Friendship Talks…Are you Listening?

Breaking Barriers in Blue In this episode of Friendship Talks: Are You Listening?, Dr. Corliss Brown Thompson sits down with Representative Carolyn Logan to discuss a truly historic journey through North Carolina’s history. Representative Logan shares vivid stories from her time as the first Black woman to serve as a North Carolina State Trooper, offering a rare look at the determination required to break such a barrier. The conversation explores her start and subsequent journey in law enforcement, detailing the experiences that defined her commitment to protecting and serving her community. About the Guest Representative Carolyn Logan is a trailblazer who made history as the first Black woman to serve as a North Carolina State Trooper. After a long and distinguished career in law enforcement, she transitioned into public service as a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives. Representative Logan also reflects on the importance of family and education, sharing how she pursued her college degree later in life to set a powerful example for her children.   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

In this episode of Friendship Talks: Are You Listening?, Dr. Corliss Brown Thompson discussed with guest Kathryn P. Carter how reading shapes a child’s life. They explored how a student's confidence is tied to literacy and why it is so important for children to see themselves reflected in the books they read. Kathryn shared personal stories of growing up watching her mother and grandmother set the example for reading at home, and how that early foundation inspired her mission to help children find success through books. About the Guest Kathryn P. Carter is a retired educator with an extensive professional background as a classroom teacher, instructional specialist, reading specialist, and testing coordinator. She is the author of the Lizzie B. Hayes book series, which features a young Black girl navigating life and learning. Beyond her literary work, Kathryn has developed impactful literacy initiatives, including the Rock Star Reader Beyond the Book tutoring program and 10 Steps to Reading Success for Parents, both designed to empower families and foster a lifelong love of reading. To explore the world of Lizzie B. Hayes, learn more about Kathryn’s literacy initiatives, or join the Lizzie B. Hayes Book Club, please visit her official website: 👉 kpcarterwrites.com Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.    

In this episode of Friendship Talks, Rev. Dr. Paul McAllister and veteran journalist Cliff Harrington examined redistricting and gerrymandering. With more than 30 years at The Charlotte Observer and The Rock Hill Herald, Harrington discussed how redistricting differed from gerrymandering, how map drawing shaped political power, and offered practical context for listeners—especially community leaders and engaged voters—who wanted to respond to the issue. About the guest Cliff Harrington is a retired executive editor and the author of two books: Just Tell the Truth: A Black Man’s Perspective on America and Its History — https://a.co/d/ivMoaox Write It Right: A Guide for Aspiring Writers and Truth‑Tellers — https://a.co/d/gz65g61 Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Overview In this follow-up to the "Loving Me: Mind, Body, Soul" symposium, we move from personal wellness to navigating the institutional healthcare landscape. Our panel breaks down the distinctions between Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), providing you with the clarity needed to make informed decisions for yourself and your family. The Panel Host: Melissa Rivers, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church Social Justice Ministry. Leah Keith: Senior Quality and Training Specialist for Adult Medicaid, Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services. April Adams: Certified Independent Health and Life Insurance Broker, specializing in the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Nefertari El-Bey: Licensed Independent Agent and Broker specializing in Medicare Advantage and Healthcare Administration. (Web: insuredbynef.com) Important Resources Mecklenburg County Adult Medicaid: 704-432-1111 HealthCare.gov National Helpline: 800-318-2596 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.  

In this episode, host Bill Ryans interviews Dr. C. Anthony Jones, Jr., Digital Engagement Minister, and Jeremiah Morris, Administrative Assistant for Christian Education & Discipleship and Digital Ministry. The conversation traces the history of digital ministries in the church, explores current uses, and discusses the future of digital ministry. Join us as we delve into how technology is transforming faith engagement and community connection. YouTube Facebook Instagram Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service

Our host, Bill Ryans, interviewed  Greg Jarrell, Senior Campaign Organizer of Charlotte's Redress movement.  The Redress movement’s mission is to repair the harm due to intentional policies that segregate communities. Also, Greg discussed his book, Our Trespasses: White Churches and the Taking of American Neighborhoods.   Redress Movement of Charlotte Our Trespasses: White Churches and the Taking of American Neighborhoods Greg Jarrell   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, 

Our host, Bill Ryans, interviewed  persons that traveled on FMBC’s Reunification Civil Rights Tour to Alabama.  The attendees visited historical Civil Rights sites in Birmingham, Selma and Montgomery.  Bill engaged with the guests to reflect on the trip and share with the audience  the historical importance  and impact of each one of the areas visited.   Guests: Calvin and  Dr. Corliss Thompson Renee Harrison Deloris Chisley   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.  

