Shows
You Ain't Imagining This!The Wintering Room: A Story to Help You Rest This WinterIn this YAIT Town Story, we step inside Nommo Books and discover the mysterious Wintering Room — a sanctuary that appears only in December. This fictional tale carries real and relevant truths about rest, darkness, and cultural wisdom. Ama-Robin, a Black empowerment storyteller, guides us through a mystical yet grounded journey that reminds us: winter isn't a season to push through; it's an invitation to soften, breathe, and reclaim the pace nature intended.
2025-12-1027 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Day of Gratitude: You Have a Place HereCome on into YAIT Town for a celebration unlike anything you've ever heard! This is not Thanksgiving. This is The Day of Gratitude — a reimagined gathering rooted in Black joy, ancestral presence, and the flavors of the Diaspora. One long table stretches from the Front Porch to the Community Garden, covered in jollof rice, mac and cheese, plantains, root vegetables, and stories carried across oceans. In this special episode, you'll walk with Ama-Robin between the chairs, greeting neighbors of all ages — the elders with their laughter and wisdom, the children asking brilliant questions, Mr...
2025-11-2749 min
You Ain't Imagining This!An Espresso Talk on How to Feel Good TodayJoin me on the Front Porch! Today, we slow down together and learn a simple, powerful practice for rewiring the mind toward what nourishes us. Using four steps — seeing the good, naming the good, staying with the good, and claiming the good — we explore how neuroplasticity becomes a tool of healing, resilience, and liberation for Black folks living in predominantly white spaces. With Auntie Octavia by our side and sweet tea in hand, we talk about why our brains have been trained to scan for danger, why that's not a flaw but a survival skill, and how lear...
2025-11-2033 min
You Ain't Imagining This!You've Done Enough: A Comforting Moment of Letting GoThis special Comforting Moment invites you to pause the noise, settle your spirit, and rest in the calm rhythm of the harvest season. In YAIT Town, the air is cool, the garden is quiet, and the work is finally done. Here, we practice the art of receiving and releasing—taking in what still nourishes us, letting go of what no longer serves us, and blessing it all with gratitude. Through gentle narration and grounding soundscapes, storyteller Ama-Robin guides you into stillness—where breath slows, shoulders soften, and the mind unclenches. This isn...
2025-11-1307 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Harvest Time: Choosing What We Keep and What We Let GoThis week in YAIT Town, we walk together to the Community Garden—the heart of our village and the keeper of quiet wisdom. The rows are slower now, the air cooler, and the season is asking hard but necessary questions: What is still feeding you? What have you outgrown? What are you carrying that no longer needs to travel with you? In this YAIT Story, "The Gathering," Ama-Robin meets Mama Abena among the collards, sage, and falling leaves to learn the art of harvesting without hurry—of knowing when to hold on and when to let...
2025-11-0619 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Welcome to YAIT Town: The Walking Tour YAIT Town isn't on any map — it's a Black sanctuary built from story, memory, and imagination. In this special episode, sistah-host Ama-Robin invites you to be among the first to walk its streets and feel its rhythm. The tour begins on the front porch where we meet, connect, and recharge together. Then we will visit a Black-centered bookstore that lights up the main street, our soul-centered café that fills the air with laughter and cornbread, the George Washington Carver Community Garden where freedom grows from the soil, and our barber-beauty shop that hums with clippers and...
2025-10-3033 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Nighttime on the Porch: A YAIT Comforting MomentIn this Comforting Moment episode, host and sistah-guide Ama-Robin Lofton invites you to sit on the porch with a glass of sweet tea at dusk. Together, we slow down, breathe, and remember what it feels like to belong. Through gentle storytelling and guided reflection, Ama-Robin reminds us that safety isn't always found in crowds or conversation, but in quiet company—the kind that sees you without words. This moment of rest and presence is part of the You Ain't Imagining This! sanctuary series, offering peace, grounding, and connection for Black listeners navigating a noisy world....
2025-10-2312 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Food Is Not Just Food: Reclaiming Our Tables and Our PowerPull up a chair for a soulful conversation about food, culture, and community! For us, food has never been just food. It's memory. It's resistance. It's joy. It's how we have loved, organized, healed, and built community — even in the hardest times. From the cookfires of the enslaved to the cafés of the Harlem Renaissance to today's kitchen tables, our meals have carried the stories of who we are and what we've survived. But in a world that glorifies hustle, isolation, and convenience, many of us have lost the table — that sacred space where cultu...
