Get a copy of the book: https://www.amazon.com/Being-Black-Americas-Schools-Student-Educator-Reformers/dp/1496746600

Takeaways

• Brian’s book is inspired by his personal journey as a student and educator.

• The systemic challenges faced by Black students are deeply rooted in historical racism.

• Joy is essential for both educators and students in navigating the challenges of the education system.

• Disillusionment is common among educators, but grassroots efforts can lead to change.

• Understanding the historical context of the education system is crucial for reform.

• Community support is vital for educators feeling isolated in their efforts.

• Empowering students to be critical thinkers is essential for their success.

• The importance of self-reflection in teaching practices cannot be overstated.

• Educators must find purpose in their work to combat feelings of disillusionment.

• The legacy of past leaders in education continues to inspire current reform efforts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brian Fuller and His Book

01:32 The Journey Behind ‘Being Black in America Schools’

05:28 Systemic Challenges in Education for Black Students

10:17 Disillusionment in Education: A Call to Action

16:33 Thriving as Educators and Students

21:56 Revelations from Writing: Self-Reflection in Education

27:50 The Impact of Brian’s Story on Others

32:23 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

37:13 Joy in Reading and Inspiration from History

These lyrics capture something I’ve experienced firsthand.

I remember being a part of a community choir my aunt started in the mid-90s. She did a lot to support young people in the community in reducing violence and promoting community safety. Why did she serve? Because she loved!

I bring this choir up because I remember being a boy singing in this youth choir that opened for Kirk Franklin and The Family. That opportunity came about because of my aunt’s diligence with us and so many other young people throughout the City of Birmingham. Before our young people were crushing it on America’s Got Talent (see video below), we were learning the lyrics to songs like Melodies from Heaven and His Eye Is on the Sparrow.

Things done in love change lives, futures, and provide opportunities that shape us forever.

So, Danny, why do you write?

The WHY behind something is significant and cannot be ignored. It gives life and meaning to the missions we pursue. It infuses our work with purpose beyond ourselves that turns the ordinary into the extraordinary.

You know, a question that I never get asked is, “Why do you write?” I’m not sure why no one ever asks me that question. I often get asked about my writing process or my writing style, but not the why behind it. So, I figured I would take some time and answer a question that no one asked me to answer!

In all honesty, it’s a question that I feel I need to answer for myself.

To understand the answer to that question, you first need to know how my writing came to be. I didn’t learn to read or write until I was in second grade. It was my teacher, Ms. Anderson, who first realized I was memorizing the material by having a friend read it to me. She was a phenomenal teacher who saw more in me than I saw in myself. She took the time to teach me and gave me one of the greatest gifts you can give another person, the ability to read. She also instilled in me a love for reading. I will always love her for her gracious gift! A gift she gave in love!

A couple of years after being in her class, my family moved to a different community, and while it exposed me to the broader world, it stifled my love for reading and writing. That was until my senior year in high school, when my literature teacher, Mr. Rutsky, challenged me to rediscover my passion for reading and writing. In the environment he cultivated in his classroom, I found myself again. I found myself buried in Orson Scott Card’s classic sci-fi book Ender’s Game.

I had forgotten how beautiful books could be.

As I grew older and began writing more, I wanted to honor the gifts that were given to me. I felt like I had something to say about the world around me. That I could add my voice to the chorus of the world choir. I write because I am loved and have been loved well.

Here’s one last question and answer for you before we get out of here!

Question: Danny, what’s the mission behind your writing?

My writing mission statement is “impacting the culture with the values of the Kingdom, by writing from a Black Christian perspective about life, love, and leadership.” When I say “culture,” I use that as a catch-all for society, the things we value, and the way we move through the world. We have many teachers and instructors, many artists and entertainers who not only shape us, but form our culture. Culture can be defined as “The way we do things around here.” I want to help form us not according to the values of this world. Not to use an overly spiritual term, but, as Dr. Tony Evans says, the world is the system that leaves God out. I don’t want to operate under that system, but under the Kingdom, the comprehensive rule of God over all of life.

My writing is identity-based; I do not leave myself behind. I am a Black Christian man, I am not ashamed of who I am, or the perspective I write from, our world needs more diverse voices. It’s the lens through which I’ve experienced the world, being a black male my entire life and a Christian the last 16 years. I write as a witness to testify to my love for Jesus and my love for others. To help people figure out how to engage fully in the world.

