Stay ConnectedWelcome to the Black Menaces Podcast! Join hosts Nate Byrd and Rachel Weaver as they discuss life, social issues, and general Menace Activity! Offering a perfect mix of wit, personality, and serious discussion of relevant issues, Nate and Rachel are guaranteed to leave you smiling and well-informed. For anyone looking to join the Menace Movement, this is your Podcast! Email your questions and Menace Moments to blackmenacespodcast@gmail.com
BMP Theme Music by: Ethan Gifford
Copyright: © Black Menaces
Ellie Coates is the Chief Marketing Officer of Brand One Media in Salt Lake City. She has managed over $250 million USD in marketing projects and has worked with brands like Fabletics, Russell Brunson, Kris Krohn, PB Fit, and Potbelly Foods.
In this episode, Ellie shares her experiences as a mother, businesswoman, and a woman of color in the professional world.
In this episode Nate & Rachel interview Meredith, also known as Ms. Meredith (stage name). They discuss Merdieth's jounrey of growing up LDS in Provo, Utah to eventually identiying as gay, and recently coming out as a trans woman. Meredith shares the diffuclties of understanding her sexuality & gender idenity, and how being introduced to drag helped her fully accept herself as a trans woman. In this interview Meredith shares very vulnerable parts of her story and goes in depth to the complexities of understanding her gender identity.
In this interview, Rachel and Nate interviewed Cedric Adja. They discussed his experience immigrating to the United States from Ivory Coast to Washington DC, how he ended up in Utah, and his journey to becoming more politically aware. This has led to him being a co-founder of a new app that helps everyday citizens learn about their local politicians and the laws being passed in their local government. The app hasn't officially launched yet, but you can download the beta version with this link: CivUp.ai.
In this episode, Nate interviews Melodie Jackson, Johnisha Williams, and Andra Johnson about their BYU experiences and the activism they were a part of during their time there. When these four get together they are not liable for anything you might hear! Enjoy this unfiltered, and possibly unhinged episode!
In this interview Rachel and Nate interview Greg Noel, who is a first-generation Haitian-American Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT). Greg enjoys the privilege of working with a diverse population of clients who identify as being Black, Indigenous, Latine, Pacific-Islander, Asian, White, gender-queer, heterosexual, neurotypical, neurodivergent, religious, non-religious, able-bodied, disabled, documented, undocumented, low socioeconomic status, and other marginalized identities. In his interview, they discuss Greg's journey with understanding his mental health since becoming a husband and father. While also discussing the issues the Black and Brown community experience as a whole when it comes to mental health.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview State Representative Sandra Hollins about her work representing District 21 in the state House of Representatives. Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Representative Hollins was elected in 2014 and has served as a representative since then. Her background in social work has aided her in her work as an advocate not only for the constituents in District 21, but as a beacon for Women, Black Americans, and BIPOC people all over the state of Utah. Enjoy our interview with the Peoples' Representative!
In this episode, Nate and Rachel discuss current events surrounding politics and DEI in Utah and answer questions that YOU, our loyal audience asked us! We'll post future chances to ask questions on our IG stories!
IN this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Bryson Alejandro, Colombian-American and Utah native. Bryson is a Latinx film producer and actor. He strives to elevate diverse voices in art and film, believing that there should not only be more stories told about people of color, but there should be more stories with people of color, regardless of culture or subject matter. As part of this mission, Bryson co-founded Época, a non-profit seeking to increase the visibility and representation of BIPOC actors and storytellers in Utah.
