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Empowering Black Men and Boys: Andre Franklin's Vision for Community Leadership and Wealth-Building
Andre Franklin discussed BUILD 206's mission to develop leadership in black men and boys. He highlighted their community events, partnerships, and the Black Build Black Wealth Incubator Program, which offers funding and support to young entrepreneurs.
The Power of Community: Simon Okelo's Madaraka Festival Celebrates 11 Years of Impact
Simon Okelo discussed the Madaraka Festival's origins and growth since 2014. The event supports youth programs in East Africa, unites African communities, and celebrates Kenyan independence. Entering its 11th year, the Madaraka Festival is scheduled for September 6 at Pier 62 in Seattle.
Demontrice Bigham's Vision for Mentorship and Community Through The Alain Locke Initiative
Demontrice Bigham's powerful conversation with Trae Holiday on The Day with Trae sheds light on the critical need for mentorship among young Black queer men. As the founder of the Alain LockE Initiative, Bigham draws from his experiences as a former Director of Housing at an HBCU and his own journey of self-discovery to address the guidance gap in our community.
From Idea to Impact: Laura Clise's Journey with Intentionalist and the Buy Black Card
#SupportBlackBusiness - Founder of Intentionalist, Laura Clise, discusses Intentionalist's mission to support diverse local businesses, the Buy Black Card initiative, and Black History Month collaborations with Seattle sports teams to promote intentional spending in black-owned establishments.
Nurturing Mental Health During Black History Month: Insights from Chevonna Gaylor
Mental Health Expert, Chevonna Gaylor discusses mental health strategies with Trae Holiday, emphasizing the importance of staying present, choosing productive responses to emotions, and maintaining community connections during challenging times.
Winfield Ezell Jr: A Storyteller's Journey at Converge Media
Winfield Ezell Jr joins Trae in the Black Media Matters Studio. He talks about his new role with Converge Media as the Chief Storyteller and how he's bringing his longstanding career expertise to the team. Winfield shares his journey from Mississippi to the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing the power of community-driven narratives.
DJ Topspin: Innovating the Art of DJing in a Digital Age
DJ Topspin, also known as Blendiana Jones, shared insights into his innovative approach to DJing during the COVID-19 pandemic in his interview with Trae Holiday. He discussed adapting to online performances using the "tip jar" concept, which allowed DJs to continue their artistry despite venue closures.
An Accidental Passion: How Whitney Williams Created Brown Girl Charcuterie
Whitney Williams, the creative force behind Brown Girl Charcuterie, sat down with Trae Holiday to recount her unexpected entry into the world of charcuterie, sparked by a desire to host a memorable birthday party. Whitney emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses and creating lasting memories for her clients.
Dr. Renee McCoy's Urgent Call for Community Action on HIV/AIDS
Dr. Renee McCoy discusses HIV's ongoing impact on Black communities, urging action, education, and support. She promotes a town hall meeting to address stigma and improve prevention and care access.
Presidential Transportation CEO La’Keith Asphy Shares His Journey on Building A Transportation Empire
In his interview with Trae Holiday, La’Keith Asphy owner of Presidential Transportation shared the inspiring story of his transportation business's expansion, speaking about the pride of owning commercial vehicles with his name on them, a rarity among Black business owners. Asphy detailed his company's growth from a small limo service to a fleet including luxury coaches and party buses.
From Pop-Ups to Powerhouse: Tina Fahnbulleh Dishes on Gold Coast Ghal Kitchen's Journey
Tina Fahnbulleh's passion for cooking began at the tender age of four, leading her on a flavorful journey from Philly to Minnesota and finally to Seattle. Her culinary adventure started with pop-ups and catering gigs, eventually blossoming into the beloved Gold Coast Ghal Kitchen seven years later.
Besa Gordon: From Radio Waves to TV Screens
Trae Holiday and Besa Gordon, Host of Back2Besa connect for conversation, talking about her show and some of the highlights Besa is ready for this year.
Takiyah TDUB Ward: Empowering Artists and Amplifying Voices
Trae sits with Takiyah TDUB Ward. She talks about the return of her show, Art of the Matter, and what she's looking forward to this year.
Sheila Kay Shares Her Musical Journey and Upcoming Show Addressing Black Lives and Gun Violence with Trae Holiday
Sheila Kay shared her musical journey, from singing at age four to her upcoming show addressing Black Lives and gun violence. Kay emphasized community connections and passion for raising awareness.
Remembering A Visionary: Trae Holiday Honors Elijah L. Lewis's Legacy
Trae Holiday honors Elijah L. Lewis's legacy in a powerful special, highlighting his community impact and entrepreneurial spirit. As the murder trial begins, Holiday encourages support through courtroom presence and continuing Elijah's work in uplifting the community.
Sadé McInnis, Brings Diversity To Bainbridge Island As Senior Manager of Cultural & Community Programs for Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
Trae Holiday sat with Sadé McInnis, Senior Manager of Cultural & Community Programs for Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BHM). She tells us about Radiant Reflections, an exhibit they're hosting and more about BHM programming.
Preparing for the Upcoming "Respiratory Season" with CDC's Dr. Amy Xie
CDC Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Dr. Amy Xie emphasized the importance of preparing for the upcoming "respiratory season" through proactive measures. "The best way to protect ourselves is to prepare our immune systems with vaccines," she advised, urging the public to stay up-to-date on flu, COVID-19, whooping cough, and RSV vaccinations.
Trae Holiday Ends the Season with a Bang, Next Stop: Kenya’s Madaraka Festival
From the season finale of The Day With Trae to the world stage in Kenya, Trae Holiday is taking her brilliance global! Emceeing the Madaraka Festival, reconnecting with roots, and inspiring through legacy, culture, and community.
Besa Gordon Brings the Pacific Northwest's Black Brilliance to the National Stage on Fox Soul
Besa Gordon emphasizes the importance of authentically representing the diverse black communities across the Pacific Northwest as "Back to Besa" expands to the national Fox Soul platform. She stressed, "It's about our community. It's about what our community should look like to the general public."
Besa Gordon takes Black Media Matters Studio to National Stage on FOX SOUL
From Seattle’s Central District to a national platform, Besa Gordon’s journey is a story of resilience, dreams, and community. With Back2Besa premiering on FOX SOUL Dec. 7 at 4 pm. She’s not just showcasing her voice—she’s amplifying the stories of others while staying true to her roots. “It’s not just about me; it’s about us.”