Live from the CRJ

Join Tia Suggs, Project Manager for Dillard University's Center for Racial Justice, as she sits down with Randon Heim—Crescent Care Therapist, Wellness Coach, and aspiring fashion designer—for an inspiring conversation about Black Mental Health & Fitness. 💪🏽✨In this episode, Randon opens up about his incredible personal journey of losing 100 pounds in just one year, sharing the challenges, triumphs, and mindset shifts that fueled his transformation. He also offers actionable tips on how the Black community in New Orleans can prioritize their health, nutrition, and fitness, as well as how students interested in psychology can break into the field.____________________________________________________________________Key Topics:Randon's 100-pound weight loss journeyBlack mental health and wellness strategiesFitness and nutrition tips for the New Orleans communityCareer advice for aspiring psychologists______________________________________________________________________Tune in now to hear Randon’s story and get motivated to take control of your health and wellness journey! And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram  @CRJ_DU  for more updates and resources.🔔 Subscribe, like, and share with your friends—let's build a healthier, stronger community together!

Live from the CRJ Podcast: Juvenile Justice & AdvocacyTune in to our latest Live from the CRJ Podcast featuring Tia Suggs (CRJ Project Manager) and Amiyah King (Juvenile Justice Policy Advisor, Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice Coordination). They dive into the challenges of juvenile justice in New Orleans, the impact of policy reform, and how CRJ is working to support system-affected youth.A must-listen for Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Psychology majors interested in careers in advocacy, policy, and youth justice!

This week, Lawrence speaks with Alfred McQuarter, a formerly incarcerated person about his struggles in life, his incarceration, Inmate mental health, and adjusting to returning to life on the "outside"

This week, Lawrence speaks with Bro. Habibullah Saleem, one of the founders of Community Champions On the Move about the upcoming Muhammad Ali's 12 Acts of Kindness event, Bro. Saleem's experiences with Ali and you might get a rhyme or two! Community Champions On The Move is a non-profit organization that focuses on the youth in the inner cities of New Orleans, LA. Our mission is to provide mentorship, education, and resources to help young people succeed in life. Our organization was founded by Habibullah Saleem, Burghart Turner, and Jeff Crouere, who saw a need for positive role models and support systems in our community. We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we are dedicated to making that a reality. Join us in our mission to uplift and empower the next generation of leaders. You can find more info at https://www.ccotm.org/

This week, Live from the CRJ is sharing the mic with CRJ intern and new DU alumnus Lena Uddyback for her 8 part series Courage Unbound. Courage Unbound is an eye-opening 8-episode series dedicated to shedding light on the dark realities of sex trafficking, violence, and other sexually based crimes. Each episode dives deep into the issues that plague our society, exploring the impact of hypersexuality and the factors that contribute to these heinous acts. Join us as we bring awareness and discuss actionable steps to combat these pervasive problems. Courage Unbound is not just a podcast; it's a call to action for a safer, more informed world.

This week, Live from the CRJ is sharing the mic with CRJ intern and new DU alumnus Lena Uddyback for her 8 part series Courage Unbound. Courage Unbound is an eye-opening 8-episode series dedicated to shedding light on the dark realities of sex trafficking, violence, and other sexually based crimes. Each episode dives deep into the issues that plague our society, exploring the impact of hypersexuality and the factors that contribute to these heinous acts. Join us as we bring awareness and discuss actionable steps to combat these pervasive problems. Courage Unbound is not just a podcast; it's a call to action for a safer, more informed world.

This week, Live from the CRJ is sharing the mic with CRJ intern and new DU alumnus Lena Uddyback for her 8 part series Courage Unbound. Courage Unbound is an eye-opening 8-episode series dedicated to shedding light on the dark realities of sex trafficking, violence, and other sexually based crimes. Each episode dives deep into the issues that plague our society, exploring the impact of hypersexuality and the factors that contribute to these heinous acts. Join us as we bring awareness and discuss actionable steps to combat these pervasive problems. Courage Unbound is not just a podcast; it's a call to action for a safer, more informed world.

This week, Live from the CRJ is sharing the mic with CRJ intern and new DU alumnus Lena Uddyback for her 8 part series Courage Unbound. Courage Unbound is an eye-opening 8-episode series dedicated to shedding light on the dark realities of sex trafficking, violence, and other sexually based crimes. Each episode dives deep into the issues that plague our society, exploring the impact of hypersexuality and the factors that contribute to these heinous acts. Join us as we bring awareness and discuss actionable steps to combat these pervasive problems. Courage Unbound is not just a podcast; it's a call to action for a safer, more informed world.

