Expanding The Narrative

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Welcome to Expanding The Narrative (ETN), a podcast network curated by Denver Urban Spectrum, Colorado's premiere source of news for communities of color since 1987. Our mission is to bring together the most talented and trusted voices in culture for critical conversations on social justice, politics, cultural arts, entertainment, business and more. Our vision is to expand the narrative beyond the pages of our legacy publication while amplifying emerging and established talent.  Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! ETN Podcast Network Expanding The Narrative is a podcast network for the BIPOC voice in Colorado. Created by Denver Urban Spectrum Subscribe | Donate

  1. 6D AGO

    February 2026 - Celebrating Black History Past, Present, Powerful featuring Cedric Pride and African Americans Who Make a Difference

    Read the DUS February Issue here  When self-proclaimed “country boy” Cedric Pride arrived in Denver during his 20s, he didn’t have a roadmap, but was equipped with absolute faith, a deep willingness to learn, and an entrepreneurial spirit. That mindset would later become the foundation of the Pride Initiative, the faith-based nonprofit he founded to support the Black community toward economic freedom and generational wealth. Today, the organization operates out of a 10,000-square-foot office space. (By Gabrielle West) Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! Advertise with DUS! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    28 min
  2. January 2026 - From Five Points to Global Impact, The Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Center for the Healing Arts Waking in the Footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr

    JAN 12

    January 2026 - From Five Points to Global Impact, The Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Center for the Healing Arts Waking in the Footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr

    In this episode of Expanding the Narrative, highlighting the January issue of the Denver Urban Spectrum read January issue here, Join host Ebony Darling as she explores the transformative power of community and legacy in Denver. Focus on the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance's $25 million Center for the Healing Arts, a symbol of reclaiming space for Black culture. Hear from founder Cleo Parker Robinson and CEO Malik Robinson on movement's role in healing and identity. Discover local governance insights from Aurora’s City Council and dive into Dr. King's enduring legacy. Key Takeaways: The Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Center for the Healing Arts represents a significant cultural and historical reclamation and expansion for Denver's Five Points community.Malik Robinson highlights the importance of honoring legacy while fostering innovation through collaboration and community engagement.The continued relevance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream through local leaders' efforts toward rebuilding trust and cooperation in politics.Equity in health, culture, and leadership remains a recurring theme, emphasizing informed choices and community empowerment as pathways to positive social change.  Advertise on this podcast and the next DUS Issue! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast Agency. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    29 min

  3. 12/08/2025

    DUS December 2025 - Celebrating the Spirit of the Season, Organ Donation in Communities of Color, Independent Journalism's Impact on Communities, and Simone D. Ross on Breaking Barriers for Women

    Read the DUS December Issue | Advertise with DUS Expanding the Narrative dives into the heart of community stories highlighting the December issue of the Denver Urban Spectrum, centered around giving. Guest Simone D. Ross, CEO of the Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce, discusses the significance of women's leadership, the Athena Awards, and her initiatives in economic equity. The episode also features Athena Ladson’s resilience in her health journey and insights from Mark McIntosh on organ donation. Rosalind B. Harris joins to discuss the importance of supporting independent local journalism through the News Colorado Needs campaign. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! Key Takeaways: The need for increased organ donation awareness in communities of color is highlighted through compelling storytelling.Simone D. Ross identifies key programs at the Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce designed to elevate women's roles in leadership and business.Gender and racial equity continue to be pressing issues in Colorado's professional landscape, with concerted efforts required to bridge the existing gaps.The importance of mentorship and peer nomination for prestigious awards such as the Athena Awards.Community support through independent local journalism remains vital, as underscored by Denver Urban Spectrum's ongoing initiative. This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast Agency. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    28 min

  4. 11/12/2025

    DUS x KGNU November 2025 - Farming While Black, The Inner Revolution, and Dr. Dedrick Sims on The Power of Change

    Hi everyone and welcome to Denver Urban Spectrum's podcast, "Expanding the Narrative" I'm your host, Ebony Darling. And yes, after a little two month breather, we are back. If you missed our last couple of issues, don't worry, I've got you covered. Let's get you caught up on what's been happening in our colorful community. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! In September, we took a moment to remember the life of Emmett Till, 70 years after his tragic and heartbreaking death at just 14 years old in Mississippi. From there, we saddled up to celebrate the legacy of Lou Vasson, the visionary behind the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo and a moving feature about his life's book under the Western Skies. Over at East High School, the Spotlight was a 150 year of history celebration. And what a lineup it was. Alumni like trailblazing actress Pamela Greer, Grammy winning Earth, Wind and Fire, vocalist Philip Bailey and billionaire philanthropist Robert F. Smith were all recognized. And let's not forget our very own publisher Rosalind B. Harris and the Denver Urban Spectrum team collecting awards and honors from the Colorado Press Association Public Relations Society and being recognized at the Colorado Woman's hall of fame 40th anniversary gala. Yes, we've been buzzing around pretty busy. Now, we've all heard of driving while black, but in October we explored farming while Black! Two incredible farmers shared the challenges they faced just trying to till and toil their soil. And yes, there are plenty of lessons in perseverance there. We also caught up with actress and author Tina Lifford at the center for African American Health, who shared how life after Queen Sugar helped to inspire her powerful book, the Inner Fitness Revolution. Let me tell you, it's more than a read, it's a life changer. Also Ebony Darling is joined by Dr. Dedrick Sims to share his inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing to founding the Sims Fayola Foundation, advocating for young men of color. They discuss leadership, mental models, and societal barriers. Dr. Sims also highlights the evolution of his foundation, its national impact, and his recent acceptance into Harvard's Senior Executive Fellows Program. The episode celebrates community, education, and change, inviting listeners to explore more at DenverUrbanSpectrum.com. DUS November Issue Advertise with DUS This podcast is powered by The Plug Podcast Agency See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    31 min

  5. 08/11/2025

    DUS x KGNU - August 2025

    The August issue of Denver Urban Spectrum is a wrap-up of summer fun in the Mile High City, with a look at citywide events and updates as we prepare to head back to school.  This episode features: Coverage of the new Denver Summit FC, with a special look at the Black-owned investment fund helping to bring NWSL magic to the Centennial State.A look at Nikki Swarn's Therapy Thursday mental health resource, and expansion plans with Solar Wellness Network.Updates from the controversial censure of University of Colorado Regent Wanda James.Highlights from local live music venues. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    32 min

  6. 07/15/2025

    DUS x KGNU - July 2025

    The July issue of Denver Urban Spectrum is all about "Summertime in the Rockies," with a look at important events and exciting activities taking place during the hot summer months. This episode, sponsored by the Regional Air Quality Control council, features: An in-depth discussion about immigration, with a clip from "Spectrum Talk with Ruby" highlighting the views of Papa Dia (African Leadership Group), Stephanie Rivera (Colorado News Collaborative) and Rep. Junie Joseph (Colorado State Assembly).A message about human connection and an invitation to the upcoming Mile Long Table, from Dr. H. Malcolm Newton.A glimpse into the world of jazz vocalist, René Marie, as she prepares to headline Dazzle Denver's 2-year anniversary at the Denver Performing Arts Complex.A farewell to municipal leader, LaTonya Lacy, as she steps into retirement. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    32 min

  7. 06/10/2025

    DUS x KGNU - June 2025

    The June issue of Denver Urban Spectrum is an ode to National Black Music Month, Men's Health Awareness Month and Father's Day, with a look at community events and nationwide changes. This episode features: The last surviving member of the original Temptations singing group, Mr. Otis Williams and his recollection of the Motown journey that propelled the magical group to stardom.A word from fathers who discuss the importance of showing up and staying healthy.A farewell to Rev. Dr. James D. Peters Jr. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    32 min

  8. 05/12/2025

    DUS x KGNU Metro - May 2025

    DUS x KGNU Metro - May 2025 The Mother's Day issue of Denver Urban Spectrum celebrates mothers and matriarchs who make our lives special. This episode features: The courageous journey of Rose Andom, who will be celebrated at the 2025 Colorful Stories: See Me, Hear Me Luncheon on May 30.A look back at Van Jones' keynote address during the Rachel B. Noel Distinguished Visiting Professorship.A message from B.E.S.T. Founder & Executive Director, Carla Ladd, who shares her inspiration behind the inaugural 2025 Blackout Experience in from June 5-8. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    32 min
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About

Welcome to Expanding The Narrative (ETN), a podcast network curated by Denver Urban Spectrum, Colorado's premiere source of news for communities of color since 1987. Our mission is to bring together the most talented and trusted voices in culture for critical conversations on social justice, politics, cultural arts, entertainment, business and more. Our vision is to expand the narrative beyond the pages of our legacy publication while amplifying emerging and established talent.  Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora or wherever you find podcasts! ETN Podcast Network Expanding The Narrative is a podcast network for the BIPOC voice in Colorado. Created by Denver Urban Spectrum Subscribe | Donate

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