8 Black Hands

An editorial in Hip Hop DX by Omar Burgess makes a provocative point: Hip Hop is not "Black" music. Once the music of underground youth in urban ghettos, it has become a commodity for cultural tourists. The 8BH crew discuss this.

In this episode, we have a thoughtful discussion with Tennessee State Senator London Lamar on the expulsion and almost expulsion of three of her Democratic colleagues by a Republican supermajority.

he Nashville School Shooting is one of the biggest events that has happened in recent years. Our lives have been changed, and our country has been shaken. We want to do a show where we talk about the impact this event will have on all of us, and how we are going to cope with it. I want to talk about my personal experience as a parent, my children’s experience as a school aged child, and how we can go through this together.

In this episode, we discuss woke(ism), woke(ish), and how it relates to morally bankrupt folks. Like always, we never end up in the same spot, but eventually, we get to where we need to go. We also take about Abbott Elementary, and its portrayal of charter schools.

What rights do parents have when it comes down to K-12 education in the US? In this episode, we do a deep dive to uncover.

In this episode, we talk top 5's in hip-hop. Some of us were on point, some of us where... not.

In this episode, we celebrate 2-0-0. Pull up, as we talk about the wins and the losses!

In this episode, we discuss the deficit thinking this country uses when they think about Black students.

In this episode, we discuss Black faces in white spaces with esteemed Race scholar Dr. Frederick V. Engram, Jr.

In this episode we discuss our feelings towards Black History Month over time. We land in some interesting places.

In this episode we have a heated debate about the origins of standardized testing, its usefulness, and how we can use standardized testing to keep a system that is inherently racist honest.

Given the political landscape in Florida, we wanted to make an episode that highlighted how bad book bans, and the gutting of curriculum has gotten in some places.

In this episode we discuss MLK in ways that are contrary to what racialized whites celebrate about his legacy. MLK Jr was more than just his I Have A Dream Speech.

In this episode we celebrate the year's accomplishments and everyone that helped up get here to this point. 

In this episode we invite esteemed guest Harrison Peters to discuss the parallels between fatherhood and leadership.

In this episode, we discuss a myriad of education and Black culture issues from a critical lens. As we discuss these issues, we offer ways to be progressive with hopes of advancing the work. It's a New Year, and we are happy to grow with our fans!

In this episode, we unpack the Black Male Educators Conference also known as BMEC 2022. BMEC is a convening with over 1000 Black make educators brought to us by Sharif El-Mekki and his team at the Center for Black Educator Development.

In this episode, we discuss whether or not democracy won out in the 2022 mid-term elections, The Saturday Night Live Monologue, and Rif’s significant award! Enjoy.

In this episode, we discussed hip-hop from the angle of it being one of the most dangerous professions for Black men in the United States. We’ll also look at it from the angle of “dead rappers get better promotion” and why death is glorified over life.

Epic episode. One of our longest for a reason. Join us as we discuss and debate issues involving Ye, Killer Mike, and Quinta Brunson's Abbott Elementary, to name a few. 

In this episode, we discuss anti-Blackness in the Latino community. We used the recent LA city council fiasco as our basis for conversation. This was an amazing conversations, and w/ Omar and David as our guests, I assure you we went there. Pull up and get ya popcorn ready!

The murder rate in Philly is frightening. Our young people are dying at a rapid rate. It’s time to stop talking and start doing. In this episode, we discussed ways schools could block and cover for young people in hopes of creating safe havens to protect our youth.

This show was a cliffhanger because we did not all land in the same place on this topic.

In this episode, we dissect what it takes to be on a pathway for a Blue Ribbon school with our guests, newly awarded Blue ribbon principal Demetrius Ball and KC Middle School principal of the year Dr. VaShawn Smith aka Smitty.

With the mid-term elections looming, The Hands talk about political astuteness.

In this episode, we discuss the latest phenomenon "Quiet Quitting." We went a lot of places with this one. Check it out and share.

