The Focus LBK Show

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Today Steve Taylor, manager of Kingdom Towers Transitional Housing, stopped by the studio. We “chopped it up” about all kinds of interesting stuff including the belief that politics and media are often stage-managed productions.From Trump completely abandoning his base by starting a bunch of crazy wars, to questionable assassination attempts, and covid, most things seem to be orchestrated for reasons unknown to us. One thing is sure, when people in charge (on either side) use anger and fear to control you, that’s a good reason to stop, step back and evaluate what’s going on.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

If you’re like me, you are totally against these Data Centers popping up everywhere. They seem to be infinite drains for natural resources. Funny how I don’t hear any climate activists loudly screaming about this, or blocking roads to prevent them from being built. In case you missed it, the City Council recently shut down plans for a data center in North East Lubbock. Somehow, I feel like that proposal isn’t dead, but is merely being repackaged for a future attempt. I sure hope we stay vigilant about this.What say you about data centers? Are AI Trump videos worth all our water? Sources and Methodshttps://www.zerohedge.com/energy/texas-electricity-demand-could-quadruple-due-soaring-data-center-demand-ercotData Center Noise:Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

As Jesus once said: “Render unto Caesar”. So, first things first: Pay Your Taxes! But also acknowledge that it’s shocking to have to pay taxes. I think the reason for that is because deep down we all know taxation is theft. Think back to how you reacted when you got your first ever paycheck, and it wasn’t the amount that you agreed to work for. You were shocked because it felt like someone took something from you wrongly. Like some one stole something from you.Every rational adult can understand that money taken by force or coercion is money that is stolen. One person doesn’t have the right to steal from another person. Nor can one person vote to give other people the right to steal from another person. You can’t vote to give a right you don’t have.If that’s correct, then it means we should hold government to the same standard to which we hold ourselves. I can’t take money by force or threat, so neither should the government be able to. Is that a thought-crime?Does anyone care?Remember being as shocked as this kid was:you can click picture:Ever heard of Tax Freedom Day? How long do you have to work to pay off the government every year?Tax Freedom Day Underestimates How Long You Work For The GovernmentFocus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Mayoral candidate Stephen Sanders spoke to us about a wide variety of topics today, including why he chose to run for the top office in the city right off the bat, and how he plans to modernize and reinvigorate Lubbock.We also touched on how his political philosophy has changed over the years, and his views on data centers and dangerous dogs.We barely scratched the surface of some of things we wanted to get into, so we’ll have to have him back soon.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Everyone nowadays knows what it feels like to be busy. Between family, work, and your side hustle, there is hardly anytime to have a little rest and relaxation. But even God rested on the seventh day, so it sure seems like we should too. I wonder why God tells us to See, for that the Lord hath given you the sabbath, therefore he giveth you on the sixth day the bread of two days; abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day.Just think about how radical that would be if you actually did it. Sources and Methods:Read Exodus Chapter 16 here This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

My brother Khambrel asked me a few years ago had I noticed how it is totally cool for a middle-aged white guy to be a singer songwriter, yet a middle aged black guy would be utterly frowned on and mocked for being a hip hop artist.We’ve had many discussions on the subject, and I was reminded of them today when I was prepping for an upcoming project. Check out some of the conclusions I reached while I was out working on a film for an upcoming presentation at Texas Tech. Upcoming Event on Stubbs BBQThursday, April 9, 2026 • 7:00 PMLubbock Lights Celebrates Christopher “Stubb” StubblefieldFocus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support ourwork, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

You may have already heard, but if you haven’t, prepare yourself. Mrs. Billie Caviel has passed away. Sadly, although we spoke to her a few times while we were Out and About, we never got a chance to speak in-depth with her. We missed the chance to bond with a woman, who as I understand it, co-owned and operated, with her husband Alfred, the first African-American husband-and-wife pharmacy in the United States. We missed the chance to get to know better a remarkable woman who shared with and cared for the people of Lubbock in deep and lasting way. In the wake of her passing, we recommit to our mission of preserving the Words of the Elders.Please help us Preserve the Words of Our Elders. Call 806-642-0949 to arrange an Oral History record session with an elder you know. Completely free!Sources:The Fourth Turning, a book about the how history seems to go in cycles. It may help put the craziness of our time in perspective.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means “to serve”. More specifically, what does it mean to “Serve God"?Right on cue, I found an article here on “The Stack” that really got me going down a path. Dr. Roger Mcfillin, wrote on “Radically Genuine”:Most of us think of service as what we do. The job we perform. The help we offer. The roles we fill. Nurse. Teacher. Mother. Father. Doctor. We measure service by actions completed, hours logged, tasks accomplished.The message says something different: your frequency is your service. Your essence is what you offer. The vibration you carry as you move through the world is the service you render to creation, regardless of your job title or to-do list.Of course that made me think of a few Bible verses. Letting all those various sources marinate, I think I came up with a decent take on what “Serving God” means. Take a listen and let me know what you think!Sources and methods:2 Corinthians 9:6-7Mark 10:45Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Last Saturday, 28 February 2026, we were honored to speak at the Patterson Library on the topic of “The Power Of Local Media”. We illustrate our topic with little known facts about immigration and the George Floyd case.Sources and Methods: The Fall of Minneapolis FilmThe Real TimelineA Show from 2021 on the George Floyd Incident. Covers autopsy, video, etc.https://rumble.com/ve36yl-the-north-star-podcast-s2-ep007-george-floyd-killer-officer-chauvin-will-be.htmlA More recent show on the same subjectFocus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

We were joined in studio by Lisa Sheek, and Adam Canales of Aspen Creek Grill. Lisa is the Director of Community Outreach & Family Liaison at the Condra School for Dyslexia Success. She explains how up to 20% of the population may suffer from dyslexia. Even more shocking is that reading difficulties are likely one of the main factors that determine if a child enters the so-called “School-to-Prison-Pipeline”. Luckily, we have the Condra School to help provide effective learning and teaching strategies in a small group setting. It is these kinds of grassroots effortss that will help us overcome almost any problem we face here on the South Plains.Of course, Condra School, being a non-profit, needs partners to help them accomplish their mission. Aspen Creek Grill is one of those partners, and according to Local Store Marketer Adam Canales, they stay active in the community.Check out this engaging conversation, and if you know someone who needs help with dyslexia, including diagnosis, testing and tailored teaching, you can get more information on the Condra School at this link: https://condraschool.com/en-USAlso, be sure to attend The Condra School’s upcoming Golf fundraiser.Aspen Creek Grill is located out in West End Center: Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

What’s good LBK? Hope all is well. Join us in studio as Stuart Williams, candidate for Lubbock County Democrat Party Chair, keeps it “a buck 150” regarding what the local Democrats need to do to gain traction in Lubbock and on the South Plains.We get into his political platform, the true state of the local Democrat Party, and the ongoing effort to bring one of those huge Artificial Intelligence Data Centers to Lubbock. Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

This show is about how we at FocusLBK feel called to be “digital griots”, as the title indicates. However, on a deeper level, it’s about being careful what we focus on. The things we focus on eventually consume our power, time and effort. So, it’s important to be mindful of where we place our attention.Plus, the City of Lubbock Honors East Lubbock Photographer Eugene Roquemore, whose 30 years of “telling our true story in pictures” makes him without a doubt, the Original Griot.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

A friend of mine who is a servant leader in the community has told me on more than one occasion that we used to have Black History Bowls right here in Lubbock Public Schools. She said that stopped having those events because the white kids kept beating the kids from black schools. Turns out, our own kids don’t seem to know much black history.Maybe it’s the way we teach it that drives people away?Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

All of the conditions necessary to cause death and destruction in the streets have been engineered by the national Democrat Party. What we are seeing in places like Minnesota is the result of a political strategy designed to produce martyrs.Sources and MethodsI think this is the original video:Here’s CNN saying how good ICE was for rounding up illegal aliens under President Obama:Tom Homan’s Awards:https://www.dhs.gov/archive/news/2015/12/15/nine-dhs-employees-receive-2015-presidential-rank-awardhttps://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-ead-thomas-homan-receives-2015-presidential-rank-award This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

