Best Robin Lofton Podcasts (2025)

1
Not Just Banned — The Erasure of Black Books 41:30

1d ago41:30

41:30

Black books aren't just being banned—they’re being erased. Quietly. Systemically. From classrooms, libraries, and publishing houses. In this Believe Black People episode, Black empowerment storyteller Ama-Robin breaks down how erasure works—and how we fight back. This isn’t about asking for space. It’s about reclaiming it. Join the Canon of Black B…

1
Black Book Joy: The Stories We Love to Love - YAIT Espresso Talks 42:48

8d ago42:48

42:48

Ever finish a book and think, this one is gonna stay with me? In this bold Espresso Talk episode, storyteller Ama-Robin opens up about the books that shaped her—Roots, The People Could Fly, Parable of the Sower, and others. She shares how Black books gave her more than knowledge—they gave her belonging. And she asks: What are the stories that shape…

1
A Page of Peace for You - YAIT Comforting Moments 6:50

19d ago6:50

6:50

Hey there, friend! I'm so happy you're here. Let’s take a deep breath together and slow down for a minute. I'm Ama-Robin, the storyteller and guide of this YAIT Comforting Moment episode. This is a safe space to breathe, rest your spirit, and remember that your story is sacred. Today, I’m sharing a comforting moment inspired by a note that I found …

1
More than a bookstore - YAIT Stories 22:10

22d ago22:10

22:10

This isn’t just about books. It’s about belonging! I'm Ama-Robin, your guide on this storytelling journey. In this immersive Village episode of You Ain’t Imagining This!, I will guide y'all inside a Black-owned bookstore—a space where history lives, wisdom flows, and the Black community thrives. Through storytelling, reflection, and real conversati…

1
You Ain't Imagining This! (YAIT) Introduction 18:46

23d ago18:46

18:46

You’re Not Imagining It—And You’re Not Alone You Ain’t Imagining This! is more than a podcast—it’s a sanctuary for Black truth, imagination, and healing. In this premiere episode, Black empowerment storyteller, Ama-Robin, shares the origin of this sacred space through story, reflection, and raw honesty. From Oakland dreams to ancestral wisdom, from…

1
You Ain't Imagining This! (YAIT!) Trailer 4:15

24d ago4:15

4:15

Hi, I'm Ama-Robin. Welcome to You Ain't Imagining This! This podcast show is a sanctuary for Black empowerment, truth, and liberation. Here, we create a space to breathe, reflect, and rise through enlightening storytelling, powerful conversations, and comforting rituals. Whether you're feeling joyful, heavy, or anything in between, you're always we…

1
Literacy Beyond Whiteness: Reading as Resistance, Storytelling as Power 31:17

2M ago31:17

31:17

Black people have always valued knowledge—through books, through songs, through music, and even through memory. In this fireside reflection, Ama-Robin explores why reading has always been a form of resistance and an expression of joy, why storytelling matters, the importance of music, drumming, dance, and other forms of communication and repositori…

1
You are never alone in a Black Bookstore - A Village Story 19:08

3M ago19:08

19:08

In this story, we will step inside a Black-owned bookstore. Feel the warmth. Hear the conversations. Smell the books and the spice of chai in the air. This isn’t just a shop—it’s a sanctuary, a meeting place, a revolution in the making. In this story-driven episode, I take you inside a Black bookstore where knowledge is resistance, elders share wis…

1
Your Comforting Moment for Black History Month 14:01

3M ago14:01

14:01

Hujambo community, and welcome to Espresso Talk today. Today I'll be guiding you through a heartfelt reflection as we close out Black History Month. We'll start by grounding ourselves in the wisdom of our ancestors and celebrating the lessons, stories, and triumphs we've explored this month. Dr. Carter G. Woodson's vision for Black History Month se…

1
Gumbo, Grits, and Gathering: Black Food is Black History 32:37

3M ago32:37

32:37

In this Espresso Talk Today episode, we step into the rich, vibrant world of Black food spaces with the story A Taste of Home. This story is more than a sensory experience—it’s an exploration of how food connects us to our history, our culture, and our sense of belonging. Through the bustling African-Caribbean marketplace, the aroma of smoked papri…