Happy New Year! The Black Menace Podcast is back for 2024 and we're kicking this year off with an interview with Kaleb Ford (she/they). In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Kaleb about their experience growing up with pro-Black foster parents living with a White family and attending a predominantly White private school in their high school years. Kaleb shares their journey of understanding their gender identity to joining the LDs church and eventually moving to Utah. Follow on IG: @Kaleb_FormerlyKnownAs Originally hailing from Los Angeles, California, Kaleb has recently made the transition to SLC from Columbus, Ohio, accompanied by their dog, Dr. Dibbs. In their free time, they enjoy diving into captivating books, exploring the city, and taking leisurely strolls with Dibbs by their side. Their interests are wide-ranging, spanning from exploring spirituality within the Diaspora to delving into the intricate politics of Black Womanhood. Kaleb's academic journey has taken them through Oberlin College for undergrad and The Ohio State University for a Masters in Black Studies. They firmly believe that the power of Black women's art and fiction is as influential in shaping discourse as traditional academic texts. Some of the brilliant minds that inspire them include N.K. Jemisin, Ntozake Shange, and Audre Lorde. For those intrigued by the dynamic relationship between language and oppressive structures in nonwhite communities, they wholeheartedly recommend M. Nourbese Philips' "Discourse on the Logic of Language." After spending over five years in the nonprofit world as an educator, they are now the Black Student Engagement Coordinator at the University of Utah.
In this episode, Nate and Sebastian interview Max Coca, a son of Mexican immigrants and a native of Provo, UT. Max shares the amazing journey of how he has fought to claim his Mexican identity and his sense of self and self worth while growing up in a predominantly white community. You will most certainly be inspired by this episode, because we were!
In this episode, Nate interviews Asher Head. Asher is an entrepreneur, artist, craftsman, son, brother, actor, and singer, and he is also a Black Trans Man. Join us for Asher's amazing story of identity, acceptance, and self-actualization in this instant classic of an episode! You can follow Asher on IG: @coolkid_23
In this episode, Nate and Sebastian interview Jillian Sowell. Jillian seems to have lived many lives rolled into one as she discusses her identity as a Black Queer Woman, mother, daughter, Doula/Midwife, bodybuilder, and founder or a Women's Rugby League. Join us on this incredible journey!
In this episode, Nate and Sebastian interview Cheryl Etiang! As a Doula, Midwife, and Mother, Cheryl speaks on her experiences working in the medical field abroad and in the United States and about the importance of having an advocate during the journey of pregnancy and childbirth.
Follow Cheryl on IG: @heyy.cheryl and Tiktok: @heyy..cheryl
Find her recommendations here:
Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find—and Keep—Love
https://www.amazon.com/Attached-audiobook/dp/B07ZJW6DWR/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=580750232102&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9052497&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=8396548765774536367&hvtargid=kwd-967307536705&hydadcr=22562_13493218&keywords=attached+-+amir+levine&qid=1695175614&s=books&sr=1-1
Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon
https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Supernatural-Common-People-Uncommon/dp/B08KHCVRZZ/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=598659518347&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9052497&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=7906096477243757309&hvtargid=kwd-319360686600&hydadcr=22561_13531225&keywords=becoming+supernatural&qid=1695175577&sr=8-1
The Body Is Not an Apology, Second Edition: The Power of Radical Self-Love https://www.amazon.com/Body-Not-Apology-Second-Self-Love/dp/B08SQ2QRHF/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=409997132285&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9052497&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=9012123719515391324&hvtargid=kwd-350243969715&hydadcr=24628_11409971&keywords=the+body+is+not+an+apology&qid=1695175418&sr=8-1
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Alexis Munoa Dyer, a $unga`al (woman) of the Atáaxum Payómkawichum Pechangayam, or Western People. She is a former BYU student, but more importantly, she is an artist, mother, and a teacher. Join us as Alexis shares her incredible experience navigating the world and BYU as an Indigenous woman.
You can follow Alexis on IG @alexismunoadyer
Here are links to her recommendations:
On Zion's Mount (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/Zions-Mount-Mormons-American-Landscape/dp/0674047435
Black Belt Eagle Scout (Artist/Musician) - https://www.blackbelteaglescout.com/
Reservation Dogs (TV Show) - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13623580/
In this episode Nate and Sebastian interview Michelda George on a variety of topics, including Hatian American Identity, Racism and sexism in corporate America,Racial Identity, Faith, Diversity in Utah and Her upcoming Unity Block Party, featuring Iniko! You can purchase tickets for the event at VersatileImage.org and use the code BLACKMENACES for a discount!