The morning of 19 January 2026 was quite chilly; hovering near 3o degrees; who knows what it was if you factored in wind chill. Nonetheless, people volunteered on behalf of a multitude of organizations from across the community.We stayed busy darting from site-to-site speaking with our neighbors and capturing footage and photos, as is our calling. It was cold but well worth it to get out move among the good people of Lubbock. Please enjoy selected photos we made, and the recap film above to get the flavor.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Does it ever feel like all this negativity is contrived? How is it they always catch inflammatory stuff on camera and throw it on all the airwaves out there so you can’t help but see it? Yet, they never catch on camera and amplify the stuff we wish they would catch!I think political parties are used by the so-called ruling class use to generate friction so they can herd people into competing “factions”. They use this friction to help pit against one another in ways politicians can use to fuel their particular ideas or interests.Maybe that’s why the Founding Fathers, especially Washington and Jefferson, hated political parties. They knew that eventually their constant back and forth jostling would lead to civil war, or “disunion” as Washington called it.I’d say that’s probably not a good idea. Maybe it’s time to start the year off with a Fast from political parties?Sources and Methods:https://www.history.com/articles/founding-fathers-political-parties-opinionhttps://rotunda.upress.virginia.edu/founders/default.xqy?keys=FOEA-print-04-02-02-4451Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

We talk about some changes in the format of the show coming up for 2026. We will still produce the articles, photos and videos you love, but the podcast will be changing. We’ll tell you all about it, plus we get into how writing by hand in cursive seems to have positively affected the way I think. This ties into something that has changed in school curriculums, and we wonder if it was a done for a nefarious reason.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

2025 saw many milestones and positive events take place in Lubbock. It also featured a few dark spots. Join us as we look back over the past year, and savor various inflection points. We would like to thank you for giving us access and attention. As 2025 closes out, we take this opportunity to get our last bit of rest and recuperation in.May we all experience higher levels of excellence, growth, and refinement in all areas of our lives in 2026! Happy New Year, LBK!Featured content from 2025Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

I’ve always felt that action is the evidence of belief. That’s why I would love to receive the gift of a muscular, active Christianity for Christ-Mass. They say it’s better to give than receive. This is precisely why I plan to also get out there and use my Talents to work on behalf of our Lord. Our opponents certainly never miss an opportunity to work evil for their god.Sources and Methods: The Scripture:https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%202%3A15-17&version=NIV;MSG;KJVChristians In Nigeria Being Slaughtered: Freedom in Jesus Prison MinistriesFocus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Get Tickets Here:Sources and Methods:Snap Reckoninghttps://www.zerohedge.com/political/usda-will-withhold-snap-funds-21-states-refused-provide-data10 Covid Vaccine Deathshttps://brownstone.org/articles/the-fda-memo-that-shakes-the-world/https://www.zerohedge.com/covid-19/fda-covid-shots-killed-least-10-children-stronger-vax-rules-coming This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

When I first heard the gospel song by Artificial Intelligence “Artist” Solomon Ray, I thought it sounded stiff and generic. To be honest, I feel that way about all radio gospel music. But, when I listened to the AI-generated song again later in the day, I noticed something.I think only portions of the songs are “AI”. In fact, the singing voice of Solomon Ray sounds pretty much authentic to me, as do the lyrics themselves. But, other parts of the song and video are almost certainly generated by AI.For example, the backing choir is almost certainly AI generated. To my ears as a wanna-be musician/producer, these sound like some of the decent quality sampled Choir instruments produced by Native Instruments and others.On the other hand, all of the visuals seem to be AI-generated. And not only that, but the lyrics to this particular song explain why he made an AI artist in the first place: it’s too expensive to start a band. “Some folks may call that a fancy way to cheat”, according to one of the lines of the song, but that’s still true.I could be wrong on this, and that’s the interesting part! I can’t fully tell if this is a fully AI musical production, or if portions of it real. It’s difficult to tell where the machine ends and the human begins.And that seems quite ominous.Sources and Methods:The AI Artist’s Video:https://x.com/CollinRugg/status/1993501945861226565?s=20Two Articles on it:https://www.zerohedge.com/ai/ai-gospel-ghost-tops-charts-solomon-ray-unmasked-another-fakehttps://thegrio.com/2025/11/19/solomon-ray-creator-christopher-townsend-defends-music/Elon Musk’s “Demon” Quote:https://www.cnet.com/science/elon-musk-we-are-summoning-the-demon-with-artificial-intelligence/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

