Black Americans have influenced music, fashion, food, and popularized entire cities single handedly. From Flo-Jo’s daring style that made it cool to rock vibrant, long nails to Jim Brown’s athletic skills showcased on the national stage, there have been numerous contributions that have determined what is considered cool in society. Trendsetters and pioneers created entire lanes that have grown into a rich history that continues to influence newcomers even to this day. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Big Tymer$ and how they influenced a whole genre by popularizing New Orleans hip-hop.

The Black family has been a target for destruction from the early days of slavery, to the rise of single-parent households, and all the way to modern times of mass incarceration. For example, the War on Drugs, extreme racial profiling, and limited civil rights have all forced Black families to make hard decisions and face difficult situations just to provide for their loved ones. There’s an unfair stereotype that Black Americans unproportionately benefit from the federal welfare system more than other demographics. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on the history of welfare, the negative stereotypes placed on Black Americans, and who actually benefits the most from the system.

There’s nothing I love more than an ice cold Lime Coke Zero. It’s truly a shame that the only time I can enjoy one is when I eat at a restaurant that has a Coke Freestyle machine like Wendy’s and even those have started becoming extinct as stores like Zaxby’s remove them from their menus. I can’t buy a 12-pack of cans in a grocery store, I can’t order it while at a sporting event, and I can’t just randomly enjoy one without going on a wild witch hunt. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Coca-Cola as a company and the discriminatory policies they had toward Black Americans that allowed Pepsi to become a major competitor.

There are numerous examples of Black Americans putting foot to pavement and fighting for their rights. From the early days of slave rebellions and modern day resistance, no other demographic has had to endure horrid conditions, unfair treatment, and injustice quite like we have. Regardless of the circumstances, we have refused to allow our spirits to be broken and have carried on the good fight for centuries. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on the 1970 Augusta Riot, an uprising that shook a Georgia community and led to lasting change.

Within the last year or so, my husband and I have started keeping up with track and field as one of our must-watch sports. His favorite events are the long distance events while I’m partial to the sprinters and relay teams. We watch running videos on YouTube, follow certain athletes on social media, and try to tune in whenever a race is on TV. It doesn’t matter if it’s professionals running for an Olympic gold, an elite marathon runner chasing a PR, or the NCAA Tournament in Oregon, we’re interested and invested in the results. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Flo Jo, the Black American track star who made history as one of the greatest sprinters to ever compete.

To a certain extent, this country is built on hypersurveillance, unnecessary policing, and covert operations kept behind curtains. From explicit FBI programs like COINTELPRO to more subtle propaganda, it’s difficult deciphering people’s true intentions. If you have a platform and can inspire people to fight for change, especially in the Black community, you can quickly find yourself classified as a domestic enemy. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on the Prison Activists Surveillance Program, a covert operation of the FBI to control those in the prison system.

Sometimes, all it takes is one quick encounter to inspire someone. Mentorship and guidance is necessary for everyone, but especially for children and adolescents. During their fundamental years, they are incredibly impressionable and can easily slide into negative habits and crowds. Unfortunately, some decisions made early in life come with long-term consequences. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on the Compton Cowboys, an inspirational equestrian group that is a positive influence on Black American youth in California. 

There are only a few movie franchises that my husband and I must see in theaters. No matter what month or day of release, we’re absolutely making plans to see almost any new Batman, Spiderman, Planet of the Apes, James Bond, and Star Wars movie. We’re all caught up on the lore and truly enjoy the different storylines, so we can’t miss out on a new edition. We recently scheduled a movie date to see The Mandalorian and Grogu on the big screen, the latest and most awaited release from Lucasfilm Studios.

Sometimes, it’s hard to find your passion. You usually go through your childhood trying any and everything to figure out what you gravitate towards. While some people realize their life’s calling early, some have to go through trial and error to truly understand what they enjoy. It’s a luxury when your passion can align with your career or even help others along the way. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Thomas Bradley, the very first Black mayor of Los Angeles who addressed issues of disparity and ushered in much needed change for the city.

In Black culture, there are a few artists, athletes, and entertainers that are loved well into death. Icons like Bernie Mac, Michael Jackson, Prince, Luther Vandross, and others live on in the hearts of those who loved their art. While some stars are bigger than others, legends like Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin made history as technical artists who can not only command a stage, but also perform a wide vocal range. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Whitney Houston, America’s Sweetheart who carved her own lane with her powerful voice and made history as a legend.