EVENT DETAILS:
September 16 @ 2PM
Library Square 200 E 400 S Salt Lake City, UT
There will be Vendors, Performances, Musicians, History & Art, and Kid Friendly Activities
In this episode, Kennethia and Nate interview Dr. Jennifer Noble. Dr. Jennifer Noble (Dr. Jenn) is a licensed psychologist, lover of adolescents and coach for parents of mixed race children. She is the creator of The Mixed Life Academy, an online coaching community for parents of mixed race kids helping them raise confident, resilient children. She has a private practice in Los Angeles where she works with teens, their parents, women of color, and other marginalized groups. She taught collegiate level psychology 15+ years. Her passion for identity freedom and the mixed race experience are fueled by her lived experience as an African American and Sri Lankan Tamil woman.
You can follow Dr. Jenn on IG @drjennpsych and visit her website for more information, www.drjennpsych.com
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview James Jackson lll. James Jackson is a Utah native, father, author, and founder of the Utah Black Chamber. James discusses his upbringing in Utah, how he created the Black Chamber, and his work as a leader and advocate in the state of Utah. James has written three books, with his latest book, "Living With Purpose: Find Your Passion, Grow Your Influence, Maximize Your Endurance" released this year. You can purchase his book here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/James-Jackson-III/author/B08T7SNYBR?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
You can follow James on IG @j3motivation or connect with him on LinkedIn (jamesjacksoniii) or Facebook (James.Jackson.iii)
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Adhieu Arok. A native of South Sudan, Adhieu immigrated to Utah as a child from a refugee camp in Kenya. She spent much of her childhood adjusting to the cultural differences she encountered in her new home. She earned a Bachelor's in Public Health at BYU and a Master's of Public Health at Boise State University. In this episode, she shares her experiences around important topics such as colorism, sexism, and nationalism.
In this interview Kylee and Nate interview Chef Tasha, who shares about her journey becoming a chef. Along with what inspired her, how race & gender have impacted her experiences, and her hope of teaching the younger generation to cook more.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Marisa Cannon, winner of the Miss Bikini USA pageant and the first Black Miss Bikini Utah! Marisa shares her story about growing up as a transracial adoptee in Arizona and Utah, as well as her challenges with mental health and her experiences as a Black woman.
In this episode Nate and Rachel interviewed Terrell Benally (he/him/they/them). In this interview Terrell shares about his experience living on a reservation, becoming ti identity as 2 spirit, what does it mean to be 2 spirit and his journey to starting his own makeup brand 2SPIRIT BEAUTY.
You can purchase from 2SPIRIT BEAUTY here: https://2spiritbeauty.com/
You can follow Terrell @terrell2spirit on all social media (tiktok/instagram/facebook/twitter)
In this episode, Rachel and Nate interview Sean Wilson. Sean is the Organizing Director at Dream.Org. His 17 years of lived experience and direct involvement with the criminal legal system, allow him to share insight into a system he believes to be broken and in need of reform. Before joining the Dream Corps JUSTICE team, Sean was the ACLU of Wisconsin’s Smart Justice Campaign Manager, where he managed the campaign to reform probation and parole. In addition, he also serves as a commissioner on the Governor’s Juvenile Justice Commission (GJJC), a State Advisory Group (SAG) that advises the DOJ on its juvenile justice programs and funding decisions and serves as an independent forum to discuss juvenile justice policy issues. This episode provides a unique story and an essential paradigm into a world that many may never have experienced or conceptualized. Enjoy! Connect with Sean via social media: @Thefire_thistime (IG) Sean Kemet (FB) Sean Wilson(LinkedIn) THIS WEEK’S RECOMMENDATIONS: Text EMPATHY to 97483 to join a network dedicated to education and support for those impacted by the penal system. Check out “A Black Lady Sketch Show” here: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9698520/...
In this episode Nate and Rachel interview Luis Fernando Puente, @luisfernando.Puente. They discuss his experiences growing up in an immigrant household, Luis's path to creating films, and the future of cinema with more diverse stories on the big screen.
Luis biography:
Luis was born in Monterrey, Mexico and emigrated to the US during his childhood, Luis Fernando Puente studied Media Arts at Brigham Young University, where he learned to develop his voice as a filmmaker. He focuses on the experiences of Mexican immigrants in the U.S. His recent work includes, I Have No Tears, and I Must Cry, which was part of the official selection for the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, and El Moño, which he co-directed with Lizde Arias, and was a Golden Gate award winner at the San Francisco International Film Festival. He is currently working on developing his first feature film along with a few other short films.
Here are the links to the short films he created: https://vimeo.com/672623511
Socials where Luis shows his work: @simplecitizenus and @rootinginamerica
Luis's recommendation for the week is to listen to the musician Cuco and to watch the film The Vacrtion by Jarreau Carrillo.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Gil and Maleny, discussing their experiences being immigrants in the United States, what it was like attending PWIs, and the beautiful parts of being multilingual. Gil was born in Mexico but grew up in Utah. He graduated with honors from his high school and was a member of Latinos In Action for over 5 years. He's a student at UVU pursuing a degree in forensic science. He is inspired by his mother, who is an entrepreneur and owns a restaurant in Orem, UT called Villa Del Sol. You can follow him on IG: @lifewithgil222 and TikTok: @gil.maciel_ Maleny is Mexico native but grew up in Oakland, CA. She graduated from BYU in Family Studies with an emphasis in Social Services and is a current graduate student for a Master's in Social Work. She is also a DACA recipient and discusses her experience in the episode. You can follow her on IG: @malenyyyy_ This Weeks Recommendations: Watch: Parallel https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4922674/... Read: For Brown Girls With Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts https://a.co/d/cpcScCF Follow: Utah With All Immigrants https://instagram.com/ut_with_allimmi...
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview the amazing Sheryl Ellsworth about her experiences as an Educator, an Administrator, and a Black LDS Woman. Sheryl Ellsworth is an at-home mother and resides with her family in a suburb of Atlanta. She worked previously as the project manager for the Utah Youth Leadership Pipeline, an initiative to increase BIPOC representation in Utah's education, political, and business leadership. Prior to that, she worked as the Family/Community Engagement Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. In this role, she supported and trained schools, namely administrators and teachers, in engaging families through evidence-based strategies in urban, suburban, rural, remote, and Indigenous reservation communities. Sheryl served as the team leader of a family engagement fellowship to design a strategic plan to improve family engagement in Utah. Before working at the Utah State Board of Education, Sheryl taught in Philadelphia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. While in D.C., she played an integral role in helping her school move from the second-lowest performing position in the district to become the first school out of priority/turnaround status. Sheryl received an undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University in Communications and Sociology. She was part of the Washington D.C. region of the 2008 Teach for America Corps and obtained a master's degree from George Mason University in Early Childhood Education. Sheryl served a mission in the South Africa Cape Town Mission.
In this episode, Rachel and Nate interviewed Isaiah Huges, a second-year medical student, about his journey to wanting to be an orthopedic surgeon. They discuss the barriers Isaiah has overcome and the advocates in his life that have assisted him to where he's at. They also discuss how medical racism has impacted the Black community and how Isaahi wants to be a doctor working to help fix the broken medical system. Isaiah and another Black medical student at his school host a podcast and discuss all things Black, medical, and the process of becoming a doctor. Check that out here https://open.spotify.com/show/6jglu0vDAiTzinjK6IJCik?si=f6dee4407f4f4002
In this episode, Sebastian Stewart-Johnson fills in for Rachel and he and Nate interview Los Angeles-based Josh Wallace about his experience growing up as a transracial adoptee. Nate, Sebastian, and Josh discuss issues surrounding racism from family members, self-identity, and the myth of monlithic blackness.
Rachel and Nate interview Kimberly Applewhite-Teitter on her experience working as a Black therapist at BYU and in Utah. She shares what led to her wanting to be a therapist and serve communities that are typically forgotten. She shares in detail about her introduction to BYU as faculty, never having attended the school. And how she experienced feelings of isolation when working there. Kimberly also shares her experience with transracial adoptive families and shares advice on how parents with transracial adoptive children can best equip themselves and their children, to be prepared for the experience of being Black in Utah schooling.
