Black Is America

Restored Voice | A Black Is America Documentary Film Black Is America has always explored the systems, people, and moments that shape the Black experience in America through history, culture, and storytelling. But this episode is different. Restored Voice marks a new direction for the series, an observational short documentary film following a citywide voter registration and voter restoration driv...

n this episode, we confront one of the most common misconceptions about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: the idea that it lowers standards. Using the story of the Tuskegee Airmen, we examine how systemic barriers, not lack of ability, have historically limited access to opportunity. Despite facing segregation, the Airmen trained under rigorous military standards and went on to become one of the m...

Spent the day at Hitsville USA with my brothers, The Ummah Collective Group. Afterwards I rode around Detroit, listening to my guy Al Peterson share what the experience meant to him. This mini episode of Black is America was created in collaboration with the Ummah Collective Group. 

Otis Blackwell helped write the sound of modern America. He wrote "Don't Be Cruel." He wrote "All Shook Up." He wrote "Fever." His songs helped launch Elvis Presley's rise at the exact moment rock and roll went global — yet his name remains largely unknown. In this episode of Black Is America , we examine the life, craft, and legacy of Otis Blackwell — the Brooklyn-born songwriter whose structure,...

The American Heartbeat  marks the opening of Season 5 of Black Is America . One hundred years after Negro History Week was established to safeguard Black history, this film serves as a reminder that the story was never separate to begin with. Black history is not an appendix to America's narrative — it is woven through its foundation. From labor and culture to service, faith, innovation, and memor...

In this segment from Black Is America , host Dominic Lawson brings us to the starting line of three iconic races—three Black women in three different eras, each running not just against the clock but against the world's expectations. Wilma Rudolph, who as a child was told she'd never walk again, shatters barriers at the 1960 Rome Olympics, becoming the fastest woman on the planet. Florence "Flo Jo...

Episode Description: In this inspiring episode of Black Is America , host Dominic Lawson takes us on a cinematic, time-traveling journey through the lives of three iconic Black women whose speed transcended the track: Wilma Rudolph, Florence Griffith Joyner (Flo Jo), and Sha'Carri Richardson. Joined by Olympic gold medalist Moushaumi Robinson, Dominic explores how each of these women didn't just r...

On January 31st, 1988, under the bright lights of San Diego's Jack Murphy Stadium, Doug "Uncle Dougie" Williams made history as the first Black quarterback to start in a Super Bowl. Across from him stood NFL golden boy John Elway—and a chorus of doubts that had shadowed Black quarterbacks for decades. The game couldn't have started worse: a 56-yard touchdown on Denver's first play, a 10–0 deficit...

In this episode of Black Is America , we highlight the groundbreaking journey of Doug Williams, the first Black quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl. From his early days in Zachary, Louisiana, to Grambling State under legendary coach Eddie Robinson, to breaking barriers in the NFL, Williams' career is a testament to resilience, intelligence, and excellence. But Williams' path was anything but...

🎙️ Welcome Back to Black Is America – Season 4 🎙️ The critically acclaimed, 20x award-winning Black Is America Podcast returns for an exciting new season! This isn't just another season—it's a new era. We're bringing you fresh stories, stunning new cover art by Alexandria Eddings, and the same unwavering commitment to Black excellence, resilience, and innovation. This season, host Dominic Lawson e...

Before he became a celebrated American hero, Sergeant First Class Alwyn "Al" Cashe was a kid from Oviedo, Florida—the youngest of ten, raised on hard work, family values, and a fearless spirit. In this episode, we trace the early life and influences that shaped him, from fishing trips and daredevil stunts to a father's timeless lesson: "Whatever you do, do it like you're putting your name on it."...

On October 17th, 2005, during his second tour in Iraq, Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe faced the unthinkable. A sandstorm forced his unit off aerial patrols and into Bradley Fighting Vehicles along a dangerous supply route near Samarra. When an improvised explosive device tore through his vehicle, igniting its fuel and trapping his men inside, Cashe—already soaked in fuel—ran headlong into enemy...

