We don’t know the faces or names of many enslaved Black people in American history. Some left a small mark of their existence in the very bricks of the buildings their hands built, yet they remain voiceless because their story has been hidden away.

Historians like Annette Gordon-Reed know that through sharing the stories of enslaved people, we remember their humanity and preserve historical truth in the process. She’s a Harvard University professor and the award-winning author of The Hemingses of Monticello and On Juneteenth. With her lawyer-like approach, she’s brought light to stories once expunged from our history and provided a view of the road to Juneteenth through her books.

In this episode of the Branding Room Only podcast, you’ll hear about the national implications inherent in The Hemingses’ story (and connection to Thomas Jefferson) and Juneteenth. Annette will discuss her own experiences with celebrating Juneteenth, what the country should learn from the experiences of enslaved people, and more!

3:40 - Annette’s personal branding definition, three-word description of herself, favorite quotes, and hype song

6:00 - The importance of reading and music in Annette’s life as a child

8:00 - Annette’s non-traditional career trajectory as a lawyer, author, and professor

11:40 - What motivated Annette to write about the Hemingses and Thomas Jefferson

17:00 - The need to understand the truth in shaping the legacies and personal brands we hold dear

19:50 - The significance of Juneteenth and why Annette wrote her book on it

25:20 - Traditional Juneteenth celebrations Annette grew up with in Texas and newer ones she’s seen integrated into the holiday

30:50 - The good and (potential) bad about Juneteenth and its importance in the context of American history

38:00 - How Annette wants people in the future to remember her contribution to preserving a piece of American history

39:00 - Finding fun and continuous growth in humbling activities

43:50 - Annette’s one uncompromisable aspect and Branding Room Only quality

Mentioned In Truth and Celebration: Stories of Black American History with Annette Gordon-Reed

The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family by Annette Gordon-Reed

On Juneteenth by Annette Gordon-Reed

Vernon Can Read!: A Memoir

“This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan | Youtube (Official Music Video) 

“Scherzo Op. 39 No. 3 in C Sharp Minor” by Chopin | Youtube (Pogorelich)

PaulaTV: Stagville Plantation Fingerprints of Slave Children

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Sponsor for this episode

PGE Consulting Group LLC empowers individuals and organizations to lead with purpose, presence, and impact. Specializing in leadership development and personal branding, we offer keynotes, custom programming, consulting, and strategic advising—all designed to elevate influence and performance at every level.

Founded and led by Paula Edgar, our work centers on practical strategies that enhance professional development, strengthen workplace culture, and drive meaningful, measurable change.

To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.