In this episode, Rachel and Nate interviewed Sabrina and Carmina on their journey from meeting on their missions to now being engaged. They both share their experience coming to terms with their sexuality and how it's impacted their relationships with themselves, their families, and the church. They share how they fell in love and what their experience has been like since going viral on Tiktok sharing their love story. Here's a link to the Tiktok that both Rachel and Nate saw that prompted them to reach out to Carmina and Sabrina: https://www.tiktok.com/@hashtaginang/video/7234168142195395883?_r=1&_t=8cyYqkXkcJO.
It's officially been 1 whole year of The Black Menace Podcast! In celebration of the one-year anniversary, all 5 of the Black Menaces chatted this episode. The recent graduates gave updates on their post-grad plans. All the Menaces reflected on the ways they've changed, grown, and developed since starting our TikTok in February of last year.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel sit down with the Stacey Harkey, the intersectional icon himself to discuss his experience as a queer black man in Utah and the work he is doing to make Utah a better place for all!
We're back! In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Terri Hughes about her experience moving to Utah as a teen, and the development of her passion for activism.
Nate and Rachel interviewed Alexia, also known as Hotweirdg0rl on TikTok. They discussed what fueled her passion for content creation, advocacy, and her experience at PWIs. Alexia also shared about her experiences at law school and how it helps her with her content creation. Listen in to hear about her thoughts on where social media and TikTok are headed too.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel sit down with Brandon Day, CEO of Brand One Media. Brand One Media is the only black-owned ad agency in Utah.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview an old friend, Andra Johnson. They ask him about his experience joining the church, especially coming from such a different religious and cultural experience in an all-Black Baptist church. Andra shares how coming to BYU and being in Utah shifted his experience with church & racism. While also discussing how coming to terms with sexuality impacted his self-discovery in his early 20s and how he's kept his faith as a Christian throughout his journey.
Without even realizing it, Nate and Rachel interviewed their siblings in consecutive weeks! In this episode, we bring Alexandria Byrd onto the show to talk about her recent experiences on the BYU Civil Rights Seminar, one of the best classes the university has to offer.
Nate and Rachel sat down with Ronald Weaver, who shared about his recent experience with the MSS office on BYU campus. Ron shares how he was purposely excluded in the 2023 Perspeice performance, the Black History Month celebration on campus. Ronald shares how the experience made him feel targeted and how this negative experience has turned him off from wanting to participate in future celebrations.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Chandra and Jordan Smith. Chandra and Jordan are parents of six children, three of whom are transracially adopted. They share some of the traumatic racial experiences their family has been subject to during their time in Utah.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel Interview Alexis Bradley and Chante Stutznegger, a sister duo who started an Instagram account called Let's Talk Sis where they began educating on racism within the Utah community. They started by teaching families online to then speaking at events in person, and are now co-owners of a DEI consulting firm, Sinclair Consdtuing. These two shares wisdom throughout this episode on not just their own journey, but also on how to lead conversations about race.
Nate and Rachel interview Meligha Garfield, Director of the Black Cultural Center at the University of Utah. Meligha is a pillar in the Salt Lake City community as he strives to build black community and create space for success.
In this episode Nate and Rachel interview Dr. Derrick Brooms who teaches sociology and African-American studies at The University of Tennessee. They discuss his life on the south side of Chicago and what lead him to want to be a professor. They also discussed his research on Black men and boys in higher education.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview the Powerhouse Professor himself, Dr. Jacob Rugh. He's been mentioned several times before because of the research and activism that he is a part of at BYU, so we had to bring him on to hear for yourselves!
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interviewed Dwanye Madry about his book series. They discuss his creative process, the following stages of the graphic novel he's making, and what the future is for other Black creators.
Elizabeth Stordeur Pryor, Ph.D, is an associate professor of history at Smith College and the author of an award winning article, “The Etymology of [N-Word]: Resistance, Language and the Politics of Freedom in the Antebellum North” and 2016’s monograph Colored Travelers: Mobility and the Fight for Citizenship before the Civil War. is an award-winning teacher with 10 years experience teaching the n-word; she is Smith College’s Faculty Teaching Mentor for Inclusive and Equitable Pedagogies; and she conducts faculty workshops on navigating the n-word and other racist language in the classroom. Her TED talk on the n-word has over 2 million views.
