All About Us (Africa & Diaspora)

Carl Allen
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

We focus on African & Indigenous people all over the world. We talk about our cultures, rituals, religions, beliefs, family structure, struggles, politics, and progress; but most all create an understanding of how we all are connected.

  1. FEB 8 · VIDEO

    Finding Purpose Through Reflection, Faith, and Personal Responsibility with Nathaniel

    In this episode of the All About Us Podcast, host Carl Allen speaks with Nathaniel about identity, accountability, and the long work of becoming grounded in purpose. Through personal stories and honest reflection, Nathaniel shares how faith, discipline, and self-awareness shaped his growth, especially during seasons of uncertainty and transition. This conversation explores the importance of internal alignment, the role of mentorship, and why meaningful change begins with personal responsibility. Nathaniel discusses how reflection, community, and consistency help individuals move forward without denying their past. The episode offers thoughtful insight for listeners navigating change, leadership, or personal rebuilding. Guest Information Nathaniel Speaker • Mentor • Advocate for Personal Growth and Accountability Nathaniel focuses on helping individuals build clarity and stability through reflection, faith-based principles, and disciplined action. His work emphasizes responsibility, self-honesty, and long-term growth rather than quick fixes. Website: https://www.thecycleofkindness.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Yanomamo/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nathanielallenby/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanielallenby/ Book https://www.amazon.com/Cycle-Kindness-Nathaniel-D-Allenby/dp/1618800558 To support Carl’s community work and future episodes, visit: 👉 https://www.standupndosomething.org Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nathaniel Allenby 02:57 The Power of Kindness 05:45 Lessons from the Road: The Cycle of Kindness 07:10 Creating Cirque Perc: Blending Art and Service 10:02 Using Performance Art for Emotional Awareness 12:31 Connecting with Audiences: A Transformative Experience 14:19 The Role of Playfulness in Community Building 17:45 Understanding Emotional Intelligence 21:10 Balancing Life: Leadership and Family 24:16 The Importance of Gratitude in Daily Life 26:18 The Power of Affirmations and Self-Talk 27:07 Navigating Emotions and Gratitude 29:37 Finding Grounding in Life's Transitions 30:15 Art as a Medium for Expression 32:57 Transformative Travel Experiences 34:43 Messages of Connection Through Art 40:49 Lessons in Kindness from Fatherhood 42:27 Staying Curious in a Busy Life 44:08 Living a Life of Service 45:41 The Impact of Kindness on the World Key Takeaways and Highlights • Purpose is built through reflection, not reaction. • Accountability begins with self-honesty. • Faith provides stability during long seasons of uncertainty. • Discipline is an act of respect toward oneself. • Growth requires consistency, not perfection. • Mentorship accelerates clarity and direction. • Personal responsibility empowers lasting change. • Leadership starts with internal alignment. If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to subscribe to the All About Us Podcast, leave a review, and share this conversation with someone navigating change or personal growth. To learn more about Carl Allen’s work and community initiatives, visit standupndosomething.org. Stay connected for future conversations centered on purpose, accountability, and human connection. Follow Us: All About Us Podcast:  IG:https://www.instagram.com/dalla_s4lr/ Website:http://www.standupndosomething.org/ Facebook: All About Us Africa & Diaspora

    52 min

  2. JAN 18 · VIDEO

    From Homelessness to Second Chances: John Graham on Redemption, Faith, and the Good Samaritan Home

