Best CJ And Joy Podcasts (2025)

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‘Jaja’s African Hair Braiding’ showcases the joys and struggles of African women immigrants in America 25:50

2h ago25:50

25:50

For many Black women, the hair salon is a cultural safe space, where stories and secrets help build an intimate community. In SpeakEasy Stage’s production of the Tony-winning play, “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding,” the West African immigrants who do the braiding and the customers seeking their services come together in a funny play that also explores…

1
Unbound Pages: Former Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden explains why libraries are central to democracy 32:10

2h ago32:10

32:10

In 2016, President Barack Obama appointed Dr. Carla Hayden as the 14th Librarian of Congress, making her the first woman and the first African American to hold the position. Dr. Hayden’s tenure as Librarian of Congress abruptly ended on May 8, when she was fired from the position. Eight days before her dismissal, Dr. Hayden spoke with Callie Crossl…

1
‘Joy Goddess’ spotlights Madam C.J. Walker’s daughter A’Lelia, who forged her own path 24:57

7d ago24:57

24:57

Rags-to-riches entrepreneur Madam C.J. Walker and her daughter, A’Lelia Walker, built one of the most successful African American hair care businesses in American history. But it was only after A’Lelia broke free of her mother’s singular vision that she found her calling in 1920s Harlem. That search for independence and purpose is at the center of …

1
What does it mean to be a ‘good mom’ in 2025? 33:03

7d ago33:03

33:03

Societal and cultural norms say mothers must be kind and nurturing, they must have endless patience for their children, they must be doting, attentive and protective, and they should be able to do it all — and be thrilled to do it all. But what does it mean to be a “good” mother in this day and age? We explore the complex and nuanced nature of moth…

1
What clues can Trump’s first 100 days offer for the rest of his second presidency? 58:00

14d ago58:00

58:00

April 29, 2025 marked 100 days of President Donald Trump’s second term in office. In a little over three months, the president, alongside administration officials, Cabinet members, and Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency – or DOGE – have kept Trump’s promise to reshape the government. What can Americans expect for the rest of Trum…

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The Genius Next Door: Media artist Tony Cokes recontextualizes history through mixed-media video installations 21:45

21d ago21:45

21:45

Tony Cokes, a professor of modern culture and media at Brown University, is transforming the moving image to shine new light on some of history’s darkest moments. By using text, music, found footage, journalistic writing and more, Cokes recontextualizes traumatic moments in American history and creates video-based artwork. He is one of three local …

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Environmental experts: Massive changes at the EPA will roll back much-needed scientific research 36:14

21d ago36:14

36:14

Within his first 100 days, President Donald Trump and his administration have made major changes when it comes to environmental and climate-related policy and action. What will come of the significant shake-up of the Environmental Protection Agency? Plus, previously off-limits fishing grounds are open for business, wildfires as an East Coast proble…

1
Earth Day Special Episode with NAAEE's Judy Braus 22:37

27d ago22:37

22:37

In this special Earth Day episode of The World We Want, host Gerry Ellis is joined by Judy Braus, Executive Director of NAAEE and longtime leader in the environmental education field, to talk about how education fuels action, connection, and a sense of possibility in the face of our biggest challenges. Access the resources, webinars, and podcasts r…

1
Black Catholics create connection between ancient Christian practice and today’s Black culture 30:32

27d ago30:32

30:32

Of the 50 million Catholics in America, only about 3 million are African American. The history of Black Catholics in the United States spans from colonization and enslavement to Black parishes founded by the church during the Jim Crow era. And throughout that history, Black Catholic communities have found ways to make the oldest form of Christianit…

1
Unbound Pages: Will Massachusetts be the next state to pass 'freedom to read' legislation? 27:28

27d ago27:28

27:28

Book bans have been on the rise across the country in recent years prompting lawmakers to pass legislation to protect libraries and librarians. “Freedom to read” legislation has been adopted in four states, aiming to safeguard access to diverse materials in public and school libraries, and some lawmakers are hoping to make Massachusetts the fifth s…

