Free Black Thought Podcast

Connie Morgan sits down with Shiri Fein-Grossman, CEO of the Israel–Africa Relations Institute and former advisor at Israel’s National Security Council. The conversation dives into why Africa is becoming one of the most important regions in the world, how Israel is building strategic relationships across the continent, and what these partnerships mean for global security, economic development, and the future of international cooperation.

Mike DC Bowen and Wink Twyman Jr. discuss war and other topics.

Rev. Dr. Starlette Thomas discusses her personal experiences with race, her work on the Raceless Gospel, and her vision for a desegregated, inclusive church and society.Show notes:The Raceless Gospel websiteTake Me to the Water: The Raceless Gospel as Baptismal Pedagogy for a Desegregated ChurchStarlette on X

Martin Plaut discusses his new book Unbroken Chains: A 5,000-Year History of African Enslavement, which explores overlooked history and challenges common misconceptions.Unbroken Chains: A 5,000-Year History of African EnslavementBest Book Martin’s read this year so far: The Place of Tides: A Transformative Nature Memoir of Isolation, Forgiveness, and Self-Discovery on a Remote Norwegian Island

Free Black Thought c-founder Dave Gilbert shares his journey from a rural Tennessee childhood to academia, technology, and his insights on AI, race, and society.Show notes:Dave’s “Critical Race Theory Comes to City Hall” for the Journal of Free Black ThoughtDave’s “Inequality Has Become Its Own Explanation” for the Journal of Free Black ThoughtDave on X

Khadijah Queen shares her inspiring journey from childhood adversity to becoming a poet, author, and academic after a life altering career in the Navy.Show links:Khadijah’s websiteBetween the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea: A Veteran’s Memoir

Michael DC Bowen and Winkfield F. Twyman Jr. explore the multifaceted world of AI, discussing its power, hype, motives, ethical considerations, and future implications including space colonization and property rights.

Behavioral scientist Cory Clark discusses the concept of adversarial collaboration in science, aiming to bridge gaps between conflicting scholars. The conversation delves into the impact of COVID-19 on public trust in science, the feminization of society, and the complexities surrounding implicit bias research.Show notes:Adversarial Collaboration ProjectCory’s WebsiteImplicit Racial Bias StudyCory on X

Connie Morgan chats with DEI reformer Amri B. Johnson. Amri discusses his upbringing in a family with a rich history of self-determination and entrepreneurship, highlighting the influence of his parents and grandparents on his values. He reflects on his academic background in public health and epidemiology, which strangely eventually led him to the field of organizational development and diversity training. Amri emphasizes the importance of creating conditions for everyone to thrive in organizations, moving beyond traditional DEI frameworks to what he terms ‘emergent inclusion.’Show notes:Inclusion WinsAmri’s “How to Foster True Inclusion” for the Journal of Free Black ThoughtAmri’s SubstackAmri’s Reconstructing Inclusion: Making DEI Accessible, Actionable, and Sustainable

Connie Morgan catches up with FBT President Erec Smith about his move from academia to the Cato Institute, where he now serves as a research fellow. They discuss leaving professorship behind, today’s cultural climate, testifying on Capitol Hill, and, of course, rhetoric.

Michael DC Bowen and Winkfield F. Twyman Jr. explore a range of topics including the emergence of AI agents, reflections on Black History Month, generational perspectives on black identity, and the impact of migration on black communities.

Host Connie Morgan talks with Nique Fajors about his journey from a difficult childhood to Harvard Business School, his views on marriage, family, cultural identity, and personal responsibility, and his evolution as a Condoleezza Rice–Colin Powell style conservative.Nique’s podcast

Host Connie Morgan interviews her father, and the truth behind who she is finally comes to light.

Michael DC Bowen and Winkfield F. Twyman Jr. reflect on their New Year's resolutions, focusing on personal growth and the pursuit of knowledge.

Jamie shares his harrowing journey from being born into a Scientology community to overcoming extreme neglect and poverty. Jamie emphasizes resilience, curiosity, and the idea that genius exists in every community, regardless of socioeconomic status.Jamie’s Child X: A Memoir of Slavery, Poverty, Celebrity, and ScientologyJamie’s Hybred: A Graphic NovelJamie on Instagram

Sabrina Joy Stevens talks on how she moved from a passionate young lefty activist to someone who now rejects much of the progressive pedagogy. She discusses the personal cost of truth, including lost friendships and ideological divides, and emphasizes the importance of faith and knowledge in navigating the chaotic political landscape.Sabrina’s “The Counter-Disinformation Industry Promotes Left-wing Groupthink, Not Truth” for the Journal of Free Black ThoughtSabrina’s websiteSabrina on YouTubeSabrina on Instagram

Mike and Wink reflect on their writing journeys, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and the complexities of black culture. A year in review.

