TonyTidbit: A Black Executive Perspective

TonyTidbit ™

About the Podcast: "TonyTidbit: A Black Executive Perspective" offers a deep dive into the corporate world through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Hosted by Tony Franklin, aka Tony Tidbit, this podcast shines a light on vital conversations around race, leadership, and diversity, fostering understanding and change. https://ablackexec.com Meet Your Host: Tony Franklin has over three decades of corporate experience and provides transformative insights into diversity and inclusion, making each episode a journey of learning and empowerment. Why You Should Listen: - Diverse Perspectives: Insights from a variety of voices on challenges and triumphs in the corporate sphere. -Action-Oriented: Practical advice for advocating equity and allyship in the workplace. - Educational & Empathetic: A focus on empathy and education to drive impactful change. What to Expect: #BEPpodcast brings powerful transformations, empowering voices, addressing barriers, and delving into topics reshaping Corporate America. It's a platform uniting diverse voices and making a significant impact. Stay Connected: Follow @ablackexec on social media for insights and visit ablackexec.com for updates and additional content. Listen & Subscribe: "TonyTidbit: A Black Executive Perspective" is available on: Apple Podcasts: https://ablackexec.com/apple Spotify: https://ablackexec.com/spotify YouTube Podcasts: https://ablackexec.com/youtube Other Platforms: https://ablackexec.com/listen Join us in transforming the narrative on race, leadership, and diversity in Corporate America. Your participation matters! #BEPpodcast #TonyTidbit #CorporateDiversity #Inclusion #Leadership #RaceInCorporate #DiversityMatters #DEI This podcast uses analytics and growth tools from Podder, Chartable, Podsights, and Podcorn.

  1. 3 HRS AGO

    Do We Have to Work Until We Die?

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/do-we-have-to-work-until-we-die Episode Video Link: Today, Tony Tidbit and Chris P. Reed tackle a question that cuts across every generation: Are we working toward retirement or working until the end? In this BEP Live audio episode, the conversation goes beyond headlines and gets real about the state of work, money, and long-term security. From Gen Z workplace challenges and employer expectations to the disappearance of pensions and the pressure of rising cost of living, this discussion exposes the gaps no one wants to address. This is not about fear. This is about awareness and preparation. What You Will Learn Why retirement is becoming harder to achieve The disconnect between Gen Z and workplace expectations How is the cost of living impacting financial stability The reality of pensions, 401 (k) s, and long-term planning ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Opening and the real question 01:00 Are we working until we die 03:00 Gen Z and workplace expectations 08:30 Work ethic and preparation gaps 15:00 Leadership and earning your place 22:00 Generational tension and mindset shifts 29:00 Retirement reality and financial planning 35:00 Cost of living and economic pressure 40:00 Why people can’t retire 47:00 Final thoughts 🔗 ResourcesLinks and resources mentioned in this episode: 🔔 Listen and SubscribeListen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive change subscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague 🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email podcast@ablackexec.com .

    54 min
  2. 1D AGO

    DEI Is Not What They Told You

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/DEI Is Not What They Told You Episode Video Link: In this episode of Need to Know, Dr. Nsenga Burton breaks down the truth behind Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and challenges the narratives shaping public perception. DEI has become one of the most misunderstood and politicized concepts in today’s culture. But what does it actually mean, and who does it really benefit? Dr. Burton unpacks the myths, exposes the bias behind the backlash, and explains why DEI is not about giving unqualified individuals opportunities, but about expanding access, equity, and inclusion across society. This is a necessary conversation about power, perception, and truth. What You Will Learn What DEI actually includes beyond race and common misconceptions Why the idea of “unqualified hires” is rooted in bias, not fact Who truly benefits from DEI policies and initiatives How misinformation about DEI impacts workplaces and society ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Introduction 01:05 What DEI Really Means 02:30 Access and Opportunity Explained 04:00 The Myth of Unqualified Candidates 06:00 Who Benefits from DEI 08:30 Personal Experience and Reality 10:30 The Backlash and Misunderstanding 12:30 Final Thoughts 🔗 ResourcesLinks and resources mentioned in this episode: 🔔 Listen and SubscribeListen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive change subscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague 🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email podcast@ablackexec.com .

    14 min
  3. 3D AGO

    Are We Building… or Just Complaining?

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/are-we-building-or-just-complaining- Episode Video Link: Today, Wesley Alexander, CEO of CoBiz Richmond, delivers a direct message: if we are not building, we are falling behind. In this episode, Tony Tidbit and Chris P. Reed unpack how leadership, faith, economic development, and community infrastructure determine whether individuals and communities move forward or stay stuck. From his journey through Silicon Valley, the FBI, and entrepreneurship, Wesley explains why access, collaboration, and long-term strategy are critical, and why ego, division, and lack of execution continue to limit progress. This is not about inspiration. This is about responsibility, discipline, and building something that lasts. What You Will Learn Why building institutions is critical for long-term success How ego vs purpose shapes leadership decisions The role of access and infrastructure in economic growth Why collaboration is the key to sustainable community impact ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Purpose and Leadership Under Pressure 08:00 Career Journey and Public Service 15:00 Ego vs Purpose 22:00 Inside the FBI and System Awareness 30:00 Building Beyond the Athlete Identity 36:00 CoBiz and Economic Infrastructure 45:00 Faith, Fear, and Staying the Course 52:00 Legacy and Community Impact Call to Action Follow, share, and stay connected for more conversations that challenge perspective and drive real change. Embrace L.E.S.S to eliminate all forms of discrimination. Learn: Educate yourself in cultural and racial realities. Empathy: Understand and respect different lived experiences. Share: Share your knowledge and your story to uplift others. Stop: Stop discrimination when you see it. 🔗 ResourcesLinks and resources mentioned in this episode: 🔔 Listen and SubscribeListen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive change subscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague 🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email podcast@ablackexec.com .

    1h 5m
  4. 4D AGO

    AI Fear or Opportunity?

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/ai-fear-or-opportunity- Episode Video Link: Today, Kee Jones, Founder and CEO of Reset, explores a critical question shaping the future of work: Are we avoiding AI out of fear, or stepping into it as an opportunity? In this episode, Tony Tidbit and Chris P. Reed break down how mental health, workplace culture, and leadership accountability are directly impacting how people engage with AI and innovation. From psychological safety in the workplace to the lasting effects of trauma, this conversation reveals why many professionals feel stuck and what it takes to move forward with clarity and confidence. This is not just about technology. This is about how we lead, adapt, and grow. What You Will Learn Why fear is slowing AI adoption How leadership impacts mental health at work The importance of psychological safety in performance Why engaging with AI is essential for future growth ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 AI Fear vs Opportunity 05:00 Mental Health and Cultural Barriers 10:00 Workplace Leadership and Toxicity 16:00 AI Adoption and Responsibility Call to Action Follow, share, and stay connected for more conversations that challenge perspective and drive growth. Embrace L.E.S.S to eliminate all forms of discrimination. Learn: Educate yourself in cultural and racial realities. Empathy: Understand and respect different lived experiences. Share: Share your knowledge and your story to uplift others. Stop: Stop discrimination when you see it. 🔗 ResourcesLinks and resources mentioned in this episode: 🔔 Listen and SubscribeListen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive change subscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague 🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email podcast@ablackexec.com .

    23 min
  5. APR 3

    Are Black Girls Being Treated Like Adults Too Early?