1
New children’s book tells the behind-the-scenes story of the first presidential Passover Seder 24:38

1M ago24:38

24:38

Each year, thousands of Greater Bostonians observe Passover through Seder, the ceremonial meal of prayers, blessings and wine retelling the story of the Jews' exodus from ancient Egypt. It’s a tradition passed down from generation to generation all over the world, but it didn’t reach the White House until 2009. Author Richard Michelson wrote about …

1
Paul Revere House and Old North Church reexamine its history in preparation of 250th anniversary of Revere’s ride 33:20

1M ago33:20

33:20

He’s known as a silversmith, a messenger and a patriot. But Paul Revere's role and contribution to the American Revolution was much more than a midnight ride.We take a walk through Revere’s neighborhood and visit two pivotal locations – the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church – to learn more about the revolutionary and the world in which he …

1
‘I’ve seen poetry save lives’: Local and Grammy-winning spoken-word poets celebrate their art 33:13

1M ago33:13

33:13

April is National Poetry Month! Enthusiasm for spoken-word poetry has skyrocketed in recent years, helping to increase the popularity of all poetry. We’re diving into the art form and the poets who use their voices and bodies in staged performances. Who are the lyrical wordsmiths at the top of their game, including here in Massachusetts? We speak w…

1
Poet Tiana Clark pairs gut-wrenching imagery with accessible language in ‘Scorched Earth’ 24:46

1M ago24:46

24:46

Poet Tiana Clark’s mastery of the language of emotions is fully displayed in “Scorched Earth,” her new deeply personal collection of poems, which takes readers from the charred landscape of divorce to searing moments where the intersection of history, race and gender explode on the pages. “Scorched Earth” is our April pick for Bookmarked: the “Unde…

1
Nature and Belonging: Fostering Meaningful Youth Mentorship with CJ Greco 52:38

2M ago52:38

52:38

For many teens, finding a place where they truly belong can be life-changing. CJ Greco knows this firsthand. Having grown up in zoo education programs and after a voyage of self-discovery halfway around the world, CJ has found a safe space to explore, learn, and be herself. Now, as a teen program manager at Lincoln Park Zoo, CJ is creating that sam…

1
Boston Comedy Festival celebrates 25 years of laughter and competition 24:13

2M ago24:13

24:13

The Boston Comedy Festival has been showcasing comedic talent for 25 years! With so much competition from social media and digital platforms, what continues to make the festival a stand-up destination for comedians in greater Boston and across the country? We speak with the brother-sister duo who founded the festival and an up-and-coming comedian h…

1
From the pitch to the scrum, women’s pro sports are in high demand 33:47

2M ago33:47

33:47

It’s not a moment – it’s a movement. Women’s sports teams from the WNBA to women’s rugby teams are selling out games from coast to coast. Breakout stars like Olympian Ilona Maher, illustrious former collegiate turned pro players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, and celebrity-backed teams like Angel City Football Club are in the spotlight. So are…

1
Hollywood banks on starry comebacks and nostalgic film reboots 33:47

2M ago33:47

33:47

Will Smith, Jonathan Majors and Lizzo are all traveling the same road: the comeback trail. Nostalgia continues to reign – everything old is new again! Reboots and returns on the big and little screen. And Bad Bunny bares all … well, mostly all. That and more on our pop culture roundtable!By GBH

1
Two eldest daughters and their mother strive for connection in ‘Her Portmanteau’ 24:13

2M ago24:13

24:13

Mfoniso Udofia’s nine-play Ufot Family Cycle forges on! The latest onstage installment, “Her Portmanteau,” hits Central Square Theater later this month. And it picks up a loose thread from the very first play — the story of Iniabasi, matriarch Abasiama’s true eldest daughter. We speak with the playwright and the actress who portrays the daughter as…

1
Gen Z drinking habits, social media and Irish interest fuel rise in Guinness’ popularity 21:15

2M ago21:15

21:15

Most beer-drinking Americans choose lagers – crisp, pale beers like Modelo Especial, Bud Light or Coors Light. But Gen Zers and celebrities like Ed Sheeran, Olivia Rodrigo and Kim Kardashian have boosted renewed enthusiasm for the Irish stout, Guinness. We’ve drafted top beer experts to mark St Patrick’s Day with a heady discussion about Guinness’ …

