All About Us (Africa & Diaspora)

Summary
In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen sits down with Khadijah Butler, an author and founder of the CDB Scholarship Foundation. They discuss Khadijah's journey from personal tragedy to creating educational opportunities for African-American students. Khadijah shares her father's legacy, the challenges of running a nonprofit, and the importance of community involvement. She emphasizes the need for educational equality and offers advice for young students and parents navigating difficult circumstances. The conversation highlights the transformative power of turning pain into purpose and the impact of advocacy work.
Takeaways
Khadijah Butler emphasizes the importance of educational opportunities for African-American students.The CDB Scholarship Foundation was created to honor her father's legacy and support underserved students.Khadijah's journey reflects the transformation of personal pain into community advocacy.She believes in the power of community involvement to drive change.Khadijah's book, 'Laying the Foundation Brick by Brick,' serves as a guide for those looking to start nonprofits.Educational equality is crucial for narrowing the achievement gap in Philadelphia and beyond.Khadijah discusses the challenges of running a nonprofit, including funding and community support.She highlights the importance of mentorship and partnerships in her work.Khadijah encourages young students to pivot in their educational journeys when necessary.The conversation underscores the significance of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Khadijah Butler01:57 Transforming Pain into Purpose04:35 Khadijah's Upbringing and Family Influence08:11 The Impact of Gun Violence on Khadijah's Life11:27 Establishing the CDB Scholarship Foundation15:32 Balancing Career and Nonprofit Work16:31 Stories of Impact from Scholarship Recipients18:37 Community Engagement and Support19:19 Writing 'Laying the Foundation Brