In this episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney breaks down a series of powerful and unsettling developments shaping America’s criminal legal and political landscape. From the federal government shutdown’s impact on food assistance to the No Kings protest against authoritarianism, Dr. Brackney examines how each issue reveals deeper systemic inequities. She also explores the demolition of the White House East Wing, Trump’s legal battles with the DOJ, threats to the Voting Rights Act, and the presidential pardon of George Santos — connecting the dots to show how these actions disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Find more thought-provoking episodes like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media app.

In this episode of Black Arm of the Law, host Dr. RaShall Brackney takes on the headlines shaping conversations around justice and accountability. From the impact of rhetoric on military leadership to the unequal treatment of celebrities in the criminal legal system and the militarization of American cities, Dr. Brackney breaks down how power and privilege influence justice in America. She also explores the unique challenges faced by Black leaders in the military, calling for greater accountability, respect for constitutional limits, and a renewed commitment to equal justice under the law. Find the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media app.

In this episode of Black Arm of the Law, host Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with attorney Courtney Teasley for a powerful discussion on disrupting the criminal legal system. Teasley shares her journey as an advocate for marginalized communities, highlighting how activism, legal literacy, and community engagement can create meaningful change. Together, they explore the role of faith-based institutions in justice work, the challenges of systemic oppression, and the importance of empowering people to know and exercise their rights. This episode closes with a compelling call to action: get informed, get engaged, and take a stand against injustice.

In this episode of Black Arm of the Law, host Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with attorney Courtney Teasley for a powerful discussion on disrupting the criminal legal system. Teasley shares her journey as an advocate for marginalized communities, highlighting how activism, legal literacy, and community engagement can create meaningful change. Together, they explore the role of faith-based institutions in justice work, the challenges of systemic oppression, and the importance of empowering people to know and exercise their rights. This episode closes with a compelling call to action: get informed, get engaged, and take a stand against injustice.

In this episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney unpacks the complex ties between political power, prosecutorial discretion, and the pursuit of justice—especially as they intersect with race and gender. She explores cases where political pressure sways legal outcomes, sheds light on the targeting of Black women in leadership roles, and examines systemic flaws within the juvenile justice system. This powerful conversation calls for greater accountability and transparency, urging listeners to take a closer look at how race, politics, and justice collide in America. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Don’t forget to follow, rate, comment, and share.

In this episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney tackles the urgent issue of domestic terrorism in America. She explores its deep historical roots, the rise of domestic extremism, and the lasting impact of events like the January 6th insurrection. The discussion highlights the urgent need for a federal law that defines and criminalizes domestic terrorism, while also confronting the racial and ideological biases that influence public perception and policy. Dr. Brackney emphasizes the importance of community engagement, accountability, and action to counter the growing threat of violence and build a safer, more just society. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Don’t forget to follow, rate, comment, and share!

In this special rerelease of Black Arm of the Law, we celebrate Renee Hall’s historic ascension to President of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE). Recorded live at the 2023 NOBLE conference, host Chief Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with Hall during her successful run for Second Vice President—a pivotal moment that set the stage for her leadership today. Hear Hall outline her platform, address challenges facing law enforcement leadership, and even discuss how she would navigate the political climate under figures like Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis. This conversation captures the vision, determination, and strength that have propelled Hall to the top of NOBLE, making this a must-listen for anyone invested in justice, equity, and the future of law enforcement. Find more episodes like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

In this episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney and Dr. Stefan Wheelock take a deep dive into the historical and modern challenges within the criminal legal system. They examine the legacy of authoritarianism, the lasting impact of the 13th Amendment, and the threats posed by racial gerrymandering to voting rights. The discussion unpacks Governor Gavin Newsom’s approach to redistricting, the militarization of law enforcement in urban communities, and the power of narrative in shaping public perception and policy. Drawing inspiration from historical truth-tellers like Ida B. Wells, they call for strategic action and informed advocacy to create lasting change.