Our host, Bill Ryans, interviewed  Honorable Elisa Chinn-Gary, Co-founder of Race Matters for Juvenile Justice, Mecklenburg County Office of the Clerk of Superior Court about the upcoming Charlotte Remembrance Project program.  The Charlotte Remembrance project mission is to tell the story of racial terror lynchings in America.  On Sunday, July 20, 2025  the organization will speak specifically about two lynchings that occurred in Charlotte.  Charlotte Remembrance Project Declaration of Support Equal Justice Initiative Racial Matters for Juvenile Justice   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Our host, Jennifer Duru Perry spoke with Deronda Metz, Executive Director of Friendship Community Development Corporation.  Ms. Metz described the organization’s history and mission.  She spoked extensively about Friendship Gardens and how interested persons can become involved with the CDC. Friendship Community Development Corporation Friendship Gardens Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Our host, Wallace Shields interviewed Rev. LeDayne McLeese Polaski, Executive Director of Mecklenburg Metropolitan Interfaith Network (MeckMIN) and Glenn Smith  the Founder and Executive Director of Life Connections of the Carolinas, Inc.  Mr. Smith is MeckMin’s 2025 Community Award Recipient.  The group discussed his organization’s strategies for keeping adolescents out of jail and the restorative programs provided to currently incarcerated persons.      MeckMin 2025 MeckMin Award Winners Life Connections Glenn Smith   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.    

Our host, Veronica Clemons interviewed Jeniffer R. Loney and Tonya Woods members of the Human Trafficking Committee  of  FMBC’s Social Justice Ministry.  Our guests defined Human Trafficking, provided ways to detect trafficking and offered strategies to help victims find help.  Finally, the group discussed the upcoming Human Trafficking forum being held at FMBC. Human Trafficking Awareness Forum: Connecting the Dots:

Our host,  Bill Ryans spoke with Julie Porter, President of DreamKey Partners.  DreamKey Partners is developer of affordable housing homes and apartments in Charlotte.  Mrs. Porter talks about DreamKey’s history and origins, Charlotte’s housing situation and DreamKey’s role in providing affordable housing.  She also provides information on how interested persons can work with her organization to meet their housing needs. DreamKey Partners House Charlotte   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, financial advisor or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.  

Our host,  Jennifer Duru Perry spoke with Malcolm Graham, author of The Way Forward.  Malcolm is a former North Carolina State Senator and currently serves on the Charlotte City Council.  Malcolm discussed his personal journey  in the aftermath of the Charleston church tragedy. Malcolm’s sister Cynthia Graham Hurd was killed in the Emanuel AME Church shooting. Finally, he provides action steps to respond to systemic racism. Malcolm Graham Amazon Barnes and Nobles   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Our host,  Dr Corliss Thompson spoke with Mrs. Shanna Rae, principal of University Park Creative Arts Elementary School. This conversation was an update on the school’s academic successes since an earlier podcast (Aug 2023) and a call to action for the community to assist the students and school programs going forward. University Park Creative Arts Elementary Principal Shanna Rae UPCA Makes History!

Our host, Jennifer Duru Perry, spoke to Evelyn Anderson and Gwendolyn Prince about the mission and impact of the Youth Villages organization.  This organization has worked to improve the lives of children for over 35 years.   Evelyn Anderson: Development Coordinator Gwendolyn Prince: Regional Supervisor for Outpatient Mental Health Services  Youth Villages   Hands-on Volunteering, December 2-December 13: Location: Carolina Customs, 20310 Chartwell Center Dr, Cornelius, NC 28031 If you are in the Charlotte area, we ask that you to join us for a volunteering session(s) where we will organize gifts for the youth that we serve based on their wishlists, hobbies, and interests. With more than 1600 items to sort, we need your support! If you are interested in hands-on volunteering, please sign up for a volunteering session here:  Holiday Heroes Volunteer Booking Form   Shopping our Amazon Registry:  Youth Villages has created an Amazon Registry with some of our most needed items. Currently our highest need items are for our young adults who have aged out of the foster care system: items like basic clothing and footwear are highly requested, but all items on the registry are incredibly supportive and needed.   

Kamaria E. Lawrence and Rev. Dr.  Stefan Weathers Sr. from Democracy North Carolina prepared listeners to be effective and engaged voters in the upcoming general election. Democracy North Carolina North Carolina Voter Election Protection Hotline Mobilize Voter Gudes   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.  

Our host, Rev. Dr. Paul A. McAllister interviewed Jamie Lau of Duke University School of Law and supervising attorney of the Wrongful Convictions Clinic.  Mr. Lau discussed his background, the work of the Convictions Clinic and the Clinic’s role in helping exonerate Ronnie Long after 44 years of incarceration. Jamie Lau Ronnie Long Exonerated Ronnie Long's Settlement Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Our host, Veronica Clemons interviewed  Dr. Na’imah  Sedegah, Senior Psychologist at Alexander Youth Network.  Dr. Sedegah discussed her background and clinical practice, mental health strategies for youth and adults and how to help someone going thru a mental health crisis Dr. Sedegah’s Profile Alexander Youth Network

