NOW - No Opportunity Wasted with Angelica Ross

In this episode of "No Opportunity Wasted," we talk about the importance of self-knowledge and self-leadership, emphasizing that we are the architects of our own lives. I kick off the episode with a powerful quote from Daisaku Ikeda's "Buddhism Day by Day," which highlights the significance of knowing oneself as a foundation for human dignity. Later we welcome back Renita Shannon, a former Georgia state representative and activist as we tackle the pressing issues surrounding the current political landscape, particularly the frustrations with the Democratic Party's complacency and the ongoing political challenges, including tariff wars with Canada, Mexico, and China. Renita breaks down the complexities of tariffs, explaining how they impact not just foreign countries but also American consumers, leading to increased costs for everyday goods. We explore the broader implications of these political decisions, including how they affect jobs and the economy. Renita passionately critiques the motivations behind voting for Trump, asserting that many voters were driven by bigotry rather than economic concerns. We discuss the need for accountability within the Democratic Party and the importance of resistance, even when it comes from within the party itself. The conversation shifts to the ballroom culture, where I introduce our next guest, Dashaun Wesley, a legendary figure in the ballroom scene. Dashaun shares his experiences of navigating the complexities of identity and acceptance within both the ballroom community and mainstream society. He reflects on the evolution of ballroom culture, highlighting the importance of self-expression and the need for education about the roots of our community. Throughout the episode, we emphasize the necessity of community support and resilience in the face of adversity. We discuss how the personal is political, and how our individual journeys of self-knowledge can lead to collective empowerment. As we wrap up, I encourage listeners to embrace their own narratives and seize opportunities, reminding them that waiting for someone else to create change is a losing game. Join us for this very enlightening conversation that challenges the status quo and hopefully inspires us all to take action in our lives and communities.

In this episode of "Now No Opportunity Wasted," we delve into a raw and honest conversation with Jerome Trammell, a talented producer known for his work with Fox Soul and various prominent figures in the entertainment industry. This episode is part of my ongoing journey to share previously unreleased conversations that challenge me and push the boundaries of comfort, particularly around topics that are often deemed too messy or controversial. We kick off the episode with a thought-provoking quote from Daisaku Ikeda's "Day by Day Wisdom for a Modern Life," emphasizing the importance of living a full and rewarding life rather than merely existing. This theme resonates throughout our discussion as we explore the complexities of representation, social media dynamics, and the intricacies of identity within our community. Before diving into our main conversation, I address some pressing social issues, including the recent arrest of Palestinian activist Mamoud Khalil by ICE, which raises concerns about the targeting of pro-Palestinian activists under both Republican and Democratic administrations. I stress the need for accountability across party lines and highlight the ongoing attacks on marginalized communities, particularly trans rights. As we transition into the "Make It Make Sense" segment, I welcome my friend Renita Shannon to break down the latest political foolery, including the alarming trend of federal workers being fired indiscriminately under the Trump administration. We discuss the implications of these actions on essential services and the broader impact on our society, particularly regarding the treatment of trans individuals in the military. Returning to my conversation with Jerome, we explore his journey from a passionate educator to a prominent voice in television production. Jerome shares his experiences navigating the challenges of being a flamboyant Black man in education and how he transitioned into the world of social media commentary, ultimately leading to his success in the entertainment industry. Throughout our discussion, we touch on the complexities of interracial relationships within the Black community, particularly in the context of dating preferences and societal influences. Jerome and I engage in a candid dialogue about the importance of understanding the dynamics at play and the need for radical love and acceptance within our community. We also dissect the recent HBO Max show featuring Jerrod Carmichael, examining the nuances of representation and the potential pitfalls of portraying personal experiences without acknowledging the broader community context. Our conversation highlights the importance of authenticity and the responsibility that comes with sharing one's narrative in a public space. This episode is a rich tapestry of insights, humor, and heartfelt discussions, reminding us that while we may face challenges, it is essential to embrace our truths and continue pushing for meaningful conversations that foster understanding and growth. Join us as we navigate these complex topics and celebrate the beauty of living authentically. 00:00:00 - Introduction and Context Welcome back to the podcast, where Angelica Ross discusses her journey of sharing previously hesitant episodes, featuring Jerome Trammell. 00:02:11 - Buddhist Wisdom Angelica shares a quote from Daisaku Ikeda about living a full and rewarding life, emphasizing quality over quantity. 00:03:19 - Current Events and Activism Discussion on the arrest of Palestinian activist Mamoud Khalil and the implications of recent executive orders targeting pro-Palestinian activists. 00:06:00 - Make It Make Sense Segment Angelica introduces Renita Shannon to break down recent political events, including federal worker firings under the Trump administration. 00:10:33 - Trans Rights and Military Policy Renita explains the Trump administration's directive to remove transgender individuals from the military, highlighting the implications for those serving. 00:14:05 - Cultural Commentary on Trans Issues Discussion on the societal perception of trans individuals and the ongoing attacks on trans rights, emphasizing the need for solidarity. 00:18:10 - Political Accountability The conversation shifts to the responsibility of voters and the impact of political decisions on marginalized communities. 00:20:17 - Medicaid Cuts and Public Health Renita and Angelica discuss the potential cuts to Medicaid and the broader implications for public health and access to care. 00:23:16 - NOW Jerome Trammell Angelica introduces Jerome Trammell, discussing his background and journey into television production. 00:26:16 - Jerome's Early Life and Education Jerome shares his upbringing in Milwaukee and his initial aspirations to become a teacher before transitioning to social media and production. 00:30:48 - Navigating Identity in Education Jerome reflects on his experiences as a gay man in the education system and the challenges he faced from parents and society. 00:33:05 - Social Media and Authenticity Discussion on the importance of being authentic on social media and how Jerome navigates his public persona. 00:34:19 - Gerard Carmichael's Show Angelica and Jerome analyze the mixed reviews of Gerard Carmichael's show, discussing themes of race and representation. 00:39:02 - Interracial Relationships and Community The conversation explores the complexities of interracial relationships within the Black community and the societal narratives surrounding them. 00:44:27 - Radical Love and Healing Jerome and Angelica discuss the importance of radical love and understanding within the Black community, especially regarding interpersonal relationships. 00:48:19 - Conclusion of the Discussion The segment wraps up with reflections on the themes discussed and the importance of ongoing conversations about identity and representation.