"Tackling the N-word on Campus," NEPR, February 28, 2018.
"Why its so hard to talk about the n-word," TED.com, March 12, 2020
WARNING: A racial slur is said once during this episode. In this episode, Nate and Rachel interviewed Will Sintyl about the difficult situation he's been living in the past few months in Provo. Will shares the ways this time has been challenging and the fall from the situation, including a meeting with the head of the Honor Code Office at BYU. Tune in to learn about Will's story.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Antonia and Joshua about their experiences as biracial people, both as students and members of the LDS church. Joshua Beacham is an events professional with experience working for nonprofits and professional sports teams. Though he currently lives in NYC, he grew up in Tomball, Texas. Joshua comes from a biracial family (black mom, white dad) and has 7 siblings. From 2016-2018 Joshua lived as a missionary for the LDS Church in Mozambique and Swaziland. Following his time as a missionary Joshua attended BYU where he received a degree in Experience Design and Management with minors in Sociology and International Development. He is and avid tv watcher and is passionate about DEI, storytelling, sports, and superheroes.
Nate and Rachel discuss how colorism plays a role in the experiences Meghan Markle shared in her recent Netflix documentary. This leads to a discussion of how mixed-race people identify and their experiences with colorism.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel interview Tanner J. Edwards.
Tj Edwards is a Public Policy Major at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is currently the National Director of Menace Chapters, and has been serving as this position since October 2021, and founded the UNC Black Menace Chapter in July 2021. He's 20 years old from Apex, North Carolina and has a passion for reforming the communities and spaces he is a part of, as well as Blockchain technology, particularly how it can be used in the political space. He is a proudly autistic person, and uses He/They pronouns.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel discuss microaggressions and how to confront them. With the holiday season upon us, this means a lot more family time. This also means more opportunities for that older uncle or auntie to say something that might be offensive or make you uncomfortable. Rachel and Nate share stories and ways to successful handle these conversations with family members.
Sebastian Stewart-Johnson fills in for Rachel this week, and he and Nate discuss American society, politics, and what it actually means to "defund the police".
In this episode, Nate and Rachel discuss how anti-blackness is a global issue. Along with how colorism, the transatlantic slave trade, and discrimination all impact the experience that Black people have globally.
In light of the recent shootings at University of Virgina and Club Q in Colorado Springs, Rachel and Nate discuss their views on gun control.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel explore the toxic masculinity that exists within the rap and hip-hop industry. Along with a discussion about the differences that Black students face at more progressive universities after their recent visit to Smith College. Email us at blackmenacespodcast@gmail.com with questions you want to be featured on the podcast and/or Menace moments.
We had some technical difficulties, but the revolution continues! Nate and Rachel play a game of "Hot Seat" for their loyal listeners!
Nate and Rachel tackle the subjects of Transracialism and religious clergy. A few people have gained some notoriety by claiming a different race than their own. We talk about why that doesnt work in todays climate and what would make it work.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel discuss the origins of the Black Lives Matter movement and the psychology behind the White Lives Matter response.
This past month Princess Lang created the first majorette dance team at The University of Southern California. The creation of this team stirred up a lot of conversation on social media between Black students who attend HBCUs and PWIs. Nate and Rachel discuss the different sides of this issue, along with some of the whys behind Black students attending universities that historically didn't serve their community. They also have some hot takes about the music industry that will surprise you. Email us at blackmenacespodcast@gmail.com with questions you want to be featured on the podcast and/or Menace moments.
Nate and Rachel interview Kennethia Dorsey about her journey as a Black Menace and her work at BYU.
TW: Sudical ideation is mentioned in this video
Nate and Rachel have a conversation typically only discussed among other Black people, the reality of mental health in the Black community. They share how it's impacted them personally and how they've overcome some issues surrounding the taboo topic. These are generational issues for Black people and Nate and Rachel explore how the Black community has work to do when it comes to accessibility, conversations, and attitudes surrounding the topic. Also, enjoy our new segment at the end of the podcast, personal recommendations from both Rachel and Nate.
Rachel and Nate discuss the nuances of culture, norms, and expectations in the Church and the Community.