2025-10-0947 min
You Ain't Imagining This!You're Never Alone in a Black Bookstore: A YAIT Story about BelongingWhile I'm traveling this week, I'm bringing back a listener favorite: You're Never Alone in a Black Bookstore. This isn't just about books. It's about belonging! I'm Ama-Robin, your guide on this storytelling journey. Black bookstores are more than shops—they are sanctuaries, places where we're seen, celebrated, and reminded that our stories matter. This YAIT Story takes you inside one of those spaces. In this immersive Village episode of You Ain't Imagining This!, I will guide y'all inside a Black-owned bookstore—a space where history lives, wisdom flows, and the Black...
2025-10-0222 min
You Ain't Imagining This!How to Move from Survival Coping to Healthy Coping: A Believe Black People EpisodeCoping can keep us alive — but it also can come at a terrible cost. In this Believe Black People episode, Ama-Robin shares a personal story of survival coping, connects it to the weight that we as Black people have carried for generations, and names the truth: resilience is not permission, and survival is not freedom. Together, we'll move from survival coping to empowered personal and collective coping. You'll hear truth-telling, an empowering meditation, and practical steps to release the burdens we were never meant to carry. Because coping is not consent. An...
2025-09-2528 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Weight We Carry: A Black Empowerment StoryHow to Carry Less and Live More: A Black Empowerment Choice This episode is a modern folktale that asks: What are we carrying, and what might it feel like to finally set it down? I'm Ama-Robin, your storyteller and guide at You Ain't Imagining This — the sanctuary where we name the chaos of living Black in white spaces and remember that we don't have to carry it alone. It's a story meant for reflection and meditation, with river sounds and a calm, steady pace — an invitation to rest your body, quiet your mind, and...
2025-09-1820 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Coping Tax: How High-Effort Coping Drains Black Health and JoyI'm Ama-Robin, host of You Ain't Imagining This — the storytelling sanctuary where we name the chaos of living Black in white spaces and remember that we don't have to carry it alone. In this episode, we sit on the porch with the fictional character, Mrs. Alberta Jenkins, a retired teacher and elder in our community, as she names something many of us know but rarely say out loud: the coping tax. The coping tax is the high-effort coping we pay every day just to exist in spaces that weren't built for us. It's the price tha...
2025-09-1122 min
You Ain't Imagining This!While I Rest: A YAIT Comforting MomentThis final episode of the Black Summer Healing Session is a sacred invitation to pause. Across seven weeks, we've released burdens, reclaimed joy, and restored balance. Now, Ama-Robin presents this episode, While I Rest. This meditative episode offers a soft place to breathe and remember. ✨ You'll receive seven remembrances—one from each session—to guide your reflection. ✨ You'll hear a closing folktale that reminds us why rest is holy. ✨ You'll be invited into a gentle ritual of gratitude and self-affirmation. Rest is not weakness. Rest is healing. Rest is liberation. Asante sana for j...
2025-08-2106 min
You Ain't Imagining This!You Ain't Imagining the Hustle—And It's Hurting our Health!In this Espresso Talk, storyteller Ama-Robin names "the Hustle" for what it is—a survival pattern of overwork and over-achievement born from our history. It is stealing our rest, our joy, and even our health. From the based-in-truth story of Miss Josie Mae to the groundbreaking research of Dr. Sherman James, we explore how constant high-effort coping wears us down and how we can choose freedom instead. You'll walk away with tools to slow down, reclaim your breath, and live in alignment with your body, spirit, and community. You'll get in this episode: Real-life examples of...
2025-08-141h 01
You Ain't Imagining This!Letting Go Ain't Weakness: A YAIT Story on Black Self-LoveLetting go is never simple—especially for Black people living in predominantly white spaces-- where we've been expected to carry more than our share and to do it quietly. But what if letting go is not abandonment, but liberation? What if it's an act of love? In this warm, reflective episode, Ama-Robin invites you into three immersive stories —slow-paced, story-driven, and deeply rooted in Black cultural truth. ✨ Story 1: Dreams Left at the Door A woman returns to the porch where she first dreamed big, and grieves the pieces of herself she left behind...
2025-07-2431 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Circle that We Couldn't Save - A YAIT Story of UnityAlafia, fam! "Some circles can't be saved. But new ones can be born." In this third episode of the Black Healing Summer session, Ama-Robin invites you to slow down and breathe as she takes you on a journey through an insightful folk tale. You'll hear about an African village's sacred circle disrupted by an outsider's influence, leading to important lessons about the strength--and fragility--of our own sacred spaces. Ama-Robin draws a powerful connection to our present realities, shedding light on the importance of protecting our circles and knowing when it's time to rebuild....