LBK, please take some time off and enjoy this Thanksgiving holiday with your family and close friends. Time is not promised to any of us, so gratitude is always in order.As you take some time to wind down and begin recuperating as this year draws to a close, we hope you might think about the widespread acceptance of socialism in our country.This is an appropriate time to reflect on the fact that the failure of collectivist policies led to a near collapse of the Pilgrim’s Plymouth Plantation. Sensible policies based on personal drive and responsibility led to a huge harvest and what we now know as the first “Thanksgiving”.Sources and Methods: https://sourcebooks.fordham.edu/mod/1650bradford.asp#New%20governor,%20first%20marriagehttps://www.carolinajournal.com/opinion/triumph-of-the-unknown-ideal-the-real-story-of-thanksgiving/https://www.aei.org/carpe-diem/thanksgiving-lessons-about-the-failures-of-socialism-and-the-success-of-private-property-and-capitalism/https://www.texaspolicy.com/socialism-at-plymouth-rock-getting-the-thanksgiving-story-straight/https://www.mass.gov/info-details/bradfords-manuscript-of-plimoth-plantationFocus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

SNAP appears to be an example of Weaponized Compassion. This is a purposefully set up situation that uses our natural feelings of compassion against us in ways that actually hurt everyone.It’s pulling at the heartstrings to get people to sacrifice something in a pre-determined and proscribed way. This is an old technique that is used to steer a society in ways the so-called elites desire. I go over the reasons I think this in detail in this heartfelt monologue.Here’s a link to the article I reference: https://www.armstrongeconomics.com/international-news/north_america/americas-current-economy/snap-overhaul-9-billion-monthly-program/Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

I took off from work this past 7 November, originally because it was my birthday weekend. Between the thought and the deed, I also volunteered to travel with Freedom In Jesus Prison Ministries, so that is what I did on that slightly chilly Friday. I knew something was up from the moment we started the entry process. I believe we had favor from The Lord to be there. True, we did have a bit of an issue on the way in because, at first, the guard couldn’t find my name on the volunteer list. But that was no big deal.What was more interesting is that no one on the guard staff seemed even a bit concerned by the presence of my camera. On the other hand, several of my own fellow volunteers expressed surprise about the situation, including a contingent of prison ministers from Oklahoma. They recounted a tale of a severe misstep that led to a complete denial of photography inside prisons in that state. Needless to say, there was an incident where I nearly got killed. There were other scenes that did indeed kill a little piece of me.Join me as I talk about the various things I noticed and learned on this trip, and enjoy a few of the pictures I made.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

On this week’s show, LBK transplants Shama Ezer and Vanessa Brooks talk about the various challenges of being entrepreneurs, mothers, wives and daughters. We discuss how it’s a struggle to achieve balance between each of the multiple roles we must play in life. Shama and Vanessa go on to talk about the benefits of being in a circle of motivated women, and how you can check out their group called The Sister Circle.Shama is sha.ma.banks on all social media: https://www.facebook.com/sha.ma.banks.2025Vanessa can be reached at:https://linktr.ee/vanessarbrooks Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