This week, Live from the CRJ is sharing the mic with CRJ intern and new DU alumnus Lena Uddyback for her 8 part series Courage Unbound. Courage Unbound an eye-opening 8-episode series dedicated to shedding light on the dark realities of sex trafficking, violence, and other sexually based crimes. Each episode dives deep into the issues that plague our society, exploring the impact of hypersexuality and the factors that contribute to these heinous acts. Join us as we bring awareness and discuss actionable steps to combat these pervasive problems. Courage Unbound is not just a podcast; it's a call to action for a safer, more informed world.

This week, Live from the CRJ is sharing the mic with CRJ intern and new DU alumnus Lena Uddyback for her 8 part series Courage Unbound. Courage Unbound an eye-opening 8-episode series dedicated to shedding light on the dark realities of sex trafficking, violence, and other sexually based crimes. Each episode dives deep into the issues that plague our society, exploring the impact of hypersexuality and the factors that contribute to these heinous acts. Join us as we bring awareness and discuss actionable steps to combat these pervasive problems. Courage Unbound is not just a podcast; it's a call to action for a safer, more informed world.

This week, Live from the CRJ is sharing the mic with CRJ intern and new DU alumnus Lena Uddyback for her 8 part series Courage Unbound. Courage Unbound an eye-opening 8-episode series dedicated to shedding light on the dark realities of sex trafficking, violence, and other sexually based crimes. Each episode dives deep into the issues that plague our society, exploring the impact of hypersexuality and the factors that contribute to these heinous acts. Join us as we bring awareness and discuss actionable steps to combat these pervasive problems. Courage Unbound is not just a podcast; it's a call to action for a safer, more informed world.

This week, Live from the CRJ is sharing the mic with CRJ intern and new DU alumnus Lena Uddyback for her 8 part series Courage Unbound. Courage Unbound an eye-opening 8-episode series dedicated to shedding light on the dark realities of sex trafficking, violence, and other sexually based crimes. Each episode dives deep into the issues that plague our society, exploring the impact of hypersexuality and the factors that contribute to these heinous acts. Join us as we bring awareness and discuss actionable steps to combat these pervasive problems. Courage Unbound is not just a podcast; it's a call to action for a safer, more informed world.

This week, Lawrence sits down with Dr. Gary Clark, Professor of Political Science here at Dillard University. We speak on the most recent historical events in American politics, how they parallel, the importance of voting. Dr. Gary M. Clark is a political analyst, strategist, and commentator. He is a Barron Hilton Endowed Professor in Political Science, and a Revius O. Ortique, Jr., Endowed Chair in Politics and Social Thought at Dillard University. He is the Founding Director of Dillard University's Center for Law & Public Interest. Dr. Clark believes the best electorate is an informed electorate. An avid supporter of global civic engagement, he is Executive Producer and Host of the cable television program, Dr. Clark Reports, and radio show, Dr. Clark 101: The Living Classroom. Both shows are broadcasted weekly in New Orleans, Louisiana. The television show profiles individuals in the local, state, and national community. While the radio program centers on a variety of issues that include: public interest, current events, trending topics, electoral politics, immigration, guns, social justice, education/instruction, arts/culture, sports, advocacy, policy, and global civic engagement.

This week, Lawrence speaks with Gia Rushing with CALM NOLA about psychosis: what it is, what it isn't, and the stigma that surrounds psychosis and mental health in general. CALM stands for Clear Answers to Louisiana Mental Health. We exist to provide accurate information about psychosis especially, the first episode. Our goal is to decrease the duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) in our communities by increasing awareness about psychosis and getting people into care quickly. CALM is the advocacy and outreach arm of the Early Psychosis Intervention Clinic in New Orleans, LA (EPIC-NOLA) and runs in parallel to its programs and services. As clinical services expand, we are spreading to other parts of the state.  For More Information, visit https://calmnola.org/

This week, Lawrence and Tia speak from the Delvin Breaux Mental Health Bootcamp with Jamila Roy with the Louisiana Mental Health Association(LAMHA). We talk about the stigmas attached with having issues, getting help, and how the youth in the camp deal with those stigmas. LAMHA specifically serves individuals who have been treated for any mental or emotional disorder and/or substance abuse, with a special focus on the seriously and chronically mentally ill adult population. All programs operated by LAMHA strive to develop independence, self sufficiency and consumer empowerment of our clients With the support of staff and resources offered by our programs, individuals can achieve the success needed to live independently within the community. For more infromation, head to their website: https://louisianamha.org/

This week, Lawrence speaks with Junior CRJ scholar Mikayla Weary on her art exhibition "Rent's Due." We talk about who owes, how the COVID-19 Pandemic directly affected Gen Z and how that uncertainty shapes their outlook. Rent's Due is an exhibition by Mikayla Weary in Collaboration With the Center for Racial Justice. The exhibition explores inflation's impact on the Black Community, focusing on Gen-Z impacted by the pandemic. It addresses economic disparity, resilience, and aims to spark dialogue for social and ecomonic justice.

