The Equity Matters Podcast

When most people hear the word lynching, they think of a distant past. But the truth is, lynching never really ended — it evolved, adapted, and still happens in America today. In this teaser for the next episode of Equity Matters, Dr. James Bell III confronts the spectacle, the silence, and the terrifying continuity of racial terror that remains in plain sight. Full episode available this Wednesda...

What happens when the nation decides which fathers, mothers, and children are worth mourning? In this episode of Equity Matters, we examine how assassinations, shootings, and state-sanctioned violence are remembered and reported differently depending on who is targeted. We explore how narratives of “innocence,” “radicalism,” and “family” shape national empathy and reveal deep inequities in whose g...

Political violence is not new, but not all violence is treated the same. In this episode of Equity Matters, we explore how acts of political violence are remembered, mourned, and reported differently depending on who is targeted. Join me as we uncover how history, media, and power combine to dictate whose lives, and whose losses, truly matter. Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Appl...

Public health, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are under attack—but what does that mean for practitioners on the front lines? In this episode of Equity Matters, we break down the coordinated efforts to dismantle public health infrastructure and DEI initiatives, the impact on communities, and the critical role of public health leaders in navigating this uncertainty. How do we stay focused? H...

Dr. James Bell III reflects on the 2024 election results and their implications for public health in America. In this episode of 'Equity Matters,' we examine how recent political shifts could shape policies impacting healthcare access, community well-being, and social equity. Join us as we unpack the potential challenges and opportunities for the public health field, exploring what these outcomes...

On today’s episode, we explore the complex and often misunderstood topic of microaggressions in the workplace. Learn how these interactions reinforce stereotypes and contribute to systemic inequalities, while offering practical advice on how we can all be more mindful in our daily lives.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts , Spotify , and YouTube   Follow us on Insta...

What are microaggressions, and how do they shape the everyday experiences of those on the receiving end? In this short preview of our upcoming episode, we offer a glimpse into the subtle, often unintentional remarks or actions that can reinforce harmful stereotypes and perpetuate inequality. Tune in for a quick dive into how these interactions affect people and why understanding them is the first...

On today’s episode, we continue the discussion of Black fatherhood. There are various challenges that fathers encounter from societal expectations and systemic barriers to personal struggles and emotional battles. Despite these hurdles, Black fathers show remarkable resilience, consistently showing up for their families and communities with strength and love.  Keep ya head up Kings. Listen & S...

On today’s special Father's Day episode, we delve into the multifaceted experiences of Black fatherhood and masculinity. I'll open up about my journey as a Black son and grandson, navigating the complexities of Black manhood, while transforming toxic masculinity. We'll explore how my personal experiences and upbringing have shaped my perspectives on fatherhood and my commitment to creating a legac...

On today’s episode, I open up about my journey from growing up in Detroit to becoming a dedicated advocate in public health, social work, and equity. I'll share how my upbringing in a vibrant yet challenging city shaped my perspectives and fueled my passion for creating inclusive and equitable communities. Discover the motivations behind my career path and why these fields are not just professiona...

On today’s episode, we delve deep into the critical issue of educational disparities faced by Black boys. Join us as we unravel the complex web of perceptions that label them as defiant, leading to disproportionate rates of placement in special education programs and harsher discipline.  We also shed light on the alarming reality of a mental health crisis affecting Black boys beyond the classroom,...

On today’s episode, we take a deep dive into the critical issue of Black maternal health. Through this deeply personal narrative, we shed light on the alarming disparities within the healthcare system, specifically affecting Black women during pregnancy and childbirth. As we explore this urgent issue, we'll discuss the systemic barriers and biases that continue to endanger the lives of Black mothe...

On today’s episode we navigate the struggles of identity, representation, and the unsettling reality of opportunities disproportionately eluding creators of color. As online creators, our digital presence is not just about social media, but a manifestation of our creative selves, making the loss of access much more than a technical glitch. Drawing on my personal experiences and insights from the o...

On today’s episode we delve into the complex world of respectability politics and its profound impact on people of color who navigate unsafe spaces. Join us as we explore the stories of individuals who face the daunting challenge of balancing societal expectations with the preservation of their cultural identity. We shed light on the potential consequences of respectability politics and discuss st...

Welcome back to Equity Matters! We are thrilled to return after a brief hiatus, and in this highly anticipated episode, we delve deep into the broken promises that remain from the 2020 realization of racial inequities. Join us as we explore the progress made, the work left unfinished, and the steps available to catalyze change. We are calling upon our listeners to revisit these documents and pledg...

Social work is not typically the first profession you think of when it comes to podcasts. Yet, podcasts are an incredibly rich and valuable resource for educators, students, and the general public. We can harness our relationship-based training to enhance social media networking and have a powerful impact on those around us. Today we join the Hip Hop Social Worker, Christopher Scott, MSW to talk a...

The concept of “social innovation” has been the catalyst of change in nearly every aspect of daily life for more than a decade. It has been driven by the belief that if innovation can fix significant market-driven technological problems, then it can fix significant social problems as well. Today we join Heather Hiscox, MPH, CEO & Founder of Pause for Change, to discuss how we move beyond the statu...

Mentally healthy children have a positive quality of life and can function well at home, in school, and in their communities. Factoring in risk for parental detainment or deportation, children are more likely to report depressive symptoms, negative mood, physical symptoms and negative self-esteem. Today we join Basiliso Moreno, former school social worker, to discuss some of the challenges childre...

The positive connections between diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace and business results have been documented for years. But examining the business benefits of diverse representation without considering equity and inclusion provides a limited picture of DEI’s true potential. Creating a fair and inclusive work environment where workers of all backgrounds can contribute and succ...

Black Americans have been disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS since the epidemic’s beginning, and that disparity has deepened over time. Racism, discrimination, HIV stigma, and homophobia affect the overall health and well-being of African American gay and bisexual men. Today we join Dr. Darnell Motley, Sexual Health Researcher at the University of Chicago to discuss the history of HIV/AIDS an...

Have you noticed performative allyship? Where someone makes a bare minimum display of their support for marginalized communities in an effort to show they are on their side? And once a tweet or two has been shared, it’s back to business as usual. This form of empty advocacy is unproductive and disregards the need for sacrifice and work by privileged individuals. Today we join Déjà D. Rollins as sh...

Exposure to abuse, neglect, discrimination, violence, and other adverse experiences increases a person’s lifelong potential for serious health problems and engaging in high risk behaviors. As providers grow more aware of trauma’s impact, they are realizing the value of trauma-informed approaches to care. Today we join Dr. Fanike Kiara Young to discuss the key ingredients necessary for establishing...

In order to heal, you must cross the line.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Podbean , and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Visit Dr. Bell’s Website

WKKK News at 11 featuring A. Blackman.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Podbean , and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Visit Dr. Bell’s Website

Join us for a celebration of life for our fallen friend.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Podbean , and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Visit Dr. Bell’s Website