Living A Blacknificent Life!

THE SOUL OUTSIDE: A NATURE RENEWAL PROGRAM FOR PEOPLE OF COLOR,

with founder Melody McKinley
EPISODE #009

SUMMARY

In this episode, Dr. Michael-Bandele chats with Melody McKinley, founder and director of The Soul Outside program. McKinley shares her passion for creating outdoor recreational programs that encourage Black folks to tap into the healing energy nature provides.

TAKEWAYS

· The power of nature to promote health, healing, and happiness in Black communities.
· Why learning to protect natural environments is especially important for residents of Black
communities.

KEY MOMENTS
· [2:09] McKinley describes her fearless connection to nature since early childhood.
· [4:00] Just what is The Soul Outside program and why did McKinley start it?

· [9:16] What is "soul tripping" and how can it empower your life?
· [13:57] McKinley talks about the importance of knowing the polluting impact of nuclear power plants on Black communities in the state of Maryland, throughout the United States, and the world.
· [17:37] McKinley explains "glamorous glamping."
· [27:06] McKinley describes why she deeply loves being Black.

REFERENCES
Website: http://thesouloutside.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesouloutside_/
Energy Justice: http://www.energyjustice.net/

AWAKENING AND ACTIVATING YOUR INNER GODDESS,

with author Wendi Cherry
EPISODE #008

SUMMARY

In this episode, Dr. Mwangaza Michael-Bandele interviews Wendi Cherry, life coach and author of From Jersey to Me: The Awakening and Healing of a Goddess. Cherry emphasizes the importance of connecting to your personal divinity and how a shift in self-perception can powerfully change your
experience of life.

TAKEAWAYS

• You ALWAYS have the power to change how you experience life.
• God is powerfully IN you.
• Always have a plan.
• You get to choose the energy around you.

KEY MOMENTS
• [4:15] What was Cherry’s inspiration for writing the book?
• [8:19] Cherry details the profound impact of learning Black history on her self-development.
• [9:49] Black men are Gods.
• [13:51] Cherry recalls an early childhood experienced when she learned that others lacked an ability to see her full worth and greatness.
• [20:09] What are “corona conversations?”
• [30:02] Using the lyrics “Can you feel a brand new day?” Dr. Michael-Bandele elaborates on the power of music for crafting a powerful day and life.
• [36:53] Cherry outlines the contents of her book.
• [42:12] Dr. Michael-Bandele discusses what can become available when self-awareness is activated.
• [43:52] Cherry explains why she feels especially blessed to be a Black woman.
• [47:48] Cherry explains what it is to live a Blacknificent Life!

REFERENCES
Website: www.WendiCherry.com
Instagram: @awakenedandhealed

COMMON TRAITS OF 3 HIGH ACHIEVING / SELF-ACTUALIZING HISTORIC AFRICAN AMERICANS:
FREDERICK DOUGLASS, BOOKER T. WASHINGTON, AND W. E. B. DUBOIS,

with psychologist Dr. William James Jones

EPISODE #007

SUMMARY

A revealing conversation with psychologist Dr. William James Jones explores research findings relating to common characteristics that cultivated high achievement / self-actualization among three historic African Americans. He examined the lives of Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, and W. E. B.
DuBois and discovered 15 shared perspectives and attributes. This conversation lends insight as to the cultural values that informed their historic high achievement. Dr. Jones' research findings unveils key
lessons for cultivating winning mindsets today.

 

TAKEAWAYS
• Historic achievers share common traits.
• Specific thoughts produce specific outcomes.
• There are 15 ways of thinking and perceiving that fueled achievement.

KEY MOMENTS
• [13:28] An explanation of Abraham Maslow's self-actualization theory, and its hierarchy of needs.
• [15:23] How did Black achievers navigate obstacles to achieve?
• [16 :40] Just what is self-actualization?
• [17:30] Historical knowledge was key to inspiring contemporary achievers.
• [20:02] How growth can occur as a result of crisis.
• [21:42] 15 common values and mindsets that contributed to the high achievement / self-actualization
of Douglass, Washington, and DuBois.
• [32:45] Belief in one's own ability is an essential requirement for self-actualization.
• [38:32] The value of knowledge for nourishing mind and Spirit.
• [47:50] A description of how Dr. Jones works with Black males and others to remove toxic self-perceptions.

