What is Black

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Channel • 2 Shows

Stories for Kids

Stories for Kids

Updated fortnightly
Parenting

Parenting

Updated fortnightly

21/01/2019

Talking to Kids About Race

Dr. Riana Elyse Anderson (@rianaelyse) is a Psychologist and Assistant Professor in the Health Behaviors & Health Education Department in the School of Public Health at the University of Michigan. Her scholarship addresses culturally specific parenting practices to reduce race-related stress in families. During this episode, we discuss the importance of having conversations with our children about race, promoting child psychosocial well-being, her current program, EMBRace (Engaging, Managing, and Bonding through Race), a family-based intervention that provides parents and children skills to address race and racial discrimination, and her video series, Our Mental Health Minute (OurMHM), with fellow psychologist Dr. Shawn C.T. Jones (@SCTJones) that addresses mental health stigma within the African-American community. To learn more about Dr. Riana Elyse Anderson go to https://www.rianaelyse.com. Resources: Article: https://sph.umich.edu/pursuit/2018posts/talking-about-race.htmlGetting involved in EMBRace: https://www.theembraceprogram.com/get_involvedEMBRace Video: https://vimeo.com/210478950OurMHM: https://www.facebook.com/pg/OurMHM/videos/

21/01/2019

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42 min
25/08/2025

Henry and the Parrot Adventure

In this imaginative episode of Henry’s Library, Henry and his friends take a magical journey sparked by a feather bookmark—and meet a singing parrot named Peter! When Peter tries to make new bird friends, he’s teased for being different, especially for his love of veggies and catchy songs. But with kindness, empathy, and a little help from Henry, Eric, and Vanessa, Peter discovers that being yourself is more than enough to make real friends. This heartwarming story explores themes of acceptance, friendship, and staying true to yourself—even when others don’t understand. Join us as we celebrate the power of imagination and the importance of celebrating our differences. Story written by DTevieyus Joiner. Support the show What is Black Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/whatisblk/ https://www.facebook.com/WhatisBlk/

25/08/2025

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9 min
11/03/2024

Building Resilience: Supporting Black Youth in the Face of Microaggressions

Welcome to today's episode, where we're delving into a topic that hits close to home for many of us the experiences of Black children in our educational systems. Hosts Dr. Valerie Adams-Bass (Valerie) and Dr. Sheretta Butler-Barnes (Sheretta) are joined by a special guest, Desiree Tucker, a valued member of their parent joy circle who brought this important topic. As parents, caregivers, and educators, it's crucial to understand the challenges Black children face in schools, including the often subtle but impactful microaggressions they encounter. In this episode, they explore: Defining microaggressions and understanding how they differ from more overt forms of racism or discrimination.Examining the everyday reality for Black children in schools and how microaggressions affect their academics and overall well-being.Sharing personal experiences and stories to shed light on how Black children encounter these subtle forms of prejudice in educational settings.Discussing steps educators and school administrators can take to address and minimize the effects of microaggressions on Black students.Exploring ways to challenge and dismantle harmful societal attitudes and stereotypes to create safer spaces for Black children in schools.Providing guidance for parents and caregivers on how to support their Black children facing microaggressions at school and advocate effectively within the education system.Generating solutions for schools to create more inclusive and supportive environments where Black students can thrive academically and socially despite facing microaggressions.Join us as we navigate this crucial conversation, offering insights, personal experiences, and actionable strategies to create a more equitable educational experience for Black children.