If you could use a resource to help alleviate sky high grocery prices, or would like to learn a skill that will literally help you feed your family, then today’s show is for you.Jessica Tullar Caroom and Shonta Fockler, two members of the Roots Booker T. Washington Garden Crew, joined us today. We covered everything from what to plant, when to plant it, grounding, and more.Plus, there will a be a pick your own event Saturday November 1, 2025 from 11am - 1pm. All you have to do is show up at 2109 Cedar, get your hands a little dirty, and take home some fresh, chemical-free veggies and flowers. And did we say it was free? (‘Cause it is!)Here’s a link to Jessica’s non-profit:https://www.growingtogethertexas.org/Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Program Note: The Focus LBK Show will now be published on Thursdays at 6 a.m. starting with today’s episode.The word Mahalo means “Thank You” in Hawaii’s Mother Tongue. Our guests today have both spent significant time on those islands, and are thankful for the impact it had on their work. Jason Glikas and Kelly Reyna, two of our local artists and educators, decided to put on a show to exhibit some of the art they made while living in what many would consider paradise. So, working with Fernando Elisdee Perez, and rest of The Roots Crew, they starting making the idea real.You can see the fruit of their labor on Friday, 7 November at Caviel’s Museum and Art Gallery.The event will not only feature the work of Mr. Glikas and Ms. Reyna, but will also contain pieces by Xaunviayer George and Randy Groden.In addition to great art and good conversation, their will also be traditional food and drink, plus hula and fire dancing by a local group of professionals. The Mahalo Art Show is a attempt to share the spirit of one island culture with the people of another. After all, this is the LBK. The Hub of the Plains. In other words we are The Big Island in a sea of staked plains. You might be surprised at how much we have in common with the people of Hawaii. Plus, who doesn’t wanna see fire and hula dancing?What‘chu Bumpin?This theme song was always dope: We hope this show makes you want to purchase Two Tickets to Paradise as well.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

The ICE Raids and National Guard deployments being conducted by the Trump Administration are loudly decried by leftist groups, but there is plenty of recent historic precedence for them. Even President Barak Obama was widely known as “The Deporter-in-Chief”. He deported millions of illegal aliens, but he was Black, which gave him political cover to do wildly unpopular things no white President could get away with. Trump’s ICE raids make good political theater, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he fails to break Obama’s record. I am concerned all this violent rhetoric and deadly confrontations are ripe conditions to be exploited in a way that hurts all of us regular people.Sources and Methods:Gavin Newsom Cleaning Up San Franciscohttps://src.senate.ca.gov/content/lipstick-pig-newsom-cleans-san-francisco-days-celebrity-event-after-years-failuresRegular Black Citizens Acknowledge Guard Deployments Are Workinghttps://x.com/TheThe1776/status/1977435636878705003https://x.com/Breaking911/status/1977471825585361246Riots Used for Political PowerHow Politics Sometimes Uses High Crime This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

*Note: Last week, during our conversation with visiting artist Randy Groden, the name came up of another world renowned local artist. We refer to master ceramicist James Watkins. We thought we would dig this deep conversation out and present it anew, since our audience has grown since we first published it.Sometimes, a person comes to your attention in a way that seems pre-planned. Each step in the process is a synchronicity, like you were ultimately bound to meet them. And, upon meeting them, the result is a harmonious alchemy1, a mixing of disparate elements, themes, generations and art forms which imparts subtle lessons and leaves a distinct impression.Mr. James C. Watkins is that type of soul. His quiet manner seems to hint at a knowledge of deep things; the secrets of fire and clay, mixed together, come what may.Black cauldrons, standing on tripod feet, bubbling on flames you’ve been charged to keep. Memories in the bones, Earth deep.We visited Mr. Watkins’ exquisite studio on November 23rd, 2024. He showed us around while we spoke of first of one thing, then another, in ways that entwined and coiled back upon themselves.We gleaned hints of his workflow, and his mindset. We captured him amongst his tools, and felt like we knew exactly where he was coming from. Some details were elusive, but certain points were etched in gold, and danced over the surface of our discourse.Mr. Watkins has travelled the globe on the strength of his artistic vision, yet he seems to keep a firm grasp on what counts: the heart, the soul and the very dust that makes us. The grit that gets into you and makes you reach for what lies beyond.His roots lie in Alabama, on the family farm. His people were makers and free spirits, and Free Men who believed in God, their land, and the skill of their own hands.Their finger prints seem etched into his mind, and dusted across his heart, looking like the lines and swirls pressed into the fields that surround our fair flat city. Lubbock, Texas, USA, jewel of the High Plains.Mr. Watkins has heralded this place at each step in his broad travels, leaving traces on the globe like Arabic calligraphy. Repping the Hub City from Colombia to Vietnam, and plunging his fingers into the dirt at each stop.In our conversation for today’s show, we talk about some of the technical aspects of ceramics, but we also touch on some of the more esoteric parts of throwing clay.We explore the concept of traveling through our dreams to retrieve the blueprints of our work. Completing the piece, and them contemplating it, refining it, and starting again on the never ending process of creation.We hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did. We’d also like to send special thanks to Liz Adams, who introduced us to Mr. Watkins. Check out Liz’ work at The Atom.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