That’s why I write about life, love, and leadership. I want to write about all of life as a Kingdom citizen and a world inhabitant.

We are sent into the world, not to retreat from it, but to engage it fully with the truth we carry. Just as Ms. Anderson gave me the gift of reading in love, and Mr. Rutsky gave it back in love, we are called to give our gifts to the world in love. Writing is how I witness. It’s how I participate in the Kingdom work of transformation.

But writing isn’t the only way to witness. Some sing like my aunt’s choir. Some paint. Some teach. Some build. Some lead. The medium matters less than the mission: to be sent into the world as witnesses of love.

So here’s my question for you:

Why do you create? Whether you write, sing, act, or build—what’s the love behind it? What gift were you given that you’re now giving back?

Leave me a comment or send me an email. I’d love to hear your story.

Leave a comment

Dr. Lester highlights the need for trauma-informed approaches in education and community service, advocating for innovative solutions to address social issues. His organization, Love Beyond Walls, exemplifies his commitment to serving those in need and fostering a sense of belonging and dignity.

Share

Takeaways

• Dr. Lester emphasizes the duality of gratitude and grief in his life.

• Community plays a crucial role in overcoming adversity.

• Historical trauma impacts educational outcomes for black children.

• Education is a pathway to personal and community empowerment.

• Trauma-informed care is essential in educational settings.

• Frustration with systems can lead to innovative solutions.

• Love Beyond Walls aims to reframe narratives around poverty.

• Building relationships is key to community support.

• It’s important to recognize and affirm the dignity of every individual.

• Personal stories of struggle can inspire collective action.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Terence Lester and His Journey

05:41 Understanding Historical Trauma and Its Impact

11:32 Navigating Educational Barriers and Personal Challenges

19:28 The Role of Community in Overcoming Adversity

27:24 Innovating for Change: A Call to Action

31:25 The Mission of Love Beyond Walls

37:26 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

The scriptures use many names to refer to God and His attributes and nature. Two names in particular leave me in awe: Yeshua HaMashiach, which means Jesus the Messiah, and El Elyon, which means God Most High. Both names reference the singular place that the God of the Bible occupies in both function and existence.

Jesus is the promised Messiah who perfectly fulfills the law of Moses and satisfies the wrath and righteousness of God. As the Son of God, He is exalted “far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come” (Ephesians 1:21).

There is only one King, and His name is Yehoshua (Jesus). David starts this psalm with the declaration: “The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness,
The world and those who dwell therein.” Jesus is Lord of all creation. His creation submits to Him, yet this King invites us to know Him and be known by Him.

This is why I am so amazed at what David says here. God has made a way for us to know and approach Him, to ascend the hill of the Lord. Jesus is the fulfillment of this one who ascends this hill. In His ascent, He carries us with Him. So, in Him, we receive blessing, and in Him, we receive righteousness.

Leaders, that is good news.

Why?

Because it does not all depend on us. David was the second king to rule over Israel, but most historians consider him the greatest. Yet, he declares that there is one who is far greater than he. This King is the one who has no sin in him whatsoever. His hands are clean, His heart is pure, He has not turned towards idols, and he doesn’t lie. Surely, David is not referring to himself, for we can count numerous times when David does these things. He also isn’t talking about us, because we break these daily. He is pointing to Jesus. The one whom the generations will seek after. The one in whom we find security.

There are some hills we can’t climb; we can only be carried. This is one of them. We benefit from being in this elevated position, which Paul in the New Testament calls being “in Christ.” Jesus ascended, and in His ascension, we are seated with Him.

Prayer prompts:

1. Pray through Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness,
   The world and those who dwell therein.”

2. What thoughts and feelings come to mind when you consider that Jesus is king and lord over all the earth? Pray through what comes up for you.

3. Express gratitude to the Lord for what it means to be “In Christ.”

Song:

Other posts in this series:

Summary

In this conversation, Danny Brister, Jr. interviews Maya Moore Irons and Jonathan Irons about their book 'Love and Justice.' They discuss their intertwined stories of love, resilience, and the fight for justice, emphasizing the importance of family, faith, and community support. Jonathan shares his experiences of wrongful incarceration and the strength he found in adversity, while Mya reflects on her journey of stepping away from basketball to support Jonathan. Together, they highlight the need for systemic reform in the criminal justice system and the role of faith in seeking justice.

Takeaways

• The book 'Love and Justice' intertwines personal stories of triumph.