Nate and Rachel got to talk with one of the founding members of the very FIRST menace chapter, Adokor Swaniker is originally from San Diego, California, and is currently a senior studying cinema at San Francisco State University. Adokor joined Black Menaces to get more involved in the community and be a part of the change. She’s very excited to see what new experiences come her way. During this conversation, you'll hear about the differences between BYU and SFSU, why Adokor wanted to start a menace chapter, and the other ways SFSU has been the first for social issues.
Recent Graduates Nate and Rachel reminisce on the positive experiences that made BYU worth it for them. Is it worth it to you? You decide..
Nate and Rachel were able to interview BYU Alumna Navirlene Amoa-Ohenakwah. She tells us about her experiences coming from the East Coast to Provo and how Black students are still dealing with the same issues years after her graduation.
If you would like to send us a question or be featured in a podcast episode, email us at blackmenacespodcast@gmail.com.
Cassandra Cooper recieved a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from BYU-Idaho and an MSW from Arizona State. She is originally from Central Falls, Rhode Island and currently practices in Northern Utah. On this episode, she joins Nate and Rachel to discuss texturism, colorism, and dating as Black People in Predominantly White Spaces.
Kylee, Sebastian, Nate, and Rachel decided to get on the TikTok account and go live as they answered questions from you! If you would like to send us a questions or be featured for a podcast episode, email us at blackmenacespodcast@gmail.com.
Nate and Rachel discuss the nuances of the terms 'Black' and 'African American' as well as the difficulty of navigating spaces that are not welcoming to minorities.
In his own words, Garrett Whiting is a Young Black Entrepreneur! He speaks on the experiences he had as a transracial adoptee growing up in the "Mormon Capital of the World" and it’s culture. Garrett is also a barber, model, Certified Personal Trainer, and aspiring actor.
As the co-owner of several start up companies, Rod Villalba has developed a talent for understanding and helping people through learning to value the people that surround him. He is passionate about marketing, networking, and working with others. Rod is a business school student from Uruguay. He enjoys recording music, cooking, and learning new things, and is very allergic to fish!
His hope in sharing his story as a DACA recipient is to make a confusing and nuanced immigration policy more approachable.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel talk hair and haters as they dive into social and racial issues that are more often discussed within the Black community than outside of it. The link below is related to topics discussed in this episode. Please email your questions and Menace Moments to blackmenacespodcast@gmail.com
In his own words, "Taran Trinnaman is a Black, queer, disabled, Mormon adoptee who speaks on intersectionality within media, theme park industry, religion, and society on Social media. Pronouns are he/they and were originally from Highland, Utah, where he lived with his parents and his eight siblings. They attended BYU from 2013 to 2018, briefly serving in the Jamaica Kingston Mission from 2015 to 2017, before in May of 2018 going to Florida to participate in the Disney College Program at Walt Disney World. And since 2022, they now work in the custodial and park services department for Magic Kingdom while also being an inclusion and diversity advocate within the company.
In this episode, get to know the Black Menace Family a little bit better as we interview Kylee and Sebastian! You’ll hear a side of us you don’t get on TikTok!
In this episode, Nate and Rachel tackle the challenges of holding progressive views in conservative families.
In this episode, Nate and Rachel tackle the challenges of attending a Predominantly White University (PWI) and finding ways to belong in whatever space you find yourself in.
Welcome to the Black Menaces Podcast! Join hosts Nate Byrd and Rachel Weaver as they discuss life, social issues, and general Menace Activity! Offering a perfect mix of wit, personality, and serious discussion of relevant issues, Nate and Rachel are guaranteed to leave you smiling and well-informed. For anyone looking to join the Menace Movement, this is your Podcast! In this episode, Nate and Rachel talk about experiences with dating in Utah and the subtle art of being a Menace when you are unsure how to do it.
Welcome to the Black Menaces Podcast! Join hosts Nate Byrd and Rachel Weaver as they discuss life, social issues, and general Menace Activity! Offering a perfect mix of wit, personality, and serious discussion of relevant issues, Nate and Rachel are guaranteed to leave you smiling and well-informed. For anyone looking to join the Menace Movement, this is your Podcast!
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