Education Episodes

In this powerful and deeply affirming episode of Conversations with Karen & Cat, we welcome back renowned African-centered psychologist, educator, and author Dr. Kevin Washington (Mwata Kiari Emeka Sankara) to explore a transformative approach to mental health and healing. Grounded in the philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because we are” — Dr. Washington introduces his groundbreaking work, Ubuntu Psychotherapy: Addressing the Transgenerational Trauma of Afrikan/Black People. Together, we unpack ho...

In this episode of Conversations with Karen and Cat, we sit down with Dr. Tracy Baynes — oceanographer, educator, and visionary leader committed to expanding college access for low-income high-school students. After earning her doctorate from the prestigious Scripps Institution of Oceanography and conducting coral reef research, Tracy shifted her focus to teaching, developing field courses for institutions like Columbia University’s Biosphere 2 Center, Sea Education Association, the University o...

In this episode, Karen and Cat talk with Ariel Fristoe, founder and Artistic Director of Out of Hand Theater, a company redefining how art can drive social change. Ariel shares her journey blending creativity, activism, and community conversation to address issues like justice, empathy, and belonging. Discover how her award-winning model became a Harvard Business School case study, and why she believes every performance can inspire civic transformation. 🎧 Listen in to learn: How art can a...

In this episode, we sit down with Atlanta-born Author and Advocate, Astrid Serika Ross, affectionately known as Sister Sayeedah. A mother, grandmother, suicide loss survivor, and fierce voice for mental health and education, Sister Sayeedah shares her journey of transforming personal tragedy into powerful advocacy. As Executive Director of the Mental Health Support Network and a 20-year leader at the City of Knowledge Islamic School, she has dedicated her life to breaking the stigma around me...

In this soul-stirring episode, we sit down with Pastor Moses Brown—visionary leader and founder of Feed Our Children. For over four decades, Pastor Brown has championed the underserved, delivering food, supplies, and hope to thousands of children and families in need. He shares: The personal faith journey that led him to launch a global movement How Feed Our Children grew from a local outreach to an international force Stories that fuel his mission to restore dignity and opp...

In this episode, we sit down with Sharoya Ham — a mother of three, devoted wife, and the founder of Embrace Behavior Change. As a behavior change specialist and parent coach, Sharoya is passionate about helping families, educators, and workplaces shift their focus from constant problem-solving to creating meaningful, joy-filled connections. Through her Parent Coaching, Teacher Coaching, and Workplace Coaching services, Sharoya equips people with the tools to reduce stress, strengthen relation...

On this episode, we are joined by Flossie Ross, the Lead Community Outreach Advocate with Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV). Flossie shares personal insights from her work on the front lines of domestic violence prevention. In this episode, you’ll learn about: The early warning signs of domestic violence How education and outreach save lives Ways you can support survivors and spread awareness 🕊️ Upcoming PADV Events Mentioned: 🌟 Legacy of Hope Dinner 📅...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Rashad Patterson—Southwest Atlanta native, Georgia State University graduate, and celebrated children’s book author—to explore how storytelling can empower the next generation. With a background in sociology and a deep commitment to representation, Rashad weaves community, identity, and hope into every page he writes. We dive into his latest book, Santiago, Waylon, and Legend, a heartwarming tale that’s winning the hearts of kids, parents, and educa...

Mohamed Berte, graduating senior from Shiloh High School and incoming University of Pennsylvania student. Mohamed discusses what it takes to lead with purpose as a young changemaker. Mohamed held various leadership roles on campus and founded the Shiloh Student Athlete Association. He opens up about balancing academic excellence (holding a 4.54 GPA and ranking #3 in a class of 420+, being a four-year varsity athlete despite undergoing two major knee surgeries, and managing a successful ser...

In this episode, we sit down with the CEO and Founder of Not On My Own (NOMO) , a nonprofit organization dedicated to equipping youth and young adults with essential life skills rarely taught in schools. Since 2019, she's been on a mission to educate, empower, and encourage—offering guidance in everything from financial literacy and car buying to mental health and post-graduation support. Discover how her grassroots outreach—from youth outings to jacket drives—creates lasting impact across...

In honor of Autism Acceptance Month, we sat down for a heartfelt conversation with two voices from the autism community. Join us for this discussion with Kenya Curtis, a parent advocate who’s dedicated to creating inclusive spaces, and Matthew Greene, a playwright, author, and college student with autism who shares his lived experiences navigating academia, identity, and self-advocacy. 🎧 In this episode: We discuss the challenges and triumphs of life on the spectrum in education and ...

🎙️ In this episode, we sit down with Edward Paul, President of the Gwinnett Branch of the NAACP, to discuss the ongoing impact of the NAACP in 2025. From the courtroom to Congress, state legislatures to local governments, the fight for justice and equity continues. President Paul shares how both national and local chapters are driving change, advocating for policy reform, and educating communities to advance Black and Brown voices. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on why the NAACP remains a...

