Inside Black Iowa

In this episode of the Inside Black Iowa Podcast,  Lya Williams and Paula Bell discuss the final part of their three-part series on being 'Grounded in the Storm.' The conversation emphasizes the importance of proactive protection, self-sufficiency, and community support in navigating life's challenges. Paula shares insights on how to prepare for crises, the significance of self-care, a...

In this episode of Inside Black Iowa , Lya Williams and Paula Bell discuss the importance of education, emotional health, and the cycles of parenting. They explore how ignorance can lead to harmful generational cycles and the necessity of preparing oneself for societal challenges. The conversation emphasizes the need for emotional release, the impact of social media on communication, and the impor...

In this episode of the Inside Black Iowa podcast, host Lya Williams and guest Paula A. Bell discuss the critical importance of education and awareness within the Black community. They explore the consequences of ignorance, the historical context that shapes current realities, and the need for collective action to empower individuals and communities. The conversation emphasizes the role of resource...

In this episode of Podcast Cousins, Emili Johnson of Black Girl lowa sits down with her Podcast Cousins-Lya Williams cohost of Inside Black, 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. lan Roberts, former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, by ICE. Dr. Roberts is more than an educa...

In a world of unknowns, preparation is power. Stay adaptable, stay informed, and build resilience—because uncertainty isn’t a threat, it’s an opportunity to grow stronger.

This Inside Black Iowa podcast episode features guest host Lya Williams and financial expert Stoy Hall , founder of Black Mammoth ! Stoy will be breaking down basic financial tips to help you get your money right.

In this episode of the Inside Black Iowa podcast , join guest-host Lya Williams with poet, activist, and founder of the Union of Black America, Antwonette Shade. This special event is an invitation to commemorate Juneteenth – a day of profound historical significance – and experience the dynamic intersection of artistic expression and social justice. What is Juneteenth?  Juneteenth, celebrated ann...

The Western Family Farm was established in 1864. Todd Western III and his mother, Barbara Western, reflect on the family business and the challenges and joy of being Black farmers.

RJ Miller, the executive director of Greater Opportunities, discusses the organization's work in fighting poverty and supporting low-income residents and youth in Des Moines. He emphasizes the importance of providing resources and opportunities for students and families to break the cycle of poverty. Miller shares the rewarding experiences of seeing the impact of their work, particularly in em...

Semehar Ghebredikan thought she'd found a dream job as a community inclusion liaison, engaging in diversity, equity and inclusion #DEI work for the city of Sioux City, Iowa. But three years later, on Feb. 21, 2024, city officials placed a pregnant Ghebredikan on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation. It happened after she filed a federal Equal Employment Opportunity Comm...

Project Bridging in Des Moines is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging the gap between potential and opportunity for females from underserved communities, offering learning experiences and resources that inspire them to forge lasting relationships, affirm their identities and engage actively in crafting a better tomorrow. Its executive director, Patricia Barbee, is the latest Inside Blac...

Inside Black Iowa discussed domestic violence with the founder of Courageous Fire LLC and Courageous Access, which aim to create safe spaces for Black women dealing with domestic violence and other crises. Courageous Fire explains that Courageous Access provides direct services to help Black women and their children rebuild after leaving an abusive relationship, while Courageous Fire LLC focuses o...

In this episode of Inside Black Iowa, host Dana James interviews Craig Farley Jr., the founder of Cignature Productions. They discuss Craig's journey in the field of photography and videography, his various titles and accomplishments, and how his previous jobs have influenced his own business. Craig shares his passion for capturing special moments and helping businesses market themselves. He a...

What really happened during the summer of 2020 protests that swept through Des Moines? Inside Black Iowa asked Just Voices Iowa. The nonprofit group has studied the protests and released The People's History magazine about the Des Moines aftermath of George Floyd's murder.

LaNisha Cassell, the executive director of the African American Museum of Iowa, discusses the museum's recent renovation and upcoming exhibits. The museum, located in Cedar Rapids, aims to preserve and share Black history in Iowa. They have traveling exhibits that reach over 30,000 people annually and a website with resources and information. The museum also hosts events and programs, includin...