Olders Shows...
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December 8, 2008 – Reflections on Christmas
We talk about Christmas in light of the harsh economic reality of 2008. How do you have a happy Christmas with little resources? My guests share their thinking about how less money can lead to more thoughtful giving. Our conversation also looks at the values we impart via the gifts we give. Please join us and send me your great gift ideas that don’t take a lot of money but create lots of good memories.
December 1, 2008 – Reflections on the summer of 1993
In the summer of 1993, 55 plus young people were brought together to experience UNC. For all the new college students, this brief moment of their lives has created lasting memories and true friends. We look back and ponder how they have fared. Join me on this Richard Brown show as six people from the group think back on their college years and share pearls of wisdom from our combined knowledge/experience.
November 24, 2008 – Engaging Autism
There is little coverage of autism in the black community. On this show we plan to change that, we explore how autism affects the life of a mother, her sons, and their family. My guest, Diane Miller shares her nine year battle with autism and what she has learned that will help anyone working with young kids. We all want the best for our children. What Diane wants for her two boys is not any different, but how she will get them there will be. Join me as we discuss the sacrifices and the tickle sessions Diane has with her two autistic boys on this Richard Brown show.
Autism
November 17, 2008 – Prop 8
Even as some still have smiles on their faces from the results of the election, there are reasons to be wary. A three state referendum on who has the right to marry was carried out. These states want marriage to be accessible to heterosexual couples only. On the phone, Mr. Alexander Robinson, the CEO of the National Black Justice Coalition gives his understanding of the situation. In the studio, Bruce Thomas explains how to let go of fear. It needs to be clearly stated the very people who are against gays having access to civil unions/marriage have also fought to contract rights for black people. We take a hard look at the issues and opportunities on this Richard Brown Show.
November 11, 2008 – After the election
As the final votes are tabulated a new consensus says the country has been heading in the wrong direction. Even in North Carolina, we want a different course with new leadership. My guests, Crystal Fisher and Delores Bailey talk about what change might mean for themselves, their family, and the community. My guests point out race was not as big a factor as many thought. On this show, we discuss what role the economy and race played in the election. I have felt a need to ask the black community to clearly outline where we want to go. It is not Barrack’s “job” to take us to the promise land. We the community have to take the time clearly describe what are our top concerns and how we going to get there. I believe one lesson that everyone is taking from this election is that there is more opportunity than people are taking advantage of. Join me as we assume our new responsibilities under new leadership on this Richard Brown show.
November 3, 2008
With just hours before an historic election, Emma Battle and I discuss our hopes for the community, our families and the country. Please take the time to learn about the policies of the people running for judgeship, Governor, house, senate, and yes President. Then go vote.
October 27, 2008 – Political outlook 2008
We talk politics as we get closer to November 4, 2008. Every election you hear “this is the most important election ever.” While much is at stake, I don’t fall for the doom and gloom talk. More important, I feel strongly that if you are not spending time doing long range planning then you will never get ahead. Without question the upcoming election will guide our top priorities and how we will work together for the next ten years. We are charged with giving our children opportunities and a clean/safe world. Will we meet these expectations? Join me as Stella Adams and I talk about the presidential, judges, senate and governor’s race with an eye for long range planning on this Richard Brown show.
October 20, 2008 – Black parenting: Grading the community and yourself
Terence Scarborough and Melvin Watson join me as we discuss our daughters, and parenting. As, engaged black fathers that want the best for their girls, the media and consumerism sometimes have goals that don’t line up with what my guests believe is the best path for their daughters. These thoughtful fathers give examples of how the media provides unwanted guidance on clothes, food, career aspirations to name a few. How do you make decisions that ensure your voice as the parent is the most important one your child hears? We talk about informal networks that help parent’s sidestep some of the pitfalls. And finally a frank discussion concerning how we as a black community can and should improve our parenting skills. We adults may not like to hear it but we all have room for improvement and it is for the kids. Please join me for this very important conversation on this Richard Brown show.
October 13, 2008 – HIV and loving yourself
Selena Monk joins me in a conversation about the HIV virus and the black community. So many times the sobering statistics of HIV within the black community is pushed as a wake up call for us to act. The community does have some understanding of the disease and how it is contracted yet risky behaviors persist. The current negative framing has not been sufficient to change all of our behavior, so on this show, we share what I think is a different way to discuss HIV/AIDS. Tips and products for healthy sexual exploration are included along side the sobering statistics. We also cover where to get tested and how to talk with your partner about why getting tested is important. As Selena Mack pointed out so much goes back to loving yourself. Join me as we engage in a conversation about our community, our HIV problem and our love as a solution on this Richard Brown show.
October 6, 2008 – What corporate America means to me
Growing up black and poor doesn’t mean that you have to stay poor. Emma Battle grew up in Winston Salem NC, her mother a domestic worker and her father worked at RJ Reynolds. Even though her parents didn’t finish high school, they valued an education as their child’s top priority. When they could afford to they moved the best neighborhood and thus school. They even made it possible for Emma to attend boarding school in Massachusetts to increase her career opportunities. Learn how she navigated the projects, segregated schools, and college to finally arrive in corporate America. Her story is inspiring and can help you if you chose corporate American as the means to achieve your goals on the next Richard Brown show.
Sept 29, 2008 – A path to redemption
Seventeen years is a lot of life. What could you accomplish if you worked toward a goal every day for seventeen years? Bruce Thomas was in prison for that length of time and during it found a new path. In jail for armed robbery, he let go of anger, self pity, and hate. He replaced his negative thoughts with a study of religious text, meditation and finally peace. Many inmates get out of prison only to return within a few years. No so with Bruce, ten years out of jail he reflects on his life experiences and why he has been successful. More than a few of us are searching for inner peace, learn how Bruce began his journey toward redemption on the next Richard Brown show.
Sept 22, 2008 – To succeed and excel
In uncertain times getting an excellent education is always a good move. Terri Houston, Director for Recruitment and Multicultural Programs at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has a wonderful perspective that many students of color should be aware of. She shares what students of color need to have before coming to a large institution as well as what programs/systems universities are implementing to incorporate their diverse population into the fabric of higher education. Values, historical context, and academic rigor are just some of the topics we discuss on this Richard Brown show. Join me as we engage in conversation of investment in our youth and future.
Sept 15, 2008 – As markets drop and economic fear grows
Marcus Shaw, Investment Annalist for Piedmont Investment Advisors works with large pensions to meet their financial goals. On this show, he shares his market insight and how you as an individual (investor) should position yourself. It is not just the daily dire business news that has many of us uneasy, it is that bad news plus the massive amounts of debt that we know we have owed for far too long that has many worried that the party is truly over. Marcus shares the statistics but more importantly the value set that lowers the unhealthy debt carried by many Americans and especially people of color. Join me as we learn how to better manage our financial life on this Richard Brown radio show.
Sept 8, 2008 - How the economy is touching peoples lives
On this radio show we talk with three guests, Kenya Myers, Torrance McFadden, and Adam Rust. They share how the continued slow economy is affecting their lives, their families, and their options. These individuals are having a conversation about their unique set of circumstances yet the conversation does link in important ways to the policies of the current U.S. administration and what future opportunities present themselves. Often we have little control over the economy at large but we can be more prepared. Join me as we do just that prepare/search for solutions on this Richard Brown radio show.
Sept 1, 2008 - Learning what Ebonics says to us
Ebonics is not just non Standard English. It is a starting point that can unlock conversations of cultural awareness, openness and how we bring out the best in students. For the black community our mode of speaking is a sensitive topic. For within the black community, the use of Standard English is oftentimes made fun of by peers so that those who do excel at Standard English do so at their own peril. But as this conversation with Dr. Roosevelt Farmer points out, Ebonics is more than just the changing of the “th” sound to the “b” sound. It is a litmus test for students to teachers “if you don’t understand or accept my method of speaking, do you accept me, do you accept my peers, my parents, my church?” What does this non acceptance do to the academic curiosity of our black students? This show brought clarity to me around how we might engage parents, teachers, and our community to better serve today’s youth. For further information about Ebonics also check out this website . I hope you listen in to this excellent Richard Brown radio show.
Aug 25, 2008 – As we approach a new paradigm in race and politics
With less than 80 days to the next presidential election, it is becoming clear that old alliances are weakening and new coalitions are forming. Our ability to understand and talk about race is changing. Barack Obama and his story is central to hastening this change. It strikes me America has one question to answer, are we willing to try change? Our guest David Swerlick looks at the cultural questions that Obama is bringing to the fore with his presidential candidacy. There is much at stake and it is imperative that African American’s understand the opportunities and challenges ahead. Join us as we explore just that on this Richard Brown show.
Aug 18, 2008 – The White Standard of Leadership
As I hear people talk about race more and more there is discussion about “a post race” society. A new study out of Duke University provides a very different perspective about our country. It found that Americans expect business leaders to be white. This bias held true across racial lines. On our show, we take some time to think about the validity, assumptions and conclusions of the study with two wonderful guests author Sharon Hill and success coach Martin Brossman. We layout several methods to overcome these lowered expectations on the next Richard Brown radio show.
