In this episode, Mike Blue interviews young boxer, James, and discusses various topics related to boxing, discipline, personal progression, and issues facing black and brown people across the globe. James shares how he got into boxing and the challenges he faced in balancing work, boxing, and family. We also discuss the importance of discipline and how boxing can help individuals deal with their emotions and pressures. The conversation delves into the concept of time and how people often waste it on unfulfilling activities. They also touch on the potential dangers of AI and the need for individuals to take control of their own lives and knowledge. The conversation concludes with a discussion of James' ambitions and the importance of showing love and support to others in the community.
Balancing Work, Boxing, and Family - 00:00
The Responsibility of Young Men - 03:07
The Desire to Quit and the Drive to Succeed - 07:20
The Excitement of Boxing - 08:10
Balancing Work & Personal Time and Building a Personal Brand - 17:55
The Power of Genuine Love, Unity and Collaboration in the Community - 22:20
The Need for Human Guidance in AI - 28:57
Conclusion: Black Lotus Mission - 32:55
On this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, it's very fitting for the finale of this season to feature an essential sage, Myles Savage, and a new sage, Chandler Mullins. The discussion you will witness is one of existential contemplation, with the hope that it leads you to consider what is necessary for your success. We delve into the differences in black culture at PWIs and HBCUs, the sad truth about the current state of affairs for Black people as a society, diverse perspectives on viewing the world, and many more gems.
Thank you so much for supporting us throughout season one; it's been a long time coming. We'll see you guys for season two, THE GENESIS. As long as you show love, we’ll stay consistent!
WARNING: *During the recording process, the episode's audio quality was corrupted. We apologize for this inconvenience, but we assure you this episode is one you don't want to miss!*
Welcome Back - 0:00:00
Temple University, the blackest PWI? - 0:08:45
Contemplating Diverse Blackness in Education and Intellectualism - 0:22:41
Are Black People Going Extinct?! Why?? - 0:40:08
The Integrated Experience, Urban Renewal… post-Jim Crow - 0:57:52
Anecdotal History of Black Men on the Ports - 01:15:34
Myles Savages asks, “Are you a Capitalist?” - 01:25:47
Chandler Mullins Finally Joins, A Festering Society of Competition - 01:39:37
We know way too much, to our detriment - 01:59:58
Closing Remarks, Prospectives on Self-Sufficiency - 02:13:09
Conclusion - 02:22:42
In this episode of the Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah interviews James Waller, an entrepreneur with the intention of impacting black youth in a positive way. James Waller's organization, Men Up Next, is a youth empowerment movement that leverages sports, academia, and faith to inspire positive change. As a man of virtue and discipline, James talks about his personal journey, motivations, and leaps of faith in finding his purpose. Thank you guys for listening and showing your support. As long as you show love, we'll stay consistent. MuchPeace and OneLove.
00:36 - Introduction
02:03 - (Wo)Men Up Next, The Youth Need Positive Influence
09:40 - How to Change Your Life After Your Calling
16:23 - Thinking for Yourself is the Revolution
25:11 - Optimism for the Youth, Save the Children!
37:24 - The World is not Safe, Respect Life
46:43 - Church & the Future
54:54 - Find your Purpose and Humanity Through Ecclesiastes
1:03:34 - Reflection and Motivation of “Men Up Next”
1:18:16 - The Leap of Faith and Shaping of Your Environment
1:26:28 - Adjust to the Focus and Try to be Optimistic
1:33:45 - James Waller’s Discipleship
1:45:55 - Is Judgement a bad thing? {First Impressions}
1:56:03 - Self Respect is Respecting The Most High
2:08:33 - What Makes You Different
2:22:41 - This Episode is ForeShadowing for the GENESIS, Thank you for Listening
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah sits down with Davonte Douglas, a Howard University graduate who majored in Environmental Science with a minor in Political Science from Preston, Maryland. During the first hour of the podcast, they discuss Davonte’s upbringing in the Eastern Shore of Maryland the deep history of racism that surrounded him growing up, and the lessons this taught him about America. In the second half of the podcast, they talked about the impact of Howard on Davonte’s life, as well as who has shaped Davonte into the person that he is today. This episode was full of gems about Black history and what it is like being a Black man in America, and you will leave this episode smarter than you were before you tuned in. Enjoy. And as we always say, as long as y’all show love, we’ll stay consistent!