In this powerful episode of Black Arm of the Law, host Dr. RaShall Brackney—aka Chief B—sits down with Nzinga Lowe, CEO of Pygmalion Health, for a deeply insightful conversation on health equity and justice. Together, they explore the often-overlooked health disparities that impact both law enforcement officers and incarcerated populations, with a focus on how race, gender, environment, and stigma influence access to care. Nzinga shares how culturally competent care and community-based solutions are essential in addressing these challenges, especially for women in justice professions and communities of color. From the ripple effects of Medicare cuts to the need for preventive care and mental health support, this episode unpacks the intersections of health and justice with clarity and urgency. Find more episodes like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media app.

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, host Dr. RaShall Brackney continues her dialogue with Selah Avery and Sam Peasey, diving deeper into the creative forces behind their work honoring the legacy of Medgar Evers. This episode features an exclusive clip from "Revolution", a stirring track from their video project that blends powerful lyrics and visuals to amplify the call for justice. Together, the trio explores how music, film, and storytelling remain essential tools in the fight for equity—and how honoring the past fuels the work of today’s cultural changemakers. Selah and Sam reflect on the emotional impact of creating "Revolution", what it means to bear witness through art, and how their work is inspiring a new generation to rise up and remember. Experience the art. Feel the urgency. Join the revolution. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Don’t forget to follow, rate, comment, and share!

In this moving first installment of a two-part conversation, host Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with Selah Avery and Sam Peezy to explore how art becomes activism—and how storytelling can preserve powerful legacies like that of civil rights icon Medgar Evers. From film to music to community engagement, this episode dives into the emotional responsibility of honoring Black stories, the creative process behind socially conscious art, and the enduring need to educate future generations. Selah and Sam share their personal artistic journeys, reflect on the challenges of truth-telling through their crafts, and reveal the passion behind their current and future projects.

In this powerful Part Two episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with the Johnson Bell family—a multi-generational force in the legal world whose dedication to justice, education, and community empowerment is nothing short of inspiring. From courtroom victories to grassroots advocacy, the Johnson Bell family shares their unique and collective journeys in the legal profession. They discuss the development of their innovative educational game Crime No Crime, designed to help communities better understand the complexities of criminal law. The conversation dives deep into the systemic challenges faced by legal professionals of color, the importance of restoring trust in the justice system, and how education can drive change in marginalized communities. This is more than a legal discussion—it’s a reflection on legacy, leadership, and the power of informed action.

In this powerful Part One episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with the Johnson Bell family—a multi-generational force in the legal world whose dedication to justice, education, and community empowerment is nothing short of inspiring. From courtroom victories to grassroots advocacy, the Johnson Bell family shares their unique and collective journeys in the legal profession. They discuss the development of their innovative educational game Crime No Crime, designed to help communities better understand the complexities of criminal law. The conversation dives deep into the systemic challenges faced by legal professionals of color, the importance of restoring trust in the justice system, and how education can drive change in marginalized communities. This is more than a legal discussion—it’s a reflection on legacy, leadership, and the power of informed action.

In this Hashtag & Headlines episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney joins the conversation to address the recent ICE raids in Los Angeles and the unsettling impact on immigrant communities. She sheds light on the aggressive, militarized tactics deployed in urban neighborhoods and raises deep concerns about threats made by law enforcement leaders. Dr. Brackney draws the connection between these actions and the larger erosion of democratic values and civil rights. This episode is a call to awareness, accountability, and justice for communities under siege.

In this powerful episode of Black Arm of the Law, host Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with retired Detective and author Brenda Tate to explore her incredible journey through law enforcement, addiction, recovery, and resilience. Brenda, author of Journal of a Black Woman in Blue, opens up about her early leadership experiences, the barriers she broke as a Black woman in a male-dominated profession, and the childhood trauma that shaped her path. Together, they discuss the ‘mercy moments’ that influenced Brenda’s healing, the impact of mentorship, and the importance of empowering the next generation—especially women of color—to serve their communities with strength and purpose. This episode is a moving testament to courage, vulnerability, and the power of telling one’s truth.