This week, Lawrence speaks with Athlete and Entrepreneur Delvin Breaux Sr. We speak about his upcoming mental health bootcamp, his own personal mental health struggles and breaking the stigma of mental health in the Black community. Our upcoming Mental Health Bootcamp, named in honor of Delvin Breaux Sr., aims to provide resources, workshops, and discussions focused on promoting mental well-being, particularly within communities of color. Through engaging speakers, interactive sessions, and informative materials, we seek to empower individuals to prioritize their mental health and break the stigma associated with seeking support. To ensure the success of this impactful event, we are actively seeking partnerships and sponsorships from organizations like yours who share our vision of promoting mental health awareness and racial equity. 

This Week, Lawrence speaks with Robert David, life coach and Youth & Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator with the City of Danville, Virginia. They speak about the evolution of gang activity, how social media plays a role amongst Gen Z, and what would he do with the CRJ's "magic wand." While serving as juvenile court counselor in Rockingham, North Carolina, Robert David established himself as a motivational speaker as well as a life & recovery coach. His captivating personality and ability to connect with people of all ages (especially youth) have allowed him to positively impact every community he has been a part of and to create meaningful social change surrounding gang violence. An ordained minister, David encourages individuals to reach the full potential that God calls them to achieve. He provides ministry, mentorship and is an advocate for at-risk youth, many of whom credit David for their success. In his current role as Danville, Virginia’s Youth & Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator, David is the point person as the city, non-profits & citizen groups come together to coordinate efforts to combat violence in the city. His experience with strategic planning & community development made him the ideal candidate to engage the different stakeholders and create change for Danville. He holds a number of degrees and licenses, including his MS in both Addiction Counseling and Professional Counseling as well as his BA in Business Administration. David is a Nationally Certified Gang Intervention Specialist, Life Coach, Licensed Certified Addiction Counselor, North Carolina Department of Public Safety Instructor, and Fitness Instructor. David’s book, Gangs Vs. Kingdom, informs readers about gang culture in America. David also addresses the root cause of violence perpetrated by gangs and proposes solutions to major problems of gang activity that are rooted in faith and morality. The book pieces together David’s life work and passion with his worldview and faith. You can contact him at his website, https://www.robertdavidconsulting.com/

This Week, Lawrence speaks with Brent Bailey with Community Justice Action Fund as they speak on community based answers on gun violence how art can be and outlet and what would he do with the CRJ's "magic wand." Brent Bailey is a proud son of Violet, Louisiana and an alumnus of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. As the Southeast Regional Advocacy Associate with Community Justice, he is able to build local and statewide coalitions, facilitate educational briefings with elected officials, and provide sustainable resources to Black and Brown community based organizations working to end gun violence. Community Justice works to reduce gun violence in Black and brown communities by empowering those closest to the pain, and advocating for resources and policies that invest in community-based solutions, rather than funneling money into antiquated policy ideas that leave neighborhoods with a heavy police presence and no other resources. Started in 2016 by Amber Goodwin (in the aftermath of the shooting in Charleston,) Amber started an organization specifically to give voice to the communities most impacted by gun violence and center them in the debate on guns. For more information contact [email protected] or visit https://www.cjactionfund.org/

This Week, Lawrence and Tia talk with author Loreal Ivory on her book Who Let the Nerves Out and her upcoming series of Who Let? books. We talk about children's mental health and the process to mental wellness and the journey to emotional intelligence. Loreal Ivory is an educator and author from New Orleans, Louisiana. She is passionate about early childhood education and providing access to resources that support student learning and growth. For nearly a decade, she has taught in both elementary and postsecondary sectors of education. She is currently a success coach for recent high school graduates. Loreal wants to motivate students and provide opportunities that best support them in their academic and career endeavors. Through her writing and “mini book lessons,” she wants to equip students and educators with creative tools to develop self awareness, self control, and executive function skills that are essential for school, work, and life success. You can purchase copies of her book at the following link: https://a.co/d/8MaBTy2

This week, Lawrence and Tia sit down with Sheyiwa "Set" Shakur, president of the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation, daughter of the founder Afeni Shakur and brother to hip hop icon Tupac Shakur. They talk about the origins of the foundation, its focus on mental health and wellness, and its future. The mission of the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation is to address mental health conditions and eradicate the effects of trauma on our community by providing access to therapeutic resources, creative arts, and education designed to support mental health, physical wellness, and overall development. You can Find More Info at their website: http://www.tupacshakurfoundation.org/