2025-07-1727 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Black Healing Room: A YAIT Story on RejuvenationWhat if you had a space where you could breathe, release, and remember who you are—no explanations, no performance, just presence? In this episode, we step into The Black Healing Room—a sanctuary we can carry with us, anywhere. This is Part 2 of The Black Healing Summer Session—a season-long journey into rest, release, and renewal. You'll experience a special Comforting Moment guided visualization to help you imagine your own healing space. And in the Beyond the Story segment, Ama-Robin explores the importance of both individual and collective Black healing—and the radical...
2025-07-1029 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Day I Let My Burdens Fall: A YAIT StoryIn this first episode of The Black Healing Summer Session, host and storyteller Ama-Robin invites you into a powerful reflection on what happens when we stop carrying everything alone. Through an immersive story, she shares the experience of a Black woman professional who finally decides to lay down the invisible burdens she's been holding: perfectionism, hypervigilance, and the relentless pressure to prove herself. In the Beyond the Story segment, Ama-Robin reads Paul Laurence Dunbar's poem "We Wear the Mask," and explores how generational expectations to stay "strong" have shaped—and strained—our spirits. ✨ 3 Things...
2025-07-0322 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Porch Light is Always On - An Immersive Story of BelongingThis is more than memory. It's a reminder: you were never alone. In this special Juneteenth bonus episode of You Ain't Imagining This!, storyteller Ama-Robin guides you through a quiet, powerful tale about coming home, being expected, and the radical love embedded in one simple ritual: the porchlight. This immersive story takes you on a long drive home through California's dust belt—toward a light left on without fail. It's about more than safety. It's about belonging. The kind passed down through generations. The kind that says: we're still here, and we're waiting for you....
2025-06-1913 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Sounds of the Cookout - A YAIT Comforting Moment EpisodeSometimes peace sounds like laughter, a sizzling grill, and an uplifting playlist. In this Comforting Moment episode of You Ain't Imagining This!, storyteller and empowerment coach Ama-Robin invites you into a sensory sanctuary—where the familiar sounds of a Black cookout become a place of rest, memory, and gentle joy. Comforting Moments are short, grounding episodes designed to offer you space to breathe, reconnect, and feel held amid the chaos. This one brings you to the heart of the cookout—not just as a party, but as a cultural ritual. A space where our joy, pres...
2025-06-1212 min
You Ain't Imagining This!YAIT Story Reunion TrailerThis isn't just a story—it's a homecoming. In this immersive episode from You Ain't Imagining This!, Black empowerment storyteller Ama-Robin takes you straight to the heart of a Black family reunion. From the sound of folding chairs and the smell of sweet potato pie to bold debates on reparations and land, The Reunion is a vivid, truth-telling experience about what it means to gather, to remember, and to resist through joy. Want to hear the entire meditative story? Click here!
2025-06-0801 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Family Reunion - An Immersive Story of Family and Belonging - YAIT StoriesThis isn't just a story—it's a homecoming. In this immersive episode from You Ain't Imagining This!, Black empowerment storyteller Ama-Robin takes you straight to the heart of a Black family reunion. From the sound of folding chairs and the smell of sweet potato pie to bold debates on reparations and land, The Reunion is a vivid, truth-telling experience about what it means to gather, to remember, and to resist through joy. This story will move you. The Beyond the Story segment will ground you. And the sacred reminder at the end? You're no...
2025-06-0527 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Not Just Banned — The Erasure of Black BooksBlack books aren't just being banned—they're being erased. Quietly. Systemically. From classrooms, libraries, and publishing houses. In this Believe Black People episode, Black empowerment storyteller Ama-Robin breaks down how erasure works—and how we fight back. This isn't about asking for space. It's about reclaiming it. Join the Canon of Black Books Challenge and help rewrite the shelves. Subscribe. Share. Build the canon. Because we ain't imagining this. Ama-Robin's Black Literary Canon Beloved by Toni Morrison Go Tell It On The Mountain by James Bald...
2025-05-2941 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Black Book Joy: The Stories We Love to Love - YAIT Espresso TalksEver finish a book and think, this one is gonna stay with me? In this bold Espresso Talk episode, storyteller Ama-Robin opens up about the books that shaped her—Roots, The People Could Fly, Parable of the Sower, and others. She shares how Black books gave her more than knowledge—they gave her belonging. And she asks: What are the stories that shaped you? We'll talk about: ✔️ Why we keep coming back to certain books ✔️ How Black bookstores and banned books affect our sense of purpose and community ✔️ What "Black book joy" r...
2025-05-2242 min
You Ain't Imagining This!A Page of Peace for You - YAIT Comforting MomentsHey there, friend! I'm so happy you're here. Let's take a deep breath together and slow down for a minute. I'm Ama-Robin, the storyteller and guide of this YAIT Comforting Moment episode. This is a safe space to breathe, rest your spirit, and remember that your story is sacred. Today, I'm sharing a comforting moment inspired by a note that I found in a vintage book. It's a sweet reminder that sometimes, a single sentence (or two) can give us exactly what we need. 🌟 So, be w...