The conversation explores the many layers of black identity in America, touching on social distance, cultural nuance, genealogy, and the weight of historical narratives. Wink and Mike discuss attraction, dating, and family influence, sharing personal stories about how skin color, upbringing, and intellectual connection shape relationships. Broader themes include aging, community, cultural heritage, generational change, and the pressure of navigating impressive or damaged people.

Author Louis C. Hook, also known as “the Educated Hood Rat,” joins us to discuss his new book, Black in the Saddle, which traces the legacy of black horsemanship from African cavalry empires to the rise of black cowboys in the American West and the riders carrying that tradition forward today. Louis and host Connie Morgan explore the history that was erased and the powerful resurgence of black equestrian culture in the modern era.Show notes:Black in the Saddle, from African Cavalries to Modern CowboysLouis’s websiteCompton Cowboys

Host Connie Morgan speaks with David Hanna, a software engineer by day and Israeli-Palestinian conflict researcher by night. David discusses his peace plan, which emphasizes education, cultural reconciliation, and the role of the international community in fostering a two-state solution. Show notes:David’s Peace PlanThe Jews of Arab Lands: A History and Source Book by Norman StillmanFrom Haven to Conquest: Zionism and the Palestine Problem Until 1948 by Walid KhalidiThe Birth of the Palestinian Refugee Problem Revisited by Benny MorrisThe Missing Peace: The Inside Story of the Fight for Middle East Peace by Dennis Ross

Winkfield F. Twyman Jr. and Michael DC Bowen explore the complexities of personal turmoil, family dynamics, and the importance of emotional vulnerability. They reflect on the legacy we leave behind, the wisdom of generations, and the burdens of family property, ultimately emphasizing the need for emotional revelation and consensus in navigating life’s challenges.

Adam Szetela, author of That Book Is Dangerous! How Moral Panic, Social Media, and the Culture Wars Are Remaking Publishing, joins the pod to talk about censorship, sensitivity readers, and how wokeness is reshaping literature. A Ph.D. graduate from Cornell and former Harvard fellow, Adam shares his perspective on class, creativity, and the growing pressures facing writers and editors today, and why he believes publishing needs a more balanced, open-minded approach to storytelling.Show notes:That Book Is Dangerous! How Moral Panic, Social Media, and the Culture Wars Are Remaking PublishingAdam’s website

Tamyra Mensah-Stock aka WWE wrestler Tyra Mae Steele joins the podcast to talk about her road to a goal medal, how her faith drives her and why she is proud to be an American.Show notes:Tamyra’s InstagramTamyra on X

Mike and Wink delve into the complexities of American history, identity, and the evolution of black culture. They explore generational perspectives on the past, the impact of Jim Crow laws, and the importance of entrepreneurship and education in shaping the future of black Americans.

Monique Duson, president of the Center for Biblical Unity, talks about growing up in South Central LA, finding faith in Christ, and how shifting from Critical Race Theory to a biblical worldview completely changed how she thinks about race, culture, and unity.NotesThe Center for Biblical UnityMonique’s “Walking in Unity” co-authored by Krista Bontrager

Onome educates host Connie Morgan on the power of sound healing and vocal expression. She discusses the profound impact of sound on consciousness and the spiritual connection of voice. Onome emphasizes the power of singing as a tool for healing and self-discovery. She also touches on the societal challenges of expressing differing opinions and the need for empathy and understanding in today’s polarized environment.Substack: Soul Insights with OnomeOnome’s Website

Thomas Dearie is a biologist, communications architect, and committed pro-humanist. He’s raising a daughter within one of the most unique family structures you’ll ever hear of—mixed-race, mixed sexual orientation, and without holding formal parental rights. This experience has shaped Tom’s worldview and deepened his passion for promoting empathy, inclusivity, and a truly pro-human perspective.

Frenchman Raphaël Lambert studied in America then moved to Japan where he now teaches African-American studies. He discusses the evolving dynamics of race relations in France compared to America, the impact of Afro-pessimism, and the historical optimism of African Americans. Lambert critiques the notion of Afro-pessimism, advocating for a more unified cultural identity that embraces creativity and resilience. Raphaël’s Black Hopes/Black Woes (Routledge Research in Race and Ethnicity)

Connie Morgan and Amos Tarfa discuss the challenges and opportunities in math education, particularly in the context of homeschooling. Amos shares his personal journey from Nigeria to the U.S. and highlights the differences in educational rigor between the two countries. Amos emphasizes the beauty of mathematics and its historical context, while also addressing the impact of AI on education. Amos’s websiteAmos on TwitterAmos on YouTube

Wink and Mike dive into the complicated legacy of George Washington—covering everything from his early years and military career to his personal relationships and shifting views on slavery. They explore his leadership style, money troubles, and tensions with other founding fathers, all while reflecting on what his life still teaches us today.

