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Reconnecting Roots: A Black History Month Conversation
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Two old friends reconnect during Black History Month, delivering a conversation as rich and nourishing as Sunday dinner. Ashley Anya, once the first female drummer at Corinthian Baptist Church, now splits her time between the States and Mexico as a DJ and healthcare entrepreneur.
From the moment they start reminiscing about their shared past, the conversation flows with genuine warmth and honesty. Ashley's perspective as a Black American living abroad reveals something beautiful: "When it comes to the people who are of this land, they embrace us and respect us as brothers and sisters." This cross-cultural connection manifests in powerful ways, like drum circles where African rhythms meet Mayan traditions.
The heart of their discussion tackles colorism—a reality so normalized that some don't believe it exists. Ashley brilliantly connects this to the Drake versus Kendrick Lamar feud, explaining how it represents broader questions about which Black voices get amplified: "White America has created what is normal to the extent that somebody can say that something as obvious as colorism doesn't exist." She unpacks how certain artists receive industry support while others face barriers despite equal talent.
Their shared foundation at Corinthian Baptist Church becomes a touchpoint for discussing authentic representation and cultural education. "I learned 90% of what I know about my people there," Ashley reflects. This grounding allowed them to recognize and reject harmful stereotypes while embracing their heritage.
Ashley's parting wisdom resonates with ancestral power: "Don't ever downplay what our ancestors did for us, how they fought for us... As melanated people on this earth, there are more people who look like you and who you can connect with culturally than not... We'll be fine, because that's our history."
Listen to this episode to experience the unfiltered truth that emerges when authentic voices speak freely. Check out Ashley's DJ sets on social media @DJEasyWine or learn about her rehabilitation clinic, Marathon Medical, in Dayton, Ohio.
Chapters
1. Show Introduction and Welcome (00:00:00)
2. Introducing Ashley Anya (00:03:30)
3. Life in Mexico as an Expat (00:05:44)
4. From Church Drummer to DJ (00:08:55)
5. Childhood Church Memories (00:18:11)
6. Discussing Colorism in America (00:21:21)
7. Drake vs. Kendrick and Cultural Messaging (00:29:30)
8. Acknowledging Our Heritage (00:39:11)
9. Ashley's Business and Episode Closing (00:43:27)
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