(Ep.87) Feel the Fear & Do It Anyway with guest Sharon Cook

Send us Fan MailAs the leaves of change whispered through Norfolk, Virginia, Sharon Cook grew up amidst a symphony of societal transitions, which she recounts with heartfelt candor. Join us as Sharon, a beacon of light in the educational and artistic realms, shares her narrative of navigating racial dynamics in a community in flux. The tender yet potent stories from her youth reveal not just the challenges of a predominantly white neighborhood embracing diversity, but also the resilience and grace with which she and her family faced overt and covert racism. With each tale, a thread is woven into the rich fabric of Sharon's identity, tracing her growth from a shielded child to a socially aware individual.Then, witness the tale of transformation as Sharon blazes a trail from English teacher to a revolutionary force in performing arts with her UPAC collective. She passionately discusses the significance of lifting underrepresented voices on stage and the transformative impact of the arts in community healing. Sharon, a complex juxtaposition of an introvert's contemplation and an extrovert's vigor, reveals how she marshals her dual nature to inspire others to recognize their worth and talents. Her reflections on her involvement in "A Raisin in the Sun" and the creation of "Black Girl Magic" illustrate her unwavering commitment to education and empowerment. This episode is a testament to the power of affirmations, the comfort of prayer, and the undeniable magic of one woman's journey through life's stages.