1
Local news: Why have businesses in Mattapan left liquor licenses on the table? 36:44

2M ago36:44

36:44

Boston’s former ICE office director is chosen as acting director of the national agency, the latest in the controversy about the MBTA Communities Act, and can new liquor licenses in Dorchester and Mattapan help existing businesses … or are they too much trouble for restaurants AND the neighborhood? It’s our local news roundtable!…

1
Global Voices: Lessons from Young African Leaders on Climate and Sustainability with Harrison Ashangwa and Richard Tusabe 52:47

2M ago52:47

52:47

Turning universal challenges into local solutions through environmental education, two young African leaders, Harrison Ashangwa and Ritchie Tusabe, are keeping EE relevant and thriving through youth-led initiatives. Harrison and Ritchie both grew up in African countries where environmental education is part of daily life—as knowledge passed down fr…

1
Unbound Pages: Artist Karen Moss raises book-banning awareness through a series of portraits 16:27

2M ago16:27

16:27

Artist and avid reader Karen Moss felt overwhelmed by the never-ending news of book bans happening all across the country. As she’d previously done in addressing other social justice issues, Karen used her canvas to make a statement — this time, intimate portraits of her loved ones and their favorite banned books. The portraits are showcased in a n…

1
Covid upended everyday life. What’s stuck around five years after lockdown? 41:32

2M ago41:32

41:32

It’s been five years since the Covid-19 lockdown of spring 2020. Covid changed every aspect of our lives – from the way we work, to how kids went to school and even some people’s views on science and vaccines. What changes have stuck around since the pandemic? And which will become so ingrained in our lives that future generations will forget they …

1
Beyond body glitter and Total Request Live: How the Y2K era changed America 25:16

3M ago25:16

25:16

The year 2000 ushered in an era of shiny newness – from metallic clothing and furniture to a computer evolution turned tech revolution – alongside generation-defining events: a housing and financial crisis, 9/11 and early public recognition of climate change. Author Colette Shade argues the socio-cultural shifts ushered in during the early 2000s re…

1
Trump’s anti-trans executive orders face pushback from New England states 32:42

3M ago32:42

32:42

It’s been a little over a month since Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States.And since his first day in office, he has kept his promise when it comes to rolling back protections and rights for people in the LGBTQ+ community, especially trans, nonbinary, genderqueer and intersex people. But communities around the cou…

1
The Genius Next Door: Benjamin Van Mooy makes waves with his research on invisible sea organisms 23:41

3M ago23:41

23:41

He studies plankton, the smallest organisms in the ocean, from the Antarctic peninsula to Greenland, looking for signs of how the oceans are changing. Oceanographer Benjamin Van Mooy also created new techniques that helped reveal more precise information about the link between plankton and the changing oceans. The researcher is one of three New Eng…

1
More than ‘mere representation’ needed for Asian and Asian-American stories in media 34:17

3M ago34:17

34:17

It’s been 7 years since the glitzy and glamorous romantic-comedy “Crazy Rich Asians” topped the box-office charts. The film helped break open a new era of Asian and Asian-American representation in film, streaming and TV. Has that increased representation lasted? We continue our annual conversation examining movie and streaming projects from the pa…

1
Outdoor Classrooms and Digital Tools: Reimagining Education for Today’s Students with Stefan Moss 44:15

3M ago44:15

44:15

How can a student’s future be impacted when a scientist passionate about education steps into the classroom? Stefan Moss, an environmental scientist and educator, joins host Gerry Ellis to discuss how he transforms complex science principles into engaging, hands-on learning experiences, fostering both hope and awe in young learners. From his early …

1
Latinx news: Misinformation and ICE silence stoke mass-deportation fears 30:52

3M ago30:52

30:52

President Donald Trump promised drastic changes in immigration policy, particularly focused on mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, on Day 1 of his second administration. But with only a month into the new administration, local experts say it’s hard to judge if Trump is actually sticking to his promise. It’s our Latinx news roundtable!…