    Episode Description In this powerful episode of The All About Us Podcast, host Carl Allen sits down with author and nonprofit founder John David Graham to explore a life shaped by struggle, faith, and service. John shares his 30-year journey of searching for purpose, from periods of homelessness and career detours to founding Good Samaritan Home, a nonprofit that has helped more than 2,500 men and women rebuild their lives after prison. Through honest reflection, John explains why redemption is not about perfection, but persistence. He also discusses his award-winning novel Running as Fast as I Can, a story rooted in second chances, forgiveness, and the quiet courage of starting again. This conversation offers deep insight into rehabilitation, compassion, and what faith looks like when lived out in the real world. Guest Information John David Graham Founder, Good Samaritan Home Author of Running as Fast as I Can Doctorate in Theology Advocate for prison reentry, rehabilitation, and restorative justice John founded Good Samaritan Home in Dayton, Ohio, providing transitional housing and mentorship for individuals reentering society after incarceration. His work focuses on accountability, dignity, and long-term stability rather than punishment. Timestamps and Key Topics 00:00 – 03:00 John’s early life, lack of direction, and the myth of life as a straight path 03:01 – 06:15 Career detours, instability, and the long search for purpose 06:16 – 08:30 Experiencing homelessness and how it shaped John’s compassion 08:31 – 11:00 The role of John’s wife and the importance of steady support 11:01 – 14:45 Founding the Good Samaritan Home and partnering with Ohio’s reentry programs 14:46 – 18:50 Daily life inside the reentry houses: accountability, structure, and dignity 18:51 – 22:30 “Calloused hands and tender hearts” and what real forgiveness looks like 22:31 – 25:30 Why rehabilitation saves lives, communities, and public resources 25:31 – 30:10 Why John wrote a novel instead of a memoir 30:11 – 33:45 Publishing Running as Fast as I Can at age 75 and overcoming rejection 33:46 – 36:45 Faith in action versus faith in theory 36:46 – 39:10 Race, resistance, and hostility faced while building Good Samaritan Home 39:11 – 44:30 Unity, division, and cross-cultural understanding 44:31 – 51:00 Second chances, stubborn perseverance, and never quitting 51:01 – 56:10 Redemption, forgiveness, and what it means to get up one more time 56:11 – 58:15 Final reflections and how listeners can learn more about John’s work Key Takeaways and Highlights Redemption is not a single moment. It is choosing to stand back up again. Stable housing is the foundation for successful reentry after prison. Accountability and compassion can exist side by side. Forgiveness means not keeping score. Service often teaches more about faith than formal education. It is never too late to begin again, regardless of age or past mistakes. Links and Resources Mentioned Good Samaritan Home https://goodsamaritanhome.org John David Graham – Official Website https://johndavidgram.com Book: Running as Fast as I Can Available wherever books are sold Free on Kindle Unlimited Currently offered for $0.99 (as mentioned in the episode) Facebook: https://facebook.com/JGrahamAuthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JGrahamAuthor Call to Action If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to explore John’s work and support organizations that focus on rehabilitation and second chances. Visit Good Samaritan Home to learn how reentry housing changes lives, or pick up a copy of Running as Fast as I Can and join the conversation around forgiveness, persistence, and hope. Subscribe to The All About Us Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who believes in the power of starting again. Follow Us: All About Us Podcast:  IG:https://www.instagram.com/dalla_s4lr/ Website:http://www.standupndosomething.org/ Facebook: All About Us Africa & Diaspora

