Best Prison Policy Initiative Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 75 - Prison Policy Initiative 10:05

13d ago10:05

10:05

Dr. Vanessa Tyler speaks with Wanda Bertram, Communications Strategist for the Prison Policy Initiative, an independent research and advocacy organization that studies criminal justice reform and mass incarceration. Wanda shares data and insights that her organization offers to other advocacy groups and elected officials who are on the front lines …

1
Episode 76 - Wall Street 10:03

6d ago10:03

10:03

Dr. Vanessa Tyler accepts and invitation to Wall Street. Dr. Lisa Wicker, founder and CEO of Career Mastered Women's Network, organized an exclusive group of professional women to visit the New Your Stock Exchange. Here they discuss the importance of networking, empowerment, diversity and the history of women on Wall St. See omnystudio.com/listener…

1
Episode 74 - Black Birth Black Death 18:56

19d ago18:56

18:56

As part of the Black Information Network's 'Black Maternal Health' awareness campaign, Dr. Vanessa Tyler shares the story of Jose Perez & Christine Fields. In 2023, Jose's fiancée Christine died while giving birth to their son, Anuel, during emergency C-section surgery. Jose talks about the difficulties he experienced and witnessed while trying to …

1
Episode 73 - Foreign Earthquake Disaster 13:04

26d ago13:04

13:04

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Joshua Fekete who lives with his family in a foreign country. Joshua shares his remarkable and terrifying story about surviving a heart attack, a deadly earthquake and financial hardship while living in Thailand. Joshua details his ordeal of having to pay unexpected medical bills while in a foreign country,…

1
Episode 72 - Unfinished University Black Debt 17:04

1M ago17:04

17:04

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Robin Proudie, Founder and Executive Director of the Descendants of the St. Louis University Enslaved (DSLUE). Through the discovery of tireless research and documentation, the DSLUE seeks to enlighten people about Saint Louis University and the Jesuits' ties to the institution of slavery in the 1800's. See…

1
Episode 71 - Caviar 13:52

1M ago13:52

13:52

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with restaurateur partners Nigel Douglas and Shauna Neely of Douglas Neely Hospitality Group (DNHG). Together they are owners of the first and only Black-owned caviar brand in the Tri-State area. They also manage several restaurants including Caviar in Edgewater, NJ. They discuss how caviar is one of the biggest trends happe…

1
Episode 70 - Black Inventors 15:30

2M ago15:30

15:30

Dr. Vanessa Tyler has an enlightening conversation with James Howard, inventor and executive director of the Black Inventors Hall Of Fame Museum and STEAM Center. The project will be a 110,000 sq ft. facility in New Jersey that includes tuition-free STEM classrooms, a theater and a hall dedicated to top Black inventors of the Golden Era. James disc…

1
Episode 69 - Black Millionaires Before Emancipation 12:34

2M ago12:34

12:34

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks to author and educator Kimberly Jones about her book, 'Wealthy Blacks Before the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863'. The book helps dispel the myth that Black wealth did not exist in the days of slavery. Kimberly Jones shares information on wealthy business people of color in the 1800's and how they struggled and thrived dur…

1
Episode 68 - The Gocha Empire 12:20

2M ago12:20

12:20

During this Women's History Month, Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with entrepreneur, TV personality, chef and author Gocha Hawkins. Gocha opens up about overcoming her challenging past and what motivated her to create her own businesses. Through her Gocha Restarant Group she owns breakfast and brunch eateries focused on health concious dining…

1
Episode 67 - The Real Target pt 2 7:12

2M ago7:12

7:12

Host Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with investigative reporter Marjaan Sirdar about his examination into Target's DEI rollback. Marjaan uncovered an even deeper plol that involves Target and it's unfortunate connection to Minneapolis law enforcement. Part 2 of 2 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
Episode 66 - The Real Target pt 1 21:32

2M ago21:32

21:32

Host Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with investigative reporter Marjaan Sirdar about his examination into Target's DEI rollback. Marjaan uncovered an even deeper plol that involves Target and it's unfortunate connection to Minneapolis law enforcement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By iHeartPodcasts

1
Episode 65 - The Golden Era 16:14

3M ago16:14

16:14

Dr. Vanessa Tyler continues her conversation with the president of the ACLU and Associate Dean at New York Universtiy School of Law Deborah Archer. Deborah provides insight into how the ACLU and others are fighting against the apparent destruction of our democracy and the dismantling of our civil liberties and equality infrastructure. She discusses…

1
Episode 64 - Dividing Lines 16:48

3M ago16:48

16:48

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with the president of the ACLU and associate dean at New York Universtiy School of Law Deborah Archer. Deborah has written a book titled "Dividing Lines: How Transportation Infrastructure Reinforces Racial Inequality" that details the role race has played in the U.S. transportation infrastructure over the years. After the su…