Our host, Bill Ryans interviewed Rev. LeDayne McLeese Polaski, Executive Director of Mecklenburg Metropolitan Interfaith Network (MeckMIN) and Rev. Dr. Abdue Knox, Pastor of Greater Bethel AME.  The group discussed the mission and faith based efforts of their respective organizations and ministries in Charlotte Mecklenburg.     MeckMIN Greater Bethel AME   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Our host, Jennifer Duru Perry discussed with Veronica Clemons, FMBC SJM Health Committee member, the upcoming  Mental Health Symposium.  This year’s topic is “What are you Worrying About?”  The target audience is  youth 12-17 age group. Refreshments will be served.  See below for more information.   June 23 at 12-1 pm  https://www.friendshipcharlotte.org/eventcalendar.aspx   In Person - FMBC Campus Conference Center Virtual - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0lcOqtrz4sGdYIvBrXS0Uo7yoeT50p3nwC#/registration Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.  

Host, Bill Ryans interviewed William Catherman and Larelle Catherman from MEDRIX.  The cofounders of MEDRIX discussed organization’s mission which is to serve the people of Vietnam by sharing medical, educational and development resources. The Catherman’s shared stories and provided a glimpse of their work on the ground in Vietnam. MEDRIX        

James E. Ferguson II, a founding partner at the first integrated law firm in North Carolina, discusses with host Dr. Corliss Thompson his background and Swann vs Charlotte-Mecklenburg School board. Ferguson Chambers Sumter, P.A. Swann vs Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board

Host, Dr Corliss Thompson interviewed Trina Fullard, Chief Program Officer and Incoming CEO of the Charlotte Rescue Mission.  They discussed the history, role, and mission of the organization.  Mrs. Fullard shared how the Charlotte Rescue Mission’s programs make a difference in the lives of persons struggling with the disease of addiction. Rescue Mission   https://charlotterescuemission.org/ Community Cafe  https://communitymatterscafe.com/    Recovery Program                                                                                            https://charlotterescuemission.org/recovery-programs/ If you are a friend or family member of someone battling a substance use disorder, here are some helpful organizations. Al-Anon https://www.charlottealanon.org/    Nar-Anon https://carolina-naranon.org/

Host Rev. Dr. Paul A. McAllister talked to biographer Jonathan Eig, about his latest book King A Life.This book examines the Life of Dr King in great depth. https://www.jonathaneig.com   Announcements   Human Trafficking - Hidden in Plain Sight https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-sigmas-of-charlotte-present-human-trafficking-hidden-in-plain-sight-tickets-773441503357?aff=oddtdtcreator     January 6, 2024 1:00 pm GUEST SPEAKER: Sis. LaRelle Catherman "VIETNAM, LAND OF MYSTERY AND MINISTRY" Zoom ID: 873 5199 1964 Passcode: 304099   click     Y.O.U. Registration (opening in January 2024).  Registration and informational meeting dates will be posted in the eBulletin and website once available.       The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.  

Host Jennifer Duru Perry discussed the Mind Body and Soul Health Symposium, Mental Health awareness and Suicide prevention with Lashanda Faye, FMBC SJM Health Committee Chair and Dr. Larry A Jones, MD, MBA, AACC   Mental Health Symposium https://www.facebook.com/100064854241397/videos/82037264317585   Dr Larry  A Jones, MD, MBA, AACC TASTEofSuccessCoaching.com   Suicide Hotline  https://988lifeline.org/current-events/the-lifeline-and-988/   National Alliance of Mental illness https://www.nami.org/Home   The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Dr. Corliss Thompson, host of Friendship Talks,  discussed Christian Nationalism with Rev. Dr. Paul A. McAllister.  He is the founder of Global Leaders in Unity and Evolvement (GLUE) discussed the origins of Christian Nationalism and its impact on politics and social justice today.   National Council of Churches policy statement on Christian Nationalism   https://nationalcouncilofchurches.us/common-witness-ncc/the-dangers-of-christian-nationalism-in-the-united-states-a-policy-statement-of-the-national-council-of-churches/     Global Leaders in Unity and Evolvement https://www.facebook.com/foundergloleaders/followers   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Judge Carla Archie, Superior Court Judge  26th District Kimberly Williams, Johnson C. Smith University Student   Podcast discussed the FMBC Non Partisan political forums and explored one college student's perspective on voting.    Forum Registration Link https://bit.ly/politicalforum2023   Sites Referenced during the podcast http://vote.mecknc.gov http://ncsbe.gov   Disclaimer The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a pastor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

Dr. Corliss Thompson, leader of the Public Education Committee of the Social Justice Ministry, spoke with Mrs. Shanna Rae, principal of University Park Creative Academy Elementary School, about social justice in education and what it takes to turn around a school that has been deemed as failing. Opportunities to be involved in public education are also discussed.   https://www.cmsk12.org/universityparkES

Friendship Talks…Are you listening?  Social Justice Ministry leader Andrea Betaudier discussed the history and current activities of FMBC's Social Justice Ministry. Social Justice Website Social Justice Newsletter Social Justice Youtube archives