In this powerful and enlightening conversation, Dr. Joe William Trotter Jr. traces his remarkable journey from a coal-mining family in West Virginia to becoming one of the nations leading scholars of African American history, Black labor, and urban working-class life. He reflects on the formative influence of his father, the devastating loss he experienced early in life, and how education became both a lifeline and a calling.

Dr. Trotter shares how his lived experience shaped a lifelong mission: to document, honor, and elevate the often-overlooked contributions of the Black working class. He challenges persistent misconceptions that frame Black urban communities solely as victims, instead emphasizing their central role as builders of cities, economies, and culture. Against the backdrop of todays political and cultural debates, he underscores the urgency of preserving African American history and producing scholarship that is both rigorous and accessible.

We have to keep fighting for our history, Dr. Trotter reminds us.

Rather than defining success by titles or accolades, Dr. Trotter measures it by impacton his students, on public understanding, and on future generations who will carry this work forward.

Key Takeaways

• Education was viewed as a pathway out of poverty, instilled early by his fathers deep belief in higher learning.
• Dr. Trotters lifes work centers on documenting the historical contributions of the Black working class.
• As a high school teacher, he created a Black history course to address major gaps in the curriculum.
• Narratives that depict Black communities only as victims obscure their role as city builders and agents of change.
• Current political movements pose serious threats to the preservation of African American history.
• True success is measured by long-term impact on students and communities, not just academic achievement.
• Scholarship must be accessible, relevant, and meaningful for future generations.
• Preserving Black history requires sustained commitment, vigilance, and courage.

About Dr. Joe William Trotter Jr.

Dr. Joe William Trotter Jr. is the Giant Eagle University Professor of History and Social Justice and former Chair of the History Department at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. He is the founder and director of Carnegie Mellons Center for Africanamerican Urban Studies and the Economy (CAUSE), president-elect of the Urban History Association, and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

His most recent book, Building the Black City: The Transformation of American Life (University of California Press, 2024), expands our understanding of Black urban history and labor. He is also the author of Workers on Arrival: Black Labor in the Making of America (2019).

Dr. Trotter earned his BA from Carthage College and his MA and PhD from the University of Minnesota. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in African American history, U.S. urban history, labor history, and working-class studies. His scholarship and lectures have reached audiences across the United States and internationally, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, the Netherlands, and the Middle East.

In addition to his teaching and writing, Dr. Trotter has served in leadership roles with numerous professional organizations, including the Organization of American Historians, American Historical Association, Southern Historical Association, and the Labor and Working-Class History Association, where he is a past president.

Join the Conversation

Emunah listeners, wed love to hear from you. Share your comments, reactions, and questions at wordconsultingllc@gmail.com.
To learn more about our work, visit the Women of the Word website at wordconsultingllc.com.

Guest: High Bridge Foundation, Inc.

In this inspiring episode of Emunah, host Dr. Tamara Henry sits down with leaders from High Bridge Foundation, Inc.co-founder Mencie Hairston, President Mayumi Escalante, and scholarship recipient Zion Wynn. All three are residents of Prince Georges County, Maryland, and each brings a powerful perspective shaped by service, resilience, and hope.

Together, they explore the foundations mission to empower underserved youth through scholarships, mentorship, and community support. Through heartfelt personal stories, the conversation highlights the real challenges many students faceand the transformative power of education when paired with faith, encouragement, and opportunity.

This episode is a compelling reminder that when communities invest in young people, livesand futuresare changed.

• High Bridge Foundation, Inc. has awarded more than $186,500 in scholarships to students across Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland (the DMV).

• Founded in 2012 by Dr. Ernest Hairston and Mencie Hairston, the foundation is rooted in a lifelong commitment to volunteerism and youth development.

• The foundation serves students from underserved populations, including new immigrants, adoptees, individuals with disabilities, and students facing financial barriers to higher education.

• Education is a powerful tool for empowerment and long-term change.

• Personal stories of struggle and perseverance can inspire collective action and community engagement.

• Scholarship applications open in March and are available to students in the DMV area. Most high school counselors can help students determine eligibility and complete the application process.