1
Episode 63 - Harlem Signs Of The Times 10:38

3M ago10:38

10:38

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with Karen Taylor, founder and Executive Director of 'While We Are Still Here', an organization dedicated to preserving the history of Harlem, NY. The group has an initiative called the 'Signs Of The Times: Harlem Markers Project' where they are installing historic markers around the city to honor events, people and organiza…

1
Episode 62 - The Principal Farmer 15:42

3M ago15:42

15:42

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks with 'The Principal Farmer' Patrick Muhammad, owner of Your Faith Farms in Georgia. Patrick is an advocate of Black land ownership and farm life, having run his 31 - acre farm since 2014. He is also the principal of Chattahoochee Hills Charter School where its mission is 'to inspire children to the highest levels of academic…

1
Episode 61 - Blind Divas pt 2 8:21

3M ago8:21

8:21

Dr. Tyler speaks to entrepreneurs Krystle Allen and Naquela Wright-Prevo, who are both blind, and Lisa Durden who is producing a documentary feature about these two amazing women. Krystle and Naquela share their stories about how medical malpractice led to their unique blindness issues, and how both have thrived in their family lives and careers. L…

1
Episode 60 - Blind Divas pt 1 12:28

3M ago12:28

12:28

Dr. Tyler speaks to entrepreneurs Krystle Allen and Naquela Wright-Prevo, who are both blind, and Lisa Durden who is producing a documentary feature about these two amazing women. Krystle and Naquela share their stories about how medical malpractice led to their unique blindness issues, and how both have thrived in their family lives and careers. L…

1
Episode 59 - Wildfires pt 2 12:56

4M ago12:56

12:56

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks to victims of the recent Eaton Canyon wildfires in Altadena, California - one of a series of massive wildfires that struck Southern Califonia in January 2025. Recalling the loss of loved ones, homes and livelihood - hear firsthand accounts of stories of survival and grief as they re-live this horrific event. Part 2 of 2 See …

1
Episode 58 - Wildfires pt 1 10:09

4M ago10:09

10:09

Dr. Vanessa Tyler talks to victims of the recent Eaton Canyon wildfires in Altadena, California - one of a series of massive wildfires that struck Southern Califonia in January 2025. Recalling the loss of loved ones, homes and livelihood - hear firsthand accounts of stories of survival and grief as they re-live this horrific event. Part 1 of 2 See …

1
Episode 57 - Shot In the Neck 10:44

4M ago10:44

10:44

Dr. Vanessa Tyler interviews Davis Moturi, a Minnesota man allegedly shot by his neighbor over a tree in the yard. Davis tells us about how his neighbor terrorized his commnunity for months prior to the shooting, and how local police refused to get involved. After the shooting incident, it took 5 days for the police to finally arrest the alleged sh…

1
Episode 56 - Motel Living Investment 8:59

4M ago8:59

8:59

Dr. Vanessa Tyler discusses the affordable living crisis in America and how some people have opted to live in extended stay hotels to help mitigate their circumstances. Ramel Lee, founder and managing partner of RD Lee Capital Partners LLC has found a way for investors big and small to fund these hotels using a Black-owned crowdfunding platform, wh…

1
Episode 55 - KELAIA'S SOLUTION pt 3 8:38

4M ago8:38

8:38

Empowering Kelaia: A Path To Healing (gofundme) Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Ty Turner, mother of 14 year old Kelaia Turner. When Kelaia was 12 years old she was a victim of verbal and physical bullying by her South Carolina classmates for over a year. Eventually, Kelaia attempted suicide by hanging herself in 2023. Kelaia now suffers …

1
Episode 54 - KELAIA'S SOLUTION pt 2 7:02

4M ago7:02

7:02

Empowering Kelaia: A Path To Healing (gofundme) Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Ty Turner, mother of 14 year old Kelaia Turner. When Kelaia was 12 years old she was a victim of verbal and physical bullying by her South Carolina classmates for over a year. Eventually, Kelaia attempted suicide by hanging herself in 2023. Kelaia now suffers …

1
Episode 53 - KELAIA'S SOLUTION pt 1 6:11

4M ago6:11

6:11

Empowering Kelaia: A Path To Healing (gofundme) Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Ty Turner, mother of 14 year old Kelaia Turner. When Kelaia was 12 years old she was a victim of verbal and physical bullying by her South Carolina classmates for over a year. Eventually, Kelaia attempted suicide by hanging herself in 2023. Kelaia now suffers …

1
Episode 52 - Alena Black Genius pt 2 7:51

5M ago7:51

7:51

Dr. Vanessa Tyler speaks with Alena Analeigh McQuarter, who, at age 13 became the youngest Black person to be accepted into medical school in the U.S. Now at age 15, she is pursuing her PhD in Integrated Biological Sciences at Loma Linda University Medical School in California. She is also the creator of "The Brown STEM Girl" foundation to engage g…

1
Episode 51 - Alena Black Genius pt 1 5:57

5M ago5:57

5:57

Dr. Vanessa Tyler speaks with Alena Analeigh McQuarter, who, at age 13 became the youngest Black person to be accepted into medical school in the U.S. Now at age 15, she is pursuing her PhD in Integrated Biological Sciences at Loma Linda University Medical School in California. She is also the creator of "The Brown STEM Girl" foundation to engage g…

1
Episode 50 - Akbar Pray Homecoming (pt 4) 6:36

5M ago6:36

6:36

Dr. Vanessa Tyler shares a conversation with convicted drug kingpin - turned writer and mentor Akbar Pray. In 1990, Akbar was sentenced to life in prison for non-violent drug offenses, only to receive a compassionate release in 2024 partially due to his conflict resolution and counseling work with inmates while incarcerated. Akbar Pray, along with …

1
Episode 49 - Akbar Pray Homecoming (pt 3) 4:28

5M ago4:28

4:28

Dr. Vanessa Tyler shares a conversation with convicted drug kingpin - turned writer and mentor Akbar Pray. In 1990, Akbar was sentenced to life in prison for non-violent drug offenses, only to receive a compassionate release in 2024 partially due to his conflict resolution and counseling work with inmates while incarcerated. Akbar Pray, along with …

1
Episonde 48 - Akbar Pray Homecoming (pt 2) 4:24

5M ago4:24

4:24

Dr. Vanessa Tyler shares a conversation with convicted drug kingpin - turned writer and mentor Akbar Pray. In 1990, Akbar was sentenced to life in prison for non-violent drug offenses, only to receive a compassionate release in 2024 partially due to his conflict resolution and counseling work with inmates while incarcerated. Akbar Pray, along with …

1
Episode 47 - Akbar Pray Homecoming (pt 1) 5:23

5M ago5:23

5:23

Dr. Vanessa Tyler shares a conversation with convicted drug kingpin - turned writer and mentor Akbar Pray. In 1990, Akbar was sentenced to life in prison for non-violent drug offenses, only to receive a compassionate release in 2024 partially due to his conflict resolution and counseling work with inmates while incarcerated. Akbar Pray, along with …

1
Episode 46 - Black Women Living With MS 17:27

5M ago17:27

17:27

Dr. Vanessa Tyler discusses the effects of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how Black women statistically are at a higher risk of getting this chronic autoimmune disorder. The discussion includes Black women living with M.S. and those who are caretakers of M.S. survivors. Guests are Multiple Sclerosis Advocate Marti Hines and Sophia Williams, producers …

1
Episode 45 - Children of Promise 15:01

5M ago15:01

15:01

Host Dr. Vanessa Tyler has a conversation with Sharon Content, Executive Director of Children Of Promise, NYC, an organization designed to work with families impacted by incarceration. Their unique programs infuse a mental health & wellness element alongside a traditional sports and science curriculum for kids, and their Clinical Training Institute…

1
Episode 44 - BLACK FRIENDS 23:23

6M ago23:23

23:23

Host Dr. Vanessa Tyler has an in-depth discussion with Dr. Timothy E. Lewis, Associate Professor and Director of Black Studies at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE). Dr. Lewis is the first Black professor to receive tenure in the Department of Political Science at SIUE. Their discussion includes a conversation about the 're-education …

1
Episode 43 - The Business Of Black Beauty 13:44

6M ago13:44

13:44

Host Vanessa Tyler talks with Atiya Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Janas Cosmetology Academy. JCA is the first Black-owned elite cosmetology school in the state of New Jersey. Atiya discusses her inspiration behind starting a cosmetology school, her Beyonce encounter, and we hear from some of her past students who have achieved their own succe…

1
Episode 42 - The Good Life 9:49

6M ago9:49

9:49

Host Vanessa Tyler has a revealing conversation with entrepreneur and financial advisor Eszylfie Taylor. Eszylfie is the president and founder of Taylor Insurance and Financial Services located in the financial district of Pasadena, California. Vanessa and Eszylfie talk about his middle class upbringing, becoming top a financial advisor, and he off…

1
Episode 41 - Mothers Of The Movement 16:41

6M ago16:41

16:41

Host Vanessa Tyler discusses "The Mothers Of The Movement" - a group of women connected by tragedy; each member has family who died as a result of police action or by gun violence. These civil rights activists hosted an emotional panel at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference earlier this year in Washington D.C. Se…

1
Episode 40 - Going Back To Africa (part 2) 19:32

6M ago19:32

19:32

Host Vanessa Tyler contemplates how African American lives would change if we all took the time to discover our ancestry by taking a pilgrimage to Africa. (PART 2) Guests include: Dr. Gina Paige, co-founder of African Ancestry.com - a DNA testing and curated travel service. Shazel Muhammad, CEO of Eunoia Global and founder of African Link Initiativ…

1
Episode 39 - Going Back To Africa (part 1) 9:05

7M ago9:05

9:05

Host Vanessa Tyler contemplates how African American lives would change if we all took the time to discover our ancestry by taking a pilgrimage to Africa. Guests include: Dr. Gina Paige, co-founder of African Ancestry.com - a DNA testing and curated travel service. Shazel Muhammad, CEO of Eunoia Global and founder of African Link Initiative - a lea…

1
Episode 38 - Carl Green 16:45

7M ago16:45

16:45

Vanessa Tyler discusses the legacy of former Harlem Globetrotter, business man and community leader Carl Green. Vanessa covers the street naming tribute to this basketball pioneer and talks with his wife Judith Green about their incredible love story. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
Episode 37 - Crownsville 13:28

7M ago13:28

13:28

Host Vanessa Tyler talks about the history of the Crownsville Hospital Center - formerly known as the Hospital For The Negro Insane of Maryland. In 1911, this segregated facility was constructed to treat the mentally ill, but patients were often subjected to medical experimentation, abuse and neglect. Vanessa speaks to Janice Hayes Williams about h…

1
Episode 36 - NBA Voter Protection 14:22

7M ago14:22

14:22

Vanessa Tyler discusses voting rights and voter protection with former Rep. Stacey Abrams and members of the National Bar Association. They detail how several organizations are strategizing and preparing to fight Black voter suppression in the 2024 Presidential Election. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Episode 35 - 9/11 Hero Jason Thomas (Part Two) 20:15

8M ago20:15

20:15

Host Vanessa Tyler interviews Sgt. Jason Thomas, USMC, a true hero of 9/11. Jason shares his story about rushing into danger to save lives at Ground Zero, and he gives his thoughts on his portrayal in the Oliver Stone movie "World Trade Center". Part 2 of 2. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
Episode 34 - 9/11 Hero Jason Thomas (Part One) 16:46

8M ago16:46

16:46

Host Vanessa Tyler interviews Sgt. Jason Thomas, USMC, a true hero of 9/11. Jason shares his story about rushing into danger to save lives at Ground Zero, and he gives his thoughts on his portrayal in the Oliver Stone movie "World Trade Center". Part 1 of 2. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
Episode 33 - Cruel Murders 12:27

8M ago12:27

12:27

Host Vanessa Tyler takes a look at violence against Black women and the recent rise in missing Black women cases. Vanessa speaks with Natalie Wilson - Co-founder and COO of the Black And Missing Foundation Inc (BAMFI) about how they are helping to rectify the racial disparities in media coverage when it comes to missing Black people in America. See…

1
Episode 32 - Abortion Rights 8:15

8M ago8:15

8:15

Host Vanessa Tyler examines the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v. Wade resulting in limited access to abortion, and how it has impacted Black women in The United States. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By iHeartPodcasts

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Episode 31 - Fannie Lou Hamer 13:05

9M ago13:05

13:05

After the 2024 Democratic National Convention invoked the memory of civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, host Vanessa Tyler takes a deep dive into the legacy of this legendary voting rights activist. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By iHeartPodcasts

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Episode 30 - Paradise Hell 20:57

9M ago20:57

20:57

Host Vanessa Tyler talks with herbalist Amanda David - founder of The People's Medicine School and Rootwork Herbals in Upstate New York. Amanda details the struggles her family and farming community have endured for years due to repeated harrassment from a violent and racist neighbor, forcing her to relocate her farming sanctuary. See omnystudio.co…

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Episode 29 - Newbern Mayor 9:50

9M ago9:50

9:50

Host Vanessa Tyler talks with Newbern, Alabama Mayor Patrick Braxton. Mayor Braxton was elected as Newbern's first Black mayor in 2020, but lawsuits and discrimination kept him from taking office in a town that hadn't held a mayoral election in more than 60 years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Episode 28 - Black Trumpers 8:11

9M ago8:11

8:11

Vanessa Tyler attends the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, WI and talks to an African American MAGA gear vendor who supports Donald Trump. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By iHeartPodcasts

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Episode 27 - Unseen Innocence - Ray Ray's Story 20:33

10M ago20:33

20:33

Vanessa Tyler talks with Lionel Ray Williams and filmmaker Letitia McIntosh about the circumstances surrounding Lionel's conviction for the murder of actor Sal Mineo in 1979. Letitia has produced a documentary, "Unseen Innocence", exploring reports of false accusations and misconduct during the investigation in the hopes of erasing the stigma surro…

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