Blacklining Forum

It's midsummer. You're going to a cookout. Who're you inviting? It's a simple question, but that decision could make or break your party. We used the idea of a cookout as a metaphor for a tight-knit gathering of community with whom we'd like to share stories, ideas, and dreams. Cousin Malia Lazu joins us again to expand the conversation by discussing what community is and how people from different communities could communicate with each other.

Transformational experiences happen when you least expect them. Melony and Derek spent a week together visiting Barcelona, Spain. Later, after returning to Boston, Melony proclaimed that she had “been living a lie.” Gradually and quietly, previous conversations with Margo Gabriel, Karleen Porcena, sister sadada, Malia Lazu, and Adam Susaneck had compounded like interest that, when withdrawn in Barcelona, revealed a greater richness of life that was not just theoretically possible, but actually flourishing. With Derek recalling that we’re only 100 years out from the middle years of the Harlem Renaissance, the two also referenced how travel and living abroad influenced artists like Josephine Baker and Langston Hughes, and what lessons we can learn from those examples - and others - today.

Dance and joy take center stage today. There's a movement afoot in Black America in which dance is emerging as a revolutionary act - a subversive expression of joy and cultural memory. Melony and Derek begin by sharing personal reflections on the movement's roots to moments of community and survival. Returning guest, Malia Lazu, then expands the conversation to encompass broader themes of societal change and collaboration. Together, they navigate through thoughts of joy as resistance, the necessity of decentralized action, and the crucial role of the working class as the heart of the movement. RESOURCES Ring Shout example 1: https://www.jazzhistorytree.com/ring-shout/ Ring Shout example 2: https://blackmusicscholar.com/african-american-culture-ring-shout/

Architect and urban planner Adam Paul Susaneck returns to continue the conversation about the hardened lines that divided Americans spatially and racially in the 20th century, and grassroot efforts to undo and repair the damage in the 21st century. From the grandparents of Pope Leo XIV to the urban cores of Rochester, NY and Boston, MA, Melony, Derek, and Adam connect the dots between personal histories and broader societal changes, shedding light on how urban renewal and transportation projects have shaped cities, metropolitan areas, and imaginations for generations. Resources Dividing Lines, Deborah Archer: https://shop.aclu.org/dividing-lines-how-transportation-infrastructure-reinforces-inequality/ Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative: https://www.dsni.org/ Dudley Station: http://www.bostonstreetcars.com/dudley-square.html Urban renewal and repair in Rochester: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBxiJtNSk80 Urban renewal projects in Boston: https://www.segregationbydesign.com/boston

Architect and urban planner Adam Susaneck joins Melony and Derek for a vivid examination of the profound impact urban planning has had on Black communities in the United States, from Jim Crow to the New Deal and into modern times. Using the histories of Miami and Los Angeles as the primary examples, they explore how informal practices to divide cities by race hardened to become permanent, real-world features that reshaped U.S. cities in the 20th century and still impact metropolitan areas today. RESOURCES Links ttps://nmaahc.si.edu/ https://www.segregationbydesign.com/ https://www.segregationbydesign.com/los-angeles/harbor-freeway-i110 https://academic.oup.com/jah/article-abstract/108/1/42/6295167?redirectedFrom=fulltext Books https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/W/bo8787511.html https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324092148 https://wwnorton.com/books/The-Color-of-Law/ https://www.robertcaro.org/the-power-broker

This is an invitation to reimagine your relationship with agency, community, and the very systems that shape our lives. In this conversation, we uncover the nuanced differences between freedom and liberation, and free fall into the chasm between asserting control and letting go. Guest sister sadada, an embodied liberation teacher, enriches the discussion with insights on freeing oneself not just from systemic constraints, but also from the unseen, liberating our spiritual and relational ties. Our conversation weaves through reflections on culture and identity, ultimately encouraging us to question societal norms and embrace a broader notion of interconnectedness. RESOURCES Website: http://www.sistersadada.com The People Could Fly: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228034.The_People_Could_Fly

We're back in Boston with an urgent broadcast. Thinking broadly about Black wealth, power and land, we take a moment to explore how ordinary citizens can respond to the political changes and growing repression sweeping the country. With dramatic shifts occurring at both a federal and community level, Melony and Derek discuss the growing necessity for dispersed grassroots action and strategize on how small, localized movements can collectively drive broad-scale change. Through engaging storytelling and insightful dialogue, they highlight the power of boycotts, economic leverage, and the importance of "wrong think", also known as exercising one's First Amendment rights to challenge the new political reality. This conversation is both a call to action and a beacon of hope. Communities, armed with knowledge, resilience, and creativity, can push back against the forces that seek to overwhelm them. Listeners are encouraged to connect, organize, and mobilize. It is within our collective agency to create change grounded in the belief that through solidarity and strategic action, we can enhance communal wealth, safety, and power.

For our first episode in 2025, we're welcoming the new year contemplating questions about societal evolution, collective responsibility, and the possibility of genuine transformation of the Black middle class centered around the power of mutual support. Our discussion with guest Malia Lazu takes into consideration what a liberatory future might require, unpacks the capitalist desires of the Black middle class, and questions its aspirations for freedom. In short, we delve into an examination of traditional markers of success and urge listeners to contemplate wealth and privilege through new, actionable lenses.

Malia Lazu, a powerhouse in diversity and inclusion strategy, joins us for our first conversation after the 2024 U.S. presidential election. We chat about the importance of rest, the power of community, and what it means to truly love Black people—and ourselves—ferociously. In a world that feels uncertain, politically, socially, and environmentally, we're reminded of the lessons from our ancestors and predecessors of the strength we have within. Whether it's finding solace in the quiet, or building networks that can uplift or provide escape, we explore paths to freedom during a rising authoritarian tide.

Melony and Derek get realer about the upcoming election and the pressing issues that are shaping it. The duo explore evolving sources of power, both political and natural. As climate change accelerates, they question the value of land and mobility, and how these elements shape Black freedom. It's a complex web of questions about capital, community, and the future of our environment. As they discuss the stakes of the election, the role of government, and the impact of climate change on our lives, they also challenging themselves - and listeners - to think about what they truly value.

The Blacklining Forum is back with an October surprise. Melony and Derek delve into the 2024 U.S. presidential election (only 28 days away at the time of the recording) and its potential intersections on Black wealth, power, and land. They discuss the complexities of the political landscape, the tight race, and the potential implications for Black communities. Reflecting on past administrations, they ponder whether the future holds a new era akin to the New Deal or a resurgence of Jim Crow. The two share personal anecdotes and insights on the socio-political climate, highlighting the shifts in Black power across different eras. They examine the roles of literature, arts, sports, and hip-hop in shaping the Black American image and influencing cultural narratives. As they navigate the uncertainties of the future, Melony and Derek emphasize the importance of vigilance, proactive engagement, and the need for strong leadership. They encourage listeners to consider the potential for societal evolution and the seeds of hope that can be nurtured within communities. Join them for the first in a series of compelling conversations that challenge conventional thinking and inspire reflection on the future of Black wealth, power, and land in the face of political and social change.

Holla at us, Gen X! This episode is about you. Independent journalist and content creator, Gregory Ball, brings his wealth of knowledge and shares insights on the cultural and economic impact of hip hop and it's influence on Gen X, both of which are now in their 50s. Greg's conversation with Melony and Derek touches on the roots of hip hop as a form of resistance, resilience, expression, and aspiration in the face of socioeconomic challenges. They also discuss whether and how the genre has matured, stayed true to its roots, and/or been a window into the desires of its earliest followers. For example, have the aspirations and teachings of hip hop icons like Jay-Z translated into real power and economic stability for the broader generation? Additionally, as they reflect on the need for community, connectivity, and cultural pride, they also ponder the future of hip hop and its ongoing role in shaping identity and social dynamics. In short, from The Message to Fight the Power to My President, this is a wide-ranging conversation that re-examines the podcast's tagline about Black power and wealth through a new lens.