Aug 11, 2008 – Community Conversation concerning race
Carrboro NC, population of 17,000 has it’s unique features and one is our own low powered FM radio station. On Aug 11, 2008 three radio shows got together to host a 3 hour community conversation about race. Alderpeople, concerned citizens, clergy and the like came in the studio to talk about current race dialog in the community. We all opened up to a race conversation about what brings us together. I hope that similar conversations can happen across the country. Check out this special radio show.
Aug 4, 2008 – Learning to love yourself in spite of
Bruce Thomas over the last twenty plus years has experienced a range of emotions that few live and tell about. His story is one that has many lessons to tell. For me, one of the most important is the lesson of redemption. Each and everyone of us have fallen down, the question is can we get do the necessary work to get back up. Bruce’s story of a prison sentence of ninety years speaks volumes his ability to move in a positive and different direction. Learn how he freed himself on this Richard Brown show.
July 28, 2008 – Miss Black NC 2008
I speak with the current Miss Black NC, Audrey Cox and founder of Noire Productions, Anthony Vann. Audrey Cox tells about her title, strong finish in the National Miss Black USA Scholarship Pageant, and work with students in Warren County Middle schools. Anthony Vann describes his focus serving the community via his work with Miss Black NC, Teen Essence and gospel plays. Join us as we talk about service to others via a unique lens.
July 21, 2008 – Understanding how this current market can hurt or help you.
When you hear the news: companies are laying people off daily, stock market prices continue to go down, oil prices are staying at record highs, and your 401K seems to be getting smaller at every turn. Add the mix governmental bailout of several big financial companies and yet individuals continue to lose their home? As a person who is concerned about their job, their money, and their future, how do you make decisions with all this going on? Ed Fullbright, CPA host of Mastering Your Money gets us grounded and a direction to follow. Understanding where we are in the business and our own financial life cycle will without question help to give us some peace of mind and hope! This conversation can help us to make it through these tough times and this is our purpose on this Richard Brown show.
July 14, 2008 – Protecting your home in bad economic times
The coverage about this current economic downturn we are in doesn’t give enough attention to the most effected, children. We look at how you can protect yourself and your family. Also we touch on where you should look for resources that can help in these lean times? Stella Adams gives a marco-economic primer on the forces that are currently changing our lives for example, the regulator changes at the Fed that she had a hand in putting in place. All this and more in this Richard Brown show.
July 7, 2008 – Technology is it making our lives better
A recent study shows that some are not buying that faster internet is making their lives better. About 35 percent of the dial up users are content and don’t wish to change to board band internet. Without question the internet has changed how we go about our life but is all that change positive? We will take a look at some new software out and how we are interacting with these products.
June 23, 2008 show – South Africa and the new violence
The high price of food and gas are not just hurting people in U.S. but also South Africa. Add high unemployment and continued broken economic polices by the ruling party to bring relief and the doubt should be not if there is violence but when. Join me as Dr. Rivers’ talks about his forthcoming book “Governing Hate and Race in the United States and South Africa. “ We will discuss his book and some of the underlying reasons for the increased violence in South Africa on the next show.
June 9, 2008 show – Where we live and how we got there
People don’t usually think about where they live as a policy question. Blacks, especially those with few means, have been relegated to ghettos with substandard everything. It seems this socially and perhaps government sanctioned ostracizing of poor blacks in high concentrated areas that people talk about but few really want to deal with is an accepted practice. One Anthropologist is looking at the issue with an eye to understanding how the pieces fit together. Can we do better? What policies are the most important in aiding poor people’s upward mobility out of the hood? What can be done to fundamentally change the hoods negative traits? Join me as we delve into these issues on the next Richard Brown show.
June 2, 2008 show – From Labor to equal opportunity understanding the rules of the game
Dr. John Chapman joins us in a conversation about race, class, and Chapel Hill. He explains how fighting against badly named awards and buildings named after notorious individuals affects us, even today. The struggles he has engaged in illuminate where some of the fault lines of race and class are in today’s society. We discuss the need to continue to be engaged in positive social change in our community and what institutional racism looks like. Join me as we discuss past, present, and future of combating racism in Chapel Hill and the world.
May 23, 2008 show – Understanding Black DJ’s from 1960’s up to today
Looking back over the last few decades, Black DJ’s became a key linchpin in black life. They not only selected and played the funkiest music but they listened and clarified black struggles through their commentary and actions. Black DJ standing on the front lines had to combat social, economic change of not just the radio advertising but our world. With few resources Black DJ’s continued to find innovative ways to debate and encourage stronger black existence. Join me as we discuss how Black DJ grew into these powers on the next show.