Intro/Eastern Shore Roots - 0:00
Davonte tells the Hidden Racist History of Eastern Shore Maryland - 2:30
Davonte explains how his friendships changed after the George Floyd murder - 8:00
The relationship between the descendants of slave owners and former slaves - 19:10
How wealthy white people tricked poor white people - 27:20
How do politicians go down the path of corruption? - 37:20
The Destruction of the Black Community - 43:15
Slavery was only seven generations ago - 53:00
Affirmative Action benefits white women the most - 1:06:26
How Howard University shaped Davonte’s conscious thinking - 1:17:15
The HBCU gives you confidence - 1:34:00
How did Covid affect Davonte? - 1:43:05
What’s something about Davonte that people don’t know? - 2:01:00
Davonte’s experience with The Underground Railroad - 2:07:55
Favorite Star Wars movie - 2:11:25
Closing - 2:22:55
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah sits down with Jason Thomas, a Howard University Alum who majored in Legal Communications with a minor in Political Science from Los Angeles, California. Throughout the episode, Jason shared his college experiences, the empowering world of fitness, and his summer law program. He opens up about the influence of his father and the importance of the Black vote. Finally, we discussed the complexities of being Black men in America. Tune in for powerful perspectives and insights on the Black experience! And as always say, as long as y’all show love, we’ll stay consistent!
0:00 - Intro/Transitioning out of College
4:00 - Freshman Year of College/Drew Hall
15:00 - Why does Jason go to the gym so much?
21:20 - How working out transforms your confidence
30:00 - The Importance of Respect
32:00 - NYU Law Program/Growing Up in Compton
41:00 - Black Boys vs. White Boys
45:05 - The Role of Jason’s Father in his Life
49:30 - Black People always voting Democrat
1:05:00 - The Importance of Going to School with Black People
1:12:00 - How do we see ourselves helping the Black Community
1:26:45 - Growing up in Los Angeles
1:36:00 - Most Appealing Aspect of Becoming a Lawyer
1:52:17 - What does being a Black Man in America mean to you?
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah welcomes Alafia Bailey, a senior Africana Studies major, African minor at Howard University from Houston, Texas. To start off, we delved into Alafia's journey to Africana studies and how he discovered his passion for the discipline. We also explored the concept of Black liberation, delving into its nuances and implications. Throughout our discussion, we emphasize the significance of Black spaces and the need for Black individuals to create these spaces to embrace their Blackness through our uncertain future in this country. Our listeners know how much we advocate for HBCUs here on The Black Lotus Podcast, and this episode is a full indicator of that. This discussion needs to be heard by many, and our sages are in for a treat with this one. And as we always say, as long as y'all show love, we'll stay consistent!
Intro/When did Alafia start playing the drums? - 00:40
Why did Alafia start playing his drums on the yard? - 6:50
The Importance of Black Spaces - 9:00
Alafia’s Journey to Africana Studies - 15:10
Alafia’s first experience with Dr. Gregory Carr and the Importance of Black Spaces - 20:50
What does Black Liberation mean to Alafia? - 27:30
Classism within the Black Community - 31:15
Washington D.C. was built with African Knowledge - 40:50
What does Healing yourself look like as a Black person? - 47:00
How did Alafia’s upbringing in Texas affect his worldview? - 51:50
How did Black Education change after the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court ruling of 1954? - 59:50
Closing - 1:10:20
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Mike and Josiah get together and continue the iconic "Growth Mindset" series, as we chronicle our continued growth through life. Throughout this podcast, we emphasize the respective changes in our lives in the past year.
For Mike, he has assumed the alter ego BlueMagic in his valiant quest to change the landscape of producing game for the better while bringing Hip-Hop back to it's Black roots. As for Josiah, he is now a recent graduate of the Illustrious Howard University, having graduated Magna Cum Laude in May of this year. Along with this, Josiah discusses his next steps and where he is off to next.
