Connections and Conversations, is an Advocacy Arena Podcast fostering pathways to strengthen our communities. In 2021 I began hosting virtual roundtable type conversations to foster more civic participation. They were informative and inspiring. I discovered some hidden heroes amongst every day citizens and felt they deserved hi lighting — I want you to meet them and other change makers around the country in different fields. We’ll peek behind the scenes to explore their contributions and imp ...
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The Digital Authoritarian Playbook: A High Fidelity Warning
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29:35High Fidelity, HiFi, co-host of Radicalized: Truth Survives, for a no-holds-barred conversation about the dark architecture of this global authoritarian push — and why truth is under siege by this growing Transnational Crime Ring. From the infiltration of protest to micro targeting in this information war and the role PayPal Mafia members like Pete…
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Front Line of Democracy: TX Rep. Lauren Ashley Simmons on the Fight Against Redistricting
18:28
18:28
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18:28TX Rep. Lauren Ashley Simmons, HD-146 speaks out on the high-stakes battle against partisan redistricting. Simmons explains why bold action in Texas is critical—not just for her district, but for protecting democracy nationwide. This isn’t just Texas’s fight—it’s America’s. She is long-time supporter of #AdvocacyArena and our work, Rep Simmons is t…
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Crossed Wires: Untangling Faith, Politics & Power with Michelle
27:08
27:08
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27:08Michelle, grew up in a tight-knit religious community. She shares how that foundation shaped her sense of identity, belonging, and purpose—and how it left her with deep questions, unresolved wounds, and a complicated relationship with organized religion. Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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Parenting Out Loud: Standing Up for LGBTQ Youth with Michelle B. Young
21:37
21:37
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21:37In this episode, we talk with LGBTQ advocate Michelle B. Young, a proud parent of a non-binary child. Michelle shares her family’s journey, the power of parental support, and how she uses her platform to fight for inclusive policies and gender-affirming care. A heartfelt conversation on allyship, advocacy, and the impact one family can make. BlueSk…
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Laugh Loud, Think Deep: Parody & Satire with Kenny aka 2RawTooReal
31:56
31:56
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31:56Kenny, aka 2RawTooReal, Social media influencer, who discusses politics & pop culture. We discuss his approach to creating with receipts and context on political issues and figures. He often uses Parodies & Satire for political responses. Find & Support Kenny "2RawTooReal" on the Socials: 2RawTooReal Entertainment TikTok X (formerly Twitter) BlueSk…
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Exploring a Geopolitical Perspective of Democracy with Chris
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25:08Chris, NatSecMedia, is an ex-pat living in Ukraine. He covers security issues around the globe. Currently, his focus is on Ukraine. He reports from in the country amplifying stories of the defenders and their families. Our democracy is intertwined and dependent on one another. For more info: https://natsecmedia.com/ Support the show…
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How Communitiy-Based Mental Health Services Strengthen the Communitiy with Ngozi
17:40
17:40
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17:40Ngozi, Community-Based Clinical Therapist, shares her experience and expert. She has worked in the school system helping young people and now assist adults transition to more stable life situations. We discuss the new budget bill's impact on the community she serves. Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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A Discussion on Civic Engagement with JTK
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26:51
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26:51A discussion on civic engagement with my friend JTK, a Minnesota native shares his experience. JTK has worked on local campaigns and is passionate about informing and inspiring others to get involved. We also discuss the recent assassinations there and his work w Planned Parenthood. Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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Immigration, Pride Month and Grassroots Advocacy with Joseph in OC
22:05
22:05
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22:05Joseph in OC discusses the current climate in California amidst ICE Raids. We also discuss celebrating Pride Month and the potential loss of rights for the LGBTQ community including Marriage Equality. Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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Dee answer's questions from the Advocacy Arena Community The Hegseth Hack: The Trojan Horse to Destroy Our Military Join us Every Monday 1pEST Weekly GoodTrouble Chat Fired Up Friday - BiWeekly on Substack Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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The Vital Role of Independent & International Journalism with Geoffrey P Johnston
17:58
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17:58Geoffrey P Johnston Canadian journalist. International Affairs Columnist at The Kingston Whig-Standard. Commentator on ‘CFRA Live with Andrew Pinsent’ on CFRA 580 News Talk Radio in Ottawa, Ontario GLOBAL REPORT WITH GEOFFREY P. JOHNSTON Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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Marcy Meldahl is a Random Acts of Flowers, "Volunteer" an organization born of compassion to spread hope, one bouquet at a time. You'll love the story and inspiration that started it all. Random Acts of Flowers improves the emotional health and well-being of individuals in the community in healthcare facilities by delivering recycled flowers, encou…
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A Chat with Dear Dean Publisher Myron J. Clifton, Storyteller Extraordinaire
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30:28
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30:28Myron J. Clifton is an author, publisher, blogger, and podcaster. He is the founder of Dear Dean Publishing and is known for his engaging storytelling. Beyond his books, Clifton publishes the free monthly Dear Dean Magazine, writes blogs on current events at both DearDean.com and Medium, and co-hosts the weekly podcast Voice Memos. His thought-prov…
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Exploring Grassroots Organizing and Activism with Dr Katrina Green
43:47
43:47
