WV Uncommonplace : Uncommon Conversations

Jr Sparrow
  • 4.8 (71)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

"Transforming minds through empowering conversations on mental health, society, and pop culture. Join Stacey and Me Uncommon Conversations podcast – where we explore the uncommon in the ordinary. 🎙️ Let's navigate the depths of culture together! #MentalHealthEmpowerment #PopCultureTalks

  1. 1D AGO

    Change Is Coming

    Topic: Education Reform, Healthcare Advocacy, and Running for Georgia Superintendent of Schools In this 43-minute episode, host JR Sparrow sits down with Dr. Nelva Lee, a healthcare administrator, entrepreneur, and candidate for Georgia Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Lee shares her inspiring journey from Panama to the United States, her work in healthcare advocacy, and her vision for transforming Georgia's education system through literacy, trade certifications, and school choice. Growing up in Panama during the Noriega dictatorshipFamily heritage from Costa Rica and JamaicaMoving to the US as a teenager and appreciating democratic freedomsLessons learned from her grandmother Nelva about gratitude and work ethicObtaining a trade certification in healthcare during high schoolEarning bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees in healthcare administrationWorking as Director of Patient Advocacy at Grady Health SystemFounding a vocational school for medical interpretersCreating the certification exam for medical interpretersInvolvement with AI and human interpreting integrationAppointment to Georgia Department of Community Health by Governor KempLearning the slow process of government policymakingImportance of community engagement in healthcare policyAdvocacy rooted in personal experience with dictatorshipCurrent State of Georgia Education: Georgia ranks 38th out of 50 states in educationMississippi improved from 50th to top 10 by returning to basicsKey Campaign Initiatives: Literacy First No child leaves second grade without learning to readClear guidelines for teachers on literacy benchmarksRecognition that prisons are built based on third-grade literacy ratesUniversal Trade Certifications All Georgia graduates receive high school diploma AND trade certificationBenefits both college-bound and workforce-ready studentsProvides financial independence and career optionsExpanded School Choice Expansion of Promise Scholarship ActMore public Montessori and KIPP schoolsMatching learning environments to individual student needsSpecial Education & IEP Reform: Concerns about overuse of IEP labelsIEP test scores don't count toward school performance metricsRisk of implicit bias from teachers toward labeled studentsNeed for appropriate learning environments rather than automatic labelingPost-COVID Challenges: Addressing learning deficits in current 6th-7th gradersMental health impacts from isolation (anxiety, depression)Need for motivation and self-esteem building"By the third grade, they're building prisons based on whether or not children are literate." "Every child can learn, but they need to have a learning environment that matches their specific learning needs." "Good leaders really are great because they motivate others to do the best." "Anything that you do for children lasts a lifetime." Learn More About Dr. Nelva Lee: Website: drnelvalee.comBooks and additional information available on her websiteFollow WV Uncommon Place: Instagram, Tumblr, Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedInMerch: wvuncommonplace.square.siteSubscribe and rate on your favorite podcast platformEducation ReformHealthcare AdvocacyEntrepreneurshipImmigration & DemocracySpecial EducationTrade Schools & Vocational TrainingSchool ChoiceLeadership & Public ServiceEpisode SummaryKey Topics DiscussedBackground & Immigration (0:00 - 8:00)Healthcare Career & Entrepreneurship (8:00 - 18:00)Public Service & Policy (18:00 - 25:00)Running for Georgia Superintendent of Schools (25:00 - 43:00)Notable QuotesResourcesEpisode Themes

    43 min

  2. FEB 19

    Fox Creek - Confronting America's Uncomfortable History with M.E. Torrey

    M.E. Torrey - Author of "Fox Creek," a historical novel exploring slavery in the antebellum South In this powerful 51-minute conversation, author M.E. Torrey discusses her critically acclaimed novel "Fox Creek," which confronts the whitewashed narratives of plantation history. Torrey shares her journey from writing children's books to tackling one of America's most difficult historical periods, and why honest conversations about race and history are more important than ever. The Genesis of Fox Creek Torrey's eye-opening visit to Louisiana plantations in the 1990sEncountering tours that completely omitted slave narrativesThree years of intensive research before writing the first sentenceThe challenge of finding authentic slave narratives vs. abundant plantation owner recordsResearch Revelations The shocking diaries of James Henry Hammond (Governor of South Carolina) and Bennett BarrowHow "ordinary people" justified extraordinary harmThe concept of willful blindness among slave owners who considered themselves good peopleThe FDR Writers Project interviews with ex-slaves from the 1930sWriting Approach Deliberately avoiding author judgment to create moral complexityUsing "silence" as a literary device, especially for enslaved charactersCrossing white and Black narratives to tell a complete storyThe most difficult scene to write: sexual abuseContemporary Relevance Why white people need to see themselves in slave owner charactersThe importance of owning history without guilt or defensivenessHow forgiveness and love are essential to healingThe loss of community in modern AmericaParallels to current social justice movementsPersonal Reflections Growing up in integrated military schools in EuropeThe bubble of racial harmony vs. American realityTransition from children's book author to adult historical fictionRedefining success from financial to relational and spiritual"I would never have owned a slave" - white people do an injustice when they say this because they were ordinary people, and horrific things are happening even today by people because society says it's okay." "I have never, to my knowledge, done any wrong to any human being in my life" - Governor James Henry Hammond, despite a diary full of documented abuses "The lesson that we bring from the past is a lesson of forgiveness... this world will not get healed without being kind and loving one another." Title: Fox CreekAuthor: M.E. TorreyAwards: Multiple awards, starred review from Publishers WeeklyWhere to Buy: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or support local bookstores at Bookshop.orgWebsite: METorrey.com (T-O-R-R-E-Y)"Secret and Sacred" - Diaries of James Henry HammondBennett Barrow's plantation journalFDR Writers Project slave narrativesSt. Francisville, Louisiana (fictionalized as St. Marysville in the book)Purchase "Fox Creek" and engage with this important historical narrativeRequest the book at your local library using the ISBNHave honest conversations about race and history in your communityFollow M.E. Torrey at METorrey.comEpisode SummaryKey Topics DiscussedPowerful QuotesBook InformationResources MentionedCall to ActionEpisode ThemesHistoricalFiction #Slavery #CivilRights #RaceRelations #AmericanHistory #SocialJustice #Forgiveness #Community #AuthorInterview #BookDiscussion

    51 min
  3. Clarence Big House

    FEB 5

    Clarence Big House

    Clarence Edward "Big House" Gaines Sr. (May 21, 1923 – April 18, 2005) was an American college men's basketball coach with a 47-year coaching career at Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Among his numerous honors for his achievements, he is one of the few African Americans to be inducted as a coach into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Before graduating and becoming a coach, he had an outstanding collegiate career as a football player for Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland.

    7 min

  4. JAN 29

    lee woodman

    Lee Woodman is a profoundly artistic individual whose global upbringing in countries like France and India has imbued her with a unique voice enriched by diverse cultural dynamics. She perceives artistic expression, particularly poetry, as an amalgam of all arts, where language, observation, and listening converge in a powerful and unique form. Woodman's rational skepticism and exploration of the unexplainable infuse her work with depth, as she navigates the emotional landscapes of color, mood, and healing in her poetry. Through her mentorship and passion for accessible artistic expression, she fosters an inclusive environment that celebrates and connects individuals across cultures and senses. (00:00:49) Lee Woodman's Inspiring Journey Through Mentorship (00:11:08) Color and Poetry: Evoking Emotional Artistry (00:16:33) Woodman's Multidisciplinary Approach to Poetry (00:24:57) "Exploring Color Psychology's Impact Through 'Colorscapes'" (00:32:49) Sensory Exploration and Cultural Connection through Art

    37 min

  5. JAN 25

    update

    JR Sparrow returns with a personal update episode, checking in with listeners on a snowy January day. In this candid conversation, JR shares what he's been up to, upcoming events, and important reminders for podcast guests. In This Episode: Podcast Updates: Spares Under Review is now ranked on Apple Podcasts and thriving as a sister showUpcoming Events: JR and Stacey will be at Lexington Comic Con (March 26-29) with a crossover episodeBehind the Scenes: JR reveals he ghost writes podcast episodes and series for other creatorsGaming Life: Deep dive into Fatal Fury training and PlayStation VR experiences (including getting scared by Resident Evil!)Movie Reviews: Ongoing series covering films from 1986, 1996, and 2006The Y Series: Promises to bring back this neglected series soonGuest Etiquette: Important message about respecting recording times and treating podcast appearances professionallyKey Takeaways: Recording schedule: 6:00 PM sharp - no-shows after 6:05 PM are future endeavoredJR schedules multiple guests per day knowing some will fall throughNew recording setup: DGI microphones for in-person interviews on the roadCollege football NIL money has changed the game completelyShout Outs: Vanessa at Tri-State Time Machine King Germ Rode, Common MysticsKatie Brinkley (for podcast guest management insights)Alex Sanfilippo and the Pod Fest teamCorp projectors and Sound Core (RIP Nebula)Connect: Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, Tumblr: @WVUncommonPlaceMerch: woncommonplace.square.siteGuest Form: [Available on website]

    11 min
  6. Unveiling 'License to Thrill': Kendra Erika's Journey

    JAN 22

    Unveiling 'License to Thrill': Kendra Erika's Journey

    Kendra Erika, an innovative artist known for her unique fusion of jazz, dance, and EDM, is set to release her album "License to Thrill" on February 13th, reimagining iconic Bond songs with her distinctive sound. Overcoming personal obstacles, such as being born tone deaf, and growing musically under the guidance of a German operatic coach, Kendra infuses her work with resilience and a touch of the James Bond elegance. Her perspective on the album's release is centered around honoring divine vision and unfolding a journey through the decades of Bond, with carefully chosen tracks that promise further volumes. The album's debut showcase in Las Vegas on February 15th marks a pivotal moment in her career, as she channels the grace of artists like Kylie Minogue and Katie Lang, while fans are encouraged to support her work for a tangible connection with her evocative music. 00:09:39) License to Thrill: Reimagining Bond Songs (00:11:13) Decades of Bond-Inspired Musical Journey Release (00:13:58) Bond-Themed Album Showcase with Kendra Erika (00:20:29) "Surrender": A Hidden Gem by Katie Lang (00:26:34) Classy and Timeless Style Emulation (00:33:22) Supporting Artists Thr

    35 min

  7. JAN 15

    Common Ground from the Ground Up

    In this episode, hosts JR Sparrow and Stacey welcome guest Nathan Smolensky, author of "Common Ground from the Ground Up." The conversation explores political polarization, the importance of curiosity in dialogue, class and political identity, and building bridges across divides. Nathan shares insights from his upbringing, his work with the Florida Forward Party, and practical steps for fostering healthier conversations in communities. Key Topics & Highlights: Introduction to WV Uncommon Place: A variety podcast covering mental health, empowerment, podcasting, pop culture, and unique guest stories, with a special focus on West Virginia. Meet the Guest: Nathan Smolensky, author and political thinker, discusses his background growing up in Massachusetts in a politically divided family and community. Class, Politics, and Identity: JR shares personal stories about class differences and political stereotypes in Virginia.Nathan reflects on class and political alignment in Massachusetts and the experience of cultural and ethnic self-segregation.Curiosity as a Solution to Polarization: Nathan emphasizes the value of curiosity in political conversations, especially when emotions run high.The importance of listening, learning from others, and moving beyond zero-sum thinking.Compromise vs. Collaboration: Discussion on the difference between unhealthy compromise and true collaborative problem-solving.The need to consider multiple perspectives in policymaking.Lessons from the Florida Forward Party: Nathan’s experience as state director, building coalitions among independents and moderates.The importance of creating spaces where all voices are heard and respected.Social Media & Authentic Engagement: The challenges of social media algorithms that reward outrage.How long-form podcasting can foster deeper, more thoughtful engagement.Practical Takeaways: Nathan encourages listeners to seek out conversations with those who disagree and to approach dialogue with genuine curiosity.The goal is to foster intellectual curiosity and show a better way than conflict.Legacy & Final Thoughts: Nathan hopes to be remembered as someone who fostered curiosity and helped expose the “finger trap” of political conflict.Listeners are encouraged to build common ground in their own communities.Where to Find Nathan Smolensky: Book available on Amazon and major online retailers.Website: nathansmolinski.com for events, speaking engagements, and contact info.

    29 min

  8. JAN 8

    Your Health Score Matters: A Conversation with Kwame Terra of BEHR

    In this powerful episode of WV Uncommon Place, host J.R. Sparrow dives deep into the intersection of health, technology, and community with Kwame Terra — CEO and founder of Bear Health (B.E.H.R.). From discussing health disparities in Black communities to exploring how a single text message inspired an innovative digital health solution, this conversation is a journey into purpose, empathy, and change. Kwame shares his story, the origins of Bear Health, and how the app’s real-time health scoring system offers a dynamic way for users — especially in underserved communities — to track and improve their health. J.R. and Kwame discuss lifestyle changes, the failures of our current health care system, and how data-driven community engagement can lead to better outcomes. It’s not just about living longer — it’s about living better. 🎯 Topics Covered: The meaning of “disparity” in healthcare How the Bear Health app works and why it’s revolutionary Understanding your health score like you know your credit score The power of community data in driving health equity How fasting, water, sun, and meditation shape Kwame’s daily life Real talk on pollution: emotional, visual, and physical Why Bear Health is building a new system rather than fixing a broken one 📲 Download the App: iOS/Android Users: Search DKDOO in your app store Use access code: jrsparrow (all lowercase, one word) Begin your health journey by entering basic info, completing your initial assessment, and syncing your fitness tracker. 📱 Follow & Connect: Kwame Terra: @kwameterra on all platforms Bear Health: @behealth on Instagram and other platforms Learn more at Bear Health's Website (if available) 📣 Call to Action: “Do you know your health score?” Share your journey. Tag Bear Health. Ask your community. 🏃‍♂️ #HealthScore #BearHealth #LiveBetter #KnowYourNumbers 🌟 JR’s Favorite Takeaway: “Creating a universe means crafting a perspective that hasn’t been challenged — and Kwame is doing just that with Bear Health.” 🎧 Available on all platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts 🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs to take control of their health journey today.

    52 min
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"Transforming minds through empowering conversations on mental health, society, and pop culture. Join Stacey and Me Uncommon Conversations podcast – where we explore the uncommon in the ordinary. 🎙️ Let's navigate the depths of culture together! #MentalHealthEmpowerment #PopCultureTalks

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