2025-05-1106 min
You Ain't Imagining This!More than a bookstore - YAIT StoriesThis isn't just about books. It's about belonging! I'm Ama-Robin, your guide on this storytelling journey. In this immersive Village episode of You Ain't Imagining This!, I will guide y'all inside a Black-owned bookstore—a space where history lives, wisdom flows, and the Black community thrives. Through storytelling, reflection, and real conversation, we will explore how these bookstores are more than stores—they're classrooms, healing grounds, memory keepers, and hubs of joy. ✨ Feeling seen? Say something! 📚 Got a favorite Black bookstore? Share it! 💬 Let's talk about the spaces that hold us—and ho...
2025-05-0822 min
You Ain't Imagining This!You Ain't Imagining This! (YAIT) IntroductionYou're Not Imagining It—And You're Not Alone You Ain't Imagining This! is more than a podcast—it's a sanctuary for Black truth, imagination, and healing. In this premiere episode, Black empowerment storyteller, Ama-Robin, shares the origin of this sacred space through story, reflection, and raw honesty. From Oakland dreams to ancestral wisdom, from grief to rebirth, this is an invitation to exhale, to be seen, and to remember: your truth is real, your power is real, and you're not alone. They told us we were imagining the racial chaos, the profiling, the...
2025-05-0718 min
You Ain't Imagining This!You Ain't Imagining This! (YAIT!) TrailerHi, I'm Ama-Robin. Welcome to You Ain't Imagining This! This podcast show is a sanctuary for Black empowerment, truth, and liberation. Here, we create a space to breathe, reflect, and rise through enlightening storytelling, powerful conversations, and comforting rituals. Whether you're feeling joyful, heavy, or anything in between, you're always welcome here just as you are. 🌟 Come as you are. Take what you need. You are never alone. And You Ain't Imagining This! Join us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to po...
2025-05-0604 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Literacy Beyond Whiteness: Reading as Resistance, Storytelling as PowerBlack people have always valued knowledge—through books, through songs, through music, and even through memory. In this fireside reflection, Ama-Robin explores why reading has always been a form of resistance and an expression of joy, why storytelling matters, the importance of music, drumming, dance, and other forms of communication and repositories of knowledge. Most importantly, she discusses how we can reclaim literacy without centering whiteness. In this powerful fireside chat, Ama-Robin reflects on the deep connection between Black identity and literacy—from surviving enslavement to resisting erasure in today's classrooms. ✨ Featuring reflections on: Invi...
2025-03-2831 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Black History Month Reflection: Symbols, Stories, and the Power of HistoryWhat connects you to your history? For Ama-Robin, it was a wooden map of Africa that hung in my childhood home—a powerful symbol of identity, pride, and resilience. In this episode, Ama-Robin shares a deeply personal story about how this map, despite being ridiculed, became a source of strength and a reminder of the greatness of Black history. We'll reflect on the power of symbols, the lessons of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, and the importance of reclaiming our stories. Join me for storytelling, a cultural cleansing ritual, and a moment of quiet re...
2025-02-0720 minYou Ain't Imagining This!Beyond "Rugged Individualism": The Power of Collective Core ValuesWestern society glorifies rugged individualism, but in the Black community, we know the truth—our power has always been collective. From Black Wall Street to the Black Panther Party, from HBCUs to our multigenerational families, we have built, protected, and uplifted each other through shared core values like unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility. Yet, these values have been ignored—or worse, attacked—by a society that fears our strength. In this episode, we confront this erasure and celebrate the Black collectives that have shaped our past, empowered our present, and will define our future. Join...
2025-01-3131 minYou Ain't Imagining This!Black Empowerment Starts Here: Living by Your Core ValuesWhat are core values? Why should I care about them? Core values aren't just a "white thing"—they're the foundation of Black empowerment. In this episode, Black empowerment educator Ama-Robin explores how our core values are challenged and undermined in a world that often questions our humanity. She's talking directly to the skeptics, showing how core values ground us, guide us, and help us live authentically and unapologetically. Plus, we break down 4 essential steps to defining and living by your values. This isn't about resolutions or goals—it's about building a life rooted in tr...