1
A Seat at the Table: Conversations with Historical Black Figures 23:46

4M ago23:46

23:46

Hujambo fam and Akwaaba (welcome!). Join me as I take you on a journey into my dream where I sit with great Black figures like Frederick Douglass, Ida B. Wells, and Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Together, we discuss the significance of Black history, and the importance of reclaiming our narratives and lighting the way for future generations. ✨💡 In this ep…

1
Black History Month Reflection: Symbols, Stories, and the Power of History 20:09

4M ago20:09

20:09

What connects you to your history? For Ama-Robin, it was a wooden map of Africa that hung in my childhood home—a powerful symbol of identity, pride, and resilience. In this episode, Ama-Robin shares a deeply personal story about how this map, despite being ridiculed, became a source of strength and a reminder of the greatness of Black history. We’l…

1
Beyond "Rugged Individualism": The Power of Collective Core Values 31:16

4M ago31:16

31:16

Western society glorifies rugged individualism, but in the Black community, we know the truth—our power has always been collective. From Black Wall Street to the Black Panther Party, from HBCUs to our multigenerational families, we have built, protected, and uplifted each other through shared core values like unity, self-determination, and collecti…

1
Black Empowerment Starts Here: Living by Your Core Values 24:01

4M ago24:01

24:01

What are core values? Why should I care about them? Core values aren’t just a “white thing”—they’re the foundation of Black empowerment. In this episode, Black empowerment educator Ama-Robin explores how our core values are challenged and undermined in a world that often questions our humanity. She's talking directly to the skeptics, showing how co…

1
Stop Making Resolutions: Harnessing the Power of Core Values 34:47

5M ago34:47

34:47

In this episode, we’re ditching resolutions and diving deep into the transformative power of core values. Discover how values like resilience, unity, and freedom can ground and empower us, especially as Black individuals navigating racial chaos. Core values aren’t just personal—they’re revolutionary tools for empowerment and liberation. Let’s explo…

1
An African American Christmas Poem 5:54

5M ago5:54

5:54

In this poem titled, "The Christmas Reunion Down in Martinsville," Augustus Hodges (1854 - 1916) presents an African American version of a Christmas poem. Hodges was an American editor, writer, journalist, and political organizer. In 1876, He was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. Presented by musician and teacher, Kirk Wadi. Follow him on…

1
Kwanzaa: Principles for Liberation and Believing Black People 39:37

5M ago39:37

39:37

Habarigani! Discover the power of Kwanzaa as a celebration of Black culture, resilience, and liberation. This episode explores the seven principles of Kwanzaa, connecting each to the inspiring stories of Black historical figures and the importance of the #BelieveBlackPeople movement. Join us for reflection, empowerment, and a call to action for lib…

1
BelieveBlackPeople: From Supportive Spaces to Standing Strong 20:33

6M ago20:33

20:33

In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin dives deeper into the #BelieveBlackPeople movement. This isn’t just a hashtag—it’s a revolutionary call to honor and trust Black voices, celebrate our achievements, and challenge the stereotypes and biases that have silenced us for too long. Ama-Robin breaks down what it means to believe Black …

1
#BelieveBlackPeople: More Than a Hashtag, It’s a Movement 31:20

7M ago31:20

31:20

BelieveBlackPeople is more than words--it's a call to action! In this episode, we break down what it means to believe Black people and why it matters now more than ever. Hosted by Ama-Robin, this episode explores why believing Black people is essential—from recognizing everyday encounters with racism and bias to celebrating Black excellence that’s …

1
Doubt Your Limits: Discover your Inner Explorer 21:41

7M ago21:41

21:41

Discover your inner explorer! Join us as we discuss how finding your inner explorer means pushing past societal limits, reclaiming community and culture, and doubting the boundaries that have been placed upon us. This episode will encourage you to embark on your own exploration, to doubt your limits, and to explore the vast possibilities within. If…