• Community support, volunteers, and mentors are essential to the foundations ongoing impact.

• Resilience, determination, hope, and encouragement are defining traits of scholarship recipients.

• Email: info@highbridgefoundaiton.org

• Mail: High Bridge Foundation, Inc.
  P.O. Box 1003
  Bowie, MD 20718

• Website: www.highbridgefoundation.org

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/HighBridgeFoundation

• Instagram: @highbridgefoundation

We would love to hear from you. Share your thoughts, testimony, or feedback by emailing us at wordconsultingllc@gmail.com, or visit our website to leave a comment:
https://wordconsultingllc.com

In this episode of Emunah (Hebrew for faith or belief), co-hosts Tamara and Charisse take on the challenging and often misunderstood topic of obedience to God. Together, they explore what biblical obedience really meansand why it can feel difficult, uncomfortable, or even countercultural in todays world.

Drawing from Scripture, the hosts examine powerful biblical examples of obedience, including Shiphrah and Puah, the Hebrew midwives who trusted God and courageously defied Pharaohs command to kill Israelite male infants, as well as Peter, a disciple of Jesus who learned that faithful obedience often begins with seemingly small, insignificant acts.

Tamara and Charisse conclude that obedience to God grants access to all He desires for uskeeping us aligned with His will, opening doors to His blessings, and allowing us to walk in spiritual power. Obedience, they explain, is not about control, but about relationship, trust, and divine alignment.

• We become friends of God

• We gain clarity and understanding of Gods will

• We bear good fruit, producing peace, purpose, and contentment

• We receive strength and power for continued obedience

• Our prayers are answered according to Gods will

• John 14:23

• Matthew 23:2728

• Luke 11:28

• John 15:14

• Jeremiah 1:110

• Deuteronomy 4:10

• Judges 6:15

• The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible, 2nd Edition (NIV)

• Prayer A to Z by Stephen Nielsen

• GotQuestions.org: What Does the Bible Say About Obedience?

The story of the faithful midwives Shiphrah and Puah was also featured by Women of the Word on January 11, 2022. You can find this resource at wordconsultingllc.com under Understanding the Word: Bible Study Lessons.

We would love to hear your thoughts, reflections, and suggestions.
Email us at wordconsultingllc@gmail.com

In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Tamara Henry explores the biblical concept of blessings and how they show up in our lives in meaningful and personal ways. Through heartfelt storytelling, Scripture, and practical wisdom, Dr. Henry invites listeners to reflect on Gods grace, develop a spirit of gratitude, and recognize the blessings uniquely tailored to their lives.

This episode encourages believers at every stage of faith to deepen their spiritual journey by understanding the many forms of blessings found throughout the Bibleand learning how to embrace them daily with faith and intention.

Types of Blessings Found in the Bible

Scripture reveals that Gods blessings are diverse, purposeful, and deeply personal. Dr. Henry highlights five key types of biblical blessings:

• Spiritual Blessings Ephesians 1:3
• Material Blessings Philippians 4:19
• Relational Blessings Psalm 133:1
• Blessings in Nature Genesis 1:22
• Eternal Blessings John 3:16

Key Takeaways from This Episode

• God lovingly tailors His blessings to meet our individual needs.
• Blessings reflect Gods grace, favor, and abiding presence in our lives.
• Spiritual blessings focus on inner transformation, guidance, and growth.
• Material blessings demonstrate Gods care for our everyday needs.
• Recognizing blessings helps cultivate gratitude and spiritual maturity.
• Blessings flow from genuine faith and repentance, not perfection.
• Gods blessings are available to everyone, regardless of circumstances.

Practical Ways to Embrace Gods Blessings Daily

Want to become more aware of the blessings in your life? Try these actionable steps:

1. Start a gratitude journal and record daily blessings.
2. Volunteer or serve others as a way to share what God has given you.
3. Pray for spiritual insight and discernment.
4. Celebrate milestones, big and small.
5. Encourage others by reminding friends and family of their blessings.

