Black Land Podcast

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with Karen Taylor, founder and Executive Director of 'While We Are Still Here', an organization dedicated to preserving the history of Harlem, NY. The group has an initiative called the 'Signs Of The Times: Harlem Markers Project' where they are installing historic markers around the city to honor events, people and organizations vital to the city of Harlem. Future plans include developing a tourist app, where people can walk the city and the app will show the historical significance of each marker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Sharon Content, Executive Director of Children Of Promise, NYC, an organization designed to work with families impacted by incarceration. Their unique programs infuse a mental health & wellness element alongside a traditional sports and science curriculum for kids, and their Clinical Training Institute provides Continuing Education Units for licensed social workers focused on the treatment of parental incarceration as a primary childhood trauma.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler discusses the effects of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how Black women statistically are at a higher risk of getting this chronic autoimmune disorder. The discussion includes Black women living with M.S. and those who are caretakers of M.S. survivors. Guests are Multiple Sclerosis Advocate Marti Hines and Sophia Williams, producers of the documentary "All In My Head".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa Tyler speaks with visionary and business mogul Jane Carter about hair care and her new line of products, Jane Carter Evolved.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Barbara May about how her journey to discover her roots led her to Central Africa's island of Bioko, and the indigenous Bubi people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Vanessa Tyler talks with Atiya Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Janas Cosmetology Academy. JCA is the first Black-owned elite cosmetology school in the state of New Jersey. Atiya discusses her inspiration behind starting a cosmetology school, her Beyonce encounter, and we hear from some of her past students who have achieved their own successes within the industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Vanessa Tyler contemplates how African American lives would change if we all took the time to discover our ancestry by taking a pilgrimage to Africa. (PART 2) Guests include: Dr. Gina Paige, co-founder of African Ancestry.com - a DNA testing and curated travel service. Shazel Muhammad, CEO of  Eunoia Global and founder of African Link Initiative - a leadership training and coaching firm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Vanessa Tyler contemplates how African American lives would change if we all took the time to discover our ancestry by taking a pilgrimage to Africa. Guests include: Dr. Gina Paige, co-founder of African Ancestry.com - a DNA testing and curated travel service. Shazel Muhammad, CEO of  Eunoia Global and founder of African Link Initiative - a leadership training and coaching firm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do Black cops hurt or help the Black community??  Vanessa Tyler talks with investigative journalist Wilbert Cooper of The Marshall Project about law enforcement in America and his book "The Black Shield".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa Tyler talks with journalist Lee Hawkins (Wall Street Journal) about family history and ending the cycle of trauma that Black History can cause.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Vanessa Tyler has a revealing conversation with entrepreneur and financial advisor Eszylfie Taylor. Eszylfie is the president and founder of Taylor Insurance and Financial Services located in the financial district of Pasadena, California. Vanessa and Eszylfie talk about his middle class upbringing, becoming top a financial advisor, and he offers his perspective on building individual wealth through money management and wellness.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Vanessa Tyler talks about the challenges of being a family caregiver. Guests: Lynette Robinson of LC Consulting & Caregiver Planning, Caryl R. Lucas and Walter Nelson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 3 features the incredible story of Dolphus Stroud. In 1928, Dolphus Stroud qualified for the Olympic trials in the 5k race. However, as a Black man he was denied funding and transportation to get to the trials at Harvard Stadium. Undeterred, 19-year-old Dolphus walked over 2,000 miles from Colorado Springs to Cambridge, Massachusetts. His descendant Frank Shines joins Host Vanessa Tyler to share details about Dolphus' journey and the incredible accomplishments of the Stroud family despite the obstacles of racism. https://runningtoharvard.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 2 focuses on HIV rates among black women in America. Host Vanessa Tyler talks to Masonia Traylor, who has been living with HIV for 10 years. Masonia explains that many black women are unaware of the risks of contracting HIV and don't understand safe sex negotiation. She says HIV is stigmatized in the black community, making it difficult for people to get tested or treated. Masonia shares her personal story of contracting HIV from a partner she trusted.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Dr. Vanessa Tyler has an in-depth discussion with Dr. Timothy E. Lewis, Associate Professor and Director of Black Studies at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE). Dr. Lewis is the first Black professor to receive tenure in the Department of Political Science at SIUE. Their discussion includes a conversation about the 're-education of white Americans' when it comes to race relations in this country,  The "Black proximity defense" when accused of bias or racism, and the event "Black - A Celebration of Black Research".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa Tyler talks with author, journalist and critical thinker Edward Sargent about  his strategy for slavery reparations and the inconspicuous history of reparations that exists in the United States.