2025-01-2424 minYou Ain't Imagining This!BelieveBlackPeople: From Supportive Spaces to Standing StrongIn this episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin dives deeper into the #BelieveBlackPeople movement. This isn't just a hashtag—it's a revolutionary call to honor and trust Black voices, celebrate our achievements, and challenge the stereotypes and biases that have silenced us for too long. Ama-Robin breaks down what it means to believe Black people in everyday life, from creating supportive spaces to practicing self-reflection and standing strong in our stories. This conversation is powerful, reflective, and filled with actionable ways to build a culture of belief and respect for Black voices. Grab your esp...
2024-12-0620 minYou Ain't Imagining This!#BelieveBlackPeople: More Than a Hashtag, It's a MovementBelieveBlackPeople is more than words--it's a call to action! In this episode, we break down what it means to believe Black people and why it matters now more than ever. Hosted by Ama-Robin, this episode explores why believing Black people is essential—from recognizing everyday encounters with racism and bias to celebrating Black excellence that's too often overlooked. Listen in as we discuss the powerful message behind #BelieveBlackPeople and share specific steps everyone can take to join the mission. Key Topics Covered: What #BelieveBlackPeople means and why it's more than just a has...
2024-11-1331 minYou Ain't Imagining This!Exploring New Horizons: Celebrating Black Explorers who Broke BoundariesIn this powerful episode, Espresso Talk Today dives into the remarkable, often-hidden stories of Black explorers who redefined what's possible—from Matthew Henson's trek to the North Pole to Mae Jemison's journey beyond Earth's atmosphere and beyond. Join Ama-Robin as she reveals how racial barriers sought to silence these achievements, fostering a narrative that promoted white supremacy by erasing Black contributions. But these stories of courage, innovation, and breaking boundaries are here to be reclaimed and celebrated. Get ready to be inspired by these extraordinary lives—and to explore the explorer within yourself. Tune in to E...
2024-10-2622 minYou Ain't Imagining This!Breaking the Silence: Rediscovering Black Explorers and Empowering Black FuturesIn this powerful episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin shines a light on the incredible Black explorers whose contributions have been erased by the quiet force of racism. From Matthew Henson, one of the first men to reach the North Pole, to Octavia Butler, who explored the Black experience through Afro-futurism, this episode uncovers stories of Black excellence and empowerment that history has tried to silence or diminish. Ama-Robin dives deep into how racism shapes historical narratives, how this silence continues today, and how reclaiming these stories can inspire Black people to challenge societal limitations and...
2024-10-1831 minYou Ain't Imagining This!Red Flags of Racial Chaos in Healthcare (Part 1)Hujambo, beautiful people! In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, we confront the subtle yet pervasive racial chaos in the healthcare system. Join host Ama-Robin as she uncovers the microaggressions, hidden biases, and other red flags that Black people often face during medical treatment. From dismissal of pain to offensive stereotypes, we get real about how racism affects our health. This episode equips you with the knowledge to identify when your care might be compromised by medical racism. Empower yourself, share with your community, and get ready to take control of your healthcare journey.
2024-09-2748 minYou Ain't Imagining This!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. From Emmett Till's tragic lynching to Dr. King's iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, we explore the events that have shaped our journey toward justice and equality. This episode is a powerful call to remember, reflect, and take action as we honor the legacy of those who came before us and continue the fight for Black liberation. Don't miss this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation! Five Ways to...
2024-08-2329 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Uncovering the Racism You've Been TaughtIn this episode, host Ama-Robin dives deep into a challenging yet vital discussion: "You probably don't think that you're racist. But you are!" Many white people, even those who consider themselves allies, unknowingly perpetuate racism through ingrained and socialized behaviors. This episode isn't about blame or shame—it's about understanding and taking action. Join Ama-Robin as she explores the concept of racial socialization and how society, through avenues like media and education, subtly reinforces white supremacy. You will learn: Sources of Socialized Racism 20 Common Actions that white people don't realize ar...
2024-08-1638 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Fighting the "C" Word: The Dangers of ComplacencyHujambo, beautiful people! I'm Ama-Robin, host of Espresso Talk Today. In this episode, we're tackling the "C" word: complacency. Join me as we explore why complacency is a silent but powerful enemy in our fight for justice and equality. We'll discuss how complacency perpetuates injustice, creates a false sense of accomplishment, erodes empathy, and hinders collective action. But don't worry—there's no blaming or shaming here. This episode is all about community, support, and collective action. Learn practical steps to overcome complacency and transform passive awareness into meaningful activism. Together, we can make a real difference. ...
2024-08-0950 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Navigating the Chaos: Confronting Racism in Unexpected PlacesIn this powerful episode, Black empowerment educator and host Ama-Robin dives into the unpredictable and irrational chaos of living Black in predominantly white spaces. Ama-Robin shares a recent "banking while Black" experience, highlighting the physical, mental, and emotional toll that racism takes on Black people as individuals and communities. This episode is a raw and relatable conversation about the constant attacks Black people face and the importance of preparedness and self-care. Tune in to learn how to recognize and call out racism, understand its impact on your health, and discover practical self-care strategies like deep breathing, journaling, e...
2024-08-0232 minYou Ain't Imagining This!The Mindfulness Superpower: Tapping into your Inner Wisdom.In this powerful and transformative episode, host Ama-Robin welcomes back Roxanne Warden, a board-certified life and mindfulness coach, for the second part of their series on the power of mindfulness. This episode dives into the critical role of mindfulness in Black empowerment and offers practical tools to help listeners manage the chaos of living in predominantly white spaces. Roxanne shares invaluable insights on how mindfulness can help tap into our inner wisdom, addressing common yet detrimental thought patterns such as judgment, pessimism, and the pervasive "I'll be happy when..." mindset. She explains how these patterns are often...
2024-07-1954 minYou Ain't Imagining This!Self-care Special: Building Your Village with Mindfulness and SupportIn this insightful episode, host Ama-Robin and special guest Roxanne Worden, a dedicated mindfulness coach, discuss how building a diverse support network can lead to personal growth and empowerment within the Black community. Ama-Robin highlights the importance of professionals like doctors, dentists, and mindfulness coaches, while Roxanne delves deeply into the transformative power of mindfulness. Roxanne shares her journey to becoming a mindfulness coach and explains how mindfulness can help you break free from survival mode, reduce stress, and foster a more present, empowered mindset. By listening to this episode, you'll gain practical tips on developing healthy...
2024-07-1249 minYou Ain't Imagining This!Why I Loathe July 4th in AmericaIn this powerful and defiant episode, host Ama-Robin confronts the painful contradictions of celebrating Independence Day as a Black American. Drawing inspiration from Frederick Douglass's iconic speech, "What to the Slave is Your Fourth of July?" Ama-Robin exposes the hypocrisies of a nation that celebrates freedom while denying it to millions. The episode delves into 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. Listeners are encouraged to take bold, fearless actions to continue the fight for true liberation, including...
2024-07-0435 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Why Black-centered Spaces Should be ProtectedJoin Ama-Robin on Espresso Talk Today as we celebrate Black spaces—vibrant havens of safety and empowerment that defy the chaos of predominantly white spaces. Discover the resilience and creativity flourishing in Black-owned restaurants, boutiques, and cultural centers. But Black spaces are so much more. Black spaces are Black history, Black art, Black music, and Black spirituality. They are Black healing circles, Brotha and Sistah groups, and Black families. Explore why Black spaces are crucial for reclaiming our narratives, fostering community, and resisting systemic inequalities. Learn how they stand as sanctuaries against the thre...
2024-06-2844 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Juneteenth: A Radical Movement for Reparations and Liberation In this powerful and radical episode, host Ama-Robin dives into the deeper significance of Juneteenth, the day that marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Juneteenth is not just a celebration—it's an ongoing movement for reparations and liberation. Ama-Robin explores the historical roots of Juneteenth, the enduring struggles faced by freed people, and the unfinished work of Black liberation. She calls on us to honor our courageous ancestors by continuing their fight for true equality and demanding reparations. Tune in to understand why Juneteenth is more than a day—it's a call to a...
2024-06-2134 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Toward Black Liberation: Imagining a New WorldIn this electrifying episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin demands Black liberation and discusses dismantling the existing white supremacist structures that force us to "make a way out of no way." We explore the true cost of resilience and the necessity of envisioning a world where Black people thrive, not just survive. Drawing on the powerful words of Audre Lorde and the transformative work of Angela Davis, Kali Akuno, and Bryan Stevenson, Ama-Robin calls for the dismantling of oppressive systems and the creation of new ones founded on justice, equity, and liberation. Through radical rest, cultural h...
2024-06-1437 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Confronting the Chaos: Living Black in white spacesJoin host Ama-Robin as she dives deep into the relentless chaos of living Black in predominantly white spaces. In this episode, we explore the challenges faced by Black people, from microaggressions and tokenism to racial profiling and economic exploitation. We also confront the emotional labor of constantly educating others about racism and the toll it takes on our well-being. Through powerful storytelling and insightful commentary, Ama-Robin sheds light on the pervasive assault on our humanity. Tune in as we confront the complexities of race, power, and identity, and reclaim our voices in the face of a...
2024-05-3133 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Hidden Costs of Resilience on Black Health and WellbeingIn this episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin dives into the often undiscussed aspect of "Making a Way out of No Way." While resilience, resourcefulness, and determination have driven the Black community to achieve remarkable successes, these traits have also taken a significant toll on our health. Ama-Robin explores the phenomenon of John Henryism, highlighting the chronic stress, early mortality, and mental health struggles that result from the constant pressure to work twice as hard in a system stacked against us. This episode emphasizes the urgent need for self-care and self-love to combat these...