1
Exploring New Horizons: Celebrating Black Explorers who Broke Boundaries 22:15

7M ago22:15

22:15

In this powerful episode, Espresso Talk Today dives into the remarkable, often-hidden stories of Black explorers who redefined what’s possible—from Matthew Henson’s trek to the North Pole to Mae Jemison’s journey beyond Earth’s atmosphere and beyond. Join Ama-Robin as she reveals how racial barriers sought to silence these achievements, fostering a…

1
Breaking the Silence: Rediscovering Black Explorers and Empowering Black Futures 31:44

7M ago31:44

31:44

In this powerful episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin shines a light on the incredible Black explorers whose contributions have been erased by the quiet force of racism. From Matthew Henson, one of the first men to reach the North Pole, to Octavia Butler, who explored the Black experience through Afro-futurism, this episode uncovers stori…

1
From Silence to Strength: Tackling Racial Chaos in the Doctor's Office and Beyond 33:04

8M ago33:04

33:04

In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, we're diving into how to prepare for and manage the racial chaos in the healthcare system. I know many of you—especially my young audience—feel nervous, afraid, or even powerless when facing medical appointments. This episode is for you. We're shifting gears from recognizing the red flags of medical racism to…

1
Red Flags of Racial Chaos in Healthcare (Part 1) 48:39

8M ago48:39

48:39

Hujambo, beautiful people! In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, we confront the subtle yet pervasive racial chaos in the healthcare system. Join host Ama-Robin as she uncovers the microaggressions, hidden biases, and other red flags that Black people often face during medical treatment. From dismissal of pain to offensive stereotypes, we get rea…

1
Black Women's Health Matters: Shattering Myths and Fighting Medical Racism 1:20:57

8M ago1:20:57

1:20:57

In this eye-opening episode, Deirdre Cooper Owens, Ph.D, a leading historian of medicine, reveals the disturbing history of medical racism against Black women. From the origins of American gynecology during the period of enslavement to the persistence of biased treatment today, Dr. Cooper Owens exposes the systemic issues that Black women face in h…

1
Black Power in Action: Fighting for and Reclaiming our Health 1:27:56

9M ago1:27:56

1:27:56

In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, Dr. Greg Hall, a leading expert on Black health, joins us for an empowering conversation on the critical importance of self-advocacy and personal health care. Dr. Hall shares powerful insights on how systemic barriers and racial biases in the healthcare system have historically impacted Black communities—and …

1
Empowering Black Health: Essential Steps for Longevity and Well-Being 59:47

9M ago59:47

59:47

Have you ever wanted to have a (free and authentic) conversation with a cardiologist? That's what the Espresso Talk Today team wanted--and that's what we had! We met with Dr. Clyde Yancy, cardiologist and spokesperson of the American Heart Association! Nothing was off the table. We discussed everything from heart fairlure to heart health. Dr. Yancy…

1
Uncovering Hidden Racism: The Everyday Behaviors We Need to Confront 44:19

9M ago44:19

44:19

In this powerful episode of Espresso Talk Today, we dive deep into the often-overlooked world of covert racism—the subtle, everyday behaviors and attitudes that many people don’t even realize are racist. From denying racism’s existence to ignoring white privilege and making harmful stereotypes, we unpack how these actions perpetuate systemic racism…

1
Why is August 28th so important to Black Folks? 29:30

9M ago29:30

29:30

Join Ama-Robin on Espresso Talk Today as we dive into the profound significance of August 28th in Black history—a day marked by moments of pain, progress, and power. From Emmett Till’s tragic lynching to Dr. King’s iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, we explore the events that have shaped our journey toward justice and equality. This episode is a power…

1
Uncovering the Racism You’ve Been Taught 38:33

10M ago38:33

38:33

In this episode, host Ama-Robin dives deep into a challenging yet vital discussion: "You probably don’t think that you’re racist. But you are!" Many white people, even those who consider themselves allies, unknowingly perpetuate racism through ingrained and socialized behaviors. This episode isn’t about blame or shame—it's about understanding and t…