In this episode of "Now, No Opportunity Wasted," I, Angelica Ross, return to the podcast after a long hiatus, bringing with me a wealth of experience and growth. I kick off the episode with an inspiring passage from Daisaku Ikeda's "Buddhism Day by Day," emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility and confronting challenges head-on. This theme resonates deeply with my own journey and the current state of the world. In a new segment titled "Now Make It Make Sense," I welcome former Georgia State Representative Renita Shannon to help dissect the political noise surrounding current events, particularly focusing on the ongoing Trump saga. We dive into the promises made by Trump during his campaign, particularly regarding inflation, and discuss the reality of his administration's failures. Renita and I analyze the disconnect between Trump's rhetoric and the lived experiences of everyday Americans, especially in light of rising prices for essentials like eggs and gas. We also tackle the implications of Trump's policies, including the controversial SAVE Act, which threatens to complicate voter registration processes and disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including trans individuals and married women. Renita highlights the dangers of erasing databases that track police misconduct, emphasizing the need for accountability in law enforcement. As the conversation unfolds, we reflect on the broader implications of these political maneuvers and the importance of community resilience. I express my commitment to fighting for our rights and the necessity of being prepared for the challenges ahead. In the latter part of the episode, I introduce my guest, Hope Giselle, a fellow activist and leader in the movement. We discuss the complexities of navigating public spaces as Black trans women, the challenges of being perceived through societal lenses, and the importance of mutual support and grace within our community. Hope shares her experiences of showing up authentically, even in spaces that may not always feel safe, and we explore the significance of accountability and growth in our interactions with one another. Throughout this episode, I aim to foster a sense of hope and empowerment, encouraging listeners to confront the realities of our political landscape while also nurturing our community bonds. Join us as we navigate these critical conversations and strive for a more inclusive future.

In this episode of "No Opportunity Wasted," I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Leo Moore, a remarkable physician whose journey is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of community support. We kicked off our conversation by checking in on Dr. Moore's well-being, and he shared how his busy day of patient care and administrative work had him looking forward to our discussion. The core theme of our podcast revolves around how individuals navigate challenges and seize opportunities throughout their lives. I expressed my belief that everyone faces obstacles, regardless of their background or appearance, and it is our responses to these challenges that define us. Dr. Moore's story exemplifies this notion, particularly as a Black man in the medical field. Dr. Moore reflected on the strong foundation he received from his family, particularly the influence of his mother, grandmother, and aunts, all of whom worked in healthcare. He shared that he is the first doctor in his family, and his family's unwavering support nurtured his dream of becoming a physician from a young age. This support was crucial, especially when he encountered the daunting realities of medical school, including the financial burdens and the rigorous academic demands. A pivotal moment in Dr. Moore's journey occurred when he met a Black emergency medicine physician during high school. This encounter crystallized his dream of becoming a doctor, as he finally saw someone who looked like him thriving in the profession. He emphasized the importance of representation and mentorship in shaping his aspirations. We also discussed the significance of programs like "Minority to Majority," which provided him with opportunities to learn and grow in a predominantly white environment. Dr. Moore expressed concern over the decline of such programs and the impact this has on future generations. As we delved deeper into his experiences, Dr. Moore candidly shared the challenges he faced as a Black physician navigating predominantly white institutions. He highlighted the importance of confidence in his training at a historically Black medical school, which equipped him to serve diverse communities effectively. Our conversation took a poignant turn when Dr. Moore recounted his recent experience with cardiac arrest during an elective procedure. He described the harrowing moments of being in cardiac arrest for over nine minutes and the subsequent journey of recovery. Dr. Moore's resilience and commitment to his health were evident as he shared how he quickly returned to his routine, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness and mental fortitude. We also touched on the broader implications of health disparities, particularly within the Black community, and the need for open conversations about health, trust, and misinformation. Dr. Moore passionately advocated for addressing stigma surrounding HIV and the importance of education in combating misinformation. Towards the end of our conversation, we explored Dr. Moore's personal life, including his journey of coming out as a Black gay man. He shared the challenges he faced in a religious household and the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity. His reflections on love, spirituality, and the qualities he seeks in a partner were both insightful and inspiring. This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community, the importance of representation, and the resilience required to overcome life's challenges. Dr. Leo Moore's story is not just about his journey in medicine; it is a celebration of hope, purpose, and the unwavering belief that we can all make a difference in our lives and the lives of others.

Join Angelica Ross in a compelling conversation with Shea Couleé as they explore her journey from a crafty queen to a Marvel star. In this insightful interview, Shea discusses her personal growth and the importance of navigating the entertainment industry while championing the LGBTQ+ community. Dive into stories about Shea's early days in Chicago, the challenges faced by Black queens, and her ascent to polished stardom. The video highlights the significance of voting, embracing identity, and challenging social issues to create a more peaceful and just world. Angelica's deep understanding of social dynamics and her background as founder of TransTech adds depth to their discussion, touching on the intersection of personal empowerment and community advocacy. With expert storytelling, they address the need for authentic representation in media and the impact of Shea's work on broader societal change. Engage with the video by sharing your thoughts in the comments, subscribing for more empowering discussions, and spreading the message of inclusivity and resilience.