Education + Critical Thinking: A Lifeline for Black Youth in America
Introduction: Why Education Still Matters In 2025, where information moves faster than ever and social dynamics constantly shift, education for Black youth isn’t just about getting a job or receiving praise — it’s about developing the reasoning skills needed to survive, resist injustice, and lead. Across careers — whether doctor, lawyer, plumber, teacher, or entrepreneur — the ability to think critically is essential. Without it, Black youth risk being misled, Read More
Black Men Talk. Six Years of My Black Men Matter Series Proves It.
By Lana Reid, Founder and President of Conversations in Color, Host of the Black Men Matter Series Before I hit record, I tell every man the same thing: “Today we are going to talk about how amazing you are.” Almost every time, they chuckle. Not the thank-you kind of laugh, but the uncomfortable one. The laugh that says no one says that to me very often. That reaction is exactly Read More
Study Finds Aging Brings Wisdom—Lana Reid Reflects on Life Lessons
Growing Older, Growing Wiser: Reflections on the Journey A 2022 study from PMC showed that people who report higher satisfaction with aging tend to experience better subsequent health and well-being. That finding stopped me in my tracks—because when I look back, I see that growing older is an honor, but growing wiser has been the true gift. As I reflect on my life’s journey, those words resonate deeply with me. Read More
Education Equity & Student Success – How Schools & Communities Can Support Black Students in K-12: guest Dr. Lathardus Goggins II
By Lana Reid | September 3, 2025 As part of the Black Men Matter series, Lana Reid speaks with Dr. Lathardus Goggins II about the state of education equity for Black students in K-12. Dr. Goggins explores the challenges of cultural disconnects in classrooms, the impact of social-emotional learning, and how schools and communities can collaborate to build pathways for long-term student success. The Challenges Facing Black K-12 Students In Read More
“The Black Accountant” – Inspiring Journey of Overcoming Adversity—From Walk-On Athlete to Successful Entrepreneur : guest Charleston Girley
By Lana Reid | August 20, 2025 As part of the Black Men Matter Series, this profile features Charleston Girley — former walk-on athlete, published author, and successful entrepreneur. From humble beginnings in Pine Bluff to scholarship athlete and now a leader in business and finance, Girley’s story shows how resilience, faith, and relentless work ethic can turn adversity into opportunity. From Walk-On to Scholarship Athlete In this episode of Read More
An Innovative Mental Health Research Project – Exploring Black Male Experiences: guest Jadarius Evans
By Lana Reid | August 13, 2025 As part of the Black Men Matter Series, this episode features Jadarius Evans, LPC-A, NCC, M.Ed., Ed.S., who is spearheading Project H.E.A.R.T.—a community-based mental health research initiative using photovoice to amplify the lived experiences of Black men and teenage Black males. Through narrative storytelling and photography, the project invites participants to co-research, share insight, and help shape education, clinical practice, and policy. Why Read More
Empowering Student-Athletes – Resilience & Identity for Life Beyond Sports: guest Dr. Timothy Felton
By Lana Reid | August 6, 2025 As part of the Black Men Matter Series, this episode features Dr. Timothy Felton, an educator, author, and mentor dedicated to empowering student-athletes. Dr. Felton shares how resilience, identity formation, and mentorship prepare athletes for success both on the field and in life beyond sports. Building Resilience Beyond the Game In this episode of “The Male Perspective,” Lana talks with Dr. Timothy Felton Read More
Navigating Life’s Transitions – Expert Coaching Through New Beginnings: guest Coach Ed Bradley
By Lana Reid | July 16, 2025 As part of the Black Men Matter Series, this episode features Coach Ed Bradley, a Transitional Life Coach, author, and speaker. He offers guidance for young individuals facing major life changes—stepping into adulthood, navigating career choices, or pursuing further education—while emphasizing clarity, readiness, and financial resources like scholarships and grants to smooth the way. Life Coaching for Personal & Career Transitions In this Read More
Building Brotherhood – The Essential Role of Support Groups for Black Men : guest Jesus’ Kimbrow
By Lana Reid | June 18, 2025 As part of the Black Men Matter Series, this episode features Pastor Jesus Kimbrow, founder of Head Space, a support group dedicated to empowering Black men. Kimbrow shares how brotherhood, mentorship, and safe spaces can address mental health challenges, strengthen family roles, and build resilience in communities that too often overlook men’s emotional needs. Introducing Jesus Kimbrow & Head Space In this episode Read More
Empowering Baltimore’s Youth – Mentoring Male Teens : guest Cameron Miles
By Lana Reid | June 11, 2025 As part of the Black Men Matter Series, this episode highlights Cameron E. Miles, founder of Mentoring Male Teens in the ’Hood. Since 1996, Miles has guided more than 6,000 boys in Baltimore through mentorship, tutoring, educational travel, and community programs. His work offers young men critical tools for resilience and direction, while challenging stereotypes and expanding opportunities for Black youth. About Mentoring Read More