1
Ufot Family Cycle continues with the world-premiere of ‘The Grove’ 27:08

3M ago27:08

27:08

The Huntington’s production of “Sojourners” in October 2024 marked the start of the two-year, city-wide production of Mfoniso Udofia’s nine-play collection, the Ufot Family Cycle. Now, the Nigerian-American Ufot family story continues 31 years later in “The Grove,” the world-premiere of the second play in the cycle. Callie speaks with playwright Mf…

1
Environmental news: Will the aftermath of the LA fires affect Americans nationwide? 32:04

3M ago32:04

32:04

Now that the Los Angeles fires have been contained, Angelenos face health concerns from fire pollutants among many long-term consequences. Plus, President Donald Trump withdraws the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement. Will Michael Bloomberg’s offer to pay for the U.S.’s portion of the group’s budget make a difference? And the homeowners’ insuran…

1
Big flavors and small wine lists are two of this year's culinary trends 25:56

3M ago25:56

25:56

Black limes, global spice mixes and an abundance of sauces – it’s all on tap for food trends in 2025. And when it comes to wine, odds are you’ve foregone the cheap entry-level bottle for a higher price-point white and you’ve noticed shrinking wine lists at restaurants. We’ve got the latest news from the culinary world featuring our food and wine ex…

1
Despite vitriol and threats, “That Librarian” Amanda Jones continues the fight against book bans 25:43

4M ago25:43

25:43

After librarian Amanda Jones spoke at a local public library board meeting to express her concerns about censorship in her small town of Livingston, she faced an organized campaign of harassment from groups with a mission to ban certain books in public and school libraries. But Jones fought back and is now telling her story in her new book, “That L…

1
Regional news: Massachusetts’ offshore wind future splits Cape residents 32:16

4M ago32:16

32:16

Is the re-elected Rhode Island State Senate President incapable of doing his job, as some senators claim? Cape Cod residents are divided over President Donald Trump’s declarations on offshore wind power. Should they be concerned about Trump’s claims of danger toward sea wildlife caused by wind turbines? Plus, a social security breach in Rhode Islan…

1
The Next Chapter with Fit & Healthy University 16:52

4M ago16:52

16:52

Send us a text Ready to transform your health and fitness journey? Discover how Fit and Healthy University is redefining the landscape of wellness with a treasure trove of free resources, workouts, and recipes. As we conclude the Fit and Healthy Sioux Falls show, I reflect on the incredible journey we've shared over the past two years and introduce…

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Transforming Environmental Education from Knowledge to Action with Kathy McGlauflin and Gus Medina 45:05

4M ago45:05

45:05

Delve into how environmental education programs have evolved from lessons of awareness to calls to action. Join host Gerry Ellis in this thought-provoking conversation with Kathy McGlauflin and Gus Medina, examining how these shifts, along with the changes in methods and technology, have shaped the field and what it means for connecting people to n…

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“Destruction Yiddish”: How the Holocaust changed language 24:17

4M ago24:17

24:17

Yiddish is a language mostly spoken by Jews in the United States, Israel and Russia. But when Jewish prisoners were interned during the Holocaust, the Yiddish language went through a metamorphosis, changing and expanding to include new words about their brutal everyday existence. What emerged and lives on today are words that represent both cultura…

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esperanza spalding and Jett Galindo's journey from Berklee to Grammys glory 33:43

4M ago33:43

33:43

Berklee College of Music alums have collectively won more than 300 Grammys so far. Two of those previous winners who’ve added to Berklee’s count are esperanza spalding and Jett Galindo – alums with previous wins who are up for awards at this year’s Grammys. We spoke with them about their journey from Berklee’s halls to the Grammys stage.…

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How the presidential inauguration became poetry's biggest stage 30:46

4M ago30:46

30:46

It’s an exclusive club that may or may not add to its members every four years: inaugural poets. There have only been six in the history of the United States, from Robert Frost in 1961 to Amanda Gorman in 2021. How did the tradition become part of the pomp and circumstance of Inauguration Day? And what kind of message is central to inaugural poetry…