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43:47Dr. Katrina Green, ER Physician, American Medical Women's Association Board Member and Nashville Activist shares her insights on pressing community issues ie gun violence and healthcare. As an active member of the Tennessee Medical Association she advocates for healthcare related legislation at the Tennessee State Legislature. In her leadership rol…
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Dee answer's questions from the Advocacy Arena Community Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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Exploring the Legal Aspects of Our Political Climate w Law Professor -Marc G Part 2
23:00
23:00
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23:00Marc G. , Con Law Professor and former Prosecutor, Provides insights and understanding of our current political climate with a little primer on The Constitution. He explains it in easy understandable layman terms with ease. Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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Exploring the Legal Aspects of Our Political Climate w Law Professor Marc G.- Part 1
24:49
24:49
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24:49Marc G. , Con Law Professor and former Prosecutor, Provides insights and understanding of our current political climate with a little primer on The Constitution. He explains it in easy understandable layman terms with ease. Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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Denise Oliver-Velez, Contributing editor for the Daily Kos blog; Feminist, Activist, former Young Lords Party and Black Panther Party member, is a cultural anthropologist and one of the most active contemporary revolutionaries of the 20th and 21st century. Daily Kos, Denise Oliver-Velez BlueSky: @deniseoliver-velez.bsky.social Support the show…
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The Revolutionary Power of Community Activism with Denise Oliver-Velez
40:28
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40:28Denise Oliver-Velez, Contributing editor for the Daily Kos blog; Feminist, Activist, former Young Lords Party and Black Panther Party member, is a cultural anthropologist and one of the most active contemporary revolutionaries of the 20th and 21st century. Daily Kos, Denise Oliver-Velez BlueSky: @deniseoliver-velez.bsky.social Support the show…
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During difficult times, there are always people around who are trying to help and make a difference. They provide, help, hope and strength in the face of adversity. Listen to a discussion with three such helpers: Adrienne and AJ Young, Jr, and Ron Reeves. The Lifeworks Project FB: https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSupport4TheValley IG: thelifeworx …
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A Collaborative Approach to Education with Steven Evangelista
35:54
35:54
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35:54Steven Evangelista, Senior Education Consultant, Teaching Matters, discusses a culturally responsive, collaboration with school communities to grow teacher capacity and improve student outcomes. Teaching Matters, Understanding ‘NYC Reads’ and Curricular Changes Dr. Gholdy Muhammad: ‘Cultivating Genius’ The Circle of Courage, Native wisdom about the…
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Education Advocacy and Mentorship with Dr. Ty
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26:32
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26:32Dr. Ty, a Council Educator, discusses the power of community mentorship starting with family extending into collegiate fraternity emphasizing scholarship. Booker T. Washington said, "If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else." Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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STEM Approach to Community Housing Issues with Cynthia Williams
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29:43
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29:43Cynthia Williams explains the unique approach her consulting company takes to address community housing issues. "We cannot solve our problems with the same level of thinking that created them.” – Albert Einstein Find out More: MaltaWell Holdings Support the showBy Dee Batiste
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Candidly Tiff joined me to discuss the importance of civic engagement and how she models it. Civic engagement is a type of community involvement. It's modeled in many significant ways to foster community participation that leads to social change. X: @tify330 IG & TikTok: @candidly_tiff Support the show…
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Lifting As We Climb with Dr. Learotha Williams, Jr.
40:34
40:34
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40:34Dr. Learotha Williams, Jr. Tennessee State University Professor of African American & Public History. He is also the Coordinator of the North Nashville Heritage Project. Learn about some the phenominal African American Women who were powerful forces for social change that shaped the landscape of Nashville. North Nashville Heritage Project History o…
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Hidden Figures: Tutored by a Legend, AJ Young Jr. on Katherine Johnson & Legacy
21:14
21:14
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21:14In the Presence of Greatness: AJ Young, Jr. is the Executive Director of Outreach for The Lifeworks Project, a 501(3c) which serves many communities in West Virginia. To close out Black History Month, AJ shares a few childhood stories that I love to highlight because they are filled with brilliant prominent African Americans like Katherine Johnson,…
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Lauren Z. and Gwynne C. joined me to discuss a vital intersection of social justice, Social Work and Labor Unions. The civil rights movement and the labor movement are intertwined. During the Civil Rights Movement, social workers played pivotal roles and still do today by providing individual support, while opposing systemic barriers. Social worker…
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What's the role of arts in the community?
24:39
24:39
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24:39Dr. Randy Westbrook and I discuss the history and significance of community art centers. “Community art is of and by the people of a place and culture, often facilitated by a professional artist. It reflects the values, concerns, and meaning of living in that place or culture.” There’s a symbiotic relationship between arts programs and community de…
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Archiving Your Family History with Dr. Mary Marshall
25:49
25:49
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25:49Dr. Mary Marshall shares her amazing personal story as a Historian and archivist. Your family tree may not be filled with connections to some of America's most iconic African American sites, institutions, and people like Booker T. Washington --but you never know. Dr. Marshall’s story highlights the richness of African American contributions to the …
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Episode 1 drops on Feb. 2, 2025. Support the showBy Desia
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