1
Fighting the "C" Word: The Dangers of Complacency 50:44

10M ago50:44

50:44

Hujambo, beautiful people! I’m Ama-Robin, host of Espresso Talk Today. In this episode, we're tackling the "C" word: complacency. Join me as we explore why complacency is a silent but powerful enemy in our fight for justice and equality. We'll discuss how complacency perpetuates injustice, creates a false sense of accomplishment, erodes empathy, an…

1
Navigating the Chaos: Confronting Racism in Unexpected Places 32:41

10M ago32:41

32:41

In this powerful episode, Black empowerment educator and host Ama-Robin dives into the unpredictable and irrational chaos of living Black in predominantly white spaces. Ama-Robin shares a recent "banking while Black" experience, highlighting the physical, mental, and emotional toll that racism takes on Black people as individuals and communities. T…

1
The Mindfulness Superpower: Tapping into your Inner Wisdom. 54:31

11M ago54:31

54:31

In this powerful and transformative episode, host Ama-Robin welcomes back Roxanne Warden, a board-certified life and mindfulness coach, for the second part of their series on the power of mindfulness. This episode dives into the critical role of mindfulness in Black empowerment and offers practical tools to help listeners manage the chaos of living…

1
Self-care Special: Building Your Village with Mindfulness and Support 49:43

11M ago49:43

49:43

In this insightful episode, host Ama-Robin and special guest Roxanne Worden, a dedicated mindfulness coach, discuss how building a diverse support network can lead to personal growth and empowerment within the Black community. Ama-Robin highlights the importance of professionals like doctors, dentists, and mindfulness coaches, while Roxanne delves …

1
Why I Loathe July 4th in America 35:21

11M ago35:21

35:21

In this powerful and defiant episode, host Ama-Robin confronts the painful contradictions of celebrating Independence Day as a Black American. Drawing inspiration from Frederick Douglass's iconic speech, "What to the Slave is Your Fourth of July?" Ama-Robin exposes the hypocrisies of a nation that celebrates freedom while denying it to millions. Th…

1
Why Black-centered Spaces Should be Protected 44:00

11M ago44:00

44:00

Join Ama-Robin on Espresso Talk Today as we celebrate Black spaces—vibrant havens of safety and empowerment that defy the chaos of predominantly white spaces. Discover the resilience and creativity flourishing in Black-owned restaurants, boutiques, and cultural centers. But Black spaces are so much more. Black spaces are Black history, Black art, B…

1
Juneteenth: A Radical Movement for Reparations and Liberation 34:17

11M ago34:17

34:17

In this powerful and radical episode, host Ama-Robin dives into the deeper significance of Juneteenth, the day that marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Juneteenth is not just a celebration—it's an ongoing movement for reparations and liberation. Ama-Robin explores the historical roots of Juneteenth, the enduring struggles faced by…

1
Toward Black Liberation: Imagining a New World 37:47

12M ago37:47

37:47

In this electrifying episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin demands Black liberation and discusses dismantling the existing white supremacist structures that force us to "make a way out of no way." We explore the true cost of resilience and the necessity of envisioning a world where Black people thrive, not just survive. Drawing on the powe…

1
Confronting the Chaos: Living Black in white spaces 33:56

12M ago33:56

33:56

Join host Ama-Robin as she dives deep into the relentless chaos of living Black in predominantly white spaces. In this episode, we explore the challenges faced by Black people, from microaggressions and tokenism to racial profiling and economic exploitation. We also confront the emotional labor of constantly educating others about racism and the to…

1
The Hidden Costs of Resilience on Black Health and Wellbeing 31:12

1y ago31:12

31:12

In this episode of Espresso Talk Today, host Ama-Robin dives into the often undiscussed aspect of "Making a Way out of No Way." While resilience, resourcefulness, and determination have driven the Black community to achieve remarkable successes, these traits have also taken a significant toll on our health. Ama-Robin explores the phenomenon of John…

