Welcome to the Espresso Talk Today Podcast!
Where we go on an enriching journey through the heart of Black history, culture, and health. Our mission is to not just discuss but to connect, inspire, and illuminate.

Episode 287: Literacy Beyond Whiteness: Reading as Resistance, Storytelling as Power
In this Espresso Talk Today episode, Ama-Robin discusses how reading has always been a way to resist and find joy, especially during tough times like slavery. She also highlights the role of storytelling and oral traditions in keeping Black history alive and strong. Lastly, she touches on the challenges of accessing diverse books today and stresses the importance of supporting Black bookstores.

Episode 286: You are never alone in a Black Bookstore - A Village Story
In this Espresso Talk Today episode, Ama-Robin shares her experience in the empowering world of Black-owned bookstores. As Black bookstores aren't just about books; they're sanctuaries and hubs of knowledge. They symbolize belonging, community, and revolution.

Episode 278: An African American Christmas Poem
In this poem titled, "The Christmas Reunion Down in Martinsville," Augustus Hodges (1854 - 1916) presents an African American version of a Christmas poem.
Hodges was an American editor, writer, journalist, and political organizer. In 1876, He was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates.

Episode 273: Exploring New Horizons: Celebrating Black Explorers who Broke Boundaries
In this powerful episode, Espresso Talk Today dives into the remarkable, often-hidden stories of Black explorers who redefined what’s possible - Matthew Henson’s trek to the North Pole, and Mae Jemison’s journey beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

Episode 265: Why is August 28th so important to Black Folks?
Join Ama-Robin on Espresso Talk Today as we dive into the profound significance of August 28th in Black history—a day marked by moments of pain, progress, and power.

Episode 259: Why I Loathe July 4th in America
In this powerful and defiant episode, host Ama-Robin confronts the painful contradictions of celebrating Independence Day as a Black American such as the ongoing struggles for equal protection, voting rights, and justice, highlighting the contributions and resilience of Black Americans who have fought tirelessly to shape this country.


Episode 252: My Unexpected Pilgrimage through Black History
In today’s podcast episode, Ama-Robin dives into what makes a pilgrimage more than just a trip by sharing her journey through America's most iconic museums and libraries. Retracing the steps of pivotal African American figures and explores key artifacts that shape the narrative of African American resilience and culture.

Episode 245: Racial Battle Fatigue Is Real: Learn How It Can Affect Your Health
In this special podcast episode, the Espresso Talk Today team is joined by Professor William Smith who has conducted extensive study on this serious condition. He discusses the physiological processes leading to Racial Battle Fatigue, the symptoms, and healthy coping strategies to protect one's health. He also identifies unhealthy strategies that people use to cope but that often have dire consequences.

Episode 244: From Past to Present: Embracing Our Role as History Makers Today
In this powerful final podcast episode of Black History Month on Espresso Talk Today, we dive deep into the heart of what it means to be a history maker. Guided by the wisdom of the courageous and brilliant philosopher and activist, Angela Davis, we explore how every one of us, through our everyday actions, contributes to making history.

Episode 243: Black History is NOT Depressing!
In this podcast episode, host Ama-Robin shares her rejection of the "inferiorized" Black history that we have been taught and discusses the empowered history of resilience, resistance, and joy that is the true experience of Black America.

Episode 242: Experiencing Black Joy: An Interview with Storyteller Gran'daddy Junebug
In this podcast episode, host Ama-Robin and the Espresso Talk Today team look back at an old interview with Master Storyteller, Mitch Capel, a.k.a Gran'daddy Junebug, to the show to discuss the importance of storytelling.
Subscribe to Ama-Robin’s Substack for uncommon stories, articles, ideas, and thoughts about racism and the chaos of living Black in predominantly white spaces. My goals are Black liberation and dismantling all forms of oppression.
Bold | Unfiltered | Unapologetic.
Ama-Robin’s Uncommon Conversations on Substack
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