In this episode of Conversations with Karen and Cat, we sit down together to discuss: Honoring the 60th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March President Trump’s executive power and constitutional debates The controversy around the deportation of Venezuelan nationals Discussion on dismantling the Department of Education Let us know what you are doing to engage. Comment with us on social media and share your thoughts!

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Rita Daniels, the great-great-great grandniece of Harriet Tubman. Rita shares her deep connection to the legendary abolitionist and freedom fighter, discussing how Tubman’s bravery and resilience continue to inspire her life and work today.Born in Auburn, New York—the same town where Harriet Tubman spent her final years—Rita grew up surrounded by the legacy of her heroic ancestor. She opens up about her mission to ensure Tubman’s story is never forgotte...

In this episode of Conversations with Karen and Cat, we are joined by fellow podcaster, Antonio Hicks of PTGtv. We discuss a wide range of important topics shaping the present and future of our communities. From recent policy changes and executive orders to pressing social and environmental issues, we explore the challenges and opportunities they bring. This conversation sheds light on the intersection of immigration, social justice, and the importance of civic engagement. We dive into the...

We sit down with D. LaDena Bolton, Candidate for DeKalb's Super District 7. She's a chemist, wife, mother, and community servant. Through Bolton Legacy Inc, a 501c3 nonprofit organization co-founded by Dr. Bolton and her husband, Dr. Clement J. Bolton II, they distributed over $320,000 in resources to underserved DeKalb students, reaching nearly 16,000 families since 2019. Dr Bolton is a graduated of Avondale High School,Savannah State University and earned her PHD-in chemistry from Clark Atlant...

Erika Allen is the CEO for Urban Growers Collective, President of Green ERA Educational NFP, and Co-Owner of Green Era Sustainability Partners. Urban Growers Collective is a Black- and women-led non-profit farm in Chicago, Illinois working to build a more just and equitable local food system. They provide hands-on job training and create economic opportunity for youth, and beginner BIPOC farmers. Urban Growers cultivates eight urban farms on 11 acres of land, predominantly located on Chicago’...

In this episode we are joined by Brandon King. Brandon is an instructor and facilitator for programming at the Gwinnett County Public Library's Learning Labs. He has been in this position for four years, primarily leading sessions on audio/video recording, basic sewing, photography, and a variety of other topics. As a GCPL employee, he is dedicated to helping patrons discover the resources available to them for free through the Library and spark their autonomy as they are developing new skills i...

In this episode we sit down with David N. Mitchell, President and CEO of The Unity Production Group, LLC. and Dir. of Drama Ministry for the AME Church. Mitchell is Chicago native and a graduate of Grambling State University. He holds a B.A. in Theatre and Business and is an award winning playwright, actor and director. Mitchell combined his love for theatre and ministry to found "The Tipping Point Project in Asheville, NC to meet the needs of their youth population. The program uses theatre ...

We sit down with Cobb County School Board Candidate, Laura Judge. Laura Judge is a mom, a Navy veteran, and a passionate educational justice advocate. She is also a volunteer lead with Moms Demand Action and an active PTA member. She speaks during public comment at school board meetings regularly, holds educational events for students at a county level, and shares the importance of keeping kids safe around firearms. Laura is currently the President and Chief Operations Officer of Content Mons...

In this episode we sit down with Jennifer Jean-Francois,Board Member for Project WINN, and Chief Financial Officer, aka The Budget Maven, for WINN Network. The WINN’s brand focuses on mindset development and financial competency. The group offers workshops and educational tools to prepare students for real life scenarios. Project WINN is committed to enhancing personal development education for underserved communities, addressing the critical gaps in educational opportunities with a rich array o...

Black Children’s Book Week (2/25/24 - 3/2/24) celebrates Black children and Black-authored books for them. We sat down with four authors. Soleil Cross, known as Dr. Soleil is an eight-year-old author with a passion for STEM, and telling stories.“Pluto- Special, Just the Same Dwarf Planet” is her first book. Find it at https://www.solrizingstemadv.com/ or amazon Susan H. Hines, author of “Buckley is a Busy Boy” and “Buckley’s Family Fishing Trip”. Follow the adventures of this loveable pooc...

Mrs. Baldwin began her career in Ellaville, Georgia, as a teacher at a segregated high school. She went on to Columbus ,Ga and taught for ten years at Hardaway High School. Baldwin then moved to Gwinnett County to teach at Central Gwinnett High School, becoming the sole black teacher, and eventually the school's principal. From there, Baldwin was recruited to Buford City Schools as a principal. After four years in Buford, the board hired her to became the school superintendent. They did not r...

Join us for a conversation with John Moye, Urban League Senior Director for Policy, Legislative Affairs and Civic Engagement on the State of Black Georgia. We discuss the 2024 legislative priorities for the urban league and their 2022 Publication, "The State of Black Georgia", which provides policy recommendations in the critical areas of education, justice reform, civic engagement, health care and economics. A copy of the report can be found at ulgatl.org.