Musings of Jessica Marie

There’s nothing better than an ice-cold Lime Coke Zero... and if you know where I can consistently find one, let me know! 😂 It’s become a rare treat since so many restaurants have gotten rid of their Coke Freestyle machines, which means I have to go on a full-blown scavenger hunt anytime I want one. In this Historical Spotlight, we take a closer look at Coca-Cola’s history, the discriminatory pol...

There are countless examples throughout history of Black Americans standing up, organizing, resisting, and demanding to be treated with dignity and fairness. Despite generations of injustice, discrimination, and impossible circumstances, we’ve continued to push forward and fight for change rather than allow our voices to be silenced. In this Historical Spotlight, we take a closer look at the 1970...

Within the last year or so, my husband and I have officially added track and field to our list of must-watch sports. He loves the long-distance races while I’m always locked in on the sprinters and relay teams. Between race highlights on YouTube, following athletes online, and tuning in whenever a meet is on TV, we’ve become fully invested in the sport. Whether it’s athletes competing for Olympic...

To a certain extent, this country has long been shaped by systems of hypersurveillance, over-policing, and covert operations kept hidden behind closed doors. From explicit programs like COINTELPRO to more subtle forms of propaganda, it can be difficult to decipher intent when power and control are involved. History shows that when individuals, especially within the Black community, use their platf...

Sometimes, all it takes is one positive encounter to change the trajectory of a young person's life. Mentorship, guidance, and strong role models can make a world of difference, especially during childhood and adolescence when people are still discovering who they are and who they want to become. The right influence can open doors, build confidence, and create opportunities that last a lifetime. I...

There are only a handful of movie franchises that my husband and I absolutely have to see in theaters. No matter the release date, we're making plans for the latest Batman, Spider-Man, Planet of the Apes, James Bond, or Star Wars film. We've invested years into the stories, characters, and lore, so missing a new chapter simply isn't an option. That's why we recently planned a movie date to see The...

Sometimes finding your passion takes time. As kids, many of us try different hobbies, interests, and career paths before discovering what truly speaks to us. While some people find their calling early in life, others go through years of trial and error before realizing where they belong. It’s an incredible blessing when your passion not only shapes your career, but also creates lasting change for...

In Black culture, certain artists become more than entertainers…they become timeless legends whose impact lives on for generations. Icons like Bernie Mac, Michael Jackson, Prince, and Luther Vandross continue to be celebrated because their artistry touched hearts in unforgettable ways. And when it comes to powerhouse vocalists, names like Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin helped redefine greatness...

From the time they’re little kids, many athletes dream of making a living doing the sport they love. Turning passion into purpose takes years of hard work, discipline, sacrifice, and perseverance. While countless players have stepped onto the football field hoping to leave their mark, only a select few have achieved true legendary status.  In this Historical Spotlight, we take a closer look a...

I’ve always loved music for the endless variety…different sounds, unique artists, and performances that really move you. No matter your background or taste, there’s something out there for everyone. And behind the scenes, artists and producers have pushed boundaries, created new lanes, and opened doors that weren’t always meant for them. In this Historical Spotlight, we take a look at DJ Quik, a l...

There isn’t a meal I love more than hot wings with lemon pepper sprinkles from American Deli. For a minute, it was my Friday night ritual—and somehow, I never got tired of that spicy, tangy flavor. If you know, you know…it’s a craving that doesn’t quit. But have you ever stopped to think about where that flavor obsession really comes from? In this Historical Spotlight, we dive into the origins of...

Brand loyalty can build an empire…or break it just as quickly. When companies value their customers, they create longevity, innovation, and trust. But when greed and discrimination take center stage, even the most iconic brands can find themselves on the brink of collapse. In this Historical Spotlight, we take a closer look at Cadillac and the powerful, often overlooked role Black Americans played...

