Navigating Hollywood and Defying Expectations (ft. Ralph Farquhar)

08/20/24 • 57 min

Ralph Farquhar, a seasoned TV and film writer and producer, opens up about his life and career. Ralph talks about the grit it took to push through being underestimated, especially as a young black man facing societal doubts. He shares his story from writing for the much-loved "Happy Days" to being the creative mind behind hit shows like "Moesha" and "The Parkers." Ralph credits his supportive parents and his strong middle-class background for fueling his determination to succeed in the creative industry.

Ralph's career took some surprising turns, starting with a job in advertising before a lucky break landed him a gig on "Happy Days." Through connections made at a local travel agency, he got an inside look at Hollywood that changed everything. Ralph highlights the importance of networking and always being ready to contribute. Special mentors, like Gary Marshall, played a massive part in his growth. His journey didn't stop there; he moved on to produce revered shows like "Married with Children" and co-create the thought-provoking "South Central."

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Staying Focused on Helping Children Thrive (ft. Emma Bloomberg)

As a founding board member of Education Post, Emma Bloomberg reflects on a decade of growth for our non profit as well as sharing her insights on the changing landscape of education advocacy, the importance of elevating parent and student voices, and the necessity of local engagement.

The conversation also delves into Emma’s journey, the role of data in grassroots organizing, and the importance of celebrating educational successes. Chris and Emma highlight the challenges and victories in education advocacy, the significance of collaboration, and the need for a kid-centric approach in policy making.

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Emma Bloomberg is CEO of Murmuration, a public-education advocacy organization reducing inequality through data-driven community organizing and electoral campaigns. She started the organization in 2014. Previously, Bloomberg was chief of staff and, before that, senior planning officer at the Robin Hood Foundation, dedicated to fighting poverty in New York City. She was a founding board member of Ed Post and is a board member of Bloomberg Family Foundation, KIPP Foundation, New Classrooms, and Leadership for Educational Equity.

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Sharing Stories of Black Excellence With Our Kids (ft. Karyn Parsons)

In this episode of Always Learning, host Chris Stewart talks with Karyn Parsons, well known for her role as Hillary Banks on 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' and now a children's author and founder of Sweet Blackberry, a media company making Black history accessible to kids. They discuss the inspiration behind her work,, and the importance of representation in children's literature. Parsons also reflects on her upbringing, parenting strategies, and how societal changes have influenced modern parenting. The conversation highlights the significance of telling diverse stories and the impact these narratives can have on young minds.