There's power inherent in crafting communities in your own likeness. In this episode, we begin by briefly comparing images and stories from the concurrent narratives of the Harlem Renaissance and the Great Migration. From there, our guest, Jay Cephas, an historian of architecture, landscapes, and cities, shares his insights and research on the overlooked - and suppressed - contributions of Black architects and builders throughout American history. Jay walks us through an expansive and rich history, from the days of enslavement through Reconstruction and into the early 20th century. He highlights the significant impact generations of Black tradespeople had on shaping urban environments and building communities, despite facing systemic barriers and exclusions. Additionally, Jay introduces us to the Black Architects Archive, an interactive repository documenting the work of Black architects, builders, and contractors in North America. In short, we have an enlightening and inspiring conversation showcasing how Black Americans built schools, churches, and other vital structures with limited resources, and left an enduring impact on the American landscape.

Guest Kerry Reilly returns for a sobering-yet-important episode that takes a deeper dive into wills, trusts, and the importance of estate planning. The conversation addresses the worrying fact that a vast majority of Black Americans lack a legally-framed will, and how this oversight could prevent their participation in the largest wealth transfer in US history. Examples include high-profile celebrities like Chadwick Boseman, Prince, and Aretha Franklin, who tragically passed away with no wills - or unclear ones - triggering complex financial headaches for their heirs. Kerry Riley navigates us through the maze of legalities surrounding wills and trusts, providing practical advice and clarifying common misconceptions. She explains how these legal documents operate before and after death, how frequent updates should be, and distinct issues regarding tangible property and real estate ownership. In particular, Kerry provides an easy-to-grasp analogy of trusts as a "lockbox" for assets. She also notes the varying implications of owning a property individually vs in joint tenancy, adding layers to the discussion.

What's the difference between generational wealth and dynastic wealth? Dr. LaTanya White, a scholar-practitioner who specializes in the intersections of global competitiveness, equity, entrepreneurship, and the racial wealth gap, joins us to introduce the concept of dynastic wealth, breaking down its five key forms — financial, spiritual, intellectual, relational, and wealth of knowledge — and how they can be intentionally cultivated and passed down through generations. She also discusses the importance of mindset, entrepreneurship, and community in building sustainable wealth. Through practical examples and insightful anecdotes, Dr. White provides listeners with actionable steps to start meaningful conversations about wealth within their own families. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply looking to understand how to create a lasting legacy, you'll hear valuable perspectives and resources to help you on your journey. Learn how to transform your approach to wealth, legacy, and community impact, ensuring that future generations are not only financially secure but also rich in knowledge, identity, and purpose. Dr. White also offers a complimentary Wealth Personality Quiz online at https://meetdrwhite.com/shownotes.

Who's an expat? Who's an immigrant? How does being a Black person from the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada complicate the idea of those identities when personal and societal experiences, perceptions, and feelings are factored in? Derek and Melony discuss the historical impacts and societal implications of these notions with guests Margo Gabriel, a journalist based in Portugal, and Karleen Porcena, a globetrotting scholar of comparative politics. Our discussion also captures the personal journeys and insights we've each had overseas, from the Dominican Republic to Japan. During the conversation, we unpack and critique the significance of Black Westerners "going back" to Africa with the complexities of lived experiences, anticipated discrimination, and entitlement. We also question the source of Black freedom when it's detached from ownership of land. Our shared experiences and reflections offer takeaways for individuals considering international relocation or seeking to understand the experiences of Black Americans abroad, as we emphasize seeing ourselves beyond our socialized expectations and embracing the responsibilities of a broader worldview. Whether you're an aspiring traveler or have been away from your home country for a while, this episode is your ticket to explore the horizons of the global Black experience.