    51 min

  3. JAN 5 · VIDEO

    Empowering Entrepreneurs in Emerging Economies with Donna Rosa

    In this episode of the All About Us Podcast, Carl Allen speaks with Donna Rosa, founder of E4 Enterprises and creator of the Chief Entrepreneurship Office, an initiative supporting micro and small-business owners in emerging economies through remote business coaching. Drawing from decades in the corporate food industry, Donna transitioned into international development, working across Africa, the Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Central America, the Middle East, and Russia. Her work focuses on business mentoring, food security, value-added agriculture, clean energy initiatives, and sustainable economic growth. Donna shares how coaching helps entrepreneurs build confidence, structure, and financial resilience, and why small enterprises often become the backbone of local communities. The conversation also explores food processing, waste reduction, women-led agribusiness, clean cookstove programs, and creative problem-solving in regions with limited infrastructure. Search keywords: Donna Rosa interview, emerging economies entrepreneurship, remote business coaching, micro enterprise Africa, food security development, value-added agriculture, sustainable economic growth, E4 Enterprises. Guest Information Donna Rosa Founder, Chief Entrepreneurship Office — E4 Enterprises, LLC Business Coach • International Development Consultant • Food Security Advocate • Website: https://www.DonnaMRosa.com • LinkedIn: Donna Rosa (search by name) Chapters 00:00 Empowering Entrepreneurs in Emerging Economies 04:16 Transitioning to Global Entrepreneurship 08:30 The Impact of Remote Business Coaching 11:36 Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs 13:08 Success Stories in Micro Enterprises 15:44 Overcoming Barriers to Entrepreneurship 16:14 Coaching vs. Traditional Consulting 17:12 Building Skills and Mindsets in Clients 18:08 Misconceptions of Entrepreneurship in Developing Countries 19:37 Food Security and Value Addition through Food Science 22:01 Local Entrepreneurs Tackling Hunger and Nutrition 22:53 Innovation and Creativity in Local Food Systems 23:52 The Importance of Clean Cook Stoves 25:13 The Rewards of Mentorship in Africa 25:26 Measuring Impact Beyond Profits 26:44 The Role of Collaboration and Networking 32:03 Future of Remote Coaching and Global Development 36:22 Opportunities for Entrepreneurs in Emerging Economies 36:57 Connecting with Donna Rosa for Collaboration 37:37 Vision for Empowering Future Entrepreneurs Key Takeaways and Highlights • Remote coaching creates ongoing learning instead of short-term training. • Small businesses in emerging economies often lack structure rather than ambition. • Basic tools such as record-keeping and diversification can transform outcomes. • Value-added agriculture strengthens profit, reduces waste, and improves food security. • Entrepreneurs operate across a wide spectrum, from informal traders to advanced startups. • Community-level business growth supports families, jobs, and local stability. • Creativity is often more practical than innovation in resource-limited regions. • Clean cooking and sustainable practices have direct health and economic benefits. • Empowerment begins with confidence, skills, and purposeful guidance. Links and Resources Mentioned • Donna Rosa official website https://www.DonnaMRosa.com • LinkedIn (search: Donna Rosa) https://www.linkedin.com • E4 Enterprises, LLC (Referenced through Donna’s work and portfolio on her website) If this episode inspired you, share it with someone who cares about entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community development. To learn more about Donna’s projects or explore partnership and coaching opportunities, visit DonnaMRosa.com or connect with her on LinkedIn. For more conversations on global impact and human connection, follow and subscribe to the All About Us Podcast. Follow Us: All About Us Podcast:  IG:https://www.instagram.com/dalla_s4lr/ Website:http://www.standupndosomething.org/ Facebook: All About Us Africa & Diaspora

    42 min

  4. 12/19/2025 · VIDEO

    Helping Children Face Medical Procedures with Courage and Imagination with Dr. Jacqueline “Doc J.C.” Lewis