• Family and community play a crucial role in overcoming adversity.

• Faith can provide strength during the darkest times.

• Navigating life transitions requires support and understanding.

• Friendship can blossom even in the most challenging circumstances.

• Finding strength in injustice can lead to helping others.

• Hope and resilience are essential in the fight for justice.

• Forgiveness and accountability are vital in addressing systemic issues.

• The faith community has a responsibility to advocate for justice.

• Redefining success in the justice system is necessary for reform.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Love and Justice

02:57 The Role of Family and Community

05:49 Faith and Perseverance in Adversity

11:49 Navigating Relationships and Friendship

17:55 Building a Family and Legacy

26:23 The Importance of Discretion in Relationships

28:12 Finding Strength in Adversity

35:40 Navigating Injustice and Seeking Justice

41:20 Faith, Forgiveness, and Accountability

48:24 Empowering Change Through Community Engagement

Earlier this year, I interviewed Churck Mingo and Dr. Troy Jackson about their book Living Undivided: Loving Courageously for Racial Healing and Justice. They addressed how pursuing racial healing remains a paramount concern, especially for the church and the believer. The conversation offers an enlightening dialogue with two champions of justice and racial reconciliation. These community leaders have committed themselves to "Living Undivided," an initiative that aims to bridge the racial divide and foster a society grounded in justice, mercy, and humility.

Chuck Mingo's evolution from the corporate world to pastoral ministry was not merely a career transition but a leap into the mission of mending the racial fissures within our communities. Troy Jackson's profound engagement with civil rights history led him from scholarly endeavors to the frontline of activism. The episode vividly portrays their combined efforts and provides a roadmap for others seeking to navigate the tumultuous waters of race and reconciliation.

I waited until the launch of the We The American Series to share this episode because I wanted to offer it as a way for us to navigate our divided culture while also seeking to understand our past. Chuck and Troy take us through the complexities of race and history, emphasizing the power of personal reflection and the importance of recognizing the truths that have shaped our local communities. Their narratives, woven with vulnerability and victory, mirror our own paths toward greater understanding and commitment.

At a moment when the call for racial justice is more audible than it has been in the last 50 years, the episode underscores the critical role of the church in this conversation. Through moving anecdotes, such as a mother's concerns for her child's faith amidst the church's perceived silence on racial matters, the episode highlights the urgent need for spiritual leaders to advocate for justice and live out Jesus' vision of justice, mercy, and righteousness. It culminates with an exhortation to embrace the teachings found in "Living Undivided" and to join Chuck and Troy in their quest to repair the tapestry of our fractured world.

The episode encourages us to connect with the stories of racial formation that surround us, urging us to either challenge or elevate these narratives. It brings to light the necessity of confronting our nation's historical relationship with race, especially during times of national reflection, while not neglecting to acknowledge instances where progress has shone through.

As the episode progresses, it delves into the critical urgency of addressing racial injustice and the church's integral role in this endeavor. Chuck and Troy discuss the implications of the church's silence on racial issues, the idolatry of Christian nationalism, and the distractions that deter us from our mission. They stress the importance of self-care and community support in preventing burnout and reiterate the spiritual practices that sustain our efforts toward a more equitable society.

In conclusion, the episode is not just an auditory experience but a call to action. It invites listeners to engage with the content and the authors, urging them to become part of the ongoing movement toward racial justice and healing. By providing a candid look into the lives and work of Chuck Mingo and Troy Jackson, the podcast serves as a beacon of hope and a guide for those yearning to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Have you ever wondered how one man's spiritual journey can transform his life and resonate deeply with a broad audience? Join us as we chat with Trey Ferguson, the author of Theologizin’ Bigger: Homilies on Living Freely and Loving Wholly. Trey takes us on his profound faith journey—a striking blend of skepticism, curiosity, and the unyielding power of faith in an often unfriendly world. Discover how these experiences coalesce into Theologizin’ Bigger, a concept that encapsulates his spiritual awakening and offers a fresh perspective on living an authentic, invigorated life.

In this episode, Trey shares the challenges of writing a book that speaks to the essence of faith, capturing the hearts of diverse readers ranging from middle-aged white women to people of varied cultural backgrounds. We explore the importance of authenticity and the impact of his parents' unwavering support in fostering his confidence. Furthermore, Trey sheds light on the obstacles faced by Black Christian nonfiction authors in the publishing industry and his decision to opt for a hybrid publishing model.

