Noire The Podcast

The heartbeat of North Omaha continues in Part 2 of our special NOIRE the Podcast series on Native Omaha Days 2025. Recorded live on historic 24th Street outside the Shirley Tyree Theater, this episode brings together voices of resilience, memory, and vision from across the community. Each story adds to the powerful mosaic of what makes North Omaha extraordinary, while also calling for stronger co...

There’s nothing quite like Native Omaha Days! A vibrant homecoming and cultural celebration that transforms 24th Street into the heartbeat of North Omaha. In this special episode of NOIRE the Podcast (North Omaha Is Really Extraordinary), we take you to the streets outside the historic Shirley Tyree Theater, where generations gather to reminisce, celebrate, and share what North Omaha means to them...

In NOIRE the Podcast's 30th episode, Dr. Niki talks with former President of DESCENDANTS OF DEWITTY NE, (and her late mother-in-law) Denise Scales , who shared her journey of discovering her African American heritage, particularly focusing on her family's history connected to DeWitty and North Buxton. She discussed the importance of education, community, and passing down knowledge to future genera...

In this episode, Dr. Nikki and Jade talk with and explore the life and journey of Denise Chapman, a theater practitioner from Omaha, Nebraska. Denise shares her experiences growing up in a supportive family, her educational journey, and her passion for the performing arts. She reflects on her roots, the influence of her grandmother, and her commitment to community connection through theater. The c...

In this episode, Dr. Nikki and Jade talk with LaVonya Goodwin, a candidate for the second district city council seat in Omaha. They discuss LaVonya's deep roots in Omaha, her educational journey, and the legacy of her family in the community. LaVonya shares her motivations for returning to North Omaha and her commitment to driving change within the community. The conversation transitions into...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, the Dr. Nikki and Jade connect with Tim Christian, a film producer from Omaha, who shares his journey from education to the entertainment industry. The conversation explores Tim's roots in Omaha, his experiences as a minority in education, and his passion for controlling media narratives. Tim discusses his company, Night Fox Entertainment, and the importan...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, the hosts celebrate the launch of Season Three and reflect on the achievements of the community, including surpassing a thousand plays. They welcome JoAnna LeFlore-Ejike, the Executive Director of the Malcolm X Foundation, who shares her journey from education to her current role. Joanna discusses the importance of civic engagement and cultural preservation, e...

In this season two finale, Dr. Nichelle Horton Brown and Jade Rogers, reflect on the extraordinary individuals who have shared their stories on NOIRE the podcast! NOIRE (North Omaha Is Really Extraordinary) celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connec...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, Nichelle and Jade talk with Wayne Brown, the president and CEO of the Urban League of Nebraska. The conversation delves into the Urban League's initiatives aimed at addressing the racial wealth gap, promoting education, and fostering community engagement. Wayne emphasizes the importance of hope, agency, and social capital in empowering individuals and families...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, Nichelle and Jade engage in a lively conversation with Ashley Kuhn, co-founder of Blair Freeman, a construction firm led by Black women. They discuss Ashley's journey from North Omaha to becoming a successful entrepreneur, and the impact of her work on the community. The conversation also touches on the challenges of running a business, the significance of emp...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, hosts Nichelle and Jade engage in a rich conversation with Jonny Knogood, a multi-hyphenated creative from North Omaha. The discussion covers Jonny's diverse experiences, including his work with 'Yes Black Men Read,' a movement aimed at promoting literacy and challenging stereotypes about Black men. They delve into the importance of creating safe spaces for Bl...

In this episode of NOIRE, hosts Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and Jade Rogers talk to WOWT Anchor and reporter Taylor Johnson (News Lady Tay). Taylor shares her journey from Maryland to Omaha, discusses her family heritage, career path, and the importance of community storytelling. Taylor emphasizes the need to highlight black excellence and representation in media, while also sharing memorable report...

In this episode of NOIRE, Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and Jade Rogers talk to Angel Starks, a passionate advocate for community empowerment and real estate education. The conversation explores Angel's background, her journey through education, and her transition into real estate. She emphasizes the importance of homeownership, quality housing, and the need for education within the community. Angel d...

On this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, Niki and Jade welcome Omaha's Chet Fortune, founder of Coach Chet and strength and conditioning coach to several professional athletes including World Boxing Champion Terence "Bud" Crawford. Chet also discusses his personal struggles, including a car accident that left him with a spinal injury. Despite the adversity, he maintains a positive minds...

On this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, Niki and Jade welcome Omaha native, author and sister of comedian Amber Ruffin, LACEY LAMAR! Lacey shares her background growing up in Omaha, and her career in healthcare. She also discusses her role in documenting racist incidents at work and how that led to the creation of her book, 'You'll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey: Crazy Stories About Ra...

THEY'RE BACK! Nichelle and Jade catch up after a long hiatus, and there is much to discuss! Afros, Capes, and Curls, Nap Night, the Young History Detectives program, AfroCon as well as a very impressive list of future guests on the podcast. NOIRE (North Omaha Is Really Extraordinary) celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sh...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers have a conversation Leslie Smith, Executive Director of the Omaha Municipal Land Bank (OMLB). This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, supp...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers have a conversation with traveling nurse Wendy Keys. This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, support, and encourage one another through po...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers have a conversation with Nancy Williams, President/CEO and Co-Founder of No More Empty Pots. This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, suppo...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers have a conversation with Da'Quisha Whitaker, Author, Speaker, and owner of Water Rocks Publishing. This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we conn...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers bring you Part 2 recapping the first 10 episodes. This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, support, and encourage one another through power...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers recap the first 10 episodes and updates on those guests. This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, support, and encourage one another throug...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers have a conversation with musician, activist, podcast host and Communications Director for the Benson Theater, Paul B. Allen IV. This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive i...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers have a conversation with India Wardell, Founder of the Hit These Trails walking group. This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive impact. Join us as we connect, support, an...

In this episode of NOIRE the Podcast, host Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown and co-host Jade Rogers, have a conversation with Conrad Clifton, a North Omaha-born and Brooklyn-based music producer, composer, DJ and photographer. This podcast celebrates the extraordinary people of North Omaha. Our goal is to inspire and uplift the black community by sharing stories of individuals who have made a positive im...