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. 8H AGO

    Are You Middle Class, Or Just Managing to Survive

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/are-you-middle-class-or-just-managing-to-survive Episode Video Link: What happens when we stop repeating the labels and start looking at the numbers? In this episode of BEP Live, Tony Tidbit and Chris P. Reed break down one of the most uncomfortable conversations in America: class, money, status, and the illusion of financial security. From blue-collar versus white-collar identity to the shrinking meaning of the middle class to the brutal reality of the wealth gap, this conversation challenges the stories people have been taught to believe about success, stability, and economic mobility. This episode explores how the cost of living has changed the meaning of income, why many so-called middle-class households are barely holding on, and how trade careers, college debt, prestige, and perception all shape the way people define value in America. It is a direct conversation about power, politics, culture, leadership, and the financial systems shaping everyday life. What you will learn Why is the middle class often more cultural language than economic reality How blue-collar and white-collar labels distort the real conversation about income Why is the wealth gap far more extreme than most people think How trade careers, cost of living, and debt change the path to financial stability Why this conversation matters Too many people are chasing an image instead of understanding economics. This episode forces a harder question: are people building real security, or just performing successfully while trying to survive? ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Opening, the real question about class 02:42 Blue collar, white collar, and working class labels 07:18 What the middle class really means now 12:08 Why the cost of living changes everything 17:42 Trades vs college, the income myth 23:54 Prestige vs pay in the real world 29:18 The auntie or uncle who shaped you 33:20 The wealth gap is bigger than most people think 38:16 Why most people still cannot get ahead 43:38 Capitalism, class labels, and false status 49:10 Your collar does not define your value 55:42 BEP network, LESS, and final thoughts 59:46 End 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. #BlackExecutivePerspective #BEPLive #MiddleClass #WealthGap #BlueCollar #WhiteCollar #WorkingClass #CorporateAmerica #EconomicMobility #Leadership #BlackExecutives #PowerPoliticsCulture 🔗 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

  2. 1D AGO

    When Leaders Confuse Noise With Power

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/when-leaders-confuse-noise-with-power- Episode Video Link: In this episode of Need to Know with Dr. Nsenga Burton, Dr. Burton cuts through the noise on power, politics, culture, community accountability, and responsible representation. This conversation examines what happens when leaders overplay their hand, mistake volume for influence, and weaponize reckless rhetoric in moments that demand diplomacy, discipline, and moral clarity. From the discussion of Pope Leo to the broader implications of political threats, abuse of power, and cuts affecting vulnerable families, this episode is a sharp reminder that real leadership is not performative. It is measured, strategic, and accountable. What you will learn • Why power without discipline becomes political recklessness • How diplomacy breaks down when leaders lead with ego instead of judgment • Why accountability matters when public officials make dangerous threats • What this moment reveals about leadership, influence, and real authority Why this conversation matters This episode goes beyond headlines. It challenges listeners to consider the difference between authority and actual power, the cost of irresponsible leadership, and why communities need honest analysis in moments when public discourse is driven by chaos rather than competence. ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Intro 00:18 When you have gone too far 02:10 The threat against Pope Leo 03:00 WIC, veterans, and political hypocrisy 04:33 The Avignon papacy warning 06:03 What real power looks like 07:03 Why reckless threats matter 09:33 Final takeaway and close Listen, follow, and share if you value real conversations about power, politics, culture, and accountability that challenge surface-level narratives. 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 .

    10 min

  3. 3D AGO

    Your Pivot Is Not Failure

    Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/your-pivot-is-not-failure- Episode Video Link: Success is not always linear, and sometimes the most powerful move a leader can make is to pivot. In this episode of A Black Executive Perspective Podcast, Tony Tidbit and Chris P. Reed sit down with TaShun Bowden-Lewis, Founder and CEO of The Bowden-Lewis Consulting Group, to unpack what it really means to navigate a forced pivot with clarity, courage, and control. Drawing from her journey as an attorney, executive leader, and the first Black Chief Public Defender in Connecticut history, TaShun shares powerful insights on leadership identity, executive resilience, emotional intelligence, self-worth, professional reinvention, and the importance of protecting your peace when life shifts unexpectedly. This conversation explores what happens when your title disappears, how to recover from career disruption, why Black executives carry a different weight in leadership spaces, and how to stay valuable in a changing workplace shaped by uncertainty and AI. This is a real conversation for anyone facing transition, career pressure, reinvention, or the challenge of leading through adversity without losing themselves in the process. What you will learn Why a pivot is not failure, but evolution How to separate your identity from your title Why peace, self-awareness, and boundaries matter in leadership How to stay adaptable and relevant in a changing workplace ▶︎ In This Episode00:00 Pivoting with power 02:00 Meet TaShun Bowden-Lewis 07:08 Why the strategic pause matters 10:16 When your title becomes your identity 16:00 How to recover after a forced pivot 22:02 Self-worth, peace, and executive resilience 27:16 AI, adaptability, and staying valuable 32:00 Building The Bowden-Lewis Consulting Group 46:09 Emotional intelligence, boundaries, and leadership 50:05 Final thoughts, your pivot is evolution 53:14 Tony’s Tidbit 54:01 The LESS call to action 🔗 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 .

    58 min

  4. APR 10

    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

  5. APR 9

    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

  6. APR 7

    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

  7. APR 6

    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

  8. 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
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5
out of 5
25 Ratings

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.

Information

  • Creator
    TonyTidbit ™
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    277
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • 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
  • Show Website
    TonyTidbit: A Black Executive Perspective