    In this episode, Carl speaks with Dr. Jacqueline Lewis, known to young readers and patients as Doc J.C. She is a pediatric anesthesiologist, author, and lifelong advocate for children’s emotional well-being. Drawing from her Jamaican and Guatemalan heritage, global medical experience, and decades of caring for young patients, she helps children face medical procedures with clarity, comfort, and confidence. Doc J.C. discusses her bilingual children’s book Adventures with Doc J.C.: The Unseen Planet, the idea behind “planet anesthesia,” and the rich superpowers she teaches children to use: resilience, imagination, courage, and happiness. She also shares how storytelling shapes healing, how families can support their children, and how her own journey through loss and recovery deepened her message. This episode offers gentle insight for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone working with children in medical settings. Guest Information Dr. Jacqueline “Doc J.C.” Lewis Pediatric Anesthesiologist, Author, and Child Wellness Advocate • Website: https://adventureswithdocjc.com • Facebook: DocJC • Instagram: @DocJCLewis • Book available through: Amazon, IngramSpark, and her website Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Doc J.C. and Her Mission 05:32 Empathy and Care: Family Influences 12:04 The Birth of Adventures with Doc J.C. 14:48 Rich Superpowers: Resilience, Imagination, Courage, and Happiness 18:02 The Power of Storytelling in Medicine 20:06 Involving Parents: The Home Team in Care 21:14 Galaxy Guardians: The Support System in Healthcare 22:02 The Importance of Individual Contributions in Healthcare 23:38 Cultural Connection in Healing 24:53 Engaging Children in Medical Experiences 26:46 Memorable Patient Interactions 27:36 Empathy and Imagination in Pediatric Care 29:34 Balancing a Demanding Medical Career 31:00 Personal Practices for Sustaining Energy 32:12 Healing Through Personal Loss 34:55 Finding Support in Community 36:55 Future of Doc J.C.'s Adventures 38:13 Expanding the Message Beyond Healthcare 39:42 Cultural Influences in Patient Connection 40:50 Vision for the Future of Healthcare Key Takeaways • Children experience medical procedures through imagination, scale, and emotion rather than adult logic. • Storytelling gives children language for their feelings and helps them prepare without fear. • The RICH superpowers (resilience, imagination, courage, happiness) provide emotional grounding. • Family involvement is central to a child’s sense of safety in medical settings. • Every person in a hospital contributes to a child’s care, forming the “Galaxy Guardians.” • Bilingual storytelling strengthens trust and cultural connection. • Healing is shaped by self-care, presence, and community support. • Creativity and emotional intelligence will play a growing role in pediatric healthcare. • Her book acts as a tool families can use long before entering a hospital. Links and Resources Mentioned • Adventures with Doc J.C. (Book) https://adventureswithdocjc.com • Purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com  (search “Adventures with Doc JC”) • IngramSpark book listing https://www.ingramspark.com • Facebook: DocJC • Instagram: @DocJCLewis If this conversation resonated with you, share this episode with a parent, caregiver, or educator who supports children facing medical procedures. Visit Doc J.C.’s website to explore her book and follow her work. For more episodes, insights, and upcoming interviews, subscribe to the podcast and stay connected. Follow Us: All About Us Podcast:  IG:https://www.instagram.com/dalla_s4lr/ Website:http://www.standupndosomething.org/ Facebook: All About Us Africa & Diaspora

    47 min

  5. 12/12/2025 · VIDEO

    Building Trust Through the Lens: Video Strategy and Digital Growth with Robert Weiss

    Episode Description   In this episode of the All About Us Podcast, host Carl Allen speaks with Robert Weiss, President of Multivision Digital, a New York–based video production and marketing company responsible for more than 1,600 business videos.   Robert entered the world of video without a production background. Today, he leads one of the most recognized firms in corporate video strategy, guiding businesses from solo entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies. This conversation explores how video builds trust, supports sales, strengthens branding, and helps companies communicate with clarity in a fast-changing digital environment.   Search keywords: video marketing, video strategy, B2B video production, Multivision Digital, Robert Weiss interview, business storytelling, digital content, sales process videos, corporate branding.   Guest Information   Robert Weiss President, Multivision Digital Video Strategy • Production • Video Marketing   Robert leads a team that creates high-impact video content for professional services, manufacturing firms, software companies, nonprofits, and global enterprises. His work focuses on clear messaging, strategic planning, and helping businesses understand the role of video across the entire digital landscape.   Robert’s Websites   Multivision Digital (B2B, professional services, real estate, software, nonprofit) https://multivisiondigital.com   Video for Manufacturing (manufacturing and industrial sectors) https://videoformanufacturing.com   Multivision (creative agencies, large brands) https://multivision.com   Timestamps / Main Segments   00:00 The Power of Video in Business 07:16 Building a Video Strategy 09:06 Misconceptions in Video Production 10:02 Video Marketing: The Beginning of Engagement 11:53 Business Objectives Achieved Through Video 16:01 Video as a Tool for Connection and Trust 18:03 Navigating the Digital Landscape 19:31 Future Trends in Video Marketing 21:20 Quick Fire Round: Insights and Recommendations 26:30 Legacy and Vision for Multivision Digital Key Takeaways   Video is strategy first, production second.   Shorter is not always better. Relevance and context matter more than duration.   Sales-focused videos are underused but often provide the biggest return.   Long-form video can still perform strongly when the message is relevant.   Trust grows when audiences see you repeatedly on camera.   Video should be planned for distribution before it is produced.   AI enhances video work but does not replace thoughtful messaging.   Personalized video is becoming one of the most powerful emerging tools.   Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode Robert’s Websites   Multivision Digital (Professional Services, Software, Nonprofit) https://multivisiondigital.com   Video for Manufacturing (Industrial, Manufacturing) https://videoformanufacturing.com   Multivision (Creative Agencies and Major Brands) https://multivision.com   Publications and Books   Good to Great by Jim Collins https://www.jimcollins.com   Platforms Mentioned   YouTube https://www.youtube.com   Call to Action   If this episode helped you understand video from a new perspective, please follow, rate, and share the All About Us Podcast.   To explore Robert’s work or connect with his team: Visit Multivision Digital at https://multivisiondigital.com   Visit Video for Manufacturing at https://videoformanufacturing.com   Visit Multivision at https://multivision.com   For more conversations on creativity, culture, and impact, visit: Stand Up and Do Something https://www.standupndosomething.org

