In Part 1 of this special Juneteenth edition of Convo Cafe, we begin a powerful conversation that goes beyond surface celebrations. Juneteenth marks the delayed emancipation of the final group of enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas — a moment that continues to echo through generations. Joined by Harry Weaver, (Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer of Oakland County, MI) we explore the historical roots of the holiday, its cultural evolution, and what it means for Black Americans today. Tune in for reflections, knowledge, and real talk about freedom, resilience, and the fight that still continues.

In this special international edition of Convo Cafe, we sit down with Dr. Omari Jackson, professor at Towson University, as he joins us live from Ghana. Dr. Jackson is currently on the ground conducting research on Black individuals who have repatriated—leaving behind their home countries, particularly the U.S., to build new lives in Ghana.

From heartfelt motivations and cultural rediscoveries to the complexities of identity and integration, Dr. Jackson shares firsthand insights from the people reclaiming a sense of home on African soil. We explore what’s driving this modern-day migration, what it reveals about the global Black experience, and how Ghana is welcoming its diasporic sons and daughters.

Whether you're considering a move to the Motherland or just curious about this powerful wave of reconnection, this episode offers an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation from across the Atlantic.

What does it take to build a rodeo rooted in Black history, powered by family, and fueled by faith? In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Scott, founder of the Midwest Invitational Black Rodeo, to explore her inspiring journey from Inkster, Michigan to the national rodeo scene.Nicole didn’t grow up in the saddle—but after a life-changing experience at a Juneteenth parade in Denver, she found her calling. Now, she’s changing the narrative around Black cowboys and cowgirls by creating a space that celebrates heritage, culture, and community. From humble beginnings and no media budget to sold-out shows and multi-state ambitions, Nicole shares the real story behind organizing one of the largest Black rodeos in the Midwest.We talk about reclaiming cultural legacy, the challenges of grassroots production, the power of representation, and why this rodeo is more than just bulls and barrels—it’s a movement.Whether you’re into horses or history, this conversation will ride straight into your heart. Tap in!

In this special year-end episode, we take a deep dive into the events that shaped 2024. From political turmoil to natural disasters, and historic sports achievements to international conflicts, we cover the major stories that captured global attention.

First, we explore the heated U.S. election race, with a focus on Donald Trump's political journey amid ongoing legal battles. Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine rages on, as Russia's invasion continues to disrupt global geopolitics. In the Middle East, we discuss the tragic escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict and its global ramifications.

2024 also brought a series of devastating natural disasters, including Hurricane Helene in the Atlantic and catastrophic flooding in Spain. We'll examine the global response and the long-term impacts of these events.

In sports, we reflect on the dominance of rising stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, and celebrate unforgettable moments, including Taylor Swift's impact on the sports world and the high stakes of the sports championships in 2024. The Tokyo Olympics, though in the rearview mirror, still reverberated with the aftermath of its drama and triumphs, as we look ahead to Paris 2024.

And of course, we can't forget the stunning total solar eclipse that captivated millions across the globe. Plus, the tragic collapse of the Baltimore bridge highlights the ongoing issues of infrastructure in the U.S.

Join us for an in-depth, thought-provoking discussion of 2024, a year marked by triumph, turmoil, and moments that will resonate for years to come.

Join us this holiday season for a heartwarming Christmas special, as we reflect on the magic of Christmas 2024. In this episode, we dive into the spirit of giving, gratitude, and connection that makes the holidays so special. We'll share festive traditions from around the world, highlight inspiring stories of kindness, and explore how the season of joy can inspire hope and renewal in our lives.

Whether you're decking the halls, gathering with family, or simply enjoying some quiet moments by the fire, this episode is designed to bring a sense of wonder and warmth to your Christmas celebrations. From heartwarming music to heartfelt conversations, tune in for a dose of Christmas cheer to carry you through the season and into the New Year.

In this episode, we engage in a series of candid discussions about the intersection of music, race, and history. First, we explore the profound impact of Kendrick Lamar and Drake on the cultural landscape, examining how their music speaks to themes of identity, success, and the struggles faced by Black communities.From there, we delve into the painful legacy of the "Paper Bag Test," a practice that perpetuated colorism within the Black community, and discuss its lasting effects on perceptions of beauty and worth. How does this history still shape our views today?We also reflect on the reality of segregation—both past and present—and how it continues to influence societal divisions, from education to housing to the arts. Join us for a powerful episode that challenges, educates, and opens up critical conversations about race, culture, and the path forward.

In this episode, we dive into a wild mix of topics that’ll keep you on your toes! We’re talking about alpacas in the hood—yes, you read that right! We’ll explore how unexpected trends and animals can pop up in urban areas. Then, we switch gears to talk about kids rocking designer clothes at a young age and what it says about the culture of status and self-expression. Of course, we can’t forget the Detroit Lions—how they’re shaping up this season and what’s next for the Motor City’s football team. We wrap things up with a debate on the best R&B group of all time—who truly reigns supreme in the genre? Tune in for a mix of culture, sports, fashion, and music all in one episode!

In this episode, we dive into a whirlwind of topics, starting with the fun chaos of Halloween as parents and kids navigate costumes, candy, and community. From there, we tackle weighty issues like the presidential election and the complexities of the “N-word,” exploring its history and cultural impact. We also share a lively discussion about what it means to be “Hood Famous”—the unsung legends making waves in their communities. It’s a mix of real talk, laughter, and reflection that you don’t want to miss!