Black folks have always exhibited agency. In this episode, we discuss an added element of those who disguise themselves as "Black" casting stones on homes they've never lived in or been welcomed to. An interesting chat if we do say so ourselves. 

The word Nigga/er has so much power to it. To some, the word represents pain from our ancestry, while to others, it's become a word for affirmation, a term for endearment of sorts. Tune in to this episode as we have an intellectual discussion about the word!

With all this toxic positivity, why not be negative? This is the episode where we discuss it all. 

So, your job is high stress, and you have tons of folks that count on your success. How can you approach your mental and physical health to ensure longevity in the work? We spoke w/Dr. Phillips to discuss strategies.

In this episode, we discuss the value of independent Black schools. 

This episode is a continuation of the previous week's show where we just decide to lay into amazing things from Black culture that makes us all smile. 

In this episode, we dive into some hidden gems in our culture. We hope this episode brings you as much joy as it brought us to do it. 

In this episode, we follow our “On Code” theme and focus on community organizations. If you haven’t downloaded the “free” E-book, go to www.8bh.org and follow the prompts.

This week we chop it up with Desmond Blackburn on servant school leadership. If you haven't, go to www.8bh.org, put your e-mail address in and download our new e-book, "On Code."

In this episode, we review a section of our free e-book (available at 8BH.org) on building power in parents. Read the chapter and then come join the conversation! 

Straight from the new @8BlackHands1 e-book “On Code” we talk tonight about the role of the Black Male educator. We are also joined by @erichale1979. Check it out. Go to www.8bh.org and download today!

In this episode, we paid homage to a legend, a man that has touched many lives and been an inspiration to many. We honored Mr. Brown, who for 46 years has been the gold standard for Black teachers.

In this episode, we interrogated Black educators and their relationships with their union. If you are a POC and a member of a collective bargaining unit, this is the show for you. We had so much to unpack.

This week we analyze the work of Dr. Lisa Bass on Black Masculine Care as we talk shop with one of the dopest school leaders in the country Dr. Marco Clark.

Well, you know what they say, if you don’t have any haters then you’re probably not “popping.” In this episode, the fellas talk about their experience with haters in their work and offer some thoughtful advice for others. 

In this episode, we covered everything from the Oakland strike follow up, the tiff between the AKAs and the young girl, and we honored some of our favorite mothers in this work. Take a listen.

Join us as we continue discussing the taboo topics in education others are afraid to touch.

In this episode, we want to talk about the things that people should say but won't say in education.

In this episode we discuss what it means to be truly free, and not be beholden to education systems that do not love our kids.

In this episode, the fellas break down their thoughts on all things education related to Black folks. We also touch on topics from our audience. Come get your service.

In this episode, we look at the landmark lawsuit out of Detroit where high school students sued for a quality education.

In this episode, we discuss Teacher strikes and if they are good for kids. It'll be interesting for you to see where we all land on this very important topic.

In this episode, we go back to basics, building on the work we all do in education, as well as addressing some potential hot button issues in education that are keeping us up late at night.

In this episode, we chop it up w/future State Senator Rashaun Kemp about his Campaign for State Representative in Georgia.

In this episode, we try to offer some guidance for a few new Black leaders. In this episode, you'll hear from MarQuis Evans and Michael McDaniel. There's a lot of wisdom being passed around in this episode. 

In this episode, we take off the gloves to discuss the uncomfortableness of Black History Month. Every week that we get to advocate for Black people is a super bowl weekend.

We chop it up with Dr. Miah Daughtery about literacy and beyond. We are looking forward to giving practical strategies to parents to increase the learning capacity of their students.

In this episode, we highlight the amazing new sitcom Abbott Elementary and it’s representation for Black teachers. We are joined by Mimi Woldeyohannes.

Sometimes you have to take it back to the essence of how it all started. In this episode, we do just that, we're talking education with the homies.

In this episode the fellas tap in with Nick Chiles and Shawn Dove to discuss loving and leading Black boys and Men.

You've read the story, you've seen the media, tonight we talk to Dads on Duty about how the concept was invented, to how they plan to grow their movement.

