Don’t Assimilate, Accelerate

Why Are Millennials Leaving the Black Church?

Is the Black Church losing a generation—or is a new generation searching for a different way to connect with faith? On this episode of History of Being Black, Dr. Johnathan JeVon White sits down with Rachael Banks, doctoral student, scholar, and educator, for a thoughtful conversation about the evolving relationship between millennials and the Black Church. Drawing from both personal experience and academic research, Rachael reflects on her journey from growing up deeply rooted in the church to examining why so many young Black adults are stepping away from traditional congregations. Together, they explore difficult but necessary conversations around church hurt, hypocrisy, authenticity, generational disconnect, and what it means to feel seen, valued, and spiritually fulfilled. The discussion also looks to history for guidance, highlighting the legacy of Richard Allen and the founding of independent Black churches as examples of communities reclaiming spaces that reflected their values, dignity, and faith. As the conversation unfolds, Rachael challenges listeners to consider what today's church can learn from its own history and how it can evolve to meet the spiritual and communal needs of future generations. This episode is an invitation to reflect, question, and imagine a church that continues to serve as a place of healing, belonging, and hope for every generation. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media app. Follow, rate, comment, and share!

Don’t Assimilate, Accelerate

How do you turn small-town roots into a global platform for change? In this inspiring episode of History of Being Black, Dr. Johnathan JeVon White sits down with renowned diversity, equity, and inclusion leader Celeste Warren to explore the experiences, relationships, and purpose that shaped her extraordinary journey from a steel mill town to becoming one of the nation's most respected voices on workplace equity and inclusive leadership. Celeste reflects on the profound influence of her family, mentors, and community in developing the values that have guided her career. She shares how those early lessons prepared her to lead courageous conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion at the highest levels of corporate America. Throughout the conversation, Celeste challenges listeners to think beyond representation alone, explaining that true inclusion requires intentional leadership, measurable outcomes, and environments where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. She discusses the importance of using data to drive meaningful change, navigating resistance to DEI initiatives, and maintaining focus on long-term progress even in the face of adversity. The discussion also highlights Destination STEM, Celeste's initiative to expand opportunities and increase representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. She explains why investing in future generations is essential to creating more equitable industries and stronger communities. Above all, this episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is rooted in service, courage, and the willingness to open doors for others. Celeste leaves listeners with an inspiring call to remain engaged, support one another, and continue advancing equity and opportunity wherever they live and work. Join Dr. White and Celeste Warren for a meaningful conversation about purpose, perseverance, and the collective responsibility of building a more inclusive future. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share this episode with your network.

Drum Major for Justice: Congresswoman Summer Lee

What inspires someone to step into the political arena and dedicate their life to the pursuit of justice? In this compelling episode of History of Being Black, Dr. Johnathan JeVon White sits down with Congresswoman Summer Lee for an insightful conversation about her journey from community advocate to one of the nation's most influential voices for equity, justice, and social change. Congresswoman Lee reflects on the experiences that shaped her commitment to public service, sharing how her passion for advocacy began long before she entered elected office. She discusses the role education played in developing her worldview, the importance of community organizing as a catalyst for change, and the lessons she learned working alongside grassroots movements fighting for equity and opportunity. The conversation also explores the unique challenges and responsibilities of serving as a Black woman in spaces where representation has historically been limited. Congresswoman Lee offers a candid perspective on navigating political institutions, confronting systemic barriers, and remaining grounded in the communities that inspired her work. Throughout the episode, Dr. White and Congresswoman Lee examine the power of collective action and the importance of building movements that extend beyond any one individual. Together, they discuss what it means to create lasting change and why investing in future generations is essential to advancing justice and strengthening democracy. At its core, this episode is a conversation about purpose, leadership, and legacy. Congresswoman Lee reminds listeners that meaningful progress requires courage, community, and a willingness to continue the work, even when the path forward is difficult. Join us for an inspiring discussion with a modern-day drum major for justice who is helping shape the future while honoring the struggles and sacrifices of those who came before. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share this episode with your network.

We've Been Here Before: Voting Rights

What does the future of democracy look like when the protections of the past are being challenged? In this thought-provoking episode of History of Being Black, Dr. Johnathan JeVon White sits down with Dr. Stefan Wheelock to examine the impact of recent Supreme Court decisions on the Voting Rights Act and what they mean for the ongoing struggle for civil rights, political representation, and democratic participation in America. Together, they explore the historical significance of voting rights protections, tracing the long journey from disenfranchisement and exclusion to the hard-fought gains achieved through decades of activism, organizing, and legislative action. The conversation places today's legal and political developments within a broader historical context, highlighting both the progress that has been made and the challenges that remain. Dr. Wheelock and Dr. White discuss the resilience of Black communities in the face of systemic barriers and the importance of civic engagement as a tool for preserving and expanding democratic participation. They also examine the complexities of racial discourse in America, the role of coalition-building across communities, and the need for a more inclusive vision of democracy rooted in empathy, accountability, and shared responsibility. The conversation does not shy away from the emotional realities of confronting injustice. Instead, it offers a thoughtful exploration of how frustration, disappointment, and anger can be transformed into meaningful action, community engagement, and collective progress. This episode is a powerful reminder that the history of voting rights is not just a story of the past—it's an ongoing conversation about the future of democracy and the role each of us plays in shaping it. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share this episode with your network.

Positively Organizing Everything to Realize Yourself

What happens when poetry becomes more than words on a page—and transforms into a vehicle for healing, identity, and human connection? In this special episode of History of Being Black, Dr. Johnathan JeVon White sits down with two remarkable spoken word artists, IncoMEplete and Jaquaya Inez, for powerful conversations about creativity, storytelling, and the transformative power of poetry. In the first conversation, IncoMEplete reflects on her journey from being a quiet and introspective child to becoming a captivating spoken word performer. She discusses the influences that shaped her artistic voice, the role of mentorship in her development, and the importance of creating emotional connections with audiences through authentic storytelling. The conversation culminates in a moving performance of her deeply personal piece, "Mama Said," offering listeners a glimpse into the vulnerability and strength that define her work. In the second conversation, Jaquaya Inez shares how her love of writing began in Pittsburgh and evolved into a celebrated career as a spoken word artist. She explores the significance of community, the lessons she's learned through performance, and the ways poetry has served as both a creative outlet and a source of healing. Jaquaya also offers insight into her artistic process and encourages listeners to embrace their own voices and stories. Together, these conversations highlight the enduring tradition of Black storytelling and the role poetry plays in preserving history, expressing truth, and building community. Through their words and experiences, IncoMEplete and Jaquaya Inez remind us that poetry is not only an art form—it is a powerful tool for reflection, resilience, and transformation. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share this episode with your network.