2024-05-2431 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Unstoppably Black: Making a Way Out of No Way"Making a Way out of No Way." Join host Ama-Robin as she explores the resilience, resourcefulness, and determination in the Black community. From historical figures who defied the odds to contemporary history makers like Misty Copeland and Barack Obama, she dives deep into the theme of "Making a Way out of No Way." Get ready for inspiring stories, insightful discussions, and practical tips for navigating life's challenges with strength and determination. Tune in and join the movement of empowerment and liberation.
2024-05-1026 min
You Ain't Imagining This!My Unexpected Pilgrimage through Black HistoryJoin Ama-Robin on a profound journey through America's most iconic museums and libraries. In this episode, we dive into what makes a pilgrimage more than just a trip as Ama-Robin retraces the steps of pivotal African American figures and explores key artifacts that shape the narrative of African American resilience and culture. From the hallowed halls of the National Museum of African American History and Culture to the artistic corridors of The Met and the historic collections of The Legacy Museum in Montgomery, discover how connecting with our heritage can transform our understanding of the past and inspire our...
2024-05-0329 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Everyday Discrimination Scale: Confronting Racial Stress in the WorkplaceJoin Ama-Robin and Mel on a powerful episode of Espresso Talk Today, where today's brew is rich with insight and empowerment. Diving deep into the Every Day Discrimination Scale (EDDS), this episode tackles the often-overlooked yet deeply impactful issue of workplace discrimination and harassment. Discover how subtle, daily acts of discrimination shape our professional environments and personal well-being. Through vivid real-life examples, Ama-Robin and Mel explore each question of the EDDS, shedding light on the invisible forces at play in workspaces. Tune in for an empowering discussion that not only exposes hidden injustices but also...
2024-04-2654 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Breaking Barriers: Black Women in Outdoor SpacesJoin Ama-Robin and Mel as they interview Demiesha Dennis, founder of Brown Girl Outdoor World. Dive into Demiesha's inspiring journey from self-taught fly-fisher to advocate for Black women in nature. We discuss: 1. The challenges faced by women of color in outdoor spaces, from racial profiling to lack of representation. 2. How Black Girl Outdoor World is reshaping the narrative on who belongs outdoors and fostering inclusivity through education and community. 3. The transformative power of nature as a form of Black empowerment and liberation. Tune in to hear firsthand accounts and insi...
2024-03-291h 01
You Ain't Imagining This!Black History is NOT Depressing!Do you find Black history depressing? I did! Then I learned that this was my "miseducation" about the real history of Black people in America. In this episode, host Ama-Robin rejects 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. Then she challenges you to find the joy in the history that you are making today. Grab an espresso and join us!
2024-02-1628 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Unshackling History: Embracing Black Liberation through LearningDive into a revolutionary journey with Espresso Talk Today's special episode for Black History Month. Host Ama-Robin takes you through an empowering exploration of learning Black history as an act of radical liberation. This episode highlights the pivotal roles of figures like W.E.B. Du Bois and Angela Davis in reshaping the narrative of Black empowerment. Uncover the untold stories of resilience and excellence that form the foundation of our fight against systemic racism. Join Ama-Robin in this powerful call to action, emphasizing that learning Black history is more than education—it's a rebellion an...
2024-02-0229 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Your Superpower against RacismRacism is making us sick! A Black person dies every seven minutes because of systemic racism. What can we do? The first step is to use the Every Day Discrimination Scale--a test that measures the effect of racism in our lives. The second step is to practice self-care. I In this episode, Ama-Robin discusses different types of self-care, but she also encourages you to focus on the self-care that works for you. This is Black empowerment and liberation at its finest. Join this show. It could save your life.
2024-01-2623 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Everyday Discrimination Scale: Measuring Major DiscriminationJoin Ama-Robin and Mel for this uncommon conversation about how racism affects Black health. They also use and discuss the Every Day Discrimination Scale (EDDS) that was created by Psychologist David R. Williams. You can find the Every Day Discrimination Scale on the Espresso Talk Today website at www.espressotalktoday.com.
2024-01-1940 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Radical and Unapologetic Martin Luther King, Jr.Meet the fearless visionary, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.--just in time for Martin Luther King Jr. Day! Explore the bold and unapologetic side of Dr. King that history often hides from us. From the challenges of making MLK Day a reality to the radical messages that resonate today, this show will empower and inspire to action. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, speak out, and make a difference in your community, because this is where radical courage meets actionable change. Join Ama-Robin for this uncommon and inspirational show!
