Black Oxygen

Latest Episodes:

Angela Lang and Ali Muldrow - What happened to #TrustBlackWomen? Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

This week on Black Oxygen I'm in conversation with Angela Lang, Executive Director of BLOC of Milwaukee, and Ali Muldrow of the Wisconsin Abortion Fund. In this episode, we discuss what it means to be engaged in democracy locally, the role of Black women in the last presidential election, and the importance of telling our stories in real time so that our legacy and impact are not erased. AND, in addition to all of that we talk about the vision of the creation of a multiracial democracy and connecting it to the film Sinners. Beware, the second half of this episode contains spoilers - we discuss the political nature of the film, the potency of Black culture, and how the film highlights the role of sexuality and liberation. #TrustBlackWomen #BlackOxygenPodcast #BlackInWisconsin

Alice Gilliam - The Vibe Curator Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

This week on Black Oxygen we have Alice Gilliam, also known as DJ Gemini Gilly. In this episode, Alice shares her life in Wisconsin, how she become a full-time DJ after starting her career as a social worker, key highlights of her career - including being a DJ for the Milwaukee Bucs AND DJ for VP Kamala Harris, and the role of DJing in creating community. #DJGeminiGilly #BlackOxygenPodcast #BlaakInWisconsin

Ashley Moseberry: I Created What I Needed May 26, 2025

Show notes

Ashley is the Founder and Creator of Black on State, a community-driven organization dedicated to elevating voices, art and creativity. In this episode, Ashley talks about growing up in Madison, her vision of creating a more welcoming and inclusive downtown Madison, the 2025 Black on State event which is being held on August 23, and so much more. In our conversation Ashley states that Black folks intentionally stay away from downtown Madison and discusses what is being done to create a better sense of belonging. Ashley has a big vision for Madison - take a listen and find out what to help make her vision possible. #BlackOnState #MadisonWi #DowntownMadison #BlackWomen #BlackOxygenPodcast #BlackInMadison #CulturalFestivals

Sabrina Madison: Protect Your Peace May 12, 2025

Show notes

This episode of Black Oxygen features Sabrina Madison. Sabrina is a multifaceted leader based in Madison, Wisconsin, known for her advocacy, entrepreneurship, and public service. She currently serves as the Alder for District 17 on Madison's Common Council. In addition to her role as an elected official, Sabrina is the founder and CEO of The Progress Center for Black Women, an organization dedicated to empowering Black women through entrepreneurship, professional development, and community wellness. In this Black Oxygen conversation, Sabrina talks about her journey to Madison, the importance of Black women's voices in politics, and the impact of civic engagement and the need to understand local government. Towards the end of the conversation, Sabrina calls for more authentic support from the community for Black women leaders. #BlackOxygenPodcast #SabrinaMadison #BlackWomen #MadisonWI #CulturalSpaces #CivicEngagement #ProgessCenter

Trust Black Women with Yolanda Shelton-Morris Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Yolanda Shelton-Morris shares her journey from meeting her husband in a middle school program to becoming a recognized leader in her community. She discusses the challenges of being a Black woman in predominantly white spaces, the importance of legacy and recognition, and her commitment to education and social work. Yolanda emphasizes the need for empowerment over mere help, the interconnectedness of poverty and social services, and her vision for her organizing business. She also reflects on the power of music in her life and the importance of representation in education. #Madison365 #BlackOxygenPodcast #TrustBlackWomen #MadisonWisconsin #BlackInMadison #BlackinWisconsin

Key Takeaways:

Being a Black woman in predominantly white spaces is challenging.
Recognition is not just about individual achievement but collective legacy.
Education is a journey that requires resilience and determination.
Voting is about understanding the stakes for the community.
Service in social work should focus on empowerment, not just help.
Poverty is a systemic issue that requires comprehensive solutions.
Music serves as a source of joy and connection.

Dr. Sagashus Levingston Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Black Oxygen podcast, host Angela Russell reconnects with Dr. Sagashus Levingston to discuss the importance of amplifying Black women's voices, the historical context of their political engagement, and the complexities of Black womanhood. They explore personal journeys, the impact of the 2024 presidential election, and the parallels between historical events and current societal issues, emphasizing the need for reclamation and authenticity in the face of systemic challenges. In this conversation, the speakers explore the themes of softness, self-love, and the complexities of being a Black woman in today's society. They discuss the importance of creating emotional safety, the contrast between hard and soft lives, and the necessity of self-acceptance and body positivity. The conversation also touches on the power of storytelling and the impact of personal narratives on community and legacy.

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Introducing OuttaDeeBox: Rising Beyond the Streets to Business Brilliance with J-Ball Feb 29, 2024

Show notes

Hello Black Oxygen subscribers! On March 7, The OuttaDeeBox Podcast will officially become part of the 365 Media Network, with new episodes every other Thursday. Watch Madison365.org/Podcasts for new episodes or search for OuttaDeeBox on your favorite podcast app. In the meantime, here's a classic episode from the OuttaDeeBox archives!

From the unforgiving streets of Humboldt Park, Chicago, to the relentless drive of entrepreneurship, our guest J-Ball has a tale that's nothing short of cinematic. His life, marred by the crack era's cruelty and the agony of familial betrayal, unfolds like a masterclass in resilience. Amidst the backdrop of gang violence and systemic oppression, J-Ball's story is a searing exploration of the human spirit's capacity to endure and evolve. As we unravel his journey, you'll be riveted by the raw honesty of a man who refused to be defined by his past.

Our conversation with J-Ball shifts gears as we track his ascent from a series of temp jobs to becoming a master of the wholesale game. The party rental business 'Circle of Fun' was just the beginning of his business ventures, demonstrating J-Ball's knack for identifying opportunities and adapting to market demands. His transformation into a successful wholesaler is peppered with essential business insights, from the significance of multiple income streams to the savvy art of pricing. If you're tangled in the grind or dreaming of financial liberation, J-Ball's entrepreneurial playbook is a treasure trove of strategies and real-world tips.

Wrapping up, J-Ball lays the groundwork for anyone inspired to set up their own business, especially those who've experienced the inside of a cell looking out. From the basics, like naming your enterprise and cutting through the red tape, to the strategic selection of commercial space and the intricacies of insurance, his advice is golddust for newcomers and seasoned business owners alike. J-Ball's relentless energy and shrewd business acumen come to life in this episode, serving as a beacon of hope and a practical guide for all who seek to leave a mark in commerce.

Introducing OuttaDeeBox - Turning the Page: Stacey Clay's Journey from Incarceration to Inspiration Feb 22, 2024

Show notes

Today, Stacey Clay lays bare his life's journey from the streets of Milwaukee to become a beacon of transformation. As a certified peer specialist at Athesis Therapy, Stacey recounts the trials he faced, including bullying, substance abuse, and a 28-year incarceration. He shares the epiphany that carved his path towards accountability and self-discovery and emphasizes the breakthroughs that shape the future, no matter the past.

The resonance of Stacey's experiences within the prison walls echoes through the tales of his transformative realizations. Imagine learning about Jeffrey Dahmer's fate in the same prison you're in while serving a sentence and using that moment to pivot toward profound life lessons. Stacey's evolution is underscored as he describes his progression from leading groups in prison to his current role as a peer specialist, aiding others with empathy drawn from shared struggles. The listener is invited to witness the power of second chances and the critical value of therapeutic support for the marginalized.

The fabric of our community is woven with stories of hardship and redemption, and Stacey's narrative adds rich texture to this tapestry. We examine the nuanced challenges of parenting from behind bars, the hurdles in maintaining relationships, and the systemic barriers faced upon reentry into society. But through it all, Stacey's voice offers a guiding light for those navigating similar paths and a message of hope for anyone looking to turn the page and begin a new chapter. Join us in a conversation that is both a tribute to the strength of the human spirit and an affirmation of the continuous possibility of rewriting our stories.

Introducing OuttaDeeBox: Weaving Dreams into Reality with Fashion Innovator Kingston Robertson Feb 20, 2024

Show notes

When streets talk, they tell tales of struggle and success, of alleyways that lead to avenues of opportunity. Tune into a powerful narrative as I, Dee Star, am joined by Kingston Robertson, the visionary behind the Holy Godz clothing line. Kingston's journey from Englewood, Chicago's hardened pathways to the forefront of the fashion world, is remarkable. Bearing the lessons from his grandmother and uncle, he turned a history with gang culture and a transformative stint in prison into a beacon of hope and inspiration. Hear his truths about navigating life's trials to emerge as a mentor and leader, using his story to steer the youth away from the shadows and into the light.

As threads weave together to create a tapestry, so do the elements of building a brand stitch into the narrative of success. Discover the intricacies of sculpting a clothing line from the ground up, where every choice of fabric and branding strategy weaves a more significant message. Kingston opens up about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the commitment to quality that sets Holy God apart, and the personal evolution required to lead a family-run business with heart and foresight. This episode isn't simply a conversation; it's an invitation to witness the transformation of adversity into ambition and to extend our hands to support those who have faced imprisonment as we strive to uplift individuals and entire communities. Join us on this journey of redemption and resilience, where fashion and purpose dress the spirit of change.

Miriam Brabham: On being biracial in Wisconsin Feb 19, 2024

Show notes

Poet and Green Bay community leader Miriam Brabham came to Wisconsin for love … but stayed because of community. On this episode of Black Oxygen, Miriam, who lives in Green Bay, discusses being biracial, how moving and living in Wisconsin helped her better understand her biracial identity, and the roll of community on her life. In addition, we discussed The Bridge Poem by Kate Rushin - and want it means to be the bridge across communities.

#BlackOxygenPodcast #MiriamBrabham #Madison365 #BlackInWisconsin #BlackInGreenBay #DopeBlackPodcasts #TheBiracialEffect #BeingBiracial #GreenBayWisconsin #GreenBay #GreenBayWi

Resources:

Miriam Brabham, Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-brabham/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-brabham/)

Wisconsin Life, Traumatized curls - https://wisconsinlife.org/story/traumatized-curls-green-bays-miriam-brabham-for-home-is-here/ (https://wisconsinlife.org/story/traumatized-curls-green-bays-miriam-brabham-for-home-is-here/)

The Biracial Effect Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/0cyEi0RRZeOrKuQdSmBdPC

The Bridge Poem by Kate Rushin - https://www.historyisaweapon.com/defcon1/thebridgepoem.html

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