This episode is a rich tapestry of faith, identity, and resilience, offering valuable insights into navigating the complexities of spirituality and representation in today's world.

From Trey’s website about the book:

“Prophets are rare in our culture and poets are needed in this challenging contemporary moment. Trey Ferguson is a poet and a prophet for such a time as this. ”
—Otis Moss, III, Pastor, Trinity United Church of Christ, Chicago, and author of Dancing in the Darkness

Faith can get messy. Whether we’re talking about personal beliefs or the ideologies that end up shaping our institutions, there’s a lot to wade through. As people drifting through—and sometimes away from—faith communities reexamine their convictions, there’s more desire than ever to live freely and to grant our curiosity an audience. 

In Theologizin’ Bigger: Homilies on Living Freely and Loving Wholly, pastor, podcaster, and public theologian Trey Ferguson encourages you to re-engage your imagination, and to construct theologies that speak to our current contexts, just as people of faith have done throughout history. 

With personal stories and some lo-fi truth-telling, Ferguson leads us through topics like how we read the Bible, our inherited traditions, the shame and confusion we experience, and a faith that can shape tomorrow. Ferguson writes, “Theology requires imagination. The ability to imagine is part of what makes us human. And salvation is, in part, a rehumanization project.” 

You don’t have to ignore your nagging doubts and honest questions. You don’t have to check any part of yourself at the door. You can find the faith to live freely and love wholly. When you’re Theologizin’ Bigger, you get to decide where the crown goes.

Order your copy today: Theologizin' Bigger: Homilies on Living Freely and Loving Wholly

In a profound and engaging episode of the podcast, Dr. Chuck Wallington, author and thought leader, shares his incredible journey from a journalist with a vision to a seasoned executive in the corporate realm. The episode, titled "Breaking Barriers: The Rise of African American Executives in Corporate America," delves into the nuanced experiences of African American leaders as they navigate through the intricate layers of corporate leadership, facing and overcoming a myriad of obstacles.

Dr. Wallington's discussion opens a window into the stark reality of the underrepresentation of black professionals in senior positions while simultaneously celebrating the triumphs of those who have reached the apex of leadership through resilience and strategic mentorship. His book, "A Seat at the C-Suite Table," is not just a testament to these executives' achievements but serves as a guiding light for those who are on similar paths, striving for excellence against the odds.

The episode enriches listeners with a detailed recount of Dr. Wallington's personal evolution and the powerful insights gained from the experiences of 30 black male executives. These narratives shed light on the critical roles played by mentors, coaches, and sponsors in shaping successful careers and emphasize the undeniable importance of diversity in the upper echelons of business leadership.

In essence, this podcast episode serves as both a reflection on personal growth and a collective call to action. It challenges listeners to acknowledge the barriers that exist while equipping them with the wisdom and strategies necessary to overcome them and excel in their professional endeavors. Dr. Wallington's message is a beacon for current and future African American executives and for anyone who values the richness that diversity brings to leadership.

Follow Danny at https://dannybjr.substack.com/

Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

In his early twenties, Rob Richardson was fighting to get his business off the ground to provide for his growing family, yet was turned down by every bank for a loan. So, in the heat of desperation, he attempted to rob one, and was sentenced to 61 years in prison due to an overzealous prosecution. This was his first offense. Rob ended up serving more than two decades in America's bloodiest penitentiary, Angola, until receiving clemency in 2018. In their new book, Time: The Untold Story of the Love That Held Us Together When Incarceration Kept Us Apart (Baker Books, February 7, 2023), high school sweethearts Fox & Rob share how they defied all odds and kept their family together through years of challenges. "

Until July 1, 2020, Mr. Rowe was CEO of Public Prep, a nonprofit network of public charter schools based in the South Bronx and Lower East Side of Manhattan. Before joining Public Prep, he was deputy director of postsecondary success at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, senior vice president of strategic partnerships and public affairs at MTV, director of strategy and performance measurement at the USA Freedom Corps office in the White House, and cofounder and president of Third Millennium Media. Mr. Rowe also joined Teach for America in its early days.

Mr. Rowe has been widely published in the popular press, including in the New York Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Washington Examiner. He is often interviewed on talk radio programs. With his forthcoming book “Agency” (Templeton Press, May 2022), Ian Rowe seeks to inspire young people of all races to build strong families and become masters of their own destiny.