Jeff Charles shares his personal journey from a politically unaware youth to a passionate advocate for liberty and individual rights. He discusses how significant events such as 9/11 transformed him from identifying as a Democrat to embracing libertarian ideals. He and host Connie Morgan delve into the role of government, the importance of local engagement, and the need for community-driven solutions to issues like education and government overreach. A Fresh Perspective with Jeff CharlesJeff on XThe Tenth Amendment CenterYou are the Power

Ricky Baxter discusses the challenges of discrimination he faced growing up in East London and how it influenced his writing. He describes his creative process, the themes of belonging and friendship in his work, and the cultural dynamics of nerd culture in the UK. He also highlights his current projects, including a sequel to his novel 'Blue Lunar and the Apex Grail.'Show NotesBlue Lunar & the Apex GrailPurchase Ricky’s booksRicky’s websiteICO: Castle in the Mist by Miyuki Miyabe

Wink and Mike have a candid conversation about the layers of black identity, from history and class to culture and personal experience. They explore how black nationalism has evolved, how class shapes community dynamics, and how media and elite institutions influence perception. Through personal stories, they touch on the pressure to represent, the weight of racial expectations, and the tension between individuality and solidarity.

Rachel Maleza shares her experiences growing up in Tanzania, discussing her childhood, education, and the communal lifestyle that shaped her values. She reflects on the impact of Western culture on African traditions, particularly in parenting and gender roles. Rachel advocates for a balanced approach to parenting that incorporates both traditional values and modern practices, ultimately highlighting the significance of family and community in nurturing future generations.

Dr. Nafees Alam talks about his journey from Libya to the U.S., touching on identity, education, and why having different perspectives really matters. He shares what he's seen in academia, reflects on today’s free speech climate and why protecting it is so important.Show notes:Nafees’s “Neo-White Supremacy and the Assumption of Black/Brown Inferiority” for the Journal of Free Black ThoughtNafees on XOpen Therapy InstituteAnthony Jeselnik

Connie Morgan and Dumisani Washington discuss the complexities of the current geopolitical situation surrounding Israel. They analyze the differences in Trump's current administration's approach to Israel compared to the previous administration as well as the rise of anti-Israel sentiment on the political right, and the implications of these attitudes on broader societal issues. They also touch on the issue of anti-Semitism, the role of foreign influence in shaping narratives, and the ongoing genocides in other parts of the world, urging listeners to seek out reliable sources of information.Episode 2 Featuring Pastor Dumisani Washington“Blood On Our Hands” by Dumisani Washington for Africa-Israel Weekly“Compromised” by Dumisani Washington for Africa-Israel WeeklyAaron McGruder and BETGatestone InstituteMEMRI TVSarah Adams

Wink interviews Mike as he shares his “why” behind writing a memoir. The two explore themes of identity, relationships, and the importance of personal narratives. Mike reflects on his family background, the lessons learned from past relationships, and the impact of love and marriage on his life. The discussion delves into the significance of understanding one's own story and the broader implications of sharing these experiences within the context of the black experience in America.

H.E. Negash reflects on his Ethiopian heritage and his evolving political journey. He also offers an insightful explanation of Ethiopian Orthodoxy and how it stands apart from other faith traditions.

This conversation explores the often overlooked narratives of old black money and the impact of social capital on identity and success. Mike and Wink discuss historical examples of wealthy black families, the importance of diverse narratives, and the challenges posed by stereotypes and secrecy.

Jen opens up about growing up in Scientology, surviving a traumatic childhood and navigating life as a mixed-race woman. Show notes:Jen on XTom Cruise yells at movie crew

Kaizen Asiedu shares his journey from growing up in the Bronx to attending Harvard, where he initially felt lost despite achieving academic goals. He discusses his transition into the e-sports industry, where he found direction and success, leading to a sort of awakening during the pandemic. Kaizen advocates for a rethinking of education, focusing on empowering the next generation and fostering critical thinking. Show notes:Kaizen on XKaizen’s SubstackKaizen on YouTubeKaizen on InstagramKaizen on FacebookKaizen on TikTokKaizen’s website