It’s wild how quickly simple trends can turn into full-blown cultural movements. With platforms like TikTok, Vine, and Instagram shaping what we see and share, it’s no surprise that everyday moments can evolve into generational influence. From video games, like Need for Speed, Midnight Club 3, and Gran Turismo, to the big screen, car culture has taken on a life of its own. In this Historical Spotl...

Not everyone chooses integrity on the road to success. Some people manipulate, lie, and exploit others to get ahead—driven by greed, jealousy, and a false sense of superiority rooted in things like status, lineage, or skin tone. History has shown us time and time again just how dangerous that mindset can be. In this chilling Historical Spotlight, we uncover the dark truth behind the LaLaurie Mansi...

Every creative starts somewhere—with a dream, a gift, and the determination to be seen. Whether it’s painting, dancing, singing, or spoken word, the journey to becoming a household name is built on resilience, consistency, and growth. Not everyone makes it, but those who do leave a legacy that inspires generations. Join me as we take a deeper look at the rise, impact, and cultural influence of Bey...

It’s hard to ignore how deeply discrimination has shaped history…and how often Black Americans have had to fight for a fair chance despite their undeniable contributions to society. From slavery to segregation and beyond, the fight for equality hasn’t been easy, and in many ways, it’s still ongoing.  Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Lockheed Martin and take a closer look at the d...

March is one of the most exciting times of the year for basketball fans. From the madness of the NCAA Division I Men's and Women’s Basketball Tournaments to the playoff race heating up in the NBA, this is the season where players build legacies and unforgettable moments happen on the court. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Jamal Crawford, one of the smoothest ball handlers and most cr...

Basketball has constantly evolved as new players enter the league and leave their mark on the game. Legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James continue to fuel the endless GOAT debate long after their prime years. But not every influential player fit the league’s traditional mold. Some stars had to battle criticism, stereotypes, and media scrutiny while simply trying to play the ga...

The Olympics represent the pinnacle of dedication, sacrifice, and national pride, but for many athletes, simply getting the chance to compete required breaking barriers first. As the excitement of the 2026 Winter Olympics wraps up, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the pioneers who made space for others to follow.  Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Debi Thomas, a trailblazing Bl...

The idea of driving an electric car once felt like something out of the future, but today, it’s becoming part of the modern American dream. As brands like Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid Motors compete with more traditional manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, and Ford, electric vehicle technology continues to reshape the automotive industry. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Denise Gray, an...

Tennis was the first sport I truly fell in love with. What started as curiosity after watching the Australian Open quickly turned into passion, even though the sport has long carried stereotypes rooted in racism, elitism, and exclusion. Black women in tennis have often been labeled unfairly, scrutinized more harshly, and pushed to the margins, but some refused to be silenced. Join me as we shine a...

The Grim Reaper is one of the most recognizable symbols of death in Western culture—a hooded shadow, a sharp scythe, and centuries of fear wrapped into a single image. But what if the legend wasn’t just folklore? What if it was inspired by a real person? Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Solomon Fairfax, an enslaved American who earned the nickname “Grim Reaper” while fighting fiercely...

Making it to the Super Bowl is the dream, but only a small fraction of players ever get the chance to chase a Lombardi Trophy. Careers are shaped by injuries, roster changes, and timing, yet a rare few are so dominant that they redefine the game no matter the circumstances. Join me for a Historical Spotlight on Randy Moss, one of the greatest wide receivers to ever step on the field and a player w...

For many of us, our first introduction to the Statue of Liberty came from Schoolhouse Rock! and the unforgettable “Great American Melting Pot.” A whole generation grew up singing about Lady Liberty as a symbol of freedom and hope. Behind the torch and crown lies a deeper history that’s often overlooked. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on the Statue of Liberty and uncover the lesser-know...

The fight for Black liberation has never been confined to the borders of the United States. Across the globe, there have always been revolutionaries who stood up against oppression and demanded equality for Black people. From chattel slavery in the Caribbean to forced servitude in Europe, anti-Blackness has shaped history worldwide. Join me for a Historical Spotlight on Vicente Guerrero, the first...