In this episode, the fellas chop it up with Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig (@ProfessorJVH), Dean of the Education at the University of Kentucky about his take on the recent uptick in anti-CRT rhetoric across the United States. Tune in.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Robert Simmons to pay homage to the many traditions that have been part of our respective worlds.

Tell the truth, shame the devil. In this episode, we discussed how faith inspires our work.

This week we talk Black school choice, the how w/the Big homie Emory Edwards. You don’t want to miss this show.

School choice is a permanent interest for the Black community, but this doesn’t mean it’s always in our interest to align with white school choice advocates.

In this episode the fellas chop it up with Dr. Akosua Lesesne about the genius and tradition of Black Teacher Excellence.

In this episode, the hands check in w/ Mary Jo Madda and Alexander Russo on the responsibility of the media to provide equitable education reporting in underserved communities.

Given some recent societal hiccups, are we regressing as people? We touch on everything from Louisiana trying to get rid of letter grades all the way to Kyrie v. NBA and Chappelle's latest special. Tune in to find out our take.

In this episode we will recap our Indy trip, as well as tackle some other immediate concerns that have come up on our radar.

Sorry for the delay but you get two episodes! In this episode, the fellas chop it up with two prospective school board candidates Daniel Sellers (Mn) [@dsellers284] and Jason B. Allen (Atl) [@jballen5]. We ask candidates their why, as well as discuss Ed policies that keep them up late at night.

In this episode we discuss “burnout” and how some perceive 2021 as one of the most exhausting years yet, (and the school year just started). 

In this episode, we discussion on how to build agentic students that are often existing in an inadequate school system. MarQuis Evans serves a masterclass in being a community educator. Read the Oakland report here: https://bit.ly/ec-communityreport2021 

Join the fellas in this episode as they reflect on 9/11 and discuss how do we make sense of our Americanism as Black folks, and what do we teach our young people about theirs?

They say everything big happens in Texas, this includes racist legislation to prevent Black and Brown votes, damaging education policy, and an overwhelming desire police the bodies of women. Get ready, we dig in on this one.

The fellas kick it with Dr. Micia Mosely to discuss the teachers our students deserve. Great conversation with tangible takeaways.

Come for the discussion on how schools should tackle major global events in Haiti and Afghanistan. Stay for the tips for families to discuss these issues with their children.

In this show, we discussed things done in the name of equity that range from silly to dangerous.

Have you ever wondered what schools would be like if we used our imagination? Well, say less, in this episode we discussed Wakanda schools, and what it takes to provide amazing schools for all students, particularly the Black/Brown ones. 

In this episode the fellas discuss COVID-19 with a particular focus on the potential harm of the Delta Variant on K-12 learning.

In this episode, the fellas chop it up about the school leader’s role in building and sustaining teacher pipelines.

In this episode, we discussed the residual impact of COVID-19 on Black education, the Delta variant, and how Covid-19 will continue to play a vital role in how marginalized students and families experience K-12 across the United States of America.

It’s impossible to be on both sides of wanting quality educational choices for marginalized students and families. We “ain’t” meeting you in the middle. It’s time to build a new table. @Robert_Simmons3 joins us.

As schools come back to in-person instruction in the fall, join us as we discuss navigation strategy and tactics for parents with Parent Revolution ED, Jay Artis-Wright.

Part I: Critical Race Theorists Dr. Adrienne Dixon and Dr. Marvin Lynn dispel the Boogyman narrative being created by folks that are anti-CRT.

Part II: (starts at 54:00): The fellas discuss CRT, our collective respond, and thoughts on how to move collectively. 

Happy Father’s Day... please make sure to come and kick it with us on this special Father’s Day edition of 8BH. In this episode, we celebrate Black Fathers worldwide.

In this episode, we chat with Gabrielle Wyatt. Some folks listen to respond, but rarely listen to comprehend. Join us as Ms. Wyatt discusses her plan to get funds into the hands of Black women. 

School choice has a big tent, and a bigoted tent, this Sunday we draw a line in the sand as to where we stand. Given what has transpired the last 5 months, everyone can’t be friends, and we have to be okay with that. We go deep into it in this episode. 