THE 15 ACHIEVEMENT CHARACTERISTICS SHARED BY FREDERICK DOUGLASS, BOOKER T. WASHINGTON,
AND W. E. B. DUBOIS
1) Faith in one's capabilities
2) Faith in a higher power
3) Feeling called to serve

4) Resilience
5) Pursuit of knowledge
6) Mission driven
7) Desire to change circumstances
8) Spirit of advocacy
9) Unifying agendas
10) Belief in accountability
11) Integrity despite risk of loss
12) Quest for excellence
13) Service minded
14) Belief in fundamental justice
15) Belief in equality

REFERENCES
Website: thejonespsychologygroup.com
Email: williamjamesjonesphd@gmail.com

OVERCOMING PROCRASTINATION AND WHY "CP TIME" IS NOT OK,

with author Eric M. Twiggs
EPISODE #006

 

SUMMARY

Dr. Mwangaza Michael-Bandele interviews award winning speaker and author Eric M. Twiggs, who wrote The Discipline of Now. Mr. Twigg specializes in procrastination prevention and is host of "The 30-minute Hour" podcast. This lively discussion offers tips and strategies for preventing procrastination, and weighs in on the efficacy "CP Time" a concept of time well-known in Black communities.

TAKEAWAYS

• Procrastination CAUSES stress.
• When the student is ready, the teacher appears.
• The more you say yes, the more you’ll have stress.
• Create a system for preventing procrastination.

KEY MOMENTS
• [3:37] Twiggs explains what compelled him to write a book about procrastination.
• [10:33] The direct link between innovation and preparation is revealed.
• [11:17] Twiggs explains the “creativity matrix.”
• [13:43] Twiggs details how stress and procrastination are related.
• [15:32] How to know for sure if you are a bona fide procrastinator.
• [18:23] Dr. Michael-Bandele describes learning strategies in The Discipline of Now.
• [23:26] Twiggs details a fascinating study about sky divers that reveals why fear should never stop or
delay progress.
• [36:00] Twiggs explains how saying “no” can create more opportunities.
• [38:52] What is the “Procrastination Prevention Pyramid?”
• [44:04] Twiggs explains what it means to live a Blacknificent Life!

References
Eric M. Twiggs Procrastination Prevention Website: http://www.ericmtwiggs.com

BARBARA SPENCER-DUNN'S ASALH INSPIRED JOURNEY TO CENTER BLACK TEENS IN THEIR VIBRANT HISTORY - Part 2

with Barbara Spencer-Dunn

Episode 005

 

In this episode of the Blacknificent Life! Podcast, we continue our conversation from the previous episode with Barbara Spencer-Dunn. She is an executive council member for the Association for The Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). This is an association founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson who is also the founder of Black History week that evolved into Black History Month.

Barbara Spencer-Dunn tells us a bit about Dr. Carter G. Woodson's background as the "father of the study of African American history." She also talks about ASALH and its commitment to spreading knowledge about African American history, including its African origins.

“There’s nothing more important than knowing the truth about yourself, your family, and the history of your people.” Barbara Spencer-Dunn

Takeaways

• Get to know a bit about Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the man who gave the world Black History Month.
• Learn the importance of Black History Month and how you can contribute to it
• Understand how knowing the truth about yourself and your history as a Black person is essential to Black health and well-being

Key Moments

[2:25] Spencer-Dunn shares her personal journey that led to working for the Association for The Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).

[4:48] Who is Dr. Carter G. Woodson? What is the purpose of ASALH and its value to the Black community and world?

[13:44] Spencer-Dunn talks about how and why the partnership between ASALH and the Kiamsha youth organization began. She also explains how Dr. Woodson's work paved the way for other heritage holidays that we have today.

[18:02] Spencer-Dunn explains the history of the Niagara movement and its development into the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

[22:24] The purpose of Black History Month’s research themes, and why they require support, is explained. The 2020 research theme focuses on Black migration.

[27:41] Why you should sign-up as a member of ASALH and attend the annual February luncheons and fall conference meetings is detailed. 

[30:34] Spencer-Dunn describes how Kiamasha youth programs convey positive self-reflections to Black teens.

[31:20] Spencer-Dunn explains how interested parents and teachers can't get teens enrolled in Kiamsha programs.

[36:23] Ways in which you should include ASALH in your life as a component for creating a Blacknificent Life!

[38:00] What Mary McLeod Bethune--noted educator, stateswoman, activist and first female president of ASALH--thought about Dr. Woodson

[39:23] The importance of historic truth to personal knowledge and self-development.

References

ASALH Website: https://asalh.org/
Kiamsha Youth Empowerment Network website: https://kiamshayouth.org/about/

BARBARA SPENCER-DUNN'S ASALH INSPIRED JOURNEY TO CENTER BLACK TEENS IN THEIR VIBRANT HISTORY - Part 1

with Barbara Spencer-Dunn

Episode 004

 

Meet Barbara Spencer-Dunn, an executive council member for the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). It is an association founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, founder of Black History Week that evolved into Black History Month.

In this episode of the Blacknificent Life! Podcast, SisterDoc Mwangaza Michael-Bandele sits with Barbara Spencer-Dunn as she shares how she was inspired as a child to write the book Before and Beyond the Niagara Movement: As the Youth See It.

Spencer-Dunn explains the importance of having parents and a community influenced by the work of Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Listen in to learn the value of understanding African history in order to accurately understand African American history as a grounding for raising healthy Black children.

“I wrote ‘Before and Beyond’ because of my upbringing. All that I learned as a child taught me how critically important it was for people to know their history.” Barbara Spencer-Dunn [6:10]

 

Takeaways

• How to inspire young Black teens to achieve better academically
• One important purpose of teaching Black history to help children better understand themselves.
• The power of the media and how it impacts Black self-perception.
• The importance of teaching young people to respect elders of the community.

Key Moments 

[3:54] Barbara Spencer-Dunn describes growing up in the 1950s in a sheltered home and  community that was adamant about teaching Black self-regard. 

[6:08] The importance of learning and understanding the history of America.

[8:30] Barbara Spencer-Dunn talks about the contents of her book Before and Beyond the Niagara Movement

[10:17] Spencer-Dunn gives an example of relational history that connects events and encourages a fuller understanding of African American history. 

[12:36] Spencer-Dunn talks about an element of character development that is covered in her book, that encourages people to appreciate their current status in life, as they grow and learn.

[15:44] Spencer-Dunn explains how her book relates to all people regardless of their religion even though biblical references are included

[19:45] She mentions the schools and programs where her book has been adopted as formal curriculum.

[21:42] She talks about the Kiamsha youth empowerment organization and how it uses history to empower youths to be better people in society. 

[24:16] Spencer-Dunn explains how the Kiamsha organization incorporated Before and Beyond into their curriculum.

 

References

Barbara Spencer-Dunn via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-spencer-dunn-565ab439/

Before and Beyond the Niagara Movement: As the Youth See It , Barbara Spencer-Dunn

Amazon Link : https://www.amazon.com/Before-Beyond-Niagara-Movement-Youth/dp/0983515700

PRODUCING A REALITY SHOW FEATURING BRILLIANT BLACK TEENS
with founder of The Urban STEMulus Project, Ateya Ball-Lacy

Episode 003

 

Meet assistant principal Ateya Ball-Lacy, creator and executive producer of the HoodSmart Urban STEMulus Project reality show. The project shines a light on talented African American students that are excelling in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Using a reality TV format, the show aims to celebrate brilliant Black students, providing a factual basis for positive images and narratives about Black youth. In this episode, Sistah Doc Mwangaza Michael-Bandele speaks with Ateya Ball-Lacy as she explains the idea and purpose behind the HoodSmart project. Listen in to learn why using the media may be a smart way to showcase positive Black stories.

 

Takeaways

• How to inspire Black youth to achieve better academically
• One important purpose of teaching Black history is to help children better understand themselves.
• The power of the media and how it impacts Black self-perception.
• The importance of teaching young people to respect elders of the community.

Key Moments

[4:07] Ateya Ball-Lacy describes the HoodSmart Urban STEMulus Project and its intended outcomes.

[7:31] Ateya Ball-Lacy explains how the project offers a way to recognize high achieving Blackstudents by celebrating those who have done exceptionally well

[11:15] Ateya Ball-Lacy tells a story about young Black men who exposed their real desires to achieve highly when they were in a nurturing environment.

[16:18] The importance of having platforms that teach children history that helps them understand present-day occurrences and encourages them in a positive direction

[18:04] An explanation of reality show highlights and why Ball-Lacy chose to use a media platform

[20:13] The process by which the reality show was created and produced is explained, with updates about its current status.

[23:36] Why Ball-Lacy involved elders in the project as a way to teach intergenerational respect and cultural values

[26:25] Ball-Lacy describes the success of the first pop-up event.

References

HoodSmart Urban STEMulus Project Website: http://hoodsmarttv.com/
HoodSmart Urban STEMulus Project Email: hoodsmarttv@gmail.com

COMMON TIES THAT BIND PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT THROUGHOUT THE WORLD

with historian Dr. Kim Butler

Episode 002

In a riveting conversation with African Diaspora historian Dr. Kim Butler, commonalities between people of African descent are explored. Dr. Butler explains how the global dispersal of African people was not only the result of enslavement. It was also spawned by African industry, exploration and expansion.

One commonality shared throughout the African Diaspora is the history of Maroon communities—those societies developed and sustained by self-emancipating people of African descent who refused to be enslaved. One of the greatest Maroon communities was Quilombos dos Palmares in Brazil. When we know and study what made Palmares a free and flourishing society for more than 90 years, we can gain insights about building autonomous communities today. Achievement leaves foot prints.

"When we are facing downturns, my knowledge of our history tells me we will make it through." Kim Butler

Takeaways

• There are advantages to recognizing people of African descent throughout the world as one people.
• A common feature throughout different places enslaved Africans found themselves was the development of Maroon communities, free communities established by self-emancipated people of African descent.
• Palmares dos Quilombos, a great Maroon community in Brazil, flourished and developed into an astutely governed country of 11,000 self-emancipated Africans for 93 years.
• Historical knowledge can greatly shape self-perception.
• African Americans and others who comprise the African Diaspora have developed valuable cultural traditions.

Key Moments

[7:10] People of African descent, located in varied parts of the world, are in many ways different AND substantively, very much alike.

[9:40] Black people were dispersed throughout the world by varied means, including as a result of conquering, trading, exploring, and being enslaved.

[11:00] What are the advantages of recognizing African people as one people

[13:50] It is not common knowledge that enslaved Africans in Haiti fought for and secured their national freedom after defeating France.

[16:30] Acknowledging Maroon societies—those free communities of self-emancipated people of African descent—in the African Diaspora, with particular focus on Maroon communities in Brazil. Maroon communities in Brazil were called Quilombos.

[20:56] Quilombos dos Palmares, the most celebrated Quilombo (Maroon community) in Brazil, flourished and developed into an astutely governed country of 11,000 self-emancipated Africans for over 90 years.

[29:40] Acknowledging Zumbi, the great Palmares warrior leader who refused to comply with Portugal's demand to stop giving access to growing numbers of self-emancipated Africans.

[39:00] Surinam, Palenque, and other Maroon communities in the African Diaspora

[46:10] The critical role of adults in shaping the achievement mindset that oriented Dr. Butler to achieve highly.

[49:40] What is the connection between history and Black self-perception?

[57: 12] Black history can inform strategies for achieving social justice.

References

Dr. Kim Butler, Associate Professor Rutgers University
Website: https://africanastudies.rutgers.edu/people/core-faculty/people-list/30-faculty/88-kim-d-butler
Email: KButler@africana.rutgers.edu

WELCOME TO THE BLACKNIFICENT LIFE! PODCAST SERIES

with host Mwangaza Michael-Bandele

Episode 001

Welcome to the premier episode of the Blacknificent Life! Podcast. On today’s show, we will outline the purpose of this podcast series and describe the type of content to expect. Examples of upcoming show topics are provided.
“We are very capable of telling ourselves stories, of consciously thinking in ways that generate the outcomes we want.”

Mwangaza Michael-Bandele [7:33]

 

Takeaways

• The value of this podcast in teaching African Diaspora history as a source of Black self-regard
• The fusion of triumphant historical knowledge with self-development practices
• We will explore varied topics related to Black history in the coming episodes.
• Understand the vital function of melanin in the human body.

Key Moments

[1:39] Meet Sister/ Doctor Mwangaza Michael-Bandele, the host of this podcast. Learn what kinds of topics will be featured and the intention of the discussions she will facilitate.

[3:58] How the Blacknificent Life! Podcast can increase Black self-regard

[5:47] Our commitment to provide Black achievement information as a launching pad for achieving more in life.

[6:58] Understanding how life experiences are often manifestations of the stories you tell yourself. Examples of actions that support manifesting desired outcomes are provided.

[9:16] Get to know a little about your host, Mwangaza Michael-Bandele, her childhood, and early experiences that shaped her formal educational training and career path.

[12:16] How reading Your Erroneous Zones, by Wayne Dyer at a young age helped Michael-Bandele understand who she was as co-creator of her life.

[15:04] Descriptions of other Blacknificent Life! products and services, accessible at our website.

[16:49] Examples of the topics that we will be covering in the coming episodes

[23:23] The need to train, and thereby empower Black children to love reading, above all.

[25:35] The importance and value of melanin to healthy physiology.

References

Blacknificent Life! Education and Digital Media Complex website: https://blacknificentlife.com/