In this episode of Leaders & Learners, we sit down with Dr. Mark Anthony Neal—James B. Duke Distinguished Professor at Duke University, cultural critic, and host of Left of Black. From his roots in the Bronx to shaping the future of Black popular culture, Dr. Neal unpacks the intersections of hip-hop, Black masculinity, and digital media. We explore how he co-teaches the history of hip-hop with Grammy-winning producer 9th Wonder, his groundbreaking work on illegible Black masculinities, and why he believes in the power of storytelling to disrupt and rebuild. Whether you're a cultural scholar or a hip-hop head, this conversation is a masterclass in critical Black thought. #LeadersAndLearners #MarkAnthonyNeal #LeftOfBlack #HipHopStudies #BlackMasculinity #DigitalCulture

What really happens to a body after a drug overdose? In this gripping episode of Leaders & Learners, Commissioner Tonya McKenzie sits down with the trailblazing Coroner Naida Rutherford—nurse practitioner, changemaker, and the first African-American, first woman, and first medical professional elected to the Coroner's office in Richland County, SC. And she is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, so it's a D9 function. From once being a homeless teen to now giving a voice to the voiceless, Naida pulls back the curtain on the realities of death investigation, overdose fatalities, and the importance of telling each person’s truth with compassion and justice. Discover how she's changing the narrative around death, introducing youth to STEM through her Coroner Cadet program, and tackling public health disparities head-on. This episode is a powerful blend of purpose, science, and service you won’t want to miss.This conversation will move you, educate you, and open your eyes to the realities behind overdose deaths and the power of purpose-driven leadership. Don’t keep it to yourself—share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe to Leaders & Learners for more powerful stories. Let’s keep the conversation going—because every voice matters, and every story deserves to be told.

#LeadersAndLearners#NaidaRutherford#VoiceForTheVoiceless#WomenInLeadership#Trailblazer#Coroner#PublicHealth#STEMinspiration#BlackWomenLead

In his first book, Don’t Ask Me Sh%! About Marriage, Chris shares the impacts divorce and remarriage have had on his life and faith. While he doesn’t consider himself a relationship expert, he jokingly says, “Based on my relationship track record, some may say that I’m an expert at getting them [relationships] wrong.”Despite his failures in marriage, Chris believes in the foundational principles of marriage and the value and stability it has in our societal structure.Join us as we chat with Chris Lyles on this episode of Leaders & Learners Podcast

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In this episode of Leaders & Learners, we sit down with Jara Montez, a tech education strategist and program manager whose work at companies like Webflow, Coursera, and Salesforce is shaping the future of learning. Jara shares how she designs digital learning experiences that not only educate but open doors to economic mobility. From curriculum design to community-driven growth, she’s on a mission to connect education with real-world opportunity. If you're curious about the future of learning, workforce development, or the intersection of tech and education, this one’s for you.

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🎙️ From the Stage to the Page: Alretha Thomas on Purpose, Passion & PerseveranceJoin us on this inspiring episode of Leaders & Learners as we sit down with award-winning author, playwright, and producer Alretha Thomas. She shares her journey from the classroom to the world of entertainment, the power of storytelling, and how faith and resilience shaped her remarkable career. Whether you're chasing a dream or redefining success, this conversation will leave you empowered.

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This is the conversation that we need for the changes that we are going through. Dr. Peter Rios is a bilingual speaker, consultant, and leadership coach with over 20 years of experience. He has worked with institutions like Harvard University, the Lilly Endowment, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. He has also taught at Penn State, Colorado State, and the Pacific School of Religion. Peter's passion for leadership and personal growth comes from his own experience of overcoming trauma and pursuing healing and self-discovery. He and his spouse, Dr. Ruby Gonzalez-Rios, aim to help people reach their potential and live fulfilling lives. Join us for a talk that could change your path.

At Cal State University Northridge, Dr. James Henry, a proud Alpha Phi Alpha man, has dedicated decades to inspiring young minds. Starting his journey in tackle football at just ten years old, he learned invaluable lessons that shaped his character and kept him on a positive path. His experiences as an athlete not only provided him with a strong foundation but also helped him forge lasting friendships. Staying true to his values, Dr. Henry is passionate about offering the same opportunities to the younger generation. We invite you to discover more about his journey through his new book, Coaching American Football, now available on Amazon. #Football #RoleModel #APhiA #CSUN

How does childhood differ now than back in the 70s? There are some extreme differences and similarities that most of us can relate to. Family and friends joined Jackie Balestra to discuss her new book, The Rockaway Chronicles. Jackie's memoir reflects on her New York upbringing and the quality family time she experienced at Rockaway Beach. Jackie will have guests on this episode as we take viewers on a vivid journey through six decades of summers spent on the Rockaway Peninsula.