We haven’t let y'all know what’s going on with us in a while, sorry for the wait! Thank you to the sages who has continually supported us throughout the years, the support that you continue to give us keeps us going and inspires us to continue speaking the truth. And as we always say, as long as y'all show love, we'll stay consistent!
Introduction- 00:52
The Growth Mindset 3- Coming Out of the Black Hole - 04:17
Do Black People (ADOS) deserve their reparations? Why? - 10:11
Where the Black and White Wealth Gap comes from - 20:00
Black People paved the way for all discriminatory legislation/ Cattle Slavery vs War Prisoners - 25:46
Why aren’t there anymore Black School? Why were they important? - 36:27
The Books that Shift Ideologies - 42:25
Mike and Josiah on the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - 53:28
BlueMagic’s Birth - 1:09:50
Consistency is a Necessity of Greatness - 1:19:46
What it takes to be Magma Cum Laude - 1:29:30
Black problems are Economic, not legal nor American Political - 1:40:17
We love the Support, Thank you Sages! Outro - 1:52:50
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah welcomes Dr. Richard Wright, his former Advanced Public Speaking professor, for an enlightening conversation. Dr. Wright shares insights on his lifelong passion for teaching, the power of language, and the continued oppression of various groups throughout history. He also discusses his upbringing in Northeast Washington D.C., the Black community's pre-Civil Rights Movement unity, and the international vision of Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which he believes led to their demise. Dr. Wright also recounts his meeting with Malcolm X in the fall of 1961 and the profound impact it had on him. Finally, he discusses the evolution of his teaching career and his new book, "My Life in Segregation." Fellow sages, as you just read, you're in for a treat. And as we always say, as long as you guys show love, we'll stay consistent.
Dr. Wright is a proud undergraduate alumnus of Howard University from 1960-64. He had the privilege of meeting and listening to Malcolm X in 1961, when he graced the campus as a participant in a debate in Cramton Auditorium. Dr. Wright returned to Howard as a professor/lecturer from 1967-1970 in the College of Liberal Arts (now Arts & Sciences), and subsequently as a full-time professor in the School of Communications from 1975-2023. He retired or rather transitioned from Howard in May 2023, after 50 years of devoted service as a professor at his beloved institution.
Dr. Wright is currently working on a book project, an autoethnography, which narrates, analyzes, and recasts his life in segregation and beyond.
Introduction to Dr. Richard Wright, finishing 50 years at Howard - 1:00
What made your lesson plan so unique? - 6:50
What does it mean to be Human? - 11:00
How the Renaissance reshaped the thinking of individuals - 15:50
“When you’re told better you don’t do better” - 22:00
“Nobody can insult you without your consent” - 29:20
Why Dr. Wright elected not to go into the Administration - 39:40
Dr. Wright on how the Black Community was more unified before the Civil Rights Movement - 44:15
“You knew that the world would challenge you, but your responsibility was to get ready” Dr. Wright on the collective mentality of the Black Community during segregation -53:00
The Concept of Freedom is a Double-Edged Sword - 56:30
The Power of Internationalizing the Black Struggle and American Hypocrisy, as shown by Malcolm and Martin - 1:08:55
Dr. Wright’s experience watching Malcolm X speak in the Fall of 1961 and the power of his presence - 1:23:00
How has your teaching style evolved from 1975 up to your retirement in 2023 - 1:38:00
Closing/What’s next for Dr. Wright? - 1:43:00
In this latest episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah hosts Captain Lemuel, who is the representative of the Dallas Chapter of the Israel United in Christ Church (IUIC). IUIC identifies itself as a faith-based organization dedicated to imparting the message of repentance from sin according to biblical teachings to our worldwide community, which has been dispersed due to their disobedience to God's commandments.
This conversation delved deeply into the challenges confronting Black society and the issues plaguing our community. The episode commenced by exploring the IUIC's mission and its commendable community-focused endeavors. As we progressed through the discussion, we touched upon the hurdles faced by the organization in disseminating its message and delved into the struggles Black individuals encounter when encountering faiths different from their own. Furthermore, we examined the Church's involvement in social justice initiatives, notably one that strives to combat youth crime within the Black community.
Ultimately, our conversation revolved around a forward-looking vision for the Black Community, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration to collectively address the issues we face. This was a great and informative conversation, and you are guaranteed to learn something new from it. And as we always say, as long as y'all show love, we'll stay consistent.
Intro - 00:49
What is the mission of Israel United in Christ and how are they serving the Black Community? - 2:10
Loss of Identity within The Black Community - 11:53
Why is The Black Community so divided? - 16:00
How has Israel United in Christ changed the lives of its members? - 40:25
What resistance did you face from loved ones when joining Israel United in Christ - 49:00
What is Israel United in Christ doing to serve the Dallas area and push social justice initiatives? - 1:02:15
“You cannot free yourself from oppression if you do not know you are oppressed” - 1:24:15
Closing/Where do you see Israel United in Christ going within the next 5-10 years? - 1:32:30
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah welcomed Howard graduates Raymond Murray, who majored in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Hesperia, California, and Keishun Martin, who majored in Economics with a minor in Sociology from Houston, Texas. This insightful conversation touched upon a multitude of engaging topics. From the unique experiences of being Black men in America to the encompassing journey through Howard University, we traversed a rich landscape. Our exploration spanned the depths of Black history, delved into the profound influence of Rap culture, and so much more. This exchange wasn't just enlightening; it was profoundly motivational and an absolute pleasure to record. You're in for a delightful and enriching experience with this episode. And as we always say, as long as y'all show love, we'll stay consistent.
What has life been like Post-Howard - 1:00 “Being at Howard forces you to think” - 4:00
Being Black Men on the Job Market - 5:30
Raymond’s experience as a Howard Student in the Medical Field - 7:50
Keishun’s teaching experience in Milwaukee - 14:00 “If we wanna see change we gotta start with the Children - “21:30” Growing up in Greenwood, Mississippi/The Failure of the Public Education System in the South - “ 23:00 Keishun’s Connection to Emmitt Till - 25:30 Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. and Their Message of Economic Reform - 31:00 Joe Biden’s connection to one of the most racist politicians of the 20th Century - 39:21
The Drew Hall Penitentiary and Freshman year of College - 49:40
How Raymond transformed his life through his mindset - 1:08:12
“Ambition is a Beautiful Thing, but Achieved Ambition is the Greatest Thing” - 1:22:20
Howard’s Impact on our Lives - 1:25:30
Everybody has a story to tell/Keishun’s life-changing encounter with a Homeless Man - 1:41:00
Rethinking our Perspective of the Young Thug and Gunna Situation - 1:53:30
“Girls is Running Rap Right Now” - 2:03:38 Upcoming Larry June & Cardo Tape/Impact of Larry June - 2:07:35
Closing - 2:18:49
In this episode of the Black Lotus Podcast, we give you guys a throwback episode featuring Zachery Deering-Haddix, who is now the founder of E’Salvio Ventures, a Private Equity Firm that invests in real-estate and service-based businesses. The last hour of this podcast was recorded off of Instagram Live, but previously the file had been corrupted, but we found a way to restore it. This game has been waiting for two years to be released and all of the knowledge is still applicable today. The conversation we had was as motivational as it gets, and this episode was a foundational conversation for the podcast. This conversation was recorded on March 20th, 2021. Thank you to everyone who has supported us since that date, and for those who continue to support us. As long as you guys show love, we'll stay consistent.
00:00 intro
04:17 How did you begin your journey in financial literacy
05:05 Rich dad Poor dad analysis
08:37 Lets Run Numbers
10:00 Spending your money on the wrong things
12:00 Best asset to buy first starting out
13:15 Knowledge on stocks
14:45 Don't trust everything you see on social media
18:00 Take action after reading
20:00 Networking and building success
21:30 What makes a good businessman
22:30 What can someone do on a daily basis to get in a business mindset
24:45 The 10 percent rule
26:45 Where did you learn about financial literacy
28:10 The business that could've been
30:10 Pltr explained
32:30 What is your career goal
33:45 Trying to avoid the 9-5 in the future
35:40 What do you do with your money
37:05 - Having a lot of women is not a representation of your masculinity
43:00 - Positive Attributes of the Pandemic
50:13 - Own your Accomplishments
1:00:05 - Keys and Tips for Networking
1:06:35 - Being Around the Right People and Having the Right Friends
1:22:05 - Social Media and its Negative Influence on the Mind
1:31:00 - Where to invest in real estate?