11/03/2024

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42 min
15/05/2023

Parent Joy Circle: Black Motherhood and Vulnerability

Today on the show, were exploring Vulnerability and Black Motherhood with our Parenting Joy Circle, AKA Queen Mamas. Were joined by Dr. Kia Tisdale, Antoinette Revet, and Charm Der. In today's episode, we dive deep into the importance of vulnerability in Black motherhood and how communities can support Black mothers in being vulnerable. Our guests share their personal experiences with vulnerability and what it means to them. We also discuss ways to show and embrace vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness. Guest Bios: Dr. Kia Tisdale: Practicing Internal Medicine physician with almost 20 years of experience. Passionate about educating her patients on primary prevention of preventable adverse health outcomes and encouraging young people to be outspoken and self-assured. Antoinette Revet: Stay-at-home mom of two and the founder and owner of Glossy Girlz LLC, a cosmetics and personal care company for tween/teen girls. Charm Joy Der: Wife, mother of two, entrepreneur, and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) strategist. Founder and CEO of Wonder at Work, a boutique People & Culture consulting and training collective, and author of "My Happiness Counts." Guest Contact Information: Antoinette Revet: Check out her website at Glossy-Girlz.com. Instagram: @glossygirlzllc Charm Joy Der: Learn more about Charm and her work at MyHappinessCounts.com, Wonderatwork.com, or connect with her on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/charmder. Instagram: @happinesscountsbook Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/whatisblack/newsletter You can follow us on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram @whatisblk or email us at hi@whatisblack.co

15/05/2023

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37 min
27/09/2023

Henry's Space Adventure

We're excited to share today's adventure, Henry's Space Adventure. Visit our website for free activities and to learn more about the topics and books mentioned in this episode. Books mentioned in today's episode: "The Night Owl Goes to Space" by Kim C. Lee This podcast is a production of What is Black. Created by Dr. Ashaunta Anderson and Dr. Jacqueline Douge Episode written by Jacqueline Douge Music: Snap Happy by Shane Ivers-https://www.silvermansound.com Sound design and editing: Vita Productions, LLC Cover art: Dreahna Lewis Illustration Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast! Thank you for listening to the show. For more information, Support the show What is Black Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/whatisblk/ https://www.facebook.com/WhatisBlk/

27/09/2023

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5 min
25/03/2024

Season 2 Finale: Celebrating Growth and Resilience in Raising Joyful Black Children

In this episode of the Raising Joyful and Resilient Black Children Podcast, hosts Dr. Valerie Adams-Bass and Dr. Sheretta Butler-Barnes celebrate the culmination of Season Two by reflecting on the season's highlights and memorable conversations. They express gratitude to the Parenting Joy Circle co-hosts for enriching discussions and delving into key topics covered throughout the season, including insights from guests such as Carole Boston Weatherford, Dr. Alvin Thomas, Desiree Tucker, Kristin Henning, Takari Tatam, and Michelle Browder. From exploring family heritage to addressing systemic issues like juvenile justice and advocating for mental wellness, this season's discussions have empowered listeners with valuable insights and strategies for raising joyful and resilient Black children.

25/03/2024

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47 min
23/03/2022

The Feather Bookmark

Hey! Today launches the first episode of Henry's Library! We're excited to share's today's adventure The Feather Bookmark. In this episode, Henry and his friends investigate books to learn more about seeing planets and stars. Visit our website for access to free activities and to learn more the topics and books mentioned in this episode. Books mentioned in today’s episode: Bright Sky, Starry City by Uma Krishnaswami, Illustrated by: Aimée Sicuro Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly with Winifred Conkling, Illustrated by Laura Freeman Thank you to Mel Science for sponsoring this episode. Listeners will receive a 60% discount for the 1st month by using code- whatisblack60 or by using this direct link https://melscience.com/sBFs/. Please note: This code will be only be active for 1 month from publication date of this episode. This podcast is a production of What is Black. Created by Dr. Ashaunta Anderson and Dr. Jacqueline Douge Episode written by Jacqueline Douge Music: Snap Happy by Shane Ivers-https://www.silvermansound.com Sound design and editing: Vita Productions, LLC Cover art: Dreahna Lewis Illustration Rate, Review and Subscribe to the podcast! Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/whatisblack Thank you for listening to the show. For more visit, https://www.whatisblack.co/henryslibarypodcast Support the show What is Black Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/whatisblk/ https://www.facebook.com/WhatisBlk/

23/03/2022

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8 min
07/04/2025

Rooted in Wellness with Tasha Manigo-Bizzell

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, hosts Dr. Valerie Adams-Bass and Dr. Sheretta Butler-Barnes are joined by licensed dietitian nutritionist Tasha Manigo-Bizzell to explore Black families' cultural and nutritional needs. Together, they unpack the role of food in cultural heritage, the misconceptions about soul food, and the importance of using real, whole ingredients in everyday meals. Tasha offers practical strategies for nourishing the body and soul — from preparing meals with children to reframing physical activity as joyful movement. This episode celebrates the deep connections between food, family, and health while providing tools to help listeners build culturally rooted wellness practices. Stay Connected with Tasha: Website: https://www.musewellness.com/ Instagram: @musewellness This episode is brought to you by What is Black Website: whatisblack.co Instagram/Facebook: @joyfulresilientblackchildren

