Noire The Podcast

Native Omaha Days 2025 - PART 2

The heartbeat of North Omaha continues in Part 2 of our special NOIRE the Podcast series on Native Omaha Days 2025. Recorded live on historic 24th Street outside the Shirley Tyree Theater, this episode brings together voices of resilience, memory, and vision from across the community. Each story adds to the powerful mosaic of what makes North Omaha extraordinary, while also calling for stronger connections and offering encouragement for the next generation. Native Omaha Days is more than a festival - it is a living testament to heritage, community, and the spirit of coming home. Join hosts Dr. Nichelle Horton Brown and Jade Rogers as they celebrate the voices that keep the culture thriving. Because in North Omaha, every story shines. Featured guests: Kimira Snipes, Frida Skaggs, Thomas Curry, Destiny Cole, Robert Brown, Mya, Timothy Hayes, Bernard Perryman

Native Omaha Days 2025 - Part 1

There’s nothing quite like Native Omaha Days! A vibrant homecoming and cultural celebration that transforms 24th Street into the heartbeat of North Omaha. In this special episode of NOIRE the Podcast (North Omaha Is Really Extraordinary), we take you to the streets outside the historic Shirley Tyree Theater, where generations gather to reminisce, celebrate, and share what North Omaha means to them. Through powerful conversations with returning alumni, lifelong residents, community leaders, and young visionaries, you’ll hear stories of resilience, joy, and hope. From childhood memories of neighborhood schools and parades, to reflections on Black educators who shaped lives, to dreams of thriving businesses, safe spaces for youth, and a renewed 24th Street, each voice adds to the extraordinary tapestry of this community. Native Omaha Days began 50 years ago thanks to the vision of Mrs. Betty McDonald and Ms. Vera Johnson. Today, it’s not just a festival. It’s a living legacy of connection, pride, and love for North Omaha. Join hosts Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and Jade Rogers as they capture the spirit of the celebration and uplift the voices that keep the tradition alive. Because when the community comes home, North Omaha shines brightest. Featured guest: Paula Joe Rodgers, Earl Poole, Hope Atkins, Raymond Scott, Marcy Gibson, Alfonso Shade, Lakesha Green and LaRaiya Johnson. NOIRE (North Omaha Is Really Extraordinary) celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, support, and encourage one another through powerful conversations and uplifting messages. Follow us on Instagram at ⁠@noirethepodcast⁠!

Denise Scales, Former President of Descendants of DeWitty NE

In NOIRE the Podcast's 30th episode, Dr. Niki talks with former President of DESCENDANTS OF DEWITTY NE, (and her late mother-in-law) Denise Scales , who shared her journey of discovering her African American heritage, particularly focusing on her family's history connected to DeWitty and North Buxton. She discussed the importance of education, community, and passing down knowledge to future generations. The conversation highlights the struggles and achievements of her ancestors, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's roots and the impact of history on personal identity. NOIRE (North Omaha Is Really Extraordinary) celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, support, and encourage one another through powerful conversations and uplifting messages. Follow us on Instagram at ⁠@noirethepodcast⁠!

Ep29 - Denise Chapman

In this episode, Dr. Nikki and Jade talk with and explore the life and journey of Denise Chapman, a theater practitioner from Omaha, Nebraska. Denise shares her experiences growing up in a supportive family, her educational journey, and her passion for the performing arts. She reflects on her roots, the influence of her grandmother, and her commitment to community connection through theater. The conversation highlights the importance of cultural heritage, education, and the arts in shaping identity and community. Denise reflects on her experiences in theater, emphasizing the importance of community, collaboration, and personal growth. She also discusses her journey from acting to directing, the significance of creating authentic representations of individuals in their work, and the joy found in family and community connections. / NOIRE (North Omaha Is Really Extraordinary) celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, support, and encourage one another through powerful conversations and uplifting messages. Follow us on Instagram at ⁠@noirethepodcast⁠!

Ep28 - LaVonya Goodwin

In this episode, Dr. Nikki and Jade talk with LaVonya Goodwin, a candidate for the second district city council seat in Omaha. They discuss LaVonya's deep roots in Omaha, her educational journey, and the legacy of her family in the community. LaVonya shares her motivations for returning to North Omaha and her commitment to driving change within the community. The conversation transitions into her political aspirations, focusing on her vision for District 2 and the importance of collaboration among community members to foster growth and development. / NOIRE (North Omaha Is Really Extraordinary) celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, support, and encourage one another through powerful conversations and uplifting messages. Follow us on Instagram at ⁠@noirethepodcast⁠!