Free Black Thought Podcast

H.E. Negash reflects on his Ethiopian heritage and his evolving political journey. He also offers an insightful explanation of Ethiopian Orthodoxy and how it stands apart from other faith traditions.

This conversation explores the often overlooked narratives of old black money and the impact of social capital on identity and success. Mike and Wink discuss historical examples of wealthy black families, the importance of diverse narratives, and the challenges posed by stereotypes and secrecy.

Jen opens up about growing up in Scientology, surviving a traumatic childhood and navigating life as a mixed-race woman. Show notes: Jen on X Tom Cruise yells at movie crew

Kaizen Asiedu shares his journey from growing up in the Bronx to attending Harvard, where he initially felt lost despite achieving academic goals. He discusses his transition into the e-sports industry, where he found direction and success, leading to a sort of awakening during the pandemic. Kaizen advocates for a rethinking of education, focusing on empowering the next generation and fostering cr...

Quinn Que talks about his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a writer and journalist. He discusses the evolution of journalism, the importance of self-education, and the changing landscape of the industry. Quinn emphasizes the need for meritocracy over race-based policies in DEI initiatives and reflects on the impact of AI on writing. He advocates for political moderation and free th...

Courtney Teasley, known as the Black Law Girl, shares her story from growing up in a marginalized community to becoming a lawyer. She discusses issues within the criminal justice system and the importance of legal literacy. Courtney emphasizes the role of lawyers in fighting for their clients and the necessity of understanding one's rights. Show Notes: Courtney’s website Emeffen Family Justice Law...

Season five of the Free Black Thought Podcast kicks off with Dr. Pamela Denise Long (who casually goes by Denise). She shares stories about growing up in Mississippi and moving to Illinois, sharing the life experiences that shaped who she is and how she sees the world. She opens up about how Barack Obama's presidency influenced her thinking and why she’s stayed committed to the Republican Party—ev...

Mike Bowen and Wink Twyman explore the multifaceted themes of black manhood, family dynamics, and the impact of first encounters on perceptions of race.

Wink and Mike dive into how AI is shaking up everything—from jobs and schools to global power plays. They keep it real, balancing excitement with skepticism as they talk about the big stuff: job loss, AI in education, ethical gray areas, and whether machines could one day be conscious. They also touch on China’s AI strategy, the idea of an intelligence explosion in 2027, and how culture (like Japa...

Michael DC Bowen and Winkfield Twyman explore how AI is reshaping law, identity, and human connection. From legal ethics to cultural shifts, they unpack the challenges and possibilities of living with intelligent machines in a rapidly evolving world.

Dr. George A. Yancey shares how his experiences shaped his work as a race scholar and why he thinks today’s DEI efforts are missing the mark. He and host Connie Morgan talk about the need for real, collaborative conversations around race, the politics of Juneteenth, and the rise of black Republicans. Show notes: George’s “The Future of DEI” for the Journal of Free Black Thought George’s website Ge...

Michael DC Bowen and Wink Twyman dive into wide-ranging conversations about writing, the stock market, AI, and Black identity. They explore how personal experience, culture, and technology shape the way we live and think today—always with curiosity and a fresh perspective.

Poet Tim Seibles discusses his journey into poetry, influenced by his mother's love for literature and a college creative writing class. He reflects on growing up in a predominantly black Philadelphia neighborhood and how the 1960s shaped his political perspective. Tim emphasizes the importance of accessible poetry that resonates emotionally and connects with audiences. He shares insights on the c...

Miriam Thompson opens up about her journey from facing learning struggles to thriving in academia. She and host Connie Morgan speak on how COVID affected students, why it’s crucial to hear different perspectives, and the tricky territory of discussing controversial issues in school. Miriam also touches on preparing students for real life, staying open-minded, and the role of therapy. Show notes: M...

In this conversation, Daryl Davis talks about growing up around the world, facing racism as a kid, and what led him to sit down with members of the KKK. It’s a wild, powerful story about curiosity, fear, and how real conversations can change minds. Show notes: Daryl’s book The Klan Whisperer Daryl’s website Prohuman Foundation

In this colorful conversation, Daniel Aldridge shares his journey from a civil rights-focused upbringing to life as a public defender and professor. He talks about the importance of self-education in black history, personal responsibility, and pushing past a victim mindset. Dan challenges romanticized views of crime, critiques how history is taught, and urges individuals to take charge of their ow...

Tess Chakkalakal chats with Connie Morgan about her deep dive into the life and work of Charles W. Chesnutt. They explore race, identity, and the challenges black writers face, especially when expectations clash with lived experience. The conversation highlights Chesnutt’s impact, his key relationships, and why his work still matters today. Show notes: Tess’s A Matter of Complexion: The Life and F...

Anthony Bradley is an expert on family structure and its impact on academic success. He and host Connie Morgan discuss the importance of marriage, fatherhood, and strong family dynamics. Show notes: Anthony on X Anthony on Substack Anthony’s Heroic Fraternities: How College Men Can Save Universities and America

Dr. Sheena Mason opens up about her tough childhood and how it shaped her passion for racial justice and education. She talks about the role literature played in her life, and her journey into academia, where she developed her views on race and anti-racism. Sheena shares her vision of the Togetherness Wayfinder, a framework to challenge racial constructs and promote unity. Show notes Sheena’s book...

Mike and Wink dive into topics like U.S. military actions in Yemen, the impact of asymmetrical warfare, and media influence. They talk about the pros and cons of economic sanctions versus military intervention, plus the role of independent thinkers in today’s media. The conversation also touches on AI's limitations, its impact on society, and its potential for the future. They explore how tech, ra...

In this fun conversation, the Chocolate Knox shares his journey from a charismatic upbringing to embracing Reformed theology. Chocolate Knox also dives into his experiences in ministry, his move to Idaho, and his approach to parenting, highlighting the importance of nurturing each child’s unique talents. An episode for those who like discussing faith and family Show notes: Cross Politic Chocolate...

Music entrepreneur and race abolitionist Greg Thomas shares his passion for jazz and writing, discussing the role of education, music, and his views on race and culture. He emphasizes moving beyond racial identities to focus on cultural contributions and understanding regional differences within black American culture. In this conversation with host Connie Morgan, they explore cultural identity, f...

Gabrielle Clark shares her journey from a diverse upbringing in Houston to becoming a single mother and homeschooling advocate. She discusses the challenges of raising five children after losing her husband, her concerns about indoctrination in the public education system, and her work as a parent coach. Gabrielle emphasizes the importance of parental involvement and the need for education reform,...

Activist Kofi Montzka gives host Connie Morgan advice on finding like-minded individuals and building supportive communities. Kofi shares her thoughts on how the ethnic studies curriculum may promote a narrative of hopelessness for Black children and opens up about the backlash she’s faced for speaking out against these ideas. She also talks about the importance of curiosity over certainty, the ne...

Khadijah La Musa opens up about her unique upbringing, from growing up in a strict Muslim environment to experiencing life at a liberal university. She talks about the mental health struggles she faced during college, how social media and cancel culture impacted her, and her journey toward Buddhism. Khadijah shares her evolving views on feminism and gender ideology and expresses her hopes for a sa...