    36 min

  6. 12/03/2025 · VIDEO

    Finding Light in Chaos: Rebuilding After Loss Through Culture and Creativity with Valerie Blair

    Summary In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen speaks with Valerie Blair, a marketing executive and founder of A Light in the Chaos, about her journey through grief after losing her partner. Valerie shares her experiences with mental health, the importance of community support, and how creativity and storytelling have played vital roles in her healing process. They discuss the significance of cultural rituals, personal practices, and the ongoing nature of grief, emphasizing that healing is not about moving on but learning to live with loss. Valerie's insights offer hope and guidance for those navigating their own grief journeys. Takeaways Grief is a personal journey with no right or wrong way. Community support is crucial during the grieving process. Creativity can serve as a powerful outlet for emotions. Storytelling helps in processing grief and connecting with others. Cultural rituals can provide comfort and a sense of belonging. Love and memory continue to exist even after loss. Healing does not mean moving on; it means learning to live with grief. Personal rituals can be tailored to individual experiences and needs. Synchronicities can guide us through difficult times. Finding light in chaos is about recognizing our resilience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healing and Transformation 02:55 The Journey of Grief and Loss 05:35 Synchronicity and Healing 08:13 The Role of Creativity in Recovery 11:05 Faith, Spirituality, and Transformation 13:50 Creative Reflection and Self-Discovery 16:22 Cultural Memory and Grief 18:36 Navigating Grief as a Parent 20:30 Creating Personal Rituals for Healing 22:09 Understanding Grief and Love's Continuation 24:05 The Unique Journey of Grieving 26:49 Balancing Practical Guidance with Emotional Support 27:41 Misconceptions About Healing from Grief 32:49 Rebuilding and Moving Forward 34:30 Practices for Grounding and Joy 35:29 Future Aspirations and Community Building Explore Val’s healing tools, stories, meditations, and creative prompts at: 👉 https://alightinthechaos.com And follow her daily reflections at: 👉 https://instagram.com/alightinthechaos To support Carl’s community work and future episodes, visit: 👉 https://www.standupndosomething.org Follow Us: All About Us Podcast:  IG:https://www.instagram.com/dalla_s4lr/ Website:http://www.standupndosomething.org/ Facebook: All About Us Africa & Diaspora

