Send us a Text Message.

When did you first become aware of your race? Join me, Steph Edusei, along with writer, performer and producer, Risaria Langley, as, in the second part of our discussion, we explore the profound experiences that shaped our understanding of race and racism. Risaria recounts when she first became aware of her whiteness and I share my own journey, from enduring racial taunts to the unsolicited touches to my hair, revelations that only later clarified as racism.

This is at times an emotional exploration of mixed heritage and ancestry with us as we uncover the complexities that come with discovering one's roots. Sharing a friend's late discovery of her Indian ancestry, we journey through historical interracial relationships and the secrecy that often cloaked them. We dive into the history of Ghana's coastal regions, revealing how pregnant enslaved women found freedom and integration in local society.

We encourage you to listen to part one of this conversation for more honest and insightful discussion.

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...

Send us a Text Message.

Is the idea of a "pure British lineage" nothing more than a myth? Join us for an eye-opening conversation as (in a release of an episode from 2022) I, Steph Edusei, am joined by Risaria Langley, and explore the complex layers of race and racism in the UK. Guided by Professor Ibram X. Kendi's Anti-racist deck, we share personal stories and insights rooted in our shared Geordie heritage from North East England. Risaria recalls a defining moment from her childhood, while I reflect on how Brexit has acted as a catalyst, revealing the entrenched racism within our society.

We tackle the contentious notion of British identity and its implications in today's multicultural landscape. What does it mean to be "indigenous British"? Through our own experiences, we highlight the fluidity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, emphasizing the frustration of being questioned about one's origins. Our discussion underscores the vital role of recognizing and valuing the contributions of immigrants and their descendants, showing how personal relationships can break down superficial barriers and foster inclusivity.

Can saying "I don't see color" actually do more harm than good? We unpack this loaded phrase and its implications, arguing for the necessity of acknowledging racial and cultural differences to truly understand and appreciate each other. Through heartfelt anecdotes, we discuss why it's essential to recognise these differences and the discomfort caused when they are dismissed. Reflecting on Maya Angelou's wise words, "Do the best that you can until you know better and then, when you know better, do better," we stress the importance of continual growth and humility.

Don't miss this candid and thought-provoking dialogue—and tune in next week for part two.

Be sure to subscribe and leave a review to help others find this important conversation.

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...

Send us a Text Message.

What if the recent UK general election was more than just a competition between Labour and Conservative parties? Join me, Steph Edusei, as I try to make meaning of the election results and what they reveal about the state of British opinion. Using insights from renowned thinkers like Robert O. Paxton, Erich Fromm, and Noam Chomsky, I try to decode the rise of the Reform UK Party Limited and its 4% vote share. I also spotlight the gains made by the Liberal Democrats and Green Party in this shifting political landscape.

Beyond election mechanics, in this episode I attempt to give some answers to address the move towards radical views, stressing the crucial role of critical thinking and media literacy in combating misleading narratives. I discuss how we need to build inclusive communities grounded in mutual understanding and cooperation along with critical economic reforms aimed at tackling inequality are highlighted. I make a case for the importance of political engagement and supporting marginalised groups amid rising far-right rhetoric. Finally, I call on you to get involved, share your thoughts, and work collectively towards a more just society.

Subscribe, review, and be part of this essential conversation on Black All Year!

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...

Send us a Text Message.

What happens when a traumatic incident in your youth shapes your entire worldview? Join Steph Edusei in conversation with James Carss, founder and chief executive of Castle Peak Group, as he recounts his poignant journey from his childhood in the predominantly white North East of England to his experiences in London, Hong Kong, and Canada. James opens up about a pivotal moment of racial violence that fuelled his dedication to equality and justice. Discover how his personal trials have translated into a professional mission to create inclusive spaces and promote social justice.

Sharing his experience of building truly inclusive organisations, James emphasizes the necessity of having diverse executive teams and the importance of starting these efforts at the leadership level. He sheds light on the progress in diversity across regulated sectors like financial services while highlighting ongoing challenges in other industries, including charities. Learn about the pitfalls of tokenism and the importance of genuine, strategic approaches to fostering diversity that reflects the community and customer base. James shares invaluable insights into how organizations can move beyond superficial policies to demonstrate real commitment through actions and leadership.

James discusses the pressures faced by minoritised individuals, particularly black women in senior positions, and how structured interviews can help reduce unconscious bias. We explore the value of diverse boards and the significant benefits they bring to organisational success. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing relevance of diversity and inclusion, and the profound impact of personal experiences on one’s professional dedication to these crucial issues.

James Carss contact info:
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescarss/

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...

Send us a Text Message.

This week we share the keys to understanding power and privilege in our latest episode of Black All Year, featuring the insightful Ngozi Lyn Cole, one of our most popular topics and guests from Season 1. Together, we uncover how power often operates unseen among dominant groups and the systemic advantages this creates. We discuss how privilege manifests on multiple levels—personal, interpersonal, institutional, and systemic—and how these unearned benefits favour white individuals over non-white individuals. Our conversation highlights the complex layers of intersectionality, where race intersects with gender, age, and sexual orientation, to influence experiences of discrimination.