In this episode, we discuss practical ways to enrich your children during the summer. With the trauma students have endured during COVID-19, we have some ways parents can accelerate the learning of their students.

As other folks put their interests to the forefront, what say the Black congregation and its allies on where Black folks fit into the educational landscape? 

Consider becoming a patron: Patreon.com/8BH 

In this episode, we are joined by Kamar O'Guinn to have a conversation about educating Black boys, the Year of Return, and how the academy treats some of our brightest minds.

For more 8BH content, consider joining our Patreon: Patreon.com/8bh 

It started with Freedom Friday, it all comes to a head Sunday w/ Akua Njeri/Fred Hampton Jr. Listen as they go in-depth about the process of making Judas and the Black Messiah. We got a lot of jewels this episode. It is like no other 8BH episode you've ever witnessed. So get ready, we have a lot to unpack.

In episode 111, we welcome Principal Kafele to dive into school leadership and its crucial role in the school community and educational ecosystem.

In this episode, we welcome Larry Irvin, Jr. to break down his incredible journey in education to co-found Brothers Empowered 2 Teach which attracts Black men in NOLA to become educators. We ask, "Is there even space for Black men to be truly authentic in the education space?"

Consider joining our Patreon: Patreon.com/8bh 

In this episode, the fellas offer a special Easter episode that's practically two shows in one! Join us as we discuss what "doing for self" means in terms of education. We hope you enjoy this longer episode and if so, let us know. 

If a year of pandemic homeschooling has taught us anything, it is how much power teachers' unions hold over public education and its administration. Parents and community members are frustrated by closed schools and sub-par remote learning, and they are becoming even more frustrated by school districts who can't seem to get their teachers on board with increasing learning time for their children. Even better-off parents in affluent white communities are learning the teachers run the show.  What practical actions can parents take to be seen as equally as powerful as teachers' unions?

Consider becoming a patron: Patreon.com/8BH

In this episode we talk safe spaces for Black kids. What exactly does that look like? As a parent how do you analyze what a safe space is for your child?Tune in to be part of the discussion and share this podcast if you find the conversation helpful.

Teaching students in so called "High Needs Areas" should not only be exhilarating, but it should also be an honor for outsiders that those communities welcome in. Dr. Salome Thomas-EL (@Principal_EL) joins and blesses us with his wisdom. The conversation gets heated in a beautiful way. Don't miss this conversation with five passionate Black men discussing how to make things better in education for Black students. 

One of the things we've reflected on coming up on our 100th show, is how can we highlight more voices by giving them a shared platform to enact change. We are currently in the development stages of creating a network of shows. This show highlights our progress to date by talking to the brand about the brand.

In this special episode, the fellas react in real time to Trumpers storming the Capitol, Listen as we process in real time what has just occurred on US soil. 

We should be tired of our 8 million Black children not being a REAL priority in America. What do we mean by "real"? We mean clear, informed, and urgent. Listen to the episode as we define what these terms mean to us going into the new year. We need you all to take the pledge with us. 

In this episode we make our asks (Resolutions) for the 8+million Black kids and the 10+ million Brown kids that need a better education solutions. After that, we engage in a great debate about the best ways to go about ensuring Black and Brown families get the most out of education. Buckle up.

We wish you all a very happy holiday season. For more access, consider joining our Patreon at Patreon.com/8BH. 

In this episode, the fellas welcome special guest Daarel Burnette II from Education Week. Join us as we discuss the notion of reparations through education and what that could look like. you'll learn a lot in this episode. 

For more access to the Hands, consider becoming a patron: Patreon.com/8BH 

This has been a crazy week for Twitter beef between Black education advocates. Saying the wrong thing gets you dragged (by Black folks and their white followers). If we're going to fight for kids without getting in each other's way, we need some house rules.

Let's talk about it.

