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PODCAST · society

Black Austin Matters

by KUT & KUTX Studios, Richard J. Reddick, Lisa B. Thompson

What really matters to Black Austinites?

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Oct 8, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Mama Duke

    Rapper, lyricist, songwriter, and America’s Got Talent finalist Mama Duke joins Lisa and Rich on Black Austin Matters to talk about her journey from growing up in Palacios, Texas, to performing on the national stage. She shares the story behind her name, how she got her start in rap, her musical...

  2. Zell Miller III

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa and Rich sit down with artist, educator, father, community leader, and Austin’s Poet Laureate, Zell Miller III. Recorded live in May at the inaugural KUT Festival, Zell shares what it was like growing up in Austin and finding his voice as an...

  3. Kyra Newton

    At just 15 years old, community organizer Kyra Newton testified at the Texas Capitol in support of the CROWN Act. Now, as the youngest guest to appear on Black Austin Matters, she joins Lisa and Rich to share how she found her voice as an organizer, the story behind the nonprofit Beyond…

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  4. Eric Byrd

    Civic strategist, native Austinite, and community leader Eric Byrd sits down with Lisa and Rich to reflect on growing up in Austin, why he believes being of service is his life’s purpose, the lasting impact of positive male role models, the importance of men coming together to support one…

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  5. Fran Harris – Part 2

    Lisa and Rich continue their conversation with basketball champion, commentator, author and entrepreneur Fran Harris. Fran reflects on what inspired her entrepreneurial journey, the vision behind launching her own basketball league, and how the loss of her mother profoundly reshaped her…

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  6. Fran Harris – Part 1

    Basketball champion, entrepreneur and author Fran Harris talks with Lisa and Rich about what it means to be a champion, lessons her mother taught her about resilience, being part of the 1986 Women’s National Championship team at Texas, making the WNBA after retiring from basketball, and why...

  7. Black Austin Matters Returns for Season 4 — Premiering Wednesday, May 6

    This season, Black Austin Matters continues to spotlight the voices shaping Austin’s culture, history, and future. You’ll hear from recording artist Mama Duke, a semifinalist on America’s Got Talent, Austin native and civic leader Eric Byrd, and entrepreneur and Longhorn legend Fran Harris.

  8. Dr. Cheryl Clark-Brown

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa and Rich sit down with Austin native Dr. Cheryl Clark-Brown, founder of Clark-Brown Family Care Clinic. Dr. Clark-Brown shares her inspiring journey into medicine, her deep-rooted passion for integrative healing, and her unwavering dedication to…

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  9. China Smith

    In the latest episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa and Rich chat with Ballet Afrique founder and contemporary dancer China Smith. China takes us on a joyful stroll down memory lane, sharing what she loved about growing up in Austin and why her community means so much to her. She talks about how...

  10. Talib Abdullahi

    In the latest episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa and Rich sit down with Talib Abdullahi, founder of the Black History Bike Ride. Talib shares his journey from growing up in Houston, including what it was like to have professional jazz musicians as parents, to making his way to Austin to attend...

  11. Chi Ndika

    On this flavorful episode of Black Austin Matters, we chat with Chi Ndika, founder of Luv Fats Ice Cream. Chi shares how her earliest ice cream memories sparked her entrepreneurial spirit, how her psychology background enhances her daily interactions and business decisions, and the unique way…

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  12. Carl Settles Jr.

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa and Rich sit down with Carl Settles—founder and executive director of E4 Youth and creator of What Once Was. Carl opens up about the powerful influence of his parents, and his unique journey as both an All-State football player and student...

  13. Richard J. Reddick

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa sits down with her co-host, Richard J. Reddick, to discuss his upbringing as an Air Force brat, his undergraduate experience at Harvard University, his journey as an educator, and the insights behind his book, Restorative Resistance in Higher…

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  14. Eric and Katrina Brooks owners of Black Pearl Books

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa and Rich converse with Eric and Katrina Brooks, the owners of Black Pearl Books. Together, they reflect on their meeting at Clark Atlanta University, emphasize the significance of black representation in literature, stress the value of reading,...

  15. Harrison Eppright

    In this Black Austin Matters episode, join Lisa and Rich at the launch party of season 3 last year. They explore the essence of Austin, detailing how their fondness for the city drove them to kickstart the Black Austin Matters podcast. Joined by Austin native and tour guide Harrison Eppright, the...

  16. Gaylon Clark

    Gaylon Clark, the Lead Pastor of Greater Mt. Zion Church, joins Lisa and Rich on Black Austin Matters. Pastor Clark shares insights on his journey from his hometown of Dallas to Austin, and how his path to ministry was inspired by his brother’s faith and guided by prayer. Tune in to learn about...

  17. Marcus Myers

    Lisa and Rich talk with Marcus Myers, former UT football player, Austin native and Diversity & Inclusion advocate in technology. He discusses his time on UT’s 2005 Championship football team, his collegiate recruitment experience, and how much college football has changed. Marcus also shares why…

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  18. Dewi Smith

    Lisa and Rich talk with community connector, voter motivator and conduit of curiosity Dewi Smith, highlighting the importance of being an educated voter. Dewi also shares her origin story, educational journey, devotion to the community, and commitment to rallying voters for this upcoming election.

  19. Amanda Johnston

    In the premiere of Season 3 of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa and Rich sit down with Amanda Johnston, the trailblazing poet who became the first Black woman to hold the title of Texas Poet Laureate and the founder of Torch Literary Arts. Amanda shares insights into her childhood, her evolution…

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  20. Lisa B. Thompson and Nadine Mozon

    In this bonus episode, Rich talks to his co-host Lisa B. Thompson, award-winning playwright and Black cultural studies scholar about her new show, “The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body.” They are joined by Nadine Mozon, an associate professor, actor, writer, poet and dramatist who will star...