Ever wonder how you can use your inherent power and privilege to fight racism? Ngozi stresses the importance of active and intentional efforts to dismantle systemic racism and combate personal biases. We discuss educational resources like "How to Be an Antiracist" by Ibram X. Kendi and tools such as the Harvard Implicit Association Test that can help you uncover and address your own biases. The necessity of continuous, proactive work in challenging the status quo is emphasized, ensuring the burden of education does not fall solely on marginalised communities.

We reinforce the importance of seeking guidance from individuals with lived experiences of racism and compensating them fairly.

Explore actionable strategies for challenging racism within organisations, even those without Black employees.
Learn the significance of thorough preparation, conducting audits, and creating detailed plans to foster inclusivity.

Ngozi Lyn Cole LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngozi-lyn-cole-she-her-9232135/

Ngozi Lyn Cole: https://www.lyncole.org.uk/

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...

Send us a Text Message.

Culinary Reinvention from Nissan to TikTok

Who says life's second acts can't be as flavorful as the first? Nige Thompson, the culinary maestro behind "Tea with the Thompsons," graces our podcast with stories of his journey from Nissan supervisor to TikTok sensation. In discussion with Steph Edusei, discover how his Jamaican roots and the cherished memories of his family's kitchen have deeply influenced his approach to cooking and life.

From engineering to artistry in the kitchen, Nige brings a unique technical precision to his mouthwatering dishes. His knack for culinary experimentation and his passion for sharing his skills have led to a devoted following, eager for his next delicious creation. We chat about the role of improvisation in cooking, his personal anecdotes from "Come Dine With Me," and how a suggestion from his daughter propelled him into social media fame.

This episode isn't just about tantalising your taste buds; it's about the power of embracing change and the importance of not rushing to judgment. Listen as Nige shares his foray into TikTok, the misconceptions unraveled through his TV experience, and the heartfelt lessons learned along the way. Plus, get a sneak peek into the motivations behind writing his book, a testament to a life rich with experiences worth savouring. Join us for a conversation that's as satisfying as a home-cooked meal with the ones you love.

Nige Thompson Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@teawiththethompsons

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...

Send us a Text Message.

Inclusion with Humanity: Eradicating Workplace Bullying and Discrimination

Can adopting "inclusion with humanity" truly eradicate workplace bullying and discrimination? Join Steph Edusei as she welcomes back Ranjit Kirton, founder of Behaviour Garage Limited, who left a 28-year NHS career to pursue a mission of transforming public sector organisations. Ranjit shares her journey and innovative strategies aimed at promoting psychologically safe environments within institutions like the NHS and police services. She also reflects on the personal empowerment gained through choosing clients who align with her values and rejecting toxic interactions.

Is meritocracy being compromised for diversity targets in public sector recruitment? We delve into the systemic challenges, unconscious biases, and the importance of disrupting gender and racial stereotypes. Ranjit stresses the need to transform organisational mindsets and recruitment processes to cultivate genuinely inclusive workplaces that do not merely insert diverse candidates into unchanged environments.

What are the barriers faced by international recruits in the NHS, and how can organisations foster a sense of belonging? We discuss the cultural differences that hinder integration and the need for adaptable policies to accommodate diverse needs. The benefits of cultural celebrations and practical steps for creating an inclusive environment are also highlighted.

Explore how Ranjit Kirton addresses Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in public sector workplaces. Learn about psychological safety, behavioural safety, and strategies to eliminate bullying, harassment, racism, and discrimination. Discover the importance of cultivating cultural architecture for a more inclusive work environment. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion filled with actionable insights for creating inclusive workplaces.

Ranjit Kirton LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranjit-kirton-838793233/
Ranjit Kirton Twitter/X https://x.com/KirtonRanjit
The Behaviour Garage https://thebehaviourgarage.co.uk/

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...

Send us a Text Message.

Engagement and Equity: The Critical Role of Voting in Society

How impactful is your vote really? Join Steph Edusei as she sits down with freelance journalist and non-executive director for Newcastle Creates, Loujane Alasi, to explore the profound importance for Black communities of voter registration and voting. We'll share personal stories that highlight why casting your ballot is not just a right but a powerful tool for change, particularly for underrepresented communities. Loujane offers an insightful look into the voter registration disparities among ethnically minoritized groups and how new voter ID requirements could pose further challenges.

We talk about how voting shapes critical aspects of everyday life, from education and healthcare to child poverty and the cost of living. Often, the dismissal of voting’s significance comes from a place of privilege, where the immediate effects of policy changes aren't felt. We critique the media's role in oversimplifying complex issues and highlight the controversial voter ID requirements, questioning their necessity and the barriers they may create for voter accessibility.

Empowerment through voting is a recurring theme, especially for those in economically disadvantaged and digitally excluded populations. We break down the introduction of the voter authority certificate and the hurdles it presents. We also touch on different voting methods like postal and proxy votes, emphasizing the need for better support and information to ensure all eligible voters can participate. Discover crucial registration dates and listen to this episode for a compelling discussion aimed at making your voice heard.

Loujane Alasi links
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loujanealasi/?originalSubdomain=uk
Twitter: https://twitter.com/loujanealasi

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...