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa Tyler takes a deep dive into the history of Black cowboy culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa Tyler speaks with Dr. Deloris Thomas, president of the Joseph Business School in Chigago as well as alumni about entrepreneurship and creating generational wealth within the Black community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Philadelphia's C.J. Rice, who was recently exonerated after serving 12 years in prison for a crime he did not commit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Vanessa Tyler talks about the history of the Crownsville Hospital Center - formerly known as the Hospital For The Negro Insane of Maryland. In 1911, this segregated facility was constructed to treat the mentally ill, but patients were often subjected to medical experimentation, abuse and neglect. Vanessa speaks to Janice Hayes Williams about her mission to create a permanent memorial dedicated to those that died at Crownsville, and were buried in unnamed graves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with world-renowned cardiologist Professor Dr. Ernst von Schwarz  about extending human life expectancy through science and technology, and the social implications of longevity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode focuses on the aftermath of gun violence and how it impacts Black communities. It features Dr. Vanessa Tyler's conversation with Wesley Hamilton, a gunshot survivor who became paralyzed from the waist down. Despite his injuries, Wesley was able to turn his life around and start an organization called " Disabled But Not Really " to help others with disabilities. The episode shines a light on the ripple effects of gun violence in Black communities and the resilience of survivors like Wesley.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Vanessa Tyler takes a look at violence against Black women and the recent rise in missing Black women cases. Vanessa speaks with Natalie Wilson - Co-founder and COO of the Black And Missing Foundation Inc (BAMFI) about how they are helping to rectify the racial disparities in media coverage when it comes to missing Black people in America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's episode focuses on the booming interest in true crime, especially cases involving missing or murdered African Americans. It covers the annual CrimeCon convention and highlights efforts by the Black and Missing Foundation to bring more attention to missing blacks. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Vanessa Tyler discusses the impact and the evolution of A.I. on the Black Community.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with Lionel Ray Williams and filmmaker Letitia McIntosh about the circumstances surrounding Lionel's conviction for the murder of actor Sal Mineo in 1979. Letitia has produced a documentary, "Unseen Innocence", exploring reports of false accusations and misconduct during the investigation in the hopes of erasing the stigma surrounding Lionel's name and reputation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler speaks with survivor Lakeisha Walker about her harrowing experience as a victim of human sex trafficking. Lakeisha shares her story in vivid detail, reliving the nightmare that started when she was just 18 years old. Today, Lakeisha is founder and CEO of Honorable Women Inc., an organization that fights for the rights of human sex trafficking victims. She is also an author and motivational speaker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler revisits the death of Emmett Till on what would have been his 84th birthday. Emmett Till was a 14 year old boy visiting Mississippi from Chicago in 1955 when he was abducted and brutally murdered by a gang of white men because he whistled at a white lady. Museums in Mississippi commemorate this pivotal point in American history and the Civil Rights Movement with a new display of the gun that killed young Emmett.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler discusses the growing trend of Black Americans emigrating to Africa. She speaks with people who have moved to Ghana and are helping to build infrastructure and support outreach to Black Americans here at home. They discuss Ghana's Cultural Oneness Festival, an annual festival that helps to promote cultural awareness and unity through traditions, art and music.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Iva Wilson, founder of Ginger Noir: The Black Redhead Project. Iva says some of the project goals include educating people about the science behind Black people with red hair, increase awareness and community of Black people with red hair and to provide a platform for people to share stories and celebrate this unique trait.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler examines the details surrounding the police shooting of 18-year old college student Jabari Peoples in Alabama. Despite the opinion of police officials, family and attorney Ben Crump claims that "this is not an open and shut case". This episode reviews the discrepancies with body cam footage and witness testimonies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with Jilea Hemmings, co-owner and creator of Nourish + Bloom Markets. Using the latest A.I.  technology and community investment strategies, Jiliea and her husband Jamie are opening innovative grocery markets across the country. Jilea talks about their experience on the reality show Shark Tank, and their journey to success.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler takes us inside the case of William McNeil Jr., the 22-year old HBCU student who was pulled from his car and beaten by Florida police officers. Hear accounts from William himself, and the attorneys who represent him, as they detail the events that unfolded during the routine traffic stop that escalated into violence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler takes us inside the tragedy of the Sapelo Island Gangway accident.  Hear firsthand accounts from survivors of the collapsed gangway at the Marsh Landing Dock on Sapelo Island. It was supposed to be a day of celebration, commemorating Sapelo Island's Gullah-Geechee community made up of descendants of Black slaves. Instead, it was a day of disaster and survival.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler travels to Tybee Island near Savannah Georgia to soak up the sun and knowledge surrounding this historical island haven. Led by historian and tour guide Dr. Amir Jamal Toure, Dr. Tyler gets a crash course in the history, mythology and culture of the island. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks to producer and tech founder Isaac Hayes III about Fanbase, the first Black-owned social media platform.  Fanbase positions itself as an alternative to traditional social media platforms as it focuses on diversity, social engagement and content monetization for Black creators.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has an in-depth conversation with one of Smokey Robinson's best friends, legendary actor and producer Leon Isaac Kennedy.  They discuss the recent allegations of assault, rape and abuse brought against the iconic singer and his wife. Leon is quick to defend his friend and offers his unique insight into the case.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler chats with legendary entertainer Dionne Warwick about her career and her legacy.  Dionne is appearing at The Apollo Theater in Harlem on June 27, 2025 for a one night only event that features storytelling, anecdotes, and a live performance. Titled "Dionne Warwick: Don't Make Me Over", this will be her first time at the Apollo in 60 years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler delves into the tragic story of Qaadir and Naazir Lewis, twin teenagers whose deaths were ruled as a murder-suicide. Friends, family and Georgia community leaders see major flaws in the case and are calling for an independent investigation. In this episode of Black Land, hear the suspicious details surrounding the death of these 19 year old twins and hear from family members who are still fighting for justice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has an exclusive interview with Real Housewives of Atlanta star Dwight Eubanks regarding his recent prostate cancer diagnosis. Dwight takes us through his discovery process and why he has chosen to become a vocal advocate for cancer screening and testing, especially for those in the African American community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with entrepreneur and advocate Faith Oluwadare who shares her experiences as a Black business woman in America. Her portfolio includes Owner of an upscale restuarant in New Jersey (House 157), and founder of A Mother's Road To Zion - a non-profit organization for women with a difficult past, working towards a better future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler recounts the horrific case of Jeanne Whitefeather and Donald Lantz, a West Virginia couple sentenced to prison for child abuse, trafficking and forced labor of their adopted Black children. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a one-on-one with Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey about the state of our democracy.  They have an honest conversation about the good and the bad regarding the Democratic party, his record-breaking 25-hour speech on the senate floor, and how a resistance to the Trump administration is fueling the future of the party and the country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During a tour stop in Newark, NJ, Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with participants of The State of the People POWER Tour- a movement that unites community leaders, activists, influencers and the public to help strengthen Black communities nationwide. The Tour is traveling to Black communities throughout the country spotlighting local leadership, and helping to shape a national Black agenda, leading up to Juneteenth 2025. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler accepts and invitation to Wall Street.  Dr. Lisa Wicker, founder and CEO of Career Mastered Women's Network, organized an exclusive group of professional women to visit the New Your Stock Exchange. Here they discuss the importance of networking, empowerment, diversity and the history of women on Wall St.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler speaks with Wanda Bertram, Communications Strategist for the Prison Policy Initiative, an independent research and advocacy organization that studies criminal justice reform and mass incarceration. Wanda shares data and insights that her organization offers to other advocacy groups and elected officials who are on the front lines fighting over-criminalization and gerrymandering.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As part of the Black Information Network's 'Black Maternal Health' awareness campaign, Dr. Vanessa Tyler shares the story of Jose Perez & Christine Fields. In 2023, Jose's fiancée Christine died while giving birth to their son, Anuel, during emergency C-section surgery. Jose talks about the difficulties he experienced and witnessed while trying to advocate for Christine's care, including racism and alleged negligence. These are just some of the disparities that pregnant Black women routinely face, leading to a maternal mortality rate 9 times greater than other women.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Joshua Fekete who lives with his family in a foreign country.  Joshua shares his remarkable and terrifying story about surviving a heart attack, a deadly earthquake and financial hardship while living in Thailand. Joshua details his ordeal of having to pay unexpected medical bills while in a foreign country, with no help from his American insurance provider or the U.S. Embassy. The family had to resort to a GoFundMe campaign to help cover their medical costs and to be able to return home to Georgia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Robin Proudie, Founder and Executive Director of the Descendants of the St. Louis University Enslaved (DSLUE). Through the discovery of tireless research and documentation, the DSLUE seeks to enlighten people about Saint Louis University and the Jesuits' ties to the institution of slavery in the 1800's.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with restaurateur partners  Nigel Douglas and Shauna Neely of Douglas Neely Hospitality Group (DNHG). Together they are owners of the first and only Black-owned caviar brand in the Tri-State area. They also manage several restaurants including Caviar in Edgewater, NJ. They discuss how caviar is one of the biggest trends happening in the culinary scene currently, and how DNHG are bringing caviar to the culture by creating a unique and elevated dining experience.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.