  21. Simone Talma Flowers

    In the last episode of Season 2 of Black Austin Matters Lisa and Rich talk all things Trinidadian with Executive Director of iACT Simone Talma Flowers. She shares her experiences growing up in Trinidad, what faith means to her and some of her favorite recipes.

  22. Bonus Episode: HT Jazz Collective

    In this bonus episode, Lisa and Rich catch-up with the Huston-Tillotson Jazz Collective after their performance at ACL. They share how Huston-Tillotson has cultivated a space that makes them feel at home, what playing jazz means to them, and what inspires them.

  23. Deborah Roberts

    Join us on the latest episode of Black Austin Matters as we have the privilege of hearing from renowned artist, Deborah Roberts. Embark on a captivating journey through her inspiring life, from her artistic training to her unwavering dedication to protecting black children through her art. Gain...

  24. Shay Nobles and Jules Alcindor

    On this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa and Rich speak with local photographer Jules Alcindor and graphic designer Shay Nobles to discuss their daily experiences working at a local shipping store, living in Austin, and their individual interests outside of work.

  25. Bavu Blakes

    In the latest episode of Black Austin Matters, Bavu Blakes shares his inspiring journey growing up and being surrounded by Black excellence. He reflects on the influential role his parents played in shaping his path as a scholar and being the only Texas Longhorn in the family while everyone else…

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  26. Brannen Temple

    In this episode, we hear from Brannen Temple, a native Austinite, as he shares his remarkable journey. From growing up in Austin in the 70s to his career as a musician, the importance of studying his craft and the invaluable lessons he has gained from being a father.

  27. Fatima A. Varner

    In this episode, Assistant Professor Fatima A. Varner discusses Roe vs. Wade, her research on Black family dynamics, dating in different cities and her intentional efforts to connect more with the Black community here in Austin. Fatima A. Varner is the Assistant Professor for the Department of...

  28. John L. Hanson, Jr.

    Lisa and Rich talk with broadcasting legend John L. Hanson, Jr.

  29. Patricia Bedford

    In a conversation with Patricia Bedford, a native of Austin, she shares her amazing journey from being an engineer to becoming a successful business owner and master baker. She also talks about how she keeps her grandmothers’ legacy alive through her work and passion.

  30. Calvin J. Turner

    Lisa and Rich speak with Army veteran and entrepreneur Capt. Calvin J. Turner.

  31. Shauntavia Ward

    In the first episode of season two, Rich and Lisa talk with social wellness entrepreneur Shauntavia Ward.

  32. Lisa B. Thompson and Richard J. Reddick (Part 2)

    We hear the second part of Lisa and Rich interviewing each other about their experiences.

  33. Lisa B. Thompson and Richard J. Reddick

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa and Rich interview…themselves.

  34. Jahmal Fenner

    In this episode, Rich and Lisa talk with LBJ High School football coach Jahmal Fenner.

  35. Priscilla Hale

    Rich and Lisa talk with seventh-generation East Austin native and community activist Priscilla Hale.

  36. Ariel René Jackson

    We talk with anti-disciplinary film-based artist Ariel René Jackson in this episode of Black Austin Matters.

  37. Riders Against the Storm

    In this episode, Lisa and Rich talk with Chaka and Qi Dada, the husband and wife duo who make up the hip-hop group Riders Against the Storm.

  38. Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Richard J. Reddick talk with Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, the outgoing president of Huston-Tillotson University.

  39. Joseph Frilot

    Hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Richard J. Reddick talk with IDEA Montopolis teacher Joseph Frilot.

  40. Dr. Sonja Franklin

    In this episode, hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Rich Reddick talk with Dr. Sonja Franklin, an optometrist and owner of Modern Eyes in Austin.

  41. Joe Harper, Jr.

    On this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa B. Thompson and Rich Reddick talk with barber Joe Harper, Jr. about what really happens at the barbershop.

  42. Stephanie Lang

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Rich Reddick talk with writer, community curator and social justice activist Stephanie Lang about her deep roots in Austin, what newcomers misunderstand about Black Austin and preserving history.

  43. Chas Moore

    In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Rich Reddick talk with Chas Moore, the executive director of the Austin Justice Coalition. His organization has been deeply involved with advocating for racial justice and police reform in Austin and organized some of the largest...

  44. Wilhelmina and Exalton Delco

    In the first episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Rich Reddick talk with the Hon. Wilhelmina Delco and Dr. Exalton Delco. Mrs. Delco was the first Black person elected to the Austin ISD board of trustees in 1968 and later became the first Black person elected at-large from...

  45. Trailer: Black Austin Matters

    Black Austin Matters is a podcast that highlights the Black community and Black culture in Central Texas. Each month, hosts Richard J. Reddick and Lisa B. Thompson talk with other Black Austinites about their perspectives on what’s happening in their city. We’ll hear from the well-known and the...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

What really matters to Black Austinites?

HOSTED BY

KUT & KUTX Studios, Richard J. Reddick, Lisa B. Thompson

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Black Austin Matters have?

Black Austin Matters currently has 45 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Black Austin Matters about?

What really matters to Black Austinites?

How often does Black Austin Matters release new episodes?

Black Austin Matters has 45 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Black Austin Matters?

You can listen to Black Austin Matters on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Black Austin Matters?

Black Austin Matters is created and hosted by KUT & KUTX Studios, Richard J. Reddick, Lisa B. Thompson.
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