Join the Conversation

Which blessings have you noticed most in your life?
Share your testimony and reflections on the Women of the Word website:
https://wordconsultingllc.com

Email us: wordconsultingllc@gmail.com

Where does Jesus fit into all the Christmas festivitiesSanta, gifts, lights, and family traditions? Thats the heartfelt question explored in this special holiday episode of ASK THE GIRLS, a faith-based podcast featuring thoughtful middle school voices.

Sisters Samara and Shylah, ages 12 and 14, who live in the Washington, D.C. area, sit down with co-hosts Sister Cynthia Howie and Dr. Tamara Henry for an honest, age-appropriate conversation about Santa Claus vs. Jesus, faith and imagination, and the true meaning of Christmas.

Together, they explore how childhood traditions like Santa Claus can coexist with a growing Christian faithwhile still keeping Jesus Christ at the center of Christmas. The girls reflect on their own Christmas experiences, emphasizing that while Santa is a fun and imaginative tradition, the heart of the season is found in celebrating the miraculous birth of Jesus.

A particularly powerful moment comes as Samara and Shylah express awe that Mary was not much older than they are now when the angel visited her with the announcement that she would give birth to the Savior. This realization sparks a moving discussion about obedience, courage, and trusting Gods planeven at a young age.

This episode is perfect for families, parents, grandparents, educators, and listeners who want to help children and teens understand the real meaning of Christmas in a way that honors faith, imagination, and tradition.

Applicable Scriptures

• Luke 1:2638 The angel announces Jesus birth to Mary
• Luke 1:4655 Marys song of praise (The Magnificat)
• Isaiah 9:67 The prophecy of the coming Messiah

Key Takeaways

• Imagination plays an important role in developing faith
• Christmas traditions can strengthen family bonds
• Jesus birth is a miraculous, world-changing event
• Santa Claus can be funbut may distract from the true meaning of Christmas
• Marys obedience is a powerful example of faith and trust in God
• Children are gifts with God-given purpose
• The ultimate gift of Christmas is Jesus Christ
• Celebrating Christmas should intentionally include Jesus
• Faith and imagination can exist in harmony
• Teaching children the true meaning of Christmas matters

Join the Conversation

Emunah listenerswe want to hear from you!

Email: wordconsultingllc@gmail.com
Share your Christmas story and tell us when you first began to believe in Jesus.

Post your testimony on the Women of the Word website:
https://wordconsultingllc.com

In this special episode, Emunah (Hebrew for faith, belief) joins forces once again with the online Bible Study Ministry Restore, Refocus, and Refresh (RRR) for a rich, Scripture-centered conversation on the Book of Hebrews. Together, we explore five powerful themes that reveal why Jesus is betterbetter than cultural noise, identity labels, our weaknesses, self-effort, and the guilt or shame we try to carry alone.

This episode unpacks how Jesus speaks truth, gives purpose, meets us in our struggles, renews our hearts, and offers complete freedom through the New Covenant. Listeners will discover why Jesus is superior in every aspect of life and how Hebrews speaks directly to todays emotional, spiritual, and cultural challenges.

Featured Guests from Restore, Refocus, and Refresh (RRR)

Delores Cole Oak Ridge, TN

A lifelong songstress for the Lord and born in Middlesboro, KY, Delores surrendered her life to Christ at age 9. Her passion is to let others see Christ in her daily walk and to help draw people to salvation through the Holy Spirit.
Scriptures shared:
1 Corinthians 2:14 Hebrews 4:12 John 16:13 Jeremiah 33:3 John 10:27 Proverbs 8:58

Pastor Saltares Conyers, GA

Pastor Saltares and his wife Carol lead Unlimited Faith and Favor Ministries. In this episode, he highlights Galatians 2:20 and the transformative story of Saul of Tarsusonce a persecutor of Christians, later the apostle Paul who carried the gospel to the Gentiles.