For more access, consider becoming a patron: patreon.com/8BH

In this very special episode we are joined by friend of the show and modern day Fannie Lou Hamer, Sarah Carpenter (@LadyTenn) and she brought back up, the Powerful Parent Movement (@WeArePPM). The Hands were blessed to hear from some of the best parent organizers of today. They discuss their work and what they want school leaders and educators to know. 

Check it out and let us know your thoughts. Thank you for the support. For more access, consider joining our patreon at patreon.com/8bh. 

You are in for a treat this week. We are joined by our colleague and friend of the show, Dr. Steve Perry (@DrStevePerry). The gloves come off and the fellas just dive into various education issues that include educating Black kids, the teachers' union, and Sunday rituals to name a few. Dr. Perry brought it. We are sure you'll enjoy this one. 

In this episode the fellas chop it up with Nina Turner.  Our Country needs this talk, so make sure to clear your calendars because this is one you do not want to miss. Nina Turner is now family, so follow her on Twitter: @ninaturner.

Also, she has a new podcast, called Hello Somebody: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hello-somebody/id1513745000

For more access to The Hands, join us at Patreon.com/8BH

In this episode, the fellas bring in candidates in important local school board races to determine their why? We are blessed with 3 guests. We two current school board candidates in John Little who is running for school board in the Nashville area and Tanya Ortiz Franklin running for District 7 LA Unified School District. We are also joined by Naomi Shelton who is currently on the charter school board in Washington DC. 

For more access, join us at Patreon.com/8BH. 

In the episode, the fellas chop it up with Adonica about the importance of school board elections. Using both Oakland and Baton Rouge as case studies, the hands go deep on activating agency at the local level. 

Join us on Patreon for exclusive content at Patreon.com/8BH.

In this episode, we welcome the amazing Zakiya Sankara-Jabar. Together, we discuss Ice Cube's agenda for Black Folks, Cube's conversations with 45's campaign, and the "Blacklash". We also discuss Diddy launching the Black Party, and how these ideologies help or hurt Black People.

For more access to The Hands, join our Patreon at Patreon.com/8BH

In this episode, the fellas discuss the debate that never happened; The president and the first lady being diagnosed with covid-19; and proud boys.

Ian is a 14 year old phenom, who recently graduated with his Associates degree.  He owns his own business, and is on his way to doing major things.  We will talk with Ian about his experience being homeschooled. This is the feel-good story 2020 needs. 

In this episode, the fellas welcome Dr. Shannon Waite and Dr. Marvin Lynn to discuss CRT in the era of Donald Trump. There's a great debate to be had here. Take a listen and share your thoughts. 

In this episode, the fellas react to the Serial (NY Times) podcast Nice White Parents. The fellas explore a number of themes from the show ranging from integration to how certain families come in and takeover school spaces. You don't want to miss it. 

In this episode, The Hands analyze a powerful article written by ally and co-conspirator Dirk Tillotson, as well as call out the misappropriation of Black culture in higher ed. Stay tuned, the fellas go in, as per usual.

In Episode 77, the fellas discuss the current state of Black America, more specifically what’s our ask? Stay tuned as the fellas broach discomfort in order to get to what will best benefit Black folks during this time of racial upheaval.

In their 2nd Annual Black 2 School episode, the fellas help families and educators navigate schooling during these unprecedented times. This episode had great energy.

In this episode the fellas talk candidly about school designs needed for Black kids to thrive post COVID-19. This episode will be a forward thinking one, meant to push parents and school systems beyond their norm.

In this episode, the fellas honor the lives of C.T. Vivian and John Lewis. Please leave us your thoughts and share this episode. 

In this episode, the fellas are joined by two youth from Energy Convertors to discuss the topic of "Acting White". The students break down their experiences and the 8BH crew give you their signature authentic talk. You don't want to miss this. 

Following up on our last show that focused on self-care, the hands chop it up with Dr. Jedan Phillips about healthcare in the Black Community. 

In this episode, the fellas chop it up with award winning writer and editor Hilary Beard. We discussed self-care and wellness techniques as preventive measures. This is the episode you learn from. 

In this episode, the fellas discuss the country's plan to reopen schools.