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What defines a protest anthem? 27:14

4M ago27:14

27:14

The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once described the freedom songs of the civil rights movement as “the soul of the movement.” What would the civil rights movement, the anti-war movement, the Black Lives Matter movement be like without iconic songs like “We Shall Overcome,” the Plastic Ono Band’s “Give Peace A Chance” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Al…

1
Own Your Past, Break Your Limits and Achieve Your Dreams 50:35

4M ago50:35

50:35

Send us a text Ever wondered how your past could be shaping your present and holding you back from future success? Join us in a compelling conversation with licensed therapist Jason VanRuler, the insightful mind behind "Get Past Your Past," as we uncover the hidden barriers of self-limiting beliefs and past traumas. Jason passionately discusses the…

1
New LGBTQ Congress members offer hope as anti-trans bills lead to anxiety 33:23

4M ago33:23

33:23

History is made in the 119th Congress as three new openly LGBTQ+ members join the House of Representatives, while leaders in the Republican majority announce plans to undermine LGBTQ legal protections through Title IX. Plus a new study reveals adolescents are rarely prescribed gender-affirming drugs, despite common misconceptions. And a newly enact…

1
'Crossing The Deep' connects Handel's choral works with spirituals by enslaved Africans 24:36

4M ago24:36

24:36

When the Handel and Haydn Society found records detailing iconic composer George Frideric Handel’s ties to the slave trade, it responded in a way only the organization could: through music and performance. Rather than “canceling” the composer or disavowing the history, two of the society’s staff members created “Crossing The Deep,” a special concer…

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Teaching Through Laughter: A New Bridge to Climate Conversations with Esteban Gast 48:33

4M ago48:33

48:33

How can humor break down barriers and ignite hope in the face of climate change? Join comedian and climate educator Esteban Gast as he reveals how comedy can inspire climate awareness and action. From navigating diverse audiences to building bridges through laughter and shared experiences, Esteban and his cohort of comedians bring fresh perspective…

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Are 4-day workweeks the future for Massachusetts companies and employees? 33:17

4M ago33:17

33:17

Eight hours a day, five days a week: That’s the typical workweek for many Americans. But some companies are rethinking this standard. Around the world, including here in Massachusetts, the change to a four-day, 32-hour workweek has proven positive for businesses and their employees. Will more local businesses adopt this innovative new workweek?…

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Stress expert details how small steps can lead to big changes in ‘The 5 Resets’ 24:42

4M ago24:42

24:42

Stress can contribute to myriad physical and mental ailments, increasing risks of heart disease, anxiety, depression and even Alzheimer’s disease. But is it possible to live a life free from stress? Stress expert Dr. Aditi Nerurkar says the point of life isn’t to eliminate stress altogether; it’s to relieve toxic stress. Small, lasting changes in s…

1
Building Healthier Relationships with Tom Henderson of ResGen 1:01:10

5M ago1:01:10

1:01:10

Send us a text After meeting Tom Henderson from ResGen back in 2016, I had no idea how much his insights would impact my marriage, faith, and friendships. Tom shares his wisdom on enhancing connections through intentional actions and meaningful communication, revealing how these practices can transform the quality of our relationships with partners…

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ENCORE: Falling for 'romantasy': BookTok’s favorite genre 58:00

5M ago58:00

58:00

Elaborate world-building, intricate magical systems, wars and mythologies, and of course, dragons, witches and faeries. In this special edition of “Bookmarked: The Under the Radar Book Club,” we’re diving into one of today’s most popular and best-selling genres taking over bookstores — and your social media feeds: romantasy.…

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Mister Mike’s Merry Mix: Celebrating peace, harmony and weirdness this holiday season 58:00

5M ago58:00

58:00

Mike Wilkins, GBH and The World engineer, join Callie Crossley for their annual celebration of wacky holiday tunes – from quirky takes on classics to originals with unusual twists. Get ready for an hour of what may be your new favorite Christmas songs!By Andrea Asuaje

Podcasts Worth a Listen

CJ And Joy Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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