Blacklining Forum

E23: Results 2024: What's the Vision?

Malia Lazu, a powerhouse in diversity and inclusion strategy, joins us for our first conversation after the 2024 U.S. presidential election. We chat about the importance of rest, the power of community, and what it means to truly love Black people—and ourselves—ferociously.
In a world that feels uncertain, politically, socially, and environmentally, we're reminded of the lessons from our ancestors and predecessors of the strength we have within. Whether it's finding solace in the quiet, or building networks that can uplift or provide escape, we explore paths to freedom during a rising authoritarian tide.

E22: Land & Water

Melony and Derek get realer about the upcoming election and the pressing issues that are shaping it.
The duo explore evolving sources of power, both political and natural. As climate change accelerates, they question the value of land and mobility, and how these elements shape Black freedom. It's a complex web of questions about capital, community, and the future of our environment.
As they discuss the stakes of the election, the role of government, and the impact of climate change on our lives, they also challenging themselves - and listeners - to think about what they truly value.

E21: Countdown to Election 2024

The Blacklining Forum is back with an October surprise.
Melony and Derek delve into the 2024 U.S. presidential election (only 28 days away at the time of the recording) and its potential intersections on Black wealth, power, and land. They discuss the complexities of the political landscape, the tight race, and the potential implications for Black communities. Reflecting on past administrations, they ponder whether the future holds a new era akin to the New Deal or a resurgence of Jim Crow.
The two share personal anecdotes and insights on the socio-political climate, highlighting the shifts in Black power across different eras. They examine the roles of literature, arts, sports, and hip-hop in shaping the Black American image and influencing cultural narratives.
As they navigate the uncertainties of the future, Melony and Derek emphasize the importance of vigilance, proactive engagement, and the need for strong leadership. They encourage listeners to consider the potential for societal evolution and the seeds of hope that can be nurtured within communities.
Join them for the first in a series of compelling conversations that challenge conventional thinking and inspire reflection on the future of Black wealth, power, and land in the face of political and social change.

E20: Hip-Hop and Gen X

Holla at us, Gen X! This episode is about you.
Independent journalist and content creator, Gregory Ball, brings his wealth of knowledge and shares insights on the cultural and economic impact of hip hop and it's influence on Gen X, both of which are now in their 50s.
Greg's conversation with Melony and Derek touches on the roots of hip hop as a form of resistance, resilience, expression, and aspiration in the face of socioeconomic challenges. They also discuss whether and how the genre has matured, stayed true to its roots, and/or been a window into the desires of its earliest followers. For example, have the aspirations and teachings of hip hop icons like Jay-Z translated into real power and economic stability for the broader generation?
Additionally, as they reflect on the need for community, connectivity, and cultural pride, they also ponder the future of hip hop and its ongoing role in shaping identity and social dynamics. In short, from The Message to Fight the Power to My President, this is a wide-ranging conversation that re-examines the podcast's tagline about Black power and wealth through a new lens.

E19: Opening the Archives

There's power inherent in crafting communities in your own likeness. In this episode, we begin by briefly comparing images and stories from the concurrent narratives of the Harlem Renaissance and the Great Migration. From there, our guest, Jay Cephas, an historian of architecture, landscapes, and cities, shares his insights and research on the overlooked - and suppressed - contributions of Black architects and builders throughout American history.
Jay walks us through an expansive and rich history, from the days of enslavement through Reconstruction and into the early 20th century. He highlights the significant impact generations of Black tradespeople had on shaping urban environments and building communities, despite facing systemic barriers and exclusions. Additionally, Jay introduces us to the Black Architects Archive, an interactive repository documenting the work of Black architects, builders, and contractors in North America.
In short, we have an enlightening and inspiring conversation showcasing how Black Americans built schools, churches, and other vital structures with limited resources, and left an enduring impact on the American landscape.

E18: Wills & Trusts

Guest Kerry Reilly returns for a sobering-yet-important episode that takes a deeper dive into wills, trusts, and the importance of estate planning. The conversation addresses the worrying fact that a vast majority of Black Americans lack a legally-framed will, and how this oversight could prevent their participation in the largest wealth transfer in US history. Examples include high-profile celebrities like Chadwick Boseman, Prince, and Aretha Franklin, who tragically passed away with no wills - or unclear ones - triggering complex financial headaches for their heirs.
Kerry Riley navigates us through the maze of legalities surrounding wills and trusts, providing practical advice and clarifying common misconceptions. She explains how these legal documents operate before and after death, how frequent updates should be, and distinct issues regarding tangible property and real estate ownership. In particular, Kerry provides an easy-to-grasp analogy of trusts as a "lockbox" for assets. She also notes the varying implications of owning a property individually vs in joint tenancy, adding layers to the discussion.

E17: Dynastic Black Wealth

What's the difference between generational wealth and dynastic wealth?
Dr. LaTanya White, a scholar-practitioner who specializes in the intersections of global competitiveness, equity, entrepreneurship, and the racial wealth gap, joins us to introduce the concept of dynastic wealth, breaking down its five key forms — financial, spiritual, intellectual, relational, and wealth of knowledge — and how they can be intentionally cultivated and passed down through generations. She also discusses the importance of mindset, entrepreneurship, and community in building sustainable wealth.
Through practical examples and insightful anecdotes, Dr. White provides listeners with actionable steps to start meaningful conversations about wealth within their own families. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply looking to understand how to create a lasting legacy, you'll hear valuable perspectives and resources to help you on your journey.
Learn how to transform your approach to wealth, legacy, and community impact, ensuring that future generations are not only financially secure but also rich in knowledge, identity, and purpose.
Dr. White also offers a complimentary Wealth Personality Quiz online at https://meetdrwhite.com/shownotes. 

E16: Blaxit

Who's an expat?
Who's an immigrant?
How does being a Black person from the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada complicate the idea of those identities when personal and societal experiences, perceptions, and feelings are factored in?
Derek and Melony discuss the historical impacts and societal implications of these notions with guests Margo Gabriel, a journalist based in Portugal, and Karleen Porcena, a globetrotting scholar of comparative politics. Our discussion also captures the personal journeys and insights we've each had overseas, from the Dominican Republic to Japan.
During the conversation, we unpack and critique the significance of Black Westerners "going back" to Africa with the complexities of lived experiences, anticipated discrimination, and entitlement. We also question the source of Black freedom when it's detached from ownership of land.
Our shared experiences and reflections offer takeaways for individuals considering international relocation or seeking to understand the experiences of Black Americans abroad, as we emphasize seeing ourselves beyond our socialized expectations and embracing the responsibilities of a broader worldview. Whether you're an aspiring traveler or have been away from your home country for a while, this episode is your ticket to explore the horizons of the global Black experience.