Pushing Boundaries and Sparking Change with Blair Imani

Explicit content warning

10/16/24 • 57 min

In this episode of the She Geeks Out podcast, Felicia and Rachel talk to author, historian, and educator Blair Imani. Blair discusses her origin story and how her experiences shaped her career in activism and education. She shares her perspectives on current social and political challenges, including the backlash against DEI initiatives and knowing when and how to speak out. We discuss Blair's incredibly powerful social media series, 'Smarter in Seconds,' and her decision-making process for creating content. Blair also recounts her experience attending the DNC, where she interacted with influential politicians like Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Senator Cory Booker, highlighting the importance of participating in political processes.

Chapters:

(00:08) - Bridging Generational Gaps in Workplace

(09:32) - Blair Imani

(13:05) - Navigating Activism and Well-Being

(19:55) - Revolution and Systemic Change Perspectives

(26:39) - Navigating DEI Backlash and Activism

(38:22) - DNC Reflections and Future Priorities

(45:19) - Political Engagement and Civic Responsibility

(51:51) - Community Accountability and Personal Growth

(55:59) - Saying Goodbye to Blair Imani

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

Chapters:

(00:08) - Bridging Generational Gaps in Workplace

(09:32) - Blair Imani

(13:05) - Navigating Activism and Well-Being

(19:55) - Revolution and Systemic Change Perspectives

(26:39) - Navigating DEI Backlash and Activism

(38:22) - DNC Reflections and Future Priorities

(45:19) - Political Engagement and Civic Responsibility

(51:51) - Community Accountability and Personal Growth

(55:59) - Saying Goodbye to Blair Imani

Previous Episode

Science-Backed Wellness and Longevity with Rachele Pojednic

In this episode of the She+ Geeks Out podcast, hosts Rachel and Felicia welcome return guest Rachele Pojednic, an expert in nutrition and wellness. Rachele discusses her career trajectory, from teaching at Simmons University to her current roles at Restore Hyper Wellness and Stanford University's Center on Longevity. We talk about complementary therapies such as cryotherapy, the importance of consistent healthy habits, and the role of social connections in health. Rachele also addresses public health misconceptions, the challenges of scientific research, and the influence of popular science communicators like Andrew Huberman and Joe Rogan. We also explore the complexity of balancing between scientific integrity and public dissemination of health information.

Links:

Chapters:

00:32 Preparing for Election Season

01:35 Election Day and Workplace Policies

04:25 Scenarios for Election Outcomes

08:16 Introducing Guest Rachele Pojednic

11:45 Rachel Pojednic's Career Journey

18:54 The Role of Science in Wellness

30:58 Challenges in Public Health and Science

34:49 The Honey Study: Unveiling Bias in Research

37:07 The Rise of Science Communicators

40:00 Navigating Trust in Science and Media

42:06 Understanding Longevity and Healthspan

47:09 The Basics of a Healthy Lifestyle

50:45 Complementary Therapies: Cryotherapy and More

55:43 The Debate on IV Drips and Micronutrients

01:02:59 The Role of Social Connection in Health

01:09:02 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

Next Episode

“Magical Girl” Journeys and Filmmaking with Jumai Yusuf

In this episode, Felicia and Rachel welcome Jumai Yusuf, a talented filmmaker and storyteller. Jumai shares her unique journey from Massachusetts theater kid to LA film director, highlighting her background in neurobiology and her passion for blending art and science. She discusses the development of her animated series 'Layla and the Starship Afrotopia,' which features a young Black Muslim girl with wormhole powers. We dive into the process of directing, from working with screenwriters to location scouting and casting. Before we talk with Jumai, we chat about our experiences at a few conferences - it turns out IRL events are still amazing!