In this powerful episode of *Black Arm of the Law*, host Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with retired Detective and author Brenda Tate to explore her incredible journey through law enforcement, addiction, recovery, and resilience. Brenda, author of *Journal of a Black Woman in Blue*, opens up about her early leadership experiences, the barriers she broke as a Black woman in a male-dominated profession, and the childhood trauma that shaped her path. Together, they discuss the ‘mercy moments’ that influenced Brenda’s healing, the impact of mentorship, and the importance of empowering the next generation—especially women of color—to serve their communities with strength and purpose. This episode is a moving testament to courage, vulnerability, and the power of telling one’s truth.

In this episode of Black Arm of the Law, host Dr. RaShall Brackney breaks down the urgent and complex issues plaguing the American justice system. From a crisis of police integrity in Raleigh, to controversial legislation emerging from Alabama, to the far-reaching impact of political appointments in Washington — Dr. Brackney connects the dots between local events and national consequences. As the episode closes, she reflects on the enduring legacy of George Floyd, reminding us that justice isn't a moment — it's a movement. Tune in for a powerful, unapologetic conversation about accountability, reform, and the fight for equity in law enforcement and beyond.

In this powerful re-release of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney moderates a deeply moving and timely conversation about modern slavery in America and the prison industrial complex. Featuring a diverse panel of advocates and thought leaders, the discussion unpacks the exception clause of the 13th Amendment—the legal loophole that allows for forced labor as punishment for a crime—and how it continues to fuel systemic injustice. As national conversations heat up around tariffs, reshoring manufacturing jobs, and the rising costs of domestic labor compared to countries like China, this episode couldn’t be more relevant. While policymakers seek cost-effective solutions, the overlooked reality is that in several U.S. states, incarcerated individuals can be legally exploited for labor at shockingly low wages—sometimes pennies per hour. The episode explores: The history and implications of the 13th Amendment’s exception clause Personal stories from those impacted by the criminal justice system The intersection of human rights, systemic racism, and economic policy The potential for prison labor to be misused in efforts to reduce domestic manufacturing costs Through raw testimony and expert insight, this episode sheds light on a modern-day injustice hiding in plain sight. It calls on listeners to stay informed, demand change, and recognize the fight to abolish all forms of slavery is far from over.

**Re-Release: Slavery by Another Name – A Conversation on the 13th Amendment and Prison Labor** In this powerful re-release of *Black Arm of the Law*, Dr. RaShall Brackney moderates a deeply moving and timely conversation about modern slavery in America and the prison industrial complex. Featuring a diverse panel of advocates and thought leaders, the discussion unpacks the exception clause of the 13th Amendment—the legal loophole that allows for forced labor as punishment for a crime—and how it continues to fuel systemic injustice. As national conversations heat up around tariffs, reshoring manufacturing jobs, and the rising costs of domestic labor compared to countries like China, this episode couldn’t be more relevant. While policymakers seek cost-effective solutions, the overlooked reality is that in several U.S. states, incarcerated individuals can be legally exploited for labor at shockingly low wages—sometimes pennies per hour. The episode explores: - The history and implications of the 13th Amendment’s exception clause - Personal stories from those impacted by the criminal justice system - The intersection of human rights, systemic racism, and economic policy - The potential for prison labor to be misused in efforts to reduce domestic manufacturing costs Through raw testimony and expert insight, this episode sheds light on a modern-day injustice hiding in plain sight. It calls on listeners to stay informed, demand change, and recognize the fight to abolish all forms of slavery is far from over. Listen, rate, and share this important conversation—available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of the Black Arm of the Law Podcast, host Dr. RaShall Brackney engages in a deep conversation with the co-authors of her upcoming book Dr. Kishon Hickman and Aaron Fichtelberg about the complexities of the criminal justice system, the evolution of policing, and the concept of justice. They explore historical contexts, current challenges in law enforcement, and the impact of community relations on policing. The discussion also touches on the need for reform and accountability within police departments, as well as the future of policing in society. In this conversation, Dr. Kishon Hickman, RaShall Brackney, and Aaron Fichtelberg discuss the evolving landscape of policing, the impact of leadership changes, and the importance of mentorship in their writing journey. They explore the themes of self-reflection, technology's role in modern policing, and the historical context that shapes current practices. The discussion emphasizes the need for honesty and accountability in reforming policing, while also considering global perspectives and the legacy they leave behind.