Jennine King Atlanta, GA

An educator at Decatur High School, mother of four, and grandmother of one, Jennine describes herself as a praise-and-worshipper and a prayer warrior. She loves riding her e-bike in nature, spending quiet time listening for Gods voice.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

• Jesus is better than every competing voice demanding our attention.
• We must learn to discern what aligns with Christs teachings.
• Jesus calls us to a deeper purpose beyond self-centered living.
• The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth.
• Building our identity on Christ is essential for spiritual stability.
• Jesus is our eternal High Priest who continually intercedes for us.
• The New Covenant brings real heart transformationnot just behavior change.
• We must renew our minds each day to align with Gods truth.
• Jesus sacrifice frees us from guilt, shame, and condemnation.
• Our actions often speak louder than our words when witnessing to others.

Connect With the RRR Presenters

To reach the Restore, Refocus, and Refresh team, email: clubchrist718@gmail.com

Emunah listeners, we are anxious for your comments, response, reaction, and advice. Email us at wordconsultingllc@gmail.com or visit the Women of the Word website: https:wordconsultingllc.com

In this powerful episode of Emunah, Dr. Jessica Pepple, founder of The Reframe Institute in Worcester, Mass, shares her mission to heal generational trauma through historical truth-telling, community-centered learning, and a bold liberation framework. We explore the Reframe Journeys to sites of slavery and resilience, the Four Is of Oppression, and strategies for building empathy, equity, and shared humanity. This conversation brings together faith, justice, and hope and offers practical steps toward person and community healing.

Dr. Pepples announcement of this new, ambitious venture on Thanksgiving Day comes only months after her unsuccessful run for the Worcester City Councilor, at-large seat. Previously she was the inaugural chief diversity and culture officer at RFK Community Alliance in Lancaster. She was named one of the Worcester Business Journals Power 100 in 2024.

Dr. Pepple discusses the importance of redefining Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the role of culture in shaping these concepts. She stressed the need for DEI practitioners to take ownership of the definitions and frameworks they use, particularly in the context of a liberation framework that highlights cultural influences on inclusion.

To learn more about The Reframe Institute (Reframe Journeys, The Freemans Circle, training programs), check out the website at https://reframeinstitute92.org/

Dr. Pepples email is: reframeyou92@gmail.com.

Emunah listeners, share your comments, reaction, advice at wordconsultingllc@gmail.com

In this enlightening episode of Emunah, Dr. Luther Smithlead counselor at N(y)oo Mind Biblical Counseling Center in Kansas City, MOjoins us for a rich conversation on the integration of faith, psychology, and emotional healing. Dr. Smith unpacks how the renewed mind described in Scripture shapes our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, offering a Christ-centered path to transformation.

Drawing from personal experiences and powerful stories from his counseling practice, Dr. Smith explains how biblical principles can correct distorted thinking, restore hope, and guide believers through emotional pain. The discussion highlights the essential role of empathy in counseling, the importance of accurate self-understanding, and the call to trust God even when healing feels difficult.

Key Scriptures Discussed:
Genesis 12 Romans 12:2 2 Corinthians 1 1 Thessalonians 5:1214

About Dr. Luther Smith:
Dr. Smith is a researcher, writer, counselor, and instructor at Calvary University. He earned his Bachelors degree from Ashford University, and both his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and Doctorate of Psychology from Southern California Seminary.

Key Takeaways

• Faith and psychology can work together for true, lasting healing.
• The N(y)oo Mind Podcast bridges the gap between Scripture and psychology.
• The Greek roots of psychology reveal its biblical foundation and significance.
• A renewed mind is essential for transformation in Christ.
• Scripture provides a solid philosophy for understanding ourselves and the world.
• Counseling often begins with correcting unbiblical or inaccurate beliefs about oneself.
• Empathy is vital in the counseling process.
• Biblical truth can reshape distorted thinking patterns.
• Trusting God through emotional pain is challenging but deeply transformative.

If this conversation blessed you, Emunah family, share this episode with someone who needs encouragement.
Wed love to hear from you! Send your comments, reactions, or the Scriptures that uplift you to: wordconsultingllc@gmail.com

You can also share your testimony on the Women of the Word website: wordconsulting.com

Connect with Dr. Luther Smith:
Email: Lsmithnyoomind@gmail.com
Office: N(y)oo Mind Biblical Counseling, LLC
4810 N Elmwood Ave., Kansas City, MO 64119