Melinda Jordan, a leading real estate advisor based in Chicago, returns to the show to take us on her personal roller coaster. From leaving a six-figure corporate job to losing everything and then rebuilding to establish a successful career, Melinda's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Her resourcefulness in the face of adversity was also a constant companion on every step of the way. She reveals the various tactics employed to thrive despite very large challenges, emphasizing the importance of asking for help while navigating life's uneven playing field. Derek and Melony also explore concepts of personal growth and the importance of mindsets with Melinda as she shares how she overcame her limiting beliefs, learned to celebrate her accomplishments, and broke free from cultural and familial norms. We also discussed personal growth and the inevitably of feeling discomfort during the process, particularly when it creates distance with those around us. In short, if you've ever asked yourself "How did they do that?" about someone, this conversation about self-investment and mindset shifts will provide personal and professional insights that answer your question. It's a tale of unwavering ambition and strategic risk-taking that will inspire you to confront your own challenges and achieve success against the odds.

Melony and Derek exchange insights with Courtney Brunson, a champion for economic and racial justice, and Director of the Greater Boston Partnership to Close the Racial Wealth Gap at the Boston Foundation. We begin with considerations of wealth-building strategies for Black communities, housing access complexities, and the role of fair housing in wealth creation. But, the episode diverges from that path by taking a deeper dive into the cultural and societal growth of the City of Boston. We raise concerns about the socioeconomic factors in the landscape that challenge the city's cultural narrative, and explore whether the evolution of the American standard of beauty is a model for Boston to evolve its approach to "standards" of culture and inclusivity.

Today Melony and Derek delve into the crucial, yet often misunderstood, topic of estate planning. We consider its vital role in ensuring future financial security, protecting asset privacy, and transferring wealth in accordance with your wishes. Guest Kerry Reilly, Estate Planner to the 99%, unpacks the common misconception that estate planning is exclusive to the affluent and shines a light on its relevance and necessity for everyone. We focus on the importance of planning for future contingencies, indicating how estate planning could serve as your ultimate "out-of-office memo" for safeguarding personal financial health. Additionally, we examine legal elements of estate planning, such as power of attorney and healthcare proxy. Through discussing various scenarios, we emphasize the potential consequences of not having these vital provisions in place. Transitioning to property inheritance, we detail the responsibilities, legal challenges, and emotional aspects associated with handling an inherited home, especially for adult children or other family members. We also underline the necessity of a comprehensive estate plan by discussing the options - sell, keep or develop the property - and the need for accessible legal documents. This is a must-listen to episode for people seeking practical, introductory advice on estate planning. Think of it as your primer for wealth preservation and for maintaining control over personal financial affairs.

Glynn Lloyd has been a pioneer in the field of transformative urban economic development for over 25 years. He is the founder of City Fresh Foods, a nationally-renowned food service business, and over 20 years grew it on average 15% annually to an 8-figure revenue. He is also a founder of the Urban Farming institute (UFI), a community-led nonprofit supporting the development of the urban farming industry in Massachusetts and helped establish the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts (BECMA), a coalition of black business, community, religious and labor leaders working together to improve economic indicators in the Black community. Recently, Glynn has been appointed to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Economic Development Planning Council. The council is responsible for crafting a strategic plan to guide Massachusetts economic development policy over the next four years. Currently, he is the Executive Director of Mill Cities Community Investments (www.mccinvest.org), the first Black-led community development financial institution (CDFI) in Massachusetts. Glynn is also the founding Executive Director of the Foundation for Business Equity (FBE). The Foundation’s award-winning initiative, the Business Equity Initiative (BEI), is executing a unique approach to scaling up local Black and Latino enterprises to close the racial wealth gap (www.fbequity.org). In this fast-paced conversation, Glynn shared his insights on what's involved with building community and how that work is sustained. During our conversation, he reveals tidbits about his mindset, explains how money works, and discusses the importance of sustainability at both the individual and community level.