The hands get to kick it with the 2019 National Teacher of the Year Rodney Robinson. We went through a bunch of topics and Mr. Robinson did not disappoint. You definitely do not want to miss this. 

For more access and content from us, become a member of our Patreon at Patreon.com/8BH. 

This week we discuss America's obsession with the Confederate flag, the flag's historical context and implications. Also, we talk about what it could mean to "defund trash" schools, and a couple of more topics w/ twists and surprises. Tune in.

In this episode, the fellas talk about strange fruit, and having the same energy for ed reform as we currently have for police reform. This is one of those marathon episodes. You asked for longer episodes and we did our best to listen. 

Let us know your thoughts. 

In this episode, we celebrate the professional accomplishments of Ray Ankrum. Listen and learn about his time in growing up in Louisiana to his journey to becoming a superintendent. It's all in there. 

In this episode, the fellas show their love and appreciate for Chris Stewart. Our co-host has an amazing story and we finally get to dive into it. We hope you enjoy it.

For more access to the 8BH crew, join our Patreon: Patreon.com/8BH

This episode was different. The fellas discuss the ongoing protests and offer their reactions and thoughts. This was our longest episode yet as the fellas let their thoughts breathe. 

This was a tough conversation but necessary. No long intro here. Enjoy and heal with us. 

For more access, join our Patreon: Patreon.com/8BH

Today the fellas tackle student homelessness. This topic hit pretty close to home for the hosts. The fellas break down the 4 different types of homelessness while discussing what we can do to better support students.

For more access, join us over at Patreon.com/8BH.

The Hands chopped it up with the Google Evangelist, Jaime Casap. We discussed the amazing work that he's currently doing, as well as get Jaime's thoughts on equity and access for poor and disenfranchised students during this Covid-19 pandemic. Take a listen and share.

For more access, check out our Patreon: Patreon.com/8bh

This was quite the episode! Kaya broke down key reflections form her time as Chancellor in DC. She came with so much wisdom and love for our community that it felt more like a masterclass on leadership. Take a listen and share. 

For more intimate content, join our Patreon at Patreon.com/8bh. 

The hands talk about the rift between New York's governor and NYC's mayor; the missing conversation about principal quality; and whether or not students should be retained a grade due to the pandemic.

Join the Patreon for even more access: Patreon.com/8BH and follow us on Twitter @8BlackHands1.

In this episode the fellas go deep on a few topics including: 

- Shaun King 

- Teachers working during spring break 

- COVID-19 Updates

Listen, comment, and share. Also, check join our virtual book club over on Patreon. Patreon.com/8BH

In this episode, the fellas went deep and explored everything from the new-education-normal via COVID-19 to how people feel about being told they're well-spoken. We had a great time so join us by listening and sharing the convo with your friends. 

In this episode, we discussed the viral video where a 6 year old girl is arrested and the fellas have some pretty strong takes. Then we shift our attention to the latest news from the presidential elections before analyzing the current state of ed journalism. It was a fun show. We were joined by Marquis Evans, a teacher in West Oakland doing amazing work to go beyond the classroom and engage his parents in new ways. Enjoy. 

Many schools and districts are announcing that they want more diversity in the teacher workforce. Far less are moving mountains to ensure the teaching and learning conditions for Black and Brown students and staff are anti-racist environments and conducive for people of color. We have two guests, Ramon DeJesus, Director of Diversity Development in Cambridge Public Schools and Dr Robert Simmons III, Executive Director of the Black Educator Initiative for Urban Teachers. Both of these educators are renowned for their work in educator diversity and development. Enjoy. 

You all are in for a treat. As the title suggests, we covered a ton of topics. Dr. Watkins came on the show and did not disappoint. Join us as we discuss educating Black folks, economics, politics in academia, the importance of Black ownership and more! This episode was a revelation. 

In this episode, the fellas chat with the CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools, Dr. Sonja Santelises. They discuss a wide range of topics including Baltimore's push for equity, improving over time, and changing the narrative of Baltimore. Take a listen, leave your thoughts, and share. 

This episode is the return of our brother, Chris Stewart and he was in rare form!! In this episode, we covered a lot. First, we discussed the a group of privileged parents upset at potential boundary changes that would route more Black students to their district. We played a clip, and it got pretty testy. Then we engaged in a conversation about why we think there aren't more Black schools across the country.

We had a great conversation, so listen and join it. Reach out with your thoughts on Twitter @8BlackHands1. 

In this episode, the fellas find themselves live in Minneapolis. The conversation touches on legislation attacking culturally affirming schools serving Black kids that have been designated as "segregated". We also have a direct conversation about the state of education for Black children in the city's public school system. All that and more in this episode. 

As always, you can converse directly with us on Twitter @8BlackHands1. Thank you all for your continued support. 

While Texas is known for doing everything bigger and better, we wanted to know if the same mantra is realized for their Black students’ achievement levels. Listen to this episode to determine #HowAreTheChildren

Hit us up on Twitter @8BlackHands1

In this episode, the fellas dive deep into the paternalistic ways in which white folks and other entities of power try to explain Black children to Black people. As always, the fellas hold no punches nor leaves any stone unturned. Tune in for the realest education conversations led by Black folks you are going to find on the internet. 

Find us on Twitter @8BlackHands1

In this episode, the fellows have a deep discussion on the latest CPS strike before debating a recent comment by Chance the Rapper. This was a necessary episode. Enjoy. 

Comment on the episode on Twitter: @8BlackHands1

This is a special episode. It's so special, in fact, that we gave you bonus material at the end of the episode. In this episode, we discuss the latest regarding Jay-Z and the NFL. Then we discuss how this affects the 8 million Black children in our schools across the country. The brothers definitely had some disagreements here but its all in service of our community. 

Let us know your thoughts at our Twitter handle @8BlackHands1. 

Also, if you want to bring 8 Black Hands to your city, hit us up on twitter. 

Oh this one is a doozy! In it, we start out recapping the AMAZING State of Learning event in Pittsburgh, PA. In that live show (which we hope to put out soon) there was a bit of controversy and we discuss it here. Spoiler Alert: the Hands definitely disagreed in this one. Check it out for yourself. 

Twitter: @8BlackHands1

In this episode, we welcome Freedom Fighter Christina Laster. She is the current Education Chair of the San Diego branch of the NAACP and she stands for Black children even when the state chapter doesn't. Here, she tells her story and gives advice on what we all should do if we really are about educating Black kids. She brings that HEAT, ya heard!! 

You don't want to miss this episode.

We send our thoughts to Gilroy, El Paso, and Dayton. 

Then we discuss Booker's flip flop on parent choice that led to a spirited debate about the Democratic Primary landscape. There was real (and productive) conflict. Strap in because this one is a wild ride. 

This episode originally appeared on Ray's podcast, the Edupurist podcast.  In honor of Charles' birthday, we have decided to re-broadcast this episode.   The birth of this episode came from a twitter disagreement, in which two sides of a passionate argument (Keith and Charles) came together to discuss educational issues from their perspective.  It was a powerful episode-- and we wanted to share it with the listeners.  Please listen and share with the hashtag #HowAreTheChildren!  And don't forget to wish Charles a Happy B-Day!

In this episode, we got to spend time with the man himself, Dr. Fuller. He gave us a ton of free game, history, and all the motivation one may need to stand up for Black education in this country. 

You can find Dr. Fuller on twitter: @HowardLFuller

This was a special episode. The fellas were live and the crowd was all the way into it. Shout out to that AMAZING crowd. The room was a little loud and there's a slight buzz BUT the content is fire. As always, please share and leave your comments. 

Enjoy! 

Twitter: @8BlackHands1

Ray and Charles got a chance to sit down with the most amazing group of parents in the game. We had an amazing conversation. Sarah Carpenter and her team are forces of nature. Unapologetic, knowledgeable, and just all out great for kids in Memphis. 

Check them out at https://memphislift.org.

Like and rate the podcast on Apple Podcast. Share with your people.