1:35:20 - Resources for trying to increase your Financial Literacy and Real-Estate Knowledge
1:41:35 - Closing Remarks
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah brings on Michai Williamson, an International Business Major with a concentration in Entrepreneurship at Howard University. This episode was one of the most motivational The Black Lotus has had in a long time. The conversation kicked off with why Michai lives the way he does and the habits that allow him to thrive in the world. We then transitioned into how Howard changed our lives and completely altered our perceptions of Black people. The discussion also delved into the topic of motivation and the potential for the Black community to undergo transformation through collaborative efforts and unwavering support for one another.
To finish off the conversation we discussed Michai’s clothing brand, Varsity Team. Varsity Team is a Luxury Streetwear clothing brand, focused on providing quality garments that empower the wearer to be their most confident and successful self. Michai is an individual who tries to motivate as much as he can in this world, and his brand along with this episode puts that on full display. This could be a life-changing conversation for those who listen, and if you’re looking for some extra motivation in your life, this is the one for you. Enjoy. And as we always say, as long as y’all show love, we’ll stay consistent!
Intro - 0:00
Michai’s Why - 1:35
Why Josiah stresses reading so often - 5:35
“How you do anything is how you do everything.” - 8:25
Get your day started with something difficult - 13:00
The High of Going to the Gym - 17:30
How Successful People Think - 21:50
Be Intentional with your Actions - 25:27
Revelations about the Black Community and Ourselves after attending Howard - 28:50
“Emotions are Great Servants but Horrible Masters” - 41:25
The Difficulty of Being Late and Starting Your Day on Time - 47:15
Ja Morant and the mentality of “Don’t Try Me” - 59:45
“What Luck it is for Rulers That Men Do Not Think” (You won’t believe who said this quote!) - 1:01:50
The Harmful Effect of Media on the Black Community - 1:03:30
Rap and the Black Community - 1:14:45
Black People need to see that there are other ways to make it out - 1:22:00
“What do you think of Long-Term Living in America?” - 1:27:50
The Importance of Ownership and the Fall of the Black World Magazines - 1:34:08
Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill - 1:43:15
Black People, Christianity, and World Religions - 1:47:30
Michai’s Clothing Brand - 2:00:50
In this captivating episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah engages in an illuminating conversation with Rick Martin, a proud Southside Chicagoan and the ambitious Co-founder of Brokenmp3s – a vibrant music/art collective and record label. The mission of Brokenmp3s is to redefine how we think about and listen to music.
To begin the episode we discussed Reverend Thomas Martin, the legendary Chicago Pastor, and Rick's grandfather. Reverend Martin was one of the first black people to live in the Greshamn neighborhood in Chicago, and this bold attitude towards change was passed down through generations. As we moved on, we discussed the Harlem Renaissance and how the 2020s will be looked at as a Renaissance for the community as a whole. We then talked about the impact of Kevin Samuels on the Black Community and what his message inspired within Black dating conversations.
Continuing the conversation, we talked about the lack of Black male teachers within K-12 education and how this adds to the absence of role models that has hurt black men for decades. As we closed the conversation we discussed Brokenmp3s and the vision Rick has for Making The Black Community Great Again through the lens of music and art. This episode was as real as it gets from The Black Lotus Podcast, you guys are in for a banger. And as we always say, as long as y'all show love, we'll stay consistent!