    43 min

  7. 11/22/2025 · VIDEO

    The Art of Identity with James F. Mueller

    Summary In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen engages with artist and author Jim Mueller to explore the profound connection between art and identity. Jim shares his journey as an artist, the cultural influences that shaped his work, and the importance of art in expressing personal and collective identities. The conversation delves into the role of art in healing, the creative process, and the impact of working with marginalized communities. Jim emphasizes that art is not just a reflection of who we are, but a vital force that helps us understand and connect with our humanity. Takeaways Art is a fundamental part of human expression. Cultural experiences shape our understanding of art. Art reveals our identity and personal stories. Indigenous cultures have rich artistic traditions. Working with individuals with disabilities offers unique insights into creativity. Art can heal and reconnect communities with their heritage. Every person has a unique artistic voice. The creative process is often messy and requires refinement. Art can serve as a bridge between generations. Legacy is about the impact of one's work, not just recognition. Chapters 00:00 The Artistic Journey Begins 02:45 Art's Role in Society 05:31 The Interplay of Writing and Painting 08:14 Art as a Reflection of Identity 10:53 Cultural Influences on Art 13:59 Indigenous Cultures and Personal Identity 16:32 Art and the Human Experience 19:13 The Impact of Working with Diverse Communities 22:07 The Essence of St. Augustine's Confessions 23:58 The Art of Storytelling and Inner Struggles 26:39 Art as a Bridge Across Cultures 30:11 The Creative Process: From Inspiration to Execution 33:50 The Journey of a Starving Artist 36:37 Influences and Inspirations in Art 39:07 Legacy and the Impact of Art 43:40 Finding Meaning Through Art 📲Connect with James FB: https://www.facebook.com/IconoclastPublishingLLC   IG: https://www.instagram.com/confessionsofstaugustine/ Website: https://muellerartandliterature.com/ Follow Us: All About Us Podcast:  IG:https://www.instagram.com/dalla_s4lr/ Website:http://www.standupndosomething.org/ Facebook: All About Us Africa & Diaspora

    49 min

  8. 11/14/2025 · VIDEO

    The Ecological Self: How Our Inner World Shapes the Planet by Leslie Davenport

    Summary In this conversation, Carl Allen and Leslie Davenport explore the intricate relationship between climate change and emotional well-being. Leslie, a climate psychology educator, discusses how our internal emotional landscapes reflect the state of the planet and the importance of acknowledging our feelings in response to climate crises. They delve into the personal and collective impacts of climate change, the necessity of integrating mental health into climate action, and the role of creativity and community in fostering resilience. The discussion emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, advocating for a holistic approach to addressing climate issues. Key Takeaways Climate change impacts our emotional well-being. Acknowledging feelings about climate change is crucial. Our internal landscapes reflect the natural world. Disconnection from nature leads to emotional distress. Community support is essential for resilience. Creativity can help navigate climate anxiety. Children's imaginative capacity is vital for climate engagement. Social justice is intertwined with climate action. Mental health professionals need climate literacy. Everyone has a role to play in climate action. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Climate Psychology 03:15 Leslie's Journey into Climate Psychology 07:34 Global Perspectives on Climate Change 09:24 The Inner Emotional Worlds and Climate Change 10:40 Personal Experiences and Connection to Nature 13:38 Reflections of Nature in Our Internal Landscapes 15:46 Disconnection from Nature and Its Effects 17:20 The Body's Response to Climate Change 20:26 The Purpose of Climate Psychology Work 21:57 Understanding the Ecological Self 24:03 From Fear to Care and Responsibility 26:29 Cultural Perspectives on Nature 28:26 Rebuilding Connection with Nature 30:23 Social Justice and Climate Justice 33:45 Integrating Health into Climate Action 36:37 Healing Collective Trauma and Our Planet 40:04 Creativity as a Tool for Navigating Fear 41:39 Children's Responses to Climate Change 45:38 Practices for Building Emotional Resilience 47:16 Climate Psychology Certification Program Insights 49:38 Hope in Emotional Awareness for Climate Work 50:22 Upcoming Climate Emotions Workbook 52:25 Flip Mode: Questions and Insights 53:40 Effective Actions for a Healthier Planet 56:27 Cultural Perspectives on Nature and Care 59:41 The Role of Individuals in Climate Action 01:00:17 Balancing Self-Care with Global Responsibility 01:01:04 Envisioning a Harmonious Future with the Earth Connect with Leslie https://www.facebook.com/leslie.davenport.682708 https://www.instagram.com/ldavenportauthor/ Follow Us: All About Us Podcast:  IG:https://www.instagram.com/dalla_s4lr/ Website:http://www.standupndosomething.org/ Facebook: All About Us Africa & Diaspora

    1h 6m
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We focus on African & Indigenous people all over the world. We talk about our cultures, rituals, religions, beliefs, family structure, struggles, politics, and progress; but most all create an understanding of how we all are connected.

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