May 19, 2008 show – The music of Kim Arrington
On the next show, Kim Arrington is going to share her new CD with us: her music, her story, her sound. Pulling together a CD takes so many things and Kim will share what it takes to get the job done. Join us as we listen to the cd and learn where you can catch Kim on tour on the next Richard Brown radio show. Come hear her CD deput .
May 12, 2008 show – Understanding the challenges facing rural America
On the next show we will be joined be a frequent guest, Omisade Burney-Scott to get an understanding and grounding in rural America. As a staff person at the Southern Rural Development Initiative, Omisade has access to dialog across several states and a unique understanding of what some of the most pressing issues are for rural America. Join me on the next Richard Brown radio show.
May 5, 2008 show – Finding to reasons for change
We talk with John Chapman who has worked in the Chapel Hill Carborro area for social justice issues for many years. From gathering information on the Freedom riders in the area to UNC housekeepers, we will explore some of the local issues that continue to need attention and voice. The needs of the community continue to be unmet; Learn about some of the work that John is doing that gives voice to the unmet needs in the community on the next show.
April 28, 2008 show – Understanding school choices for our children
The continued educational attainment gap for black children is a troubling statistic. Those of us who are parents don’t deal in statistics; instead we have to make the best decisions possible for our children. We may not always have a lot of resources handy but being an active part of our child’s educational process we provide enough guidance to get our children all the way through college. For parents, it takes energy, focus and a willingness to learn what systems are in place in our unique environment. On the next show we will be joined by parents who can share their experience and enrich our understanding of the problems and opportunities that present themselves to guiding black children along the educational process.
April 21, 2008 show – A conversation with Black Fathers
On the next show, we will share a few brothers’ experiences as black fathers. There can be great emotion that comes along with being a father. We will learn from our guests, how their experiences affect their lives. I remember clearly, my own fears before my first child was born. The new responsibility felt different than any other weight in the world. My understanding of that responsibility has changed over the years but it is no less an important part of my daily focus. My fatherhood has brought much joy in my life. Join me as we discuss how we might excel in this aspect of black life.
April 14, 2008 show – Learning from Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Inc
There are times when answers are not simple and just take time to explain. For example, when your parents are from different races or cultures, people sometimes say you are just the race of one parent but there is simply more to the story. Similar conversations occur when folk of one race (take your pick) associate with another race too much. I believe such narrow minded views are slowly changing but they do still exist. On the show we chat with some of the talented women of Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. They will share their thoughts, experience, and understanding of their role in our community. Few of us have had as many multicultural conversations as these women and perhaps we can open our minds and hearts to gain greater appreciation for all.
April 7, 2008 show – A look at how sports allows us to talk across race
While growing up, one few ways I saw people talk across race was to talk about the weather. Given how few people work in farming in today’s society, weather is not used nearly as frequently. I have found that sports have taken up some of the “weather” conversation space. It provides for surface conversations as well as an opportunity to delve deeper. It also allows for people of different economic classes to be on the same team. But as many barriers as sports break down, it also creates other problems. On the show we talk with an expert about how sports are used as a medium to talk across race and sometimes about race. We will also explore some of its inherent limitations. Finally, we will of course find out what is going on with your favorite team.
March 31, 2008 show – News mic check
We will explore the news with a new format on this radio show. We will have diverse guests discuss and share their views on the current news stories over the past month that is shaping our world. Their analysis and perspective may not agree but it is important that we continue to try to have sincere conversations about race, politics, beliefs and values because these issues are never shaped in a vacuum or without emotion. We hope to use current news to one discuss these bedrock beliefs with people who don’t share our own point of view and two to attempt to learn more about our assumptions.
March 24, 2008 show – When we talk about race
Obama is not alone in discussing race. Professors since W.E.B. Dubois have studied race with great care. Even today there many in higher education who find the subject still has many unanswered questions. On Monday, we will have the opportunity to get a primer on academic race discussions by Dr. Tomeiko Carter, interim Director of the Institute of African American Research. Please join us to learn more about the ever expanding and nuanced academic conversation about race that is happening across this country.
March 17, 2008 show – When we let our emotions lead us astray
With so much happening in the world, what should we focus on? Just in the last few weeks there are sex scandal, political name calling, economic support for a large financial company and a local murder of promising young student. It is a lot to take in. Hey, let’s not forget March madness is in full swing. With all these topics and concerns coming up, what should we really focus on? On the show, I will reflect on what news we take in and how that reaffirms our sense of the world around us. Perhaps just perhaps we can also self reflect on what news we consume and start to evaluate our own preconceived notions.
