Send us a text In this eye-opening episode of Bruh Speak Up, Dr. Shawnte’ Elbert exposes the harsh reality of workplace bullying in academia, where a culture of silence allows toxicity to thrive. She shares her personal experiences navigating power dynamics, professional sabotage, and the emotional toll of working in an environment that should foster growth but too often breeds fear. She shares her personal experiences navigating toxic workplace culture in academia, where the expectatio...
Send us a text In this episode of BRUH SPEAK UP, host Dametraus Jaggers talks about why it’s important to find and use your voice to stand up for what’s right. He explains how laws like the Tennessee Dismantle DEI Act can hurt communities and shares real stories of people who speak out with courage. Dametraus also gives simple ways to get involved—like writing letters to local newspapers—and talks about why understanding media bias is important. This episode encourages listeners to find stren...
Send us a text In this episode of Bruh Speak Up, host Dametraus Jaggers discusses the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the U.S. The conversation explores the historical context of DEI, the challenges posed by misinformation, the attack on critical thinking, and the importance of collective action in advocating for equity. Dametraus reflects on the legacy of leaders like Jimmy Carter and the ongoing struggle for social justice, urging listeners to remain active a...
Send us a text In this episode, Dametraus Jaggers interviews Theotis Robinson Jr., a prominent civil rights activist and the first black undergraduate student at the University of Tennessee. The conversation explores Robinson's journey through the civil rights movement, his experiences with desegregation, and his political engagement in the Knoxville community. Robinson shares insights on the importance of coalition building, the ongoing struggle for social justice, and the legacy of activism...
Send us a text Kick off the new year with Bruh, Speak Up! where I reflect on the powerful insights from my conversation with Jael Kerandi, the trailblazing former Student Government Association president at the University of Minnesota. I also dive into the inspiration sparked by Tyler Perry's Netflix film, The Six Triple Eight, which brings to life the remarkable story of the first and only all-Black Women’s Army Corps battalion deployed overseas during World War II. Their courage, resilience...
Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Dametraus Jaggers hosts a powerful conversation with Jael Kerandi—public speaker, activist, and advocate. As the first Black president and vice president of the Student Government Association at the University of Minnesota, Jael shares her journey of navigating leadership during a pivotal moment in history. She reflects on the challenges she faced in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder and the bold call for the university to sever ties with the Minneapol...
Send us a text In this episode of Bruh, Speak Up! we dive into the “bystander effect” and explore how silence can create ripple effects that shape both our personal lives and society. Building on our conversation with Dr. H. Bernard Hall in the last episode, we unpack his thought-provoking perspective on “the two types of crimes.” I also share my journey of finding my voice—one rooted in courage, self-discovery, and faith. Together, we reflect on how facing fears, stepping up in moments of cr...
Send us a text In this engaging episode of Bruh Speak Up! Dr. Dametraus Jaggers is joined by Hip-hop educator, Dr. H. Bernard Hall to discuss his personal journey with Black identity, navigating different spaces, and the importance of finding one's voice. Dr. Hall, a former teacher and assistant principal, shares the experiences that led him to pursue a PhD in urban education and his decision to center hip-hop in his teaching practices and research agenda. The son of a Black police offi...
Send us a text In this episode of "Bruh! Speak Up," host Dr. Dametraus Jaggers shares his inspiring journey of self-discovery and highlights the importance of recognizing the unique experiences of black women within the context of ongoing race and gender issues in the U.S. He reflects on his personal encounters, critiques the double standards present in the current election cycle, and challenges the misconception that Vice President Kamala Harris poses a risk to black men. Jaggers poses a tho...
Send us a text In the inaugural episode of Bruh, Speak Up, host Dr. Dametraus Jaggers shares his journey toward earning a college degree and embracing his identity as a Black man. He explores how this self-acceptance has deepened his understanding of the unique experiences of Black women in the U.S. He concludes by challenging listeners to reflect on Obama’s remarks about Black men's support for Vice President Kamala Harris, emphasizing that “two things can be true.” Support the show Social M...