Intro - 0:00
When did you start getting into music? - 2:49
Chicago getting a bad rap - 4:40
Reverend Thomas Martin, Rick’s Grandfather - 7:15
The 2020s will be looked at as the second Renaissance in Black America - 14:15
The Impact of Covid on our Lives - 22:40
Learning through Youtube - 28:50
Kevin Samuels and his Influence on The Black Community - 32:30
Lack of Role Models in Black America - 45:32
The Importance of Black Male Teachers - 50:00
The Perceived Inferiority of Black Education - 58:12
Racism is perpetuated by the white people in the suit and ties, not just the hillbillies - 1:04:30
Rick’s Favorite Books - 1:06:40
“Black people owned 10 times more businesses during Jim Crow than today” - 1:15:17
What does Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion mean if you can’t be yourself? - 1:29:10
How HBCUs create community amongst Black people - 1:32:50
Ancient Egypt - 1:35:40
The Philosophy of Brokenmp3s - 1:42:19
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Mike and Josiah discuss the viral showdown that happened in Montgomery this past week. Along with discussing the events in Montgomery, we went into tangents about other important topics within the Black Community. You guys are in for a treat with this one. We give much thanks to you guys for all your continued support, it is valued highly. And as we always say, as long as y'all show love, we'll stay consistent!
Intro - 0:00
The Montgomery Brawl - 2:25
Black People and Micro-aggressions - 7:05
Questioning the Philosophy of “Don’t Touch My Hair.” - 12:10
Hip-Hop was destroyed when Nate Dogg said, “Smoke weed every day” - 27:55
Black People and Standardized Tests - 34:15
Issues with Black Lives Matter - 50:34
The best way to prove that you are an American… - 54:35
The Crack Era - 57:05
Major Cliffhanger… - 1:00:50
In this thought-provoking episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah sat down with Deanrea Sykes Jr, a recent Howard University alumnus who studied Philosophy and African American Studies. As an aspiring academic, Deanrea's research centers around Africana Philosophy and Afro-pessimism, delving into the intersection of race, social/political philosophy, and the lived experiences of the Black community. In the fall, Deanrae will be attending Emory University to obtain his Doctorate in the discipline of Philosophy.
Throughout our conversation, we explored a wide range of captivating topics, from continental philosophy and the dehumanization of the Black race to the impact of social media on how Black death is perceived along with how integration affected the Black Community as a whole. We also delved into the complex dynamics between HBCUs and PWIs, discussing the contrasting approaches to navigating White society and the unique strengths each educational environment offers.
Deanrea shared profound insights on Black male mass incarceration, reproductive rights, and the significance of understanding Afro-Pessimism in our society. We touched on the enduring consequences of historical acts like the 1956 Highway Commission Act and the repercussions faced by Black teachers after the Brown v. Board decision in 1954. The conversation didn't shy away from addressing pressing contemporary issues, such as Kamala Harris becoming Vice-President and its impact on the Black community. This was a fun, wide-ranging, and informative episode and you guys are in for a treat with this one. All the continued support is much appreciated. And as we always say, as long as y’all show love, we’ll stay consistent!
Intro - 0:00
What’s Deanrae been reading lately? - 3:06
What is Continental Philosophy? - 5:15
Josiah’s Next Steps/HBCU vs PWI Black Student Experience - 8:20
“HBCUs teach you how to dominate White Society, PWIs teach you how to navigate it beautifully” - 16:10
Is Black Male Mass Incarceration a Reproductive Rights issue? - 25:50
Black Immigrants and Black Americans/What inspires Deanrae to study Afro-Pessimism - 27:10
The Dehumanization of the Black Race - 31:28
What got Deanrae into Philosophy/Afro-Pessimism - 38:35
Being Pessimistic versus Realistic - 44:00
How does Social Media affect how Black Death is viewed? - 48:15
Did Kamala Harris becoming Vice-President Hurt Black People? - 54:20
Blaxploitation and Black Radicals - 1:00:09
Are other races more prideful and unified? - 1:05:35
Building Ourselves Up - 1:10:00
Effects of the 1956 Highway Commission Act/Urban Renewal - 1:26:00
Integration and Afro-Pessimism - 1:38:40
Black People and Feminism - 1:46:08
Do you know how many Black Teachers eventually lost their jobs after the Brown v. Board decision of 1954? - 1:50:30
Are Black people afraid of being Segregationists? - 1:54:40
“America is a Watered-Down Version of Black Culture” - 1:58:00
Doctorate program at Emory University - 2:00:45
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah brings on Rashan Schoffner, a leader, influencer, and style connoisseur who humbly served as the 46th Mr. Howard. Rashan, a recent graduate of Howard University, majored in Media, Journalism, and Film, with a concentration in TV & Film. We began our conversation by delving into what it means to be a Howard graduate and how Rashan's upbringing in Atlanta shaped his college experience. We then explored the profound impact of HBCU culture on Rashan's creativity and discussed the future of Black television, examining its trajectory and where it is headed.