This week, Lawrence and Tia talk to the Property Bruhz (Austin Fleury & Justin M. Lee, Sr) as they speak on the real estate market, credit and debt, and the things that you need to know in order to prepare to purchase your first home Justin M. Lee, Sr., the powerhouse behind J.M. Lee Construction Co. in Decatur, GA, is different from your average Licensed General Contractor. Born and raised in New Orleans, Justin's bringing that unique Louisiana flair to the construction game. As the owner of a minority-owned enterprise, he's not just building homes; he's crafting dreams, specializing in residential and commercial projects. And that's not where it stops – Justin's also a top-notch Real Estate Broker and Co-Owner of Fleur De Lee Realty, LLC, hustling alongside his brother, Austin Fleury, a Morehouse Alumni, beyond his degrees from Morehouse College and LSU, including an MBA in Family Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, Justin's on a mission for more. He is pursuing a doctorate in organizational leadership at South College, he has big plans to teach entrepreneurship and small business courses back at Morehouse.

This week, we talk to cast members Jordan Bordenave and Matthew Thompson about the NOLA Project's production of George C. Wolfe's The Colored Museum. Lawrence(also a part of the cast) talks about the show's history, the decision to produce this play, and how the play and representation work toward the fight for racial justice. Originally premiering in 1986, this bold and provocative satire presents a series of 11 "exhibits" representing Black American culture. Described by playwright George C. Wolfe as both "an exorcism and a party," THE COLORED MUSEUM has electrified, discomforted, and delighted audiences of all colors, redefining our ideas of what it means to be Black in contemporary America.  THE COLORED MUSEUM is presented in partnership with the New Orleans African American Museum and will take place in and around the historic venue (1417-1418 Governor Nicholls Street). Please note the immersive* production contains some adult content. ​ THE COLORED MUSEUM is made possible by The Carol Sutton Memorial Grant, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, New Orleans Recreation and Culture Fund and the National Endowment for the Arts. The NOLA Project is an ensemble theatre company that challenges, entertains, and engages diverse New Orleans audiences through adventurous productions of classic works, the development of innovative new plays, and practical education opportunities. For over 15 years, The NOLA Project and their intrepid ensemble of artists have brought bold, innovative, and imaginative theatre to the people of New Orleans. Twice awarded with the National Theatre Company Award from the American Theatre Wing, they’ve carved a niche in the Gulf South with our immersive and innovative original plays.

This week, we talk to Mr. Reginald Johnson, founder of YORRA(Youthful Offenders to Reformed and Responsible Adults), who was unjustly imprisoned in 1984. We speak on his former incarceration, his continuing fight for exoneration, and his push to help others on the road to healing. BAR NONE by DeSign encourages those impacted by incarceration to eliminate recidivism, dismantle the prison industrial complex and work together to design a just, ethical, and equitable criminal legal system. For More Info, visit their website at https://www.bar-none.net/

Happy 2024! We are back! This week, we get to speak with DU students DeAndrew Thomas, Rajah Thomas, and Mikayla Weary on their experience on the CRJ's Official Trip to Italy this January. We talk about the culture, the sights, and let's not forget the food!

This week, Lawrence speaks with Mr. August "Gerttown" Williams, who was unjustly imprisoned in 1968. We speak about his case, his time, and his work with Bar None on the road to exoneration. BAR NONE by DeSign encourages those impacted by incarceration to eliminate recidivism, dismantle the prison industrial complex and work together to design a just, ethical, and equitable criminal legal system. For More Info, visit their website at https://www.bar-none.net/

This week, Lawrence speaks with April Winder with the Southern Poverty Law Center as we go into depth with what SPLC does and how it's working in the community here in New Orleans. For more info about the Southern Poverty Law Center, visit their website https://www.splcenter.org/

***CONTENT WARNING*** This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, sexual assault, and self-harm. This week, Lawrence and Tia speak with Josie Ashton, a domestic violence activist as we talk with her about her experience with domestic violence in the criminal justice system, the work that she's done with the Bride's March, and her healing journey. Josie Ashton is a victim advocate and an activist in the South Florida community since 1994. As a survivor of domestic violence, she uses her experience and her education in criminal justice to help victims navigate the system and use it in a positive way to help families restore their lives. Josie is also known as the creator of The Bride's March, a 1300 miles journey in a wedding gown to raise awareness about domestic violence. Contact Josie at [email protected]

Greetings from the CRJ! On this episode, we introduce you to our hosts, Tia Suggs(Project Coordinator) and Lawrence Weber Jr(Project Assistant) of the Center for Racial Justice as they embark on the first of hopefully many more episodes! This week we are speaking with journalist and author Bankole Thompson as we speak about current events, the upcoming election and his new book, Fiery Conscience. Bankole Thompson is a nationally acclaimed journalist and a twice-a-week opinion columnist at The Detroit News. Thompson, a racial justice champion, is the dean of the anti-poverty think tank, The PuLSE Institute and a member of the Executive Board of the Center for Racial Justice at Dillard University.