In this episode of Black is America podcast, delve into the inspiring story of Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe, a remarkable African-American hero of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Host Dominic Lawson narrates the gripping account of Cashe's selfless bravery on a fateful night in October 2005. Learn about his early life in Oviedo, Florida, his distinguished military career, and the extraordinary courag...

This episode explores the life and career of Anne Lowe, a pioneering African American fashion designer who dressed high society elites in the early to mid 20th century. We learn about her early life in Alabama, training in New York, moving to Harlem during the Renaissance, and most famously designing Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress. Timeline: Early Life & Training Born in Clayton, AL in 1898 Le...

This episode of the Black is America podcast tells the story of Guy Bluford, the first African American astronaut in space. We'll explore his early life and inspirations, his path to NASA, the historical significance of his achievement, and his spaceflights. Guy Bluford's Upbringing and Early Inspiration - Guy Bluford was born in 1942 in Philadelphia, PA and became fascinated with aviation and eng...

A preview of season 3

This special Juneteenth episode of the Black Is America podcast delves into the life and legacy of Barbara Jordan, an American lawyer, educator, and politician who was a leading force in the Democratic Party. Known as a "Protector of American Democracy," Jordan left an indelible mark on American history. Part 1: The episode begins with an introduction to Barbara Jordan, a trailblazer born and rais...

In this special Memorial Day presentation of the Black Is America podcast, we explore the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Doris "Dorie" Miller. From his humble beginnings in Waco, Texas, to his decision to join the Navy during a time of racial segregation, Dorie's story captivates and inspires.  We first set the stage for his extraordinary path. Next, we delve into the events leading up...

In the #BlackHistoryMonthFinale, host Dominic Lawson tells the inspiring story of Sergeant Henry Johnson, the first American hero of World War I. Johnson was a member of the 369th Infantry Regiment, an all-black unit known as the Harlem Hellfighters, and his bravery and sacrifice in battle helped to establish the United States as a military superpower firmly. Despite facing racism and discriminati...

Introduction: In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Sylvia Robinson, the music executive and producer who brought hip hop to the masses and changed the music landscape forever. Sylvia was the founder of Sugar Hill Records and was responsible for producing some of the biggest hip hop hits of all time. Segment 1: Ed Anderson, a DJ at the station, was asked to play the song during the...

The award-winning podcast returns with all-new stories of great African Americans.  In this preview, we share audience reviews and how the show faired during award season. We also share the opening for the season 2 premiere of Doris Miller: The American Defender. Lastly, we pay tribute to civil rights legend and historian Carl Westmoreland.   Season 2 of the Black Is America podcast debuts on Feb....

In the season one finale of Black Is America, we share the story of Tom Lee. On May 8, 1925, when the M.E. Norman steamer suffered a catastrophic failure, Tom Lee saved thirty-two people from the Mississippi River. Fellow Memphian and historian Terri Stephens comes along for the ride to tell the tale of the humble hero.    In this episode, you will hear: Why was Tom Lee on the river that day? Why...

In August 1963, people traveled far and wide to Washington DC to advocate for civil rights. They took planes, trains, and automobiles. However, one man traveled there in a different way.    To commemorate the 59th anniversary of the March on Washington For Jobs and Freedom, we lace up our skates to tell the story of Ledger "Roller Man" Smith and his almost 700-mile journey to Washington DC.    In...

How did Black America help birth a nation? In this special episode of the Black Is America podcast, we explore the story of the known patriots like Crispus Attucks and also some of the lesser-known ones like Peter Salem and Salem Poor. We also make the case why the 4th of July is very important to Black America.  In this episode, you will hear: How George Washington felt about enslaved black peopl...

How did Black America create Memorial Day?  In this special episode of the Black Is America podcast, we explore the little-known story of recently enslaved citizens of Charleston, South Carolina, honored Union soldiers.  In doing so, they inadvertently create a holiday we celebrate today. In this episode, you will hear: How the Charlestonians honored the Union Soldiers Who was given credit for cre...