07/04/2025

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1hr 4min
12/07/2023

Henry's Science Project

We're excited to share's today's adventure Henry's Science Project. In this episode, Henry and friends are on a special mission to find inspiration for Henry's science fair project. Visit our website for free activities and to learn more the topics and books mentioned in this episode. Books mentioned in today’s episode: 'Miles Lewis Whiz Kid' by Kelly Starling Lyons This podcast is a production of What is Black. Created by Dr. Ashaunta Anderson and Dr. Jacqueline Douge Episode written by Jacqueline Douge Music: Snap Happy by Shane Ivers-https://www.silvermansound.com Sound design and editing: Vita Productions, LLC Cover art: Dreahna Lewis Illustration Rate, Review and Subscribe to the podcast! Thank you for listening to the show. For more visit, https://www.whatisblack.co/henryslibarypodcast This shownote contains an affiliate link to Bookshop.org. If you click on it, and make a purchase I’ll receive a commission. Support the show What is Black Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/whatisblk/ https://www.facebook.com/WhatisBlk/

12/07/2023

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7 min
24/06/2019

Dr. Nathan Chomilo: The role of early childhood literacy in advancing racial and health equity

Our guest today is Dr. Nathan Chomilo. Dr. Chomilo is both a pediatrician and doctor of internal medicine. He works in Minnesota and serves as the Medical Director of Reach Out and Read Minnesota. His advocacy work includes the impact early childhood intervention and healthcare access have on the long-term prospects of our children and how physicians and health systems can address racial & health equity. During this episode, he shares his work with to address racial & health equity, importance of early childhood literacy, work with Reach Out and Read, resources to help parents address race, and book recommendations. Bio: Dr. Nathan Chomilo received a Zoology degree from Miami University (Oxford, OH) and graduated from the University of Minnesota Medical School. He completed his combined residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of Minnesota and was the Pediatric Chief Resident at the University of Minnesota Children's Hospital. He practices as a General Pediatrician at Brookdale Clinic and an Internal Medicine Hospitalist at Methodist Hospital with Park Nicollet Health Services/HealthPartners. His advocacy work includes the impact early childhood intervention and healthcare access have on the long-term prospects of our children and how physicians and health systems can address racial & health equity. He is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Early Childhood and Section on Minority Health, Equity & Inclusion, is one of the Early Childhood Champions for the MN chapter of the AAP, currently serves as the Medical Director of Reach Out and Read Minnesota, is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Minnesota Medical School where he is a clinic preceptor and a member of the Medical Schools Admissions Committee, has been appointed to the Governors Early Learning Council and helped start the organization Minnesota Doctors for Health Equity (MDHEQ) where he serves as the Vice-President. His advocacy work with Reach Out and Read MN & MDHEQ has been recognized by Mpls.St Paul Magazine in their 2018 Top Doctors: Rising Stars edition, by Reach Out and Read National which awarded him the 2018 Medical Champion Achievement Award and the City of Minneapolis Department of Civil Rights which recognized him as a 2019 History Maker at Home recipient. He lives in Minneapolis with his wife & son. Twitter: @ChomiloMD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNateMN/ Links to organizations discussed: Minnesota Doctors for Health Equity www.mdhealthequity.comReach Out and Read Minnesota www.reachoutandreadmn.orgThink Small https://www.thinksmall.orgEmbrace Race https://www.embracerace.orgRaising Race Conscious Children https://www.raceconscious.orgBooks for kids: *Please, Baby,Please *by Spike Lee & Tonya Lewis Lee (Authors), Kadir Nelson (Illustrator)Little Blue Truck Series by Alice Schertle (Author), Jill McElmurry (Illustrator)Africa's Not a Country by Margy Burns Knight (Author), Anne Sibley O'Brien (Illustrator)

24/06/2019

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35 min

What is Black is dedicated to producing content through stories that affirm, celebrate and center Black children, teens and families.

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