Our discussion also delved into the trials and challenges Rashan faced to become Mr. Howard, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone. We further explored what being Mr. Howard taught Rashan about the Howard Community as a whole, along with his most significant takeaways from serving on the Royal Court for the past year. This episode is a captivating and informative conversation that delves into the realms of Black culture, Howard University, and college experiences. If you enjoy engaging discussions on these topics, this episode is a must-listen. And as we always say, as long as y'all show love, we'll stay consistent!
Intro - 0:00
What does it feel like to be a Howard University Alum - 2:30
From Atlanta to Howard - 7:20
How HBCU impacted Rashan’s creativity - 11:20
Can we return to the 80s and 90s era of Black Television? - 16:00
Does the 21st Century have a culture? - 18:00
Kids and Social Media - 22:15
How will Artificial Intelligence affect humanity? - 27:15
Mr. Howard Origin Story - 34:03
Moving out of the Comfort Zone - 47:00
What has being Mr. Howard taught you about the University? - 1:00:15
What inspires your creativity? - 1:12:55
Biggest Memories being Mr. Howard - 1:25:55
Closing Remarks - 1:32:00
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, The Black Lotus had the pleasure of bringing on Solomon Burns, a rising real-estate agent from the Bay Area representing Sterling Homes. We delved into crucial topics that shed light on the experiences of the black community and explored the intersection of real estate and social issues. To start our conversation, we took a deep dive into the far-reaching impact of the market crash of 2008 and its disproportionate effect on black individuals and families. Through our thought-provoking analysis, we unraveled the systemic factors that contributed to this disparity or assets lost, challenging conventional narratives and uncovering essential insights.
Continuing our discourse, we explored the perception of blackness beyond harmful stereotypes. It was essential for us to break free from these narrow confines and cultivate a more comprehensive understanding of black identity, embracing the diversity and richness that exists within our community. Moreover, we strongly advocated for active engagement within the black community, emphasizing the importance of each individual being connected to a cause that uplifts and empowers. Finally, we concluded the episode with a focus on financial tips and advice, offering practical insights to help our listeners navigate the realm of real estate and make informed decisions for their financial well-being. Solomon Burns shared his expertise and provided valuable guidance to empower our listeners on their journey toward economic stability and prosperity. This was a fun and informative episode, you guys are in for a great one! And as we always say, as long as you guys show love, we’ll stay consistent!
The Market is going to Crash Out and Burn - 4:40
Debt isn’t bad if you know how to use it/ Effects of 2008 - 11:30
Look at the World, it reflects all Economic Markets - 16:03
I Am Not Holier Than Thou - 20:31
The Divine Masculine, Jesus - 26:55
Slave Discourse, Black Southern Self-Evolution, and How the Ramifications Are Today - 32:43
Are The Leaders Holier Than Thou? - 40:36
Illogical Bliss and Blaming - 47:01
Black Identity Resonation - 52:03
Radiating Blackness - 1:01:22
We are Seen as Black First - 1:10:57
Salut, Let’s Get It Started - 1:24:17
Experience is Everything - 1:33:14
Time for an Exit - 1:36:21
In this captivating episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah brings on Ahmad Williams, the visionary founder and chairman of Deviuri. The conversation kicked off with Ahmad reflecting on his upbringing in Fontana and how it ignited his passion for fashion. We then transitioned into an exploration of Ahmad's transformative experience at Howard University and how its school of business played a pivotal role in shaping his creativity and expanding his knowledge as he embarked on creating his own brand.
As the episode unfolds, Ahmad shares his eye-opening experiences during his travels to Europe and how he encountered unique challenges and perceptions as a black man. The conversation delves into thought-provoking discussions on success and the unexpected trials that often accompany it. Ahmad's insights and personal anecdotes provide invaluable guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs, shedding light on the realities and expectations one can encounter on this remarkable path.