World renowned traditional and expressionist artist Randy Groden stopped by Focus LBK Studios to talk to us about his fascinating life and work. He grew up in Dallas, where he gravitated toward painting at an early age. From there he eventually travelled the world on the strength of his celebrated nude and expressionist paintings. His works are on display at Caviel’s Museum and Art Gallery, where they can be viewed during this coming First Friday Art Trail on September 3rd.Mr. Groden will later have a private opening party at 6 p.m. on October 18th, also at Caviel’s. He has graciously invited listeners of the Focus LBK Show to join him for the event.Mr. Groden also offers private art classes. Call him at (808) 280-8134 for details.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

In today’s show, Robert expounds on the spirit of evil that seems to be circulating through the country. It’s spread is facilitated by those who push lies and confusion.From killing peaceful speakers to acting possessed on Texas Tech, unfortunately it all connects!Sources and Methods This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

““Dirty deeds and they’re done dirt cheap”. This is my basic understanding of what politics is. Which is why I don’t claim either political party. I’m not interested in politics. Politics is the game of gaining and maintaining power by election to public office.The basic nature of this “game” involves lying, theft and force. As a libertarian, I desire freedom, which is being able to use your gifts and abilities to run your life as you see fit.As you can see, these two concepts, “politics” and “freedom” are polar opposites. Politics is giving YOUR power to others, to wield as THEY see fit!Freedom is maximizing your power to do as you see fit, as long as you’re aren’t lying, stealing and using force against others. Notice how close freedom is the Golden Rule. Do unto to others as you would have them do unto you.I know which one seems more appealing to me!Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

We discuss how the wisdom our our ancestors is a repository of strength and insight that can help us avoid being led astray in times of universal deceit. The fruit of being deceived about the basic nature of the world around us manifests itself in the death and chaos we see around us today. The word of God and those of of elders can help us avoid the many pitfalls around. They also help us combat the whispers of those who seek to use as pawns in their games.We also mention ways we plan to highlight our “Words from the Elders” in future content.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.focuslbk.showIn this episode Robert discusses a busy week of travel and filming that he just completed. On Friday 15 August, Robert and the Jenkins Clan stayed at a dope little place called The Hotel Turkey. Located in Turkey Texas, the spot is a well-loved music venue that serves great food and drinks alongside vintage hotel rooms and groovy containers. While we were there we filmed an episode of the LBK Rhythm and Roots podcast, which will air this Friday at 5pm.Then, on Monday 18 August, Robert flew to New Orleans to attend a conference for camera creatives and communications officers. The sessions were very informative about vertical video and social media marketing. Of course you know we put those new found skills to work making photos around the historic neighborhoods and entertainment districts.Here are some photos we made:And here is our second ever vertical video:But This Was The Best Part:

Man, we have been ripping and running lately, but we’ve got to get the show out no matter what. We are several hundred miles away from the LBK, but thanks to modern technology, we were still able to record and upload. Technology is great right up until the moment it’s not, but don’t fear, we go over some easily doable online safety protocols to help when technology shows it’s shady side.We also recite a poem relevant to the way tech seems like it’s out to get us sometimes.Finally, stay tuned for some of the pics we’ve taken here in “The Big Easy”.The song I mentioned: And here is the poem:Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Boy, I’ll tell you what: the adversary was trying to get to us on this episode. We came in to the studio fresh from covering the “National Night Out” at Patterson Library (Shout out to Theresa Wilson and her stalwart crew). Although we got off to a decent start, we then had “technical difficulties” with our lighting and audio. But, we did ameliorate them as well as we could in post production, so all in all, we came out with a good show. We are official boosters for the LBK, so in this episode, we discuss how much we have to be thankful for here in this fair, flat city. We also get into some content additions that we plan to soon implement. Thank y’all for bearing with us, and we hope you enjoy this episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Hey Lubbock, we are proud to announce we will film the 100th Episode of the Focus LBK Show Live. Plus we get into the importance of where you place your focus. Your focus determines your reality. That’s why we focus on Lubbock on the people who make it special. We get into discussions of our motivations and mission, and then we venture into some thoughts about privacy, freedom and what it means that your cell phone is spying on you.Show Notes This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

As I was filming today’s episode, I had the beginnings of an epiphany. I sometimes imitate the way my grandpa used to talk. Later, talking to Lovely Wife, it dawned on me that part of my identity is to be a link to the past. I am from a generation where I knew and was raised by not only both of my parents, but also by many of my grandparents.I think this is part of my love for history. I’m basically a link to a much earlier time in the history of black people in America. I remember the example, attitudes, strengths and outlooks of a group of black people that came of age during the Great Depression, World War II, and the great migration out of the South. They tended to be of greater resilience, self-reliance and determination compared with most people of the last couple of generations. Their out look shapes mine greatly, and it the genius of these might by flawed regular old folks that is worth conserving so that we can reach back and take of their strength and wisdom to help us in these fairly bleak times.I also got real about the source of one of our greatest obstacles: black-on-black violence. Have you heard of the meme “13/52”? I get into the painful truth about it and more.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

We had a very interesting conversation Mr. Rocc Sanders, proprietor of Rocc Solid Fitness. We talked about everything from the roots of bullying, to children being seduced into “that street life”. Unfortunately, we were a bit time-constrained, but please believe we plan to finish our wide-ranging discussion in the near future.The main point to take away from this episode is that Mr. Sanders’ company Creating Equal Opportunity (CEO) is sponsoring a back to school drive which will take place on Saturday August 2nd from 10a-2p. If you would like to help by donating items, please drop off grade-appropriate supplies at Rocc Solid Fitness on 19th and MLK between the hours of 8a-8p. They will be accepting donations until July 31st.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

This past Independence Day weekend, senseless violence broke out in pockets across the nation from Philadelphia, to Cincinnati. The LBK also experienced it’s own tragic mass shooting.Our Founding Fathers believed that freedom was only possible among moral people. Immoral people can’t govern themselves. This lack of self-control ensures government will use force to control them. And of course government force, in turn, limits freedom. Sobering thoughts.Also, I recently got a chance to speak with some smart kids at the Parkway-Sommerville Center who are striving for good things in life. I spoke about the How and Why of Podcasting, and it felt like many of those young folks were interested in what I had to say. Hopefully, they represent a strong fresh generation of people who move and do things. Catch the speech I gave during the second half of the ‘cast.Sources and Methods Watch some of the videos in question, if you can bear it.Philly:Cincinnatihttps://www.lubbockonline.com/story/news/crime/2025/07/06/police-id-17-year-old-killed-in-officer-involved-shooting-in-lubbock/84485245007/https://www.facebook.com/The806erOfficial/posts/watch-decide-a-new-video-has-surfaced-from-the-july-5-shooting-on-parkway-drive-/722298340547835/Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Mr. Brady Baldwin is a quiet hero here in LBK. A longtime resident of the Dunbar neighborhood, he served as a Deacon at Lyons’ Chapel, and worked at many different professions during his long, well-lived life. In fact, he is one of the men who helped build many parts of the city, including Lyons' Chapel itself. Mr. Baldwin’s 102nd Birthday celebration will be held at Mae Simmons Community Center on Monday July 14th at 5pm. We plan to document the event and would encourage you to try to make it out.We interviewed Mr. Baldwin at his home in 2023, and since his birthday is around the corner, we decided to publish this oral history interview again, to allow those who don’t know Mr. Baldwin to hear his story.Mr. Baldwin is a sharp and solid link to the past, and we are blessed to have Elders like him still with us. Their memories and stories provide important context for our lives and struggles today. Their accomplishments and examples also keep us grounded and provide a deep well of strength and wisdom that we can call on when needed.Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

We had a great, though very busy time this Juneteenth Week. On Thursday, Juneteenth Committee co-chairs Cory Powell and D’Juana McPherson kicked off the festivities at the Patterson Library. Afterwards, I spoke on the subject of “The First Four Lessons of Freedom”. I attached that speech to the end of this podcast in case you missed it. Later that weekend, The Focus LBK crew made video and pictures out in the community at several different events.We found out somewhat late about the bombing campaign in Iran and were disgusted by what we heard. As we thought about all of this, we realized that a subtle thread of modern-day slavery runs through the whole thing.Nevertheless, we were uplifted when we viewed the pictures we made of the events. You can check them out here:And here are even more:Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Today we had a rollicking-good conversation with self-described “Hick-Lib” Kyle Rable, who’s seeking to unseat the current District 19 Congressman Jodie Arrington.Kyle is proud of his progressive take on how to fix what ails our beautiful-but-gritty little-city and the region beyond. We conversed about everything from unions to drag queens, then shook hands and made plans to do it again.Check Kyle out at his website: https://www.rableforwesttexas.com/Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

A few weeks ago, Focus LBK did our first on site studio at the Guadalupe-Parkway Neighborhood Center, aka “Sommerville”. The young people we spoke to were all intelligent, thoughtful and engaging to the extent that it actually gave us a better feeling about the future of this country.We met the Senior Program Director, Dalexae Johnson, and were immediately intrigued to see such a young man being so obviously successful and at home in his position of leadership.Needless to say, we invited him on to the show and had and just really broke down all the excellent programs Sommerville Center offers to the community. Check out the live show we did a few weeks ago that kicked this whole journey off: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

News and personal interactions have helped me realize the importance of being free from the influence of those who would do you ill. I get into an article about how the government expected violence from people who were against the government over-reactions of the covid era. I then connect the dots to a stressful family situation one of my friends recently concluded. We realized that being physically mentally, or financially beholden to “the system” puts you under the control of those who are in “the system” solely to wield power.Basically, it is a form of slavery to be unhealthy, and in-debt. Duh!Sources and Methods: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

Did you know Mr. Brady Baldwin Day is around the corner? You didn’t? Well that’s ok, we just made that holiday up. But, if anyone in Lubbock was to have a day named for them, we’d heartily nominate Mr. Baldwin, of East Lubbock.He will soon be 102 years of age. He helped build this fair, flat city of ours. He is a deacon at Lyon’s Chapel Baptist Church, and get this: Dr. Lyons, one the LBK’s first black dentists, was actually Mr. Baldwin’s dentist. Check out our previous article on Mr. Baldwin below.Plus, one of Lubbock’s City ordinances is, in our estimation, just plain silly! See what in the world Robert is talking about on episode 89 of the focus LBK Show!And here is the full Interview:Focus LBK is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe

The Minneapolis Police Department leadership appear to have lied during the original trial for Derek Chauvin. The lie was so egregious, that it could lead to a re-trial, or at least renewed scrutiny of the facts surrounding George Floyd’s death.Sources and MethodsSee My Previous Video on this Subject— from years ago. I read the autopsy report, and show all kinds of other evidence from the trial.https://rumble.com/ve36yl-the-north-star-podcast-s2-ep007-george-floyd-killer-officer-chauvin-will-be.htmlSome recent news and some documentaries on the subject:Terrible Impact on Black BusinessesThe Real Timeline Documentary This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.focuslbk.show/subscribe