2024-01-1237 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Real Talk: Racism is making us sick!Join Ama-Robin and Mel for this uncommon conversation about how racism affects Black health. They also take and discuss the Every Day Discrimination Scale (EDDS) that was created by Psychologist David R. Williams. You can find the Every Day Discrimination Scale on the Espresso Talk Today website at www.espressotalktoday.com.
2023-11-2435 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Getting out of that Sucker Cycle: The Key to Building WealthBack by popular demand! Jorick Gaines returns to talk about wealth building--and getting out of that "Sucker Cycle"! Financial advisor and educator, Jorick Gaines with WealthWave, Inc., discusses the road to financial security and wealth building. It all begins with having a wealth-focused mindset. Jorick discusses the elements of the wealth mindset, the importance of financial literacy, and the actions needed for financial security. His advice helps people in all income categories and age groups. Join Ben, Marlene, and Ama-Robin (and Jorick Gaines!) for this enlightening, uplifting, and educational...
2023-11-031h 09
You Ain't Imagining This!Real Talk: Getting Uncomfortable in MontgomeryReal Talk is getting uncomfortable in Montgomery. Ama-Robin, Mel, and Ben visit the historical town of Montgomery, Alabama. The town is home to the Equal Justice Initiative which works to challenge racial and economic injustice in the United States. The ETT team discusses the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park. The city of Montgomery is also a living museum. This was an "unforgettable journey through American History." We confront racial terror and reflect on America's conflicting and racist rhetoric and experiences. Join us for this "uncomfortable" j...
2023-10-2727 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Internalized Racism: Being prejudiced against yourselfAre you prejudiced against yourself? Internalized racism is real and persistent. Where does it come from? What does it look like? In this uncommon podcast episode, Ama-Robin presents the "7 Signs that You Might be Prejudiced against Yourself." Learn solutions and ways to heal from the effects of internalized racism. She also presents great stories of Black people who have successfully navigated through this hidden web of white supremacy. Join us for this deep dive into this misunderstood form of racism. No judgment. No criticism. Just awareness.
2023-10-2046 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Your Wellness Check-in: Is Racism Draining your Health in the Pursuit of Success?In this uncommon and interactive episode of Espresso Talk Today, Ama-Robin leads a timely 10-question "check-in" to dive into the intricate relationship between our pursuit of success and the health impact of racism. Through a comprehensive--and short!--questionnaire, you will assess how high-effort coping skills, often vital in battling racial challenges, might be silently affecting your health and well-being. Join us in this essential discussion as we uncover these invisible but real costs and empower ourselves with knowledge and awareness. An episode not to be missed by any Black person navigating the path to success.
2023-10-0624 min
You Ain't Imagining This!Understanding ATTR-CM with Kevin Alexander, M.D.On this September "Talks with Docs & Profs" show, we are joined by the esteemed heart-failure specialist, Kevin Alexander, M.D., to shed light on ATTR-CM – a grave yet under-discussed disease that affects Black people. In this engaging dialogue, we unravel the intricacies of ATTR-CM, exploring its symptoms, prognosis, and the latest advancements in treatment. Emphasizing its significance within the Black community, Dr. Alexander articulates how awareness and knowledge about this disease are vital components of Black medical care, empowerment and health advocacy. This episode is a harmonious blend of deep discussion about a serious condition and uplifting co...
2023-09-281h 16
You Ain't Imagining This!Feeling alone in a crowd: Racial Isolation is RealIn a world where diversity could be celebrated, the reality for many Black people can be described as "Feeling Alone in a Crowd." Join host Ama-Robin on a journey of empowerment, resilience, and radical change as she tackles the complex and often uncomfortable topic of racial isolation. Through candid discussion, personal stories, and expert insights, this podcast episode brings to light the challenges we face in predominantly white spaces—whether at work, in the community, or in everyday life. Ama-Robin fearlessly explores the emotional toll of racial isolation, its mental health effects, and the power of...
2023-09-2233 min
You Ain't Imagining This!The Reality of White-pleasing and its EffectsDownplaying racism. Changing one's name or appearance. Laughing at a racist joke. Choosing only white friends. These are "white-pleasing" behaviors. We all have seen it. We all have done it. Some people have internalized it more than others. White-pleasing is a way of seeking the approval of white people and white society. In this show, podcast host, Ama-Robin, discusses the origins of white-pleasing as a coping, strategic, and survival tool. She will also discuss the different kinds of white-pleasing behaviors and how they can affect one's mental health. We will discuss real-life scenarios--including Ama-Robin's personal experience!--that s...
2023-09-0835 min