Overall, this episode offers plenty of information and inspiration for anyone with entrepreneurial aspirations. Whether you're interested in the world of fashion, navigating the business landscape, or simply seeking insightful guidance on pursuing your dreams, this conversation is a must-listen that will leave you enlightened and motivated. Also, be on the lookout for the highly anticipated Deviuri Rebirth drop in the coming weeks. And as we always say, as long as you guys show love, we'll stay consistent!
Intro - 0:00
Ahmad’s Origins/Growing up in Southern California - 2:45
What inspired Ahmad that someone like him could make it in fashion? - 11:30
Realizations trying to make it big - 15:10
Coming to Howard University - 18:40
Models of the Mecca - 23:20
How do people act in the fashion industry? - 27:00
Howard University School of Business- 29:55
Visiting Europe - 34:27
Ahmad’s Famous Ancestor - 40:20
Where did Deviuri come from? -45:15
Keys to Networking - 58:35
Avoiding Distractions - 1:05:20
When is the next Deviuri Drop? - 1:17:30
How did Covid affect the brand? - 1:20:20
Closing Remarks -1:22:00
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, hosts Mike and Josiah are joined by Rich Anthony from Oakland, California. We began by exploring the profound influences of mothers and spirituality in shaping their lives. The discussion then shifts to the pervasive issue of cancel culture and society's tendency to prioritize external matters over self-reflection. We then delved into the significance of reading and highlighted the hidden secrets harbored within books, which often go unnoticed. We then shifted gears and discussed the state of the dating scene within the Black community and pondered its future direction. Throughout the episode, we engaged in insightful discourse about society's trajectory and its own perspectives on its course. This was a fun episode and you all are in for a treat. As always, as long as you guys show love, we’ll stay consistent! Also, make sure you check out Rich's clothing line Immix Studio for drops to come in the near future.
Intro - 0:00
The Influence of Our Mothers - 1:30 The College Experience - 10:30
Claiming a Religion Versus Actually Practicing It - 17:30
How has Michael’s spirituality helped him organize his creative endeavors? - 24:30
The Golden Rule Applies Now More Than Ever - 28:30
Cancel Culture is so Hypocritical - 32:00
Having a Solid Foundation - 34:00
Entertainment takes away from Introspection - 40:30
“I’m not tryna read all dat” - 47:15
Reading in the Black Community - 50:00
How has Larry June’s music impacted you? - 1:00:40
How your environment changes you - 1:06:30
Is dating dead?- 1:11:20
Polyamorous Relationships - 1:25:05
New Haven to DC - 1:34:50
Bay Area Schooling - 1:37:30
Closing Remarks - 1:48:15
In this episode of The Black Lotus Podcast, Josiah welcomed back good friend of the podcast, Chandler Row. We discussed the privilege of meeting Dr. Julius Garvey, son of the great Marcus Garvey, and the motivation and wisdom he shared with us. We also discussed the importance of getting out of one's comfort zone and Chandler's summer experience with the Marines. We then turned our attention to understanding the black struggle and Chandler's upbringing in the Church. Lastly, we discussed the United States government and the acts of hypocrisy it has employed throughout its existence. This was an informative episode that will provide valuable insight and understanding into what this society is truly about. We appreciate all your continued support and as long as you guys show love, we'll stay consistent!
Intro - 0:00
Meeting the Original Black Panthers and the son of Marcus Garvey - 02:00
Lesson from Dr. Garvey - 00:04:30
The importance of getting out of your comfort zone - 00:06:30
Why the Marines? - 00:14:30
A Summer with the Marine Corp - 00:16:35
Differences between the East Coast vs. the South - 00:27:50
Chandler’s Intellectual Journey - 00:35:00
Understanding the History of the Black Struggle - 00:46:30
Chandler’s Upbringing in the Church - 01:04:50
Why are people moving away from the Church? - 01:11:00
When and why did Europeans begin to discredit African Civilization? - 01:23:00
Will Black people need guns? - 01:32:10
Meeting Erika Huggins, a member of the Original Black Panther Party - 01:38:10
The Atrocities of United States Government - 01:40:30
“Defund the Police” - 01:50:35
The Covid Vaccine and Natural Immunity - 01:59:50
Closing Remarks - 02:06:00