March 10, 2008 show – Is adoption right for you
Adoption of a child is a very personal process. From the decision to place your child in the adoption process, to the parents who are looking for a child, it can really be a deep self examination that most people would rather not share with the world; Still parents do so to be accepted as guardians of adoptive children. Across much of the state, many of the “hard to place” children are black. Yet there are concerns about placing black children with a non black family. Just about every study speaks to stability in the home giving children the best opportunity to succeed. This debate is difficult one to be sure and one of many that come up as you begin to look at adoption. Join us as we begin to look at some of the issues concerning young black children in the system on the next show.
March 3, 2008 show – An update on the real estate market in 2008
Over the last four to five years, people have used their home as a secondary source of income, borrowing against future appreciation. Experts have estimated that the housing market has been a large driving force in the national economic boom during this time. Clearly in 2008 this type of active has come to halt and the contracting housing market is causing the loss of wealth across race and class. Even in the current market, there are still people interested in buying and selling real estate. What are the new credit requirements? How do you price your home in a market that seems to be losing equity? And let’s not forget those who may be on the verge of losing their home. Where can they turn? We will take a second look at real estate in 2008 to lay plans and prepare on the next Richard Brown show.
February 25, 2008 show – A historical perspective of Black Labor since the 1960’s
On the show, we take a detailed look at Labor union’s between 1960 and 1980. In particular, how much of their agenda became part of the fabric of everyday life for today’s workers. When we think of labor unions, it is usually with very little perspective of the black workers role within the movement. On this show we aim to provide a much deeper context. We will have a better understanding of the labor struggles faced particularly by people of color during this time period and its future ramifications.
February 18, 2008 show – The Big Pay Back
Student loans for African Americans have become so common place the question is not if you owe, it is how much. As tuition rates continue to climb, the financial choices we make as college students need to be even more astute. Learn how to better prepare for college loans on the next Richard Brown show.
February 11, 2008 show – Political change is in the air but, are we positioning ourselves properly?
Obama has been able to call forth deep and passionate hope unseen since JFK. For a Presidential candidate that is wonderful attribute. For that candidate to be black is nothing less than historic. Often times in the past, African American’s have gotten excited about the potential a candidate brings. Yet hope is not enough. It must be tempered with institutional understanding and political muscle. Combining all these attributes can create a new and long lasting opportunity for the betterment of the community. Join me as we explore possibilities and get a glimpse of the paradigm shift leading up to the 2008 election.
February 4, 2008 show –Bling bling during tax time may not be a good thing
Everybody doesn’t make Wesley Snipes’ type money but like him, most of us want to keep the majority of it! And let’s be very clear, Snipes is not the only person having issues with taxes. Most African American’s work a nine to five and every pay period have taxes taken out by our employer. Come early January we all see the tv ads, radio commercials, and signs in local businesses claiming to “get your taxes done here fast” so you can supposedly buy that new furniture set, new car, or just get your money quick. But we all know everything that glitters isn’t gold. So explore with us some of the schemes used to get at your hard earned money and how you can better protect yourself & your dollars during this tax season on the next show.
January 28, 2008 show – Not losing focus
With February almost upon us, how many people have already given up on their New Year’s resolution to be active, get fit, and lose weight? Often we blame it on the need for 30 more minutes of sleep or being to tired after work, but are there other issues that hinder us from staying focused on our health goal? Join us as we chat with a health expert who will give us motivational tools to stay on the path to a healthy and active lifestyle.
January 21, 2008 show – Service to the community
On this national holiday, what better way to honor Dr. King’s legacy than to talk about service to the community. Communiversity is a local program that continues to bring the hopes and wishes of the civil rights era to reality. Based in Chapel Hill, the program works with surrounding youths to achieve higher academic attainment through classes held on campus. The program is primarily run by UNC undergraduate students and they work with community kids, 5-18 to increase their English, math and science skills. Join me as we learn more about Communiversity, and more about service to the community
January 14, 2008 show – What will be the state of real estate in 08
Banks are losing money, the Fed is very concerned about a recession and all because of 07’s four letter word “sub-prime.” With a new year starting, what will be the outlook for buyers and sellers given banks are taking a much harder look at a persons credit profile prior to lending them money? What can African Americans with real estate concerns do to protect their homes, family and credit? Check out the show as we learn what we should expect in the coming year.
January 7, 2008 – Finding a path that controls our money & establishes our legacy part 2
Five years from now do you have a good idea of where you will be financially? Will it be better or will you be working the same job, making the same money and have the same problems? If you answered yes to these questions then it might be time to start planning and setting longer term goals. On the next show, we will revisit the idea of taking control of your money and legacy by using planning to start to assess the current situation and plot a path for the future.
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