Inside Black Iowa

Grounded in the Storm: Part 3 - Protect

In this episode of the Inside Black Iowa Podcast,  Lya Williams and Paula Bell discuss the final part of their three-part series on being 'Grounded in the Storm.' The conversation emphasizes the importance of proactive protection, self-sufficiency, and community support in navigating life's challenges. Paula shares insights on how to prepare for crises, the significance of self-care, and the role of emotional maturity in making informed decisions. The episode concludes with a powerful summary of the key themes: notice, prepare, and protect. If you would like to be a guest please contact us at Black Iowa News via social media (Facebook or Instagram) or blackiowanews.com [http://blackiowanews.com]. Connect with Paula Bell Email:  contact@paulaabell.com LinkedIn: Paula Bell Facebook: Paula A. Bell Consulting       Key Takeaways: Being reactionary puts you at a disadvantage during crises. Proactive preparation allows for clearer decision-making. Self-sufficiency means having the knowledge and resources to sustain oneself. Community support enhances collective safety and awareness. Self-care is essential for maintaining a calm and regulated state. Emotional maturity aids in processing information and making decisions. Surrounding yourself with informed individuals is crucial for protection. Taking intentional time for self-care is necessary for mental health. Being informed helps in making strategic decisions during crises. Grounding oneself can help navigate through life's storms.

Grounded in the Storm: Part 2 - Prepare with Paula A. Bell

In this episode of Inside Black Iowa, Lya Williams and Paula Bell discuss the importance of education, emotional health, and the cycles of parenting. They explore how ignorance can lead to harmful generational cycles and the necessity of preparing oneself for societal challenges. The conversation emphasizes the need for emotional release, the impact of social media on communication, and the importance of mentorship and knowledge in navigating different environments. Paula shares insights on leadership, the significance of listening, and the power of knowledge in creating options for oneself. If you would like to be a guest please contact us at Black Iowa News via social media or blackiowanews.com [http://blackiowanews.com]. Take aways * Education is crucial to breaking harmful cycles. * Emotional release is necessary for mental health. * Generational knowledge shapes our perspectives. * Survival mode can lead to dangerous assumptions. * Listening to understand is more important than responding. * Mentorship can guide individuals in their journeys. * Cultural differences affect leadership styles. * Knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions. * Failure is a part of growth and learning. * Confidence in oneself is essential for personal development.

Grounded in the Storm: Part 1 - Notice with Paula A. Bell

In this episode of the Inside Black Iowa podcast, host Lya Williams and guest Paula A. Bell discuss the critical importance of education and awareness within the Black community. They explore the consequences of ignorance, the historical context that shapes current realities, and the need for collective action to empower individuals and communities. The conversation emphasizes the role of resources, accountability, and the necessity of engaging with political processes to create meaningful change. Paula A. Bell calls for a reframing of education as a survival tool, urging listeners to educate with purpose and invest in their communities. If you would like to be a guest please contact us at Black Iowa News via social media or blackiowanews.com [http://blackiowanews.com]. .0

Podcast Cousins "The Math Ain't Mathin': Thoughts on the Dr. Roberts Case & the State of Black Safety in Iowa

In this episode of Podcast Cousins, Emili Johnson of Black Girl lowa sits down with her Podcast Cousins-Lya Williams cohost of Inside Black, Daron "360" Richardson of Brothas Gon' Work It Out, and Corey Dion Lewis of The Healthy Project Podcast-to unpack the recent arrest of Dr. lan Roberts, former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, by ICE. Dr. Roberts is more than an educator-he is a leader, an advocate, and a symbol of excellence within the community. His arrest has shaken the Black community in Iowa and beyond, raising urgent questions about safety, justice, and systemic inequities. Together, Emili and her guests explore how Roberts' case impacts students, families, and the broader lowa community. The discussion emphasizes preparedness, accountability, and the resilience required to confront ongoing injustices. What You'll Hear in This Episode: * The systemic injustices behind Dr. Roberts' arrest and what it signals for Black lowans. * Community members' fears, hopes, and calls for accountability. * Why preparedness-through documentation and mutual aid-is vital. * How the case affects not only Roberts but also students, families, and trust in institutions. * Why hope, as one guest says, must be Why hope, as one guest says, must be practiced as "a discipline." Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Pandora, and YouTube.

Preparedness in uncertain times, with security expert Diogenes Ayala

In a world of unknowns, preparation is power. Stay adaptable, stay informed, and build resilience—because uncertainty isn’t a threat, it’s an opportunity to grow stronger.