eschmann fearlessly delves into the stark realities of growing up under the pervasive influence of racial bias and the constant specter of police violence. He shares the deeply moving experience of having to give his own son "the talk," a heart-wrenching rite of passage in a world where the actions of Black person can carry life-or-death consequences. Dr. Eschmann's educational journey, from a magnet school that starkl...

In a compelling episode of Reimagining Black Relations, we welcome two exceptional guests, Dr. Fayron Epps and Karah Alexander, who are on a mission to enhance the quality of life for Black caregivers. Dr. Epps, with over two decades of experience in nursing and a wealth of knowledge in creating culturally relevant health programs, joins Karah Alexander, a dedicated PhD candidate, to shed light on the unique challenges faced by Black dementia caregivers. Together, they delve deep into the dis...

In a thought-provoking interview, Dr. Rob Eschmann, a multifaceted talent from Chicago, unveils the subtle yet pervasive forms of racism in the 21st century. Rooted in his academic journey that began in Chicago Public Schools and culminated in a PhD from the University of Chicago, Dr. Eschmann sheds light on pressing issues, including educational inequality, community violence, and racism. His scholarly work exposes the intricate barriers to racial and economic equity, emphasizing the courage...

In an eye-opening conversation that transcends the ordinary, Van Williams, the Vice President of Information Technology Services and Chief Information Officer for the University of California's sprawling $40+ billion-dollar enterprise, takes us on an inspiring journey through the complexities of being Black in America. From a transformative semester that pushed the boundaries of personal resilience to a deep-seated appreciation for the Bahamas' sense of community, empathy, and kindness, Van's...

Archbishop Isiah Mcoshwa Simelane, the remarkable, visionary founder and overseer of the Evangelical Gospel Church of South Africa, whose wisdom transcends borders and generations, graciously offered his profound insight in this awe-inspiring interview. The Archbishop shared enlightening perspectives on the pivotal role of missionaries in shaping the lives of Black South Africans. As he delves fearlessly into the depths of truth, he unveiled the poignant reality of a profound lack of trust th...

Nii Ayikwei Parkes, an acclaimed Ghanaian-British writer, editor, and a prominent voice among black intellectuals in the UK, delivers a powerful message on the persistent challenges encountered by Black writers. Currently engaged in groundbreaking research on "Philosophical connections between Africa and the African Diaspora in the "New World"" at the Hutchins Center at Harvard University. Parkes eloquently exposes the stifling impact of cliches that plague Black writers. With poignant clarit...

Fayron Epps, PhD, RN, a nurse with 20+ years’ experience creating culturally relevant programs to reduce health disparities for underserved populations, highlighted significant health findings, negatively impacting the Black community. Dr. Epps passionately implored patients, their families, caregivers, and spiritual leaders to be engaged, for it is clear the status quo will be insufficient to sustain the community, and the consequences could be dire. The impending threat emphasize...

Dr. Debora Kayembe, Lord Rector of the 440 year old, University of Edinburgh, Scotland and the first person of color to occupy the position. She shared the history of her country of origin as the rape capital of the world, where five women were raped every two seconds. Debora's investigation into the killings of Blacks in her country revealed that the aim was not to kill, but to exterminate. Dr. Kayembe provided deeper insight on the strategy to employ for solutions to Black issues."I cried t...

Dr. Nomsa Khalfani, Co-CEO of Essential Access Health and founder of Khalfani Strategy Group acknowledged the progress that was made in the past, was for the past; she highlighted the need to revisit and update with relevant current advancements."They referred to me as a militant when I went to college, it's like I became this revolutionist... that was when I officially changed my name, how I dressed, the books I read, and how I function in the world..." - Dr. Nomsa Khalfani

Dr. Santos Ramos, an assistant Professor of Integrative Studies at Grand Valley State University is a mixed Mexican-Irish-American. His research and teaching centers on the Intersections of Latin American Studies, Intercultural Competence, and Digital Technology.He introduced the concept of Sovereignty in his work on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, while emphasizing the research necessary for historical context of policy brutality, prison industrial complex, and current protests."I'm defini...