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/are-black-girls-being-treated-like-adults-too-early- Episode Video Link: Today, Dr. Gabrielle Wallace and Brittany Merida of Measure unpack a critical issue impacting Black and Brown girls, adultification bias, and how it shapes perception, treatment, and opportunity from an early age. In this episode of A Black Executive Perspective Podcast, Tony Tidbit and Chris P. Reed explore how language, culture, education systems, and artificial intelligence reinforce bias, often without awareness. From everyday phrases to systemic decision-making, this conversation reveals how deeply rooted these patterns are and why they must be challenged. This discussion goes beyond awareness. It calls for interrogation, accountability, and intentional change in how we raise, educate, and protect the next generation. What You Will Learn What adultification bias is and how it impacts Black girls How everyday language reinforces harmful perceptions The connection between AI bias, data, and real-world outcomes Why awareness and interrogation are key to driving change ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Introduction and guest background 02:00 Understanding Measure and community impact 04:00 Defining adultification bias 06:00 Language, parenting, and cultural conditioning 08:00 AI, social media, and bias amplification 10:30 Community control and AI governance 13:00 Getting started with AI and building literacy 15:00 Unlearning behaviors and personal reflection 17:00 Historical context and generational impact 19:00 Interrogation and awareness as solutions 21:00 Final thoughts Call to Action Embrace L.E.S.S to eliminate all forms of discrimination. Learn: Educate yourself in cultural and racial realities. Empathy: Understand and respect different lived experiences. Share: Share your knowledge and your story to uplift others. Stop: Stop discrimination when you see it. 🔗 ResourcesLinks and resources mentioned in this episode: 🔔 Listen and SubscribeListen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive change subscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague 🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email podcast@ablackexec.com .

    22 min
  6. APR 2

    Comfort Is Killing Your Growth

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/comfort-is-killing-your-growth- Episode Video Link: Today, Dr. Nsenga Burton, cultural critic, professor, and media strategist, breaks down a hard truth too many people avoid: comfort is the enemy of growth. In this episode of Need to Know, Dr. Burton challenges the idea that stability and ease are signs of success. Instead, she reframes discomfort as a necessary condition for personal development, leadership growth, and long-term achievement. From navigating political uncertainty to pushing past self-imposed limits in education and career, this conversation explores how mindset, discipline, and resilience are required to evolve in today’s environment. If you’ve been waiting for things to feel easier before you make your next move, this episode will force a reset. What You Will Learn Why comfort can quietly block growth and opportunityHow discomfort builds discipline, resilience, and leadership capacityThe role of mindset in navigating uncertainty and changeWhy pushing past self-imposed limits is critical for long-term success ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Introduction, What You Need to Know 01:00 Change Is Slow, But Certain 02:00 Why Comfort Is the Real Risk 03:10 The Value of Discomfort 04:10 Breaking Self-Imposed Limits 05:15 Navigating Uncertainty 06:15 Mindset Shift and Growth 07:15 Final Thoughts and Takeaways This episode is a reminder that growth requires pressure, discipline, and intentional action. Comfort might feel good, but it will keep you exactly where you are. Listen, apply, and move differently. Embrace L.E.S.S to eliminate all forms of discrimination. Learn: Educate yourself in cultural and racial realities. Empathy: Understand and respect different lived experiences. Share: Share your knowledge and your story to uplift others. Stop: Stop discrimination when you see it. 🔗 ResourcesLinks and resources mentioned in this episode: 🔔 Listen and SubscribeListen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive change subscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague 🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email podcast@ablackexec.com .

    8 min
  7. APR 1

    Scholarships Are Disappearing. Now What?

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/scholarships-are-disappearing-now-what- Episode Video Link: Today, Jacqueline Powers, Vice President of Scholarships at the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, breaks down a growing crisis that is not getting enough attention: scholarship funding for Black students is shrinking while demand continues to rise. In this episode of A Black Executive Perspective Podcast, Tony Tidbit and Chris P. Reed explore how AI, data, and innovation are being used to expand access, identify gaps, and respond to declining funding streams. With more than 60,000 applicants and only a fraction receiving support, this conversation highlights the urgency of creating new pathways for opportunity and rethinking how we fund the future of education. This is not just about scholarships. This is about access, equity, and the future of our communities. What You Will Learn Why scholarship funding is declining and how it impacts Black students How AI and data can improve access and completion rates The role of innovation in replacing lost funding sources Why HBCUs remain critical to education and workforce development ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Introduction and Jacqueline Powers background 02:00 The Thurgood Marshall College Fund mission 06:30 AI and scaling scholarship access 10:00 The scholarship funding gap explained 12:00 Data insights and application drop-off 14:00 Advocacy and protecting HBCU funding 17:30 The real stakes for students and communities 19:00 Final thoughts Call to Action Embrace L.E.S.S to eliminate all forms of discrimination. Learn: Educate yourself in cultural and racial realities. Empathy: Understand and respect different lived experiences. Share: Share your knowledge and your story to uplift others. Stop: Stop discrimination when you see it. 🔗 ResourcesLinks and resources mentioned in this episode: 🔔 Listen and SubscribeListen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive change subscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague 🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email podcast@ablackexec.com .

    20 min
  8. MAR 31

    Corporate America Wasn’t Built for Black Women

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/corporate-america-wasnt-built-for-black-women- Episode Video Link: Today, Candice C. Jones, President and CEO of the Public Welfare Foundation, delivers a powerful and unfiltered perspective on what it truly takes for Black women to lead, grow, and succeed in corporate America. In this episode of A Black Executive Perspective Podcast, Tony Tidbit and Chris P. Reed unpack the systemic barriers, microaggressions, and leadership challenges that often go unspoken. Candice shares real strategies for navigating environments that were not designed for you while still building influence, confidence, and long-term success. From mentorship and representation to resilience and self-awareness, this conversation provides a blueprint for navigating power, building relationships, and leading with purpose. This is not just about surviving corporate America. It is about learning how to win anyway. What You Will Learn Why Black women often face unique systemic barriers in leadership How to navigate microaggressions without losing your identity The importance of building a diverse “kitchen cabinet” of mentors How confidence, resilience, and strategy drive long-term success ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Introduction and guest background 02:00 Candice Jones’ journey and early inspiration 10:00 Representation and the power of visibility 20:00 Confidence versus imposter syndrome 25:00 Navigating microaggressions in the workplace 32:00 Mentorship and building your network 40:00 The power of diverse mentorship 48:00 Overcoming rejection and resistance 54:00 Leadership lessons and final advice Call to Action Embrace L.E.S.S to eliminate all forms of discrimination. Learn: Educate yourself in cultural and racial realities. Empathy: Understand and respect different lived experiences. Share: Share your knowledge and your story to uplift others. Stop: Stop discrimination when you see it. 🔗 ResourcesLinks and resources mentioned in this episode: 🔔 Listen and SubscribeListen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive change subscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague 🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email podcast@ablackexec.com .

    1 hr

About

About the Podcast: "TonyTidbit: A Black Executive Perspective" offers a deep dive into the corporate world through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Hosted by Tony Franklin, aka Tony Tidbit, this podcast shines a light on vital conversations around race, leadership, and diversity, fostering understanding and change. https://ablackexec.com Meet Your Host: Tony Franklin has over three decades of corporate experience and provides transformative insights into diversity and inclusion, making each episode a journey of learning and empowerment. Why You Should Listen: - Diverse Perspectives: Insights from a variety of voices on challenges and triumphs in the corporate sphere. -Action-Oriented: Practical advice for advocating equity and allyship in the workplace. - Educational & Empathetic: A focus on empathy and education to drive impactful change. What to Expect: #BEPpodcast brings powerful transformations, empowering voices, addressing barriers, and delving into topics reshaping Corporate America. It's a platform uniting diverse voices and making a significant impact. Stay Connected: Follow @ablackexec on social media for insights and visit ablackexec.com for updates and additional content. Listen & Subscribe: "TonyTidbit: A Black Executive Perspective" is available on: Apple Podcasts: https://ablackexec.com/apple Spotify: https://ablackexec.com/spotify YouTube Podcasts: https://ablackexec.com/youtube Other Platforms: https://ablackexec.com/listen Join us in transforming the narrative on race, leadership, and diversity in Corporate America. Your participation matters! #BEPpodcast #TonyTidbit #CorporateDiversity #Inclusion #Leadership #RaceInCorporate #DiversityMatters #DEI This podcast uses analytics and growth tools from Podder, Chartable, Podsights, and Podcorn.