Podcast Cousins

Summary This podcast episode explores the significance of Kwanzaa, its principles, and its celebration in the Des Moines community. The hosts and guests discuss the origins of Kwanzaa, its cultural importance, and how it fosters unity and collective action. They emphasize the need for community involvement and the role of children in carrying forward the traditions of Kwanzaa. The conversation hig...

Join the Podcast Cousins crew for a hilarious and heartfelt Thanksgiving conversation that feels just like being at the family gathering! From debating who makes the best mac and cheese to confessing controversial food opinions (we're looking at you, collard greens), this episode captures the authentic chaos and joy of Black family holidays. Corey Dion Lewis, Paula Bell, Daron 360 Richardson,...

In this week’s episode of Podcast Cousins, we’re having a real conversation about what it takes to build, sustain, and protect Black-owned businesses in Iowa — especially in spaces where diversity is minimal and community support is inconsistent. We hear the phrase “Iowa Nice” all the time — a cultural idea that Iowans are friendly, polite, and welcoming. But for many Black Iowans, Iowa Nice often...

In this episode of Podcast Cousins, Emili Johnson of Black. Girl. Iowa. sits down with her Podcast Cousins —Lya Williams of Black Iowa News , 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. Ian Roberts, former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, by ICE. Dr. Roberts is more than an educator—he is a...