1
Unstoppably Black: Making a Way Out of No Way 26:10

1y ago26:10

26:10

"Making a Way out of No Way." Join host Ama-Robin as she explores the resilience, resourcefulness, and determination in the Black community. From historical figures who defied the odds to contemporary history makers like Misty Copeland and Barack Obama, she dives deep into the theme of "Making a Way out of No Way." Get ready for inspiring stories, …

1
My Unexpected Pilgrimage through Black History 29:45

1y ago29:45

29:45

Join Ama-Robin on a profound journey through America's most iconic museums and libraries. In this episode, we dive into what makes a pilgrimage more than just a trip as Ama-Robin retraces the steps of pivotal African American figures and explores key artifacts that shape the narrative of African American resilience and culture. From the hallowed ha…

1
Everyday Discrimination Scale: Confronting Racial Stress in the Workplace 54:06

1y ago54:06

54:06

Join Ama-Robin and Mel on a powerful episode of Espresso Talk Today, where today's brew is rich with insight and empowerment. Diving deep into the Every Day Discrimination Scale (EDDS), this episode tackles the often-overlooked yet deeply impactful issue of workplace discrimination and harassment. Discover how subtle, daily acts of discrimination s…

1
Black & Bold: Core Values ain't just for White folks! 50:28

1y ago50:28

50:28

Join us in a thought-provoking episode as we delve into the unique journey of identifying and living by core values as Black folks. Racism, a pervasive force, often acts as a formidable obstacle, diverting our focus and energy from our guiding principles. Through powerful anecdotes and insightful analysis, we explore how racism can disrupt our alig…

1
More than Just Words: Core Values for Empowered Living 44:59

1y ago44:59

44:59

At Espresso Talk Today, empowerment is at the heart of everything we do. In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of core values—the guiding principles that shape our decisions and actions. Knowing your core values is more than just an introspective exercise—it's a tool for empowerment. It empowers you to reduce stress, set meaningful…

1
Breaking Barriers: Black Women in Outdoor Spaces 1:01:39

1y ago1:01:39

1:01:39

Join Ama-Robin and Mel as they interview Demiesha Dennis, founder of Brown Girl Outdoor World. Dive into Demiesha's inspiring journey from self-taught fly-fisher to advocate for Black women in nature. We discuss: 1. The challenges faced by women of color in outdoor spaces, from racial profiling to lack of representation. 2. How Black Girl Outdoor W…

1
Healing from Racial Stress and Trauma: A 4-Step Approach 47:35

1y ago47:35

47:35

Today, we bravely dive into the topic of managing racial trauma. We are uniquely guided by Professor William A. Smith's framework of trauma-informed care: the 4Rs. By realizing, recognizing, responding, and resisting, we can navigate the complexities of racial trauma and foster healing within ourselves and our communities. Join us on our journey of…

1
Five Uncomfortable Truths about Racial Stress 43:06

1y ago43:06

43:06

Racial stress is a fact of life for most Black Americans. We suffer its physical and mental effects daily at work, at school, in public spaces, anywhere or anytime. Headaches. Hypertension. Insomnia. Anxiety. Depression. These are a few of the symptoms of racial stress, or Racial Battle Fatigue. We have learned about Racial Battle Fatigue from its …

1
Racial Battle Fatigue is Real: Learn how it can affect your Health 1:35:50

1y ago1:35:50

1:35:50

Did you know that systemic racism can cause depression, anxiety, hypertension, insomnia, and other serious health conditions? Black Americans suffer high levels of stress from the daily experience of anti-Black racism. In this special episode, the Espresso Talk Today team is joined by Professor William Smith who has conducted extensive study on thi…

1
From Past to Present: Embracing Our Role as History Makers Today 30:00

1+ y ago30:00

30:00

In this powerful final episode of Black History Month on Espresso Talk Today, we dive deep into the heart of what it means to be a history maker. Guided by the wisdom of the courageous and brilliant philosopher and activist, Angela Davis, we explore how every one of us, through our everyday actions, contributes to making history. From the stories o…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Robin Lofton Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen