Black Information Network Interviews

Two decades after Hurricane Katrina, Black New Orleans: 20 Years After Katrina explores how the city’s Black communities rebuilt, preserved their cultural roots, and led the revival from the grassroots up. Narrated by Tammy Estwick, this hour-long special centers authentic voices from neighborhoods like the Lower Ninth Ward, Tremé, and Pontchartrain Park — spotlighting the people who lost homes, endured displacement, and turned collective hardship into new strengths. With the help of local New Orleanians, this special will help tell the true story of that moment in history through firsthand experience and reflection.Through storytelling, interviews, and local music, the special revisits:Community leaders and grassroots organizations redefining recovery and resilienceBlack artists, chefs, musicians, and tradition-bearers driving New Orleans’ cultural comebackThe ongoing fight for affordable housing, resilient public schools, and neighborhood safetyHopes, innovations, and the unfinished journey toward justice and renewal in a city forever shaped by its Black residentsThis is not a story of tragedy, it’s a story of survival, legacy, and the enduring vision of Black New Orleanians charting their future.

Chef Cliff Rome is not just a celebrated culinary artist hailing from Chicago's South Side; he is also a passionate mentor whose work extends far beyond the kitchen.At the Obama Presidential Center, Chef Rome honors Black culinary traditions and shines a spotlight on local ingredients, ensuring that his menus are not only inventive but also deeply rooted in the community's heritage. His dedication to supporting Black-owned businesses is truly commendable, as he sources ingredients locally and collaborates with fellow entrepreneurs.What sets Chef Rome apart is his commitment to mentorship and skill-building for local youth. His kitchen becomes a transformative space where young people can gain valuable experience and opportunities.Chef Rome's restaurant is more than just a place to enjoy a meal – it's a hub for community, connection, and positive change. The Black Information Network is really looking forward to sharing more about Chef Rome's inspiring journey and the impact he is making.Listen now!

This week on the Black Perspective, Esther Dillard spotlights Black Business Month with Falayn Ferrell, one of the founders behind the celebration, and a restaurant owner whose story ties food and culture together in a unique way.We’ll also preview Vanessa Tyler’s upcoming Black Land podcast and revisit BIN commentator Mo Kelly’s conversation with actresses Wendy Raquel Robinson and Tisha Campbell about their latest film, Operation Aunties.Doug Davis may be on assignment this week, but we’re replaying two of his standout conversations: one with Tulsa’s first Black mayor, Monroe Nichols, and another featuring Vanessa Tyler’s sit-down with BIN President Tony Coles reflecting on the network’s five-year anniversary.Plus, we close out with commentary from Mo Kelly, James T. Harris, and Roland S. Martin.Listen now!

This week on the Black Perspective, we dive into stories that spotlight health, culture, and love across the Black community.Andrea Coleman continues her powerful public awareness campaign, Saving Black Moms: A Maternal Health Crisis, shedding light on the urgent fight to protect Black mothers. Katie Gray returns with Part 2 of her conversation with Georgia State Senator Drew Echols on the Tourism Study Committee and its impact on Georgia’s economy and communities.The Black Information Network’s Esther Dillard sits down with Emmy-nominated filmmaker Contessa Gayles to discuss her new documentary, The Debutantes, and the stories it brings to light.Plus, Vanessa Tyler gives us a sneak peek of her Blackland podcast, and Misty Jordan shares the story of a couple whose journey defines the true meaning of “love is blind.”Listen now!

In this week’s segment, we journey to Chicago’s South Side to explore the transformative vision behind the Obama Presidential Center. More than just a museum, the Center is a living tribute to President Barack Obama’s legacy and a beacon of hope for future generations. Located in Jackson Park, steps from where President Obama began his career, the Center is designed to be a vibrant civic hub — featuring a public plaza, a branch of the Chicago Public Library, classrooms, a Winter Garden Café, and an auditorium open to all.Listeners will hear how the architectural design, inspired by hands holding a vessel of light, symbolizes a welcoming lantern for the community. The segment also delves into the deep personal connection the Obamas have to the South Side, and how the Center will celebrate their story within the broader context of American history. With input from local residents and a focus on accessibility, the Center is being built not just for reflection, but for action—empowering youth, fostering dialogue, and inspiring civic engagement.This episode reminds us that hope isn’t just a feeling — it’s a place. And in Chicago, that place now has an address. Listen now!

This week on the Black Perspective, Gracie Award winner Esther Dillard sits down with A’Lelia Walker, daughter of the legendary Madam C.J. Walker, to share the captivating story behind The Joy Goddess of Harlem.Katie Gray brings us part one of her conversation with a Georgia state senator as lawmakers launch a Tourism Study Committee, and how you can get involved.BIN’s Morgyn Wood continues her discussion with Tarek DeLavallade, Executive Director of the United Golfers Association, about the launch of the Sapphire Golf Tour — a groundbreaking platform for Black women in professional golf.Doug Davis returns with part two of his conversation with Yolo Akili Robinson, founder of BEAM (Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective), diving deeper into mental health and Black masculinity.Plus, insightful commentary from our three voices of reason: Mo’Kelly, Roland S. Martin, and James T. Harris.Listen now!

In this week’s Hope Has an Address, host Bridgette “Bri” Wood spotlights the Obama Foundation's Leaders Africa program, which "seeks to build a growing network of innovative and values-based changemakers who will drive positive change in their communities, the continent, and the world."This episode introduces listeners to young Black leaders tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time — from advancing climate justice to expanding access to education. Their work reflects the power of community-led solutions and the global reach of the Foundation’s mission to develop visionary leadership.Listen now!

This week on the Black Perspective, BIN Anchor Andrea Coleman returns with another powerful edition of Saving Black Moms, exploring how poverty directly impacts the health and well-being of young expectant mothers.BIN’s Misty Jordan catches up with actor and director Michael Jai White and his wife Gillian White to talk about their new film Trouble Man, which stars Michael Jai White, Gillian White, Method Man, Mike Epps, Orlando Jones, and La La Anthony. The couple also opens up about their careers and love for martial arts.Morgyn Wood speaks with Tarek DeLavallade, Executive Director of the United Golfers Association, about the launch of the Sapphire Golf Tour—an exciting new platform aimed at elevating Black women in professional golf.Mo Kelly sits down with beloved actresses Wendy Raquel Robinson and Tisha Campbell to discuss their new project Operation Aunties, and the heart behind the film.And Doug Davis is back with an important conversation about Black masculinity and mental health with Yolo Akili Robinson, founder of BEAM (Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective).Listen now!

In this episode of Hope Has an Address, host Bridgette “Bri” Wood explores the powerful impact of the Girls Opportunity Alliance, an Obama Foundation initiative dedicated to advancing girls’ education and empowerment around the world.Through on-the-ground storytelling and interviews, the episode introduces listeners to young women overcoming systemic barriers—from poverty to cultural stigma—and using education as a catalyst for change. As these girls rise, so do their families, schools, and communities. This episode is a reminder that when we invest in girls, we unlock progress that spans generations.Listen now!

This week on the Black Perspective, BIN Anchor Tammy Estwick returns with part two of her important conversation on heart health in the Black community, featuring Dr. Anthony M. Fletcher, President of the Association of Black Cardiologists.Alexandria Ikomoni continues her discussion with George Acheampong and Carter Cofield, co-founders of the nationally recognized financial education platform Melanin Money, as they dive deeper into wealth-building strategies and financial literacy for Black communities.BIN Anchor Morgyn Wood talks to iHeartRadio’s DJ Scream about his upcoming 5th Annual FreshFest Back-to-School event in Atlanta on August 2nd. She also sits down with TLynn — a mental health advocate and wellness entrepreneur — for an honest conversation about healing and holistic health.Plus, we bring you another powerful installment of A Shade Deeper with Esther Dillard.Listen now!

Hope Has an Address is a powerful, narrative-driven audio series that brings listeners inside the transformative work of the Obama Foundation and the Obama Presidential Center. Hosted by Bridgette “Bri” Wood, each episode highlights the people, programs, and principles driving real change, particularly in Black communities across the U.S. and around the world. Through storytelling, interviews, and on-the-ground reporting, the series explores how hope becomes action.In this debut episode, My Brother’s Keeper, the program dives into the Obama Foundation initiative designed to support boys and young men of color. Listeners hear how one MBK leader is helping young men navigate challenges, find structure, and build brighter futures, graduating high school, enrolling in college, and launching careers. The episode also explores how MBK’s work extends beyond mentorship to address mental health, education access, and leadership development.It’s a powerful reminder that hope doesn’t just inspire—it builds.Listen now!

Amber Payton talks to Melissa Jean-Baptiste, a former NYC teacher turned personal finance expert who paid off $102K in student loans on a teacher’s salary.Known as the “Beyoncé of personal finance,” she now helps millennials and Gen Z build wealth and confidence through accessible, shame-free financial educationListen now!

Amber Payton speaks with Obi Okereke, founder of College Money Habits, about turning personal lessons into public impact.He opens up about his journey into investing and shares practical, empowering advice to help students and young adults build wealth from the ground up.Listen now!

In this episode, Amber Payton chats with Meme Kelly, the powerhouse behind Silk Me Kids.From salon chair to classroom, Kelly shares how she’s combining cosmetology and youth education to instill confidence, promote self-care, and build the next wave of beauty industry leaders.Listen now!

Amber Payton sits down with Angel Bush, the trailblazing founder of Black Women in Artificial Intelligence. They explore how Bush is working to dismantle barriers in tech, amplify Black women’s voices in AI, and create a future where innovation reflects the diversity of the world we live in.Listen now!

This week on the Black Perspective, BIN Anchor Tammy Estwick kicks off the show with a powerful two-part conversation featuring Dr. Anthony M. Fletcher, President of the Association of Black Cardiologists, and New Orleans’ own Randy “Big Swoll” Thorton. The duo shares life-saving insight into heart health and the urgent fight against heart failure in the Black community.Andrea Coleman returns with another installment of Saving Black Moms: A Maternal Health Crisis, sitting down with iHeartMedia radio personality Roxanne Romero, who opens up about her personal birthing experience.BIN’s Alexandria Ikomoni speaks with George Acheampong and Carter Cofield, the co-founders of the nationally recognized financial platform Melanin Money. The two Black millionaires break down what financial literacy really looks like, and how to build wealth with purpose.Plus, Gracie Award winner Esther Dillard shares a new segment of "A Shade Deeper," and Vanessa Tyler previews her upcoming Blackland podcast.Listen now!

What role does Black radio play in shaping culture, informing communities, and driving change?BIN President Tony Coles and National Urban League President & CEO Marc Morial explore the power, responsibility, and future of Black media in this dynamic conversation.Listen now!

This week on The Black Perspective, we present a special report: "The Sean Diddy Combs Case: And the Road Ahead."One of the most powerful figures in entertainment, Sean “Diddy” Combs, recently faced a high-profile, seven-week trial that ended with a mixed verdict. In this hour-long special, BIN anchors Andrea Coleman, Teri McCready, Doug Davis, and Morgyn Wood explore the trial’s major themes, the implications for Combs' legacy, and what it all might mean for the future of the music industry.From courtroom revelations to cultural reflections, we examine how this case could shape public perception, industry accountability, and the road ahead for one of hip-hop’s most influential moguls.Listen now!

This week on The Black Perspective, we’re revisiting powerful conversations that continue to shape our community. Gracie Award-winning journalist Esther Dillard returns with A Shade Deeper—a special segment from her podcast The Color Between the Lines. This week, she sits down with acclaimed author Sharon G. Flake, whose groundbreaking novel on colorism left a lasting impact on the Black community more than two decades ago. We also revisit key interviews from across the network:Vanessa Tyler speaks with BIN President Tony Coles about the network’s five-year journeyMorgyn Wood talks to Sheena Edwards about autism awarenessAlexandria Ikomoni catches up with power couple Raashaun “DJ Envy” Casey and his wife Gia about family, love, and their new bookAnd Mike Eiland shares his conversation with the Ohio Housing Finance Agency on new homebuying opportunities for residents across the stateListen now! 

This week on The Black Perspective, we’re honoring milestones, elevating critical conversations, and breaking down global issues.BIN’s Vanessa Tyler sits down with BIN President Tony Coles to reflect on the network’s 5-year anniversary, revisiting its early beginnings and looking ahead to what’s next.Andrea Coleman continues our public awareness campaign, Saving Black Moms: A Maternal Health Crisis, shedding light on the urgent challenges Black mothers face and what’s being done to address them.Gracie Award-winner Esther Dillard returns with a special edition of The Color Between the Lines, featuring a sneak peek into A Shade Deeper, a powerful new podcast now streaming on iHeartRadio.And Morgyn Wood speaks with Asha Castleberry-Hernandez, a U.S. Army veteran, national security strategist, author, and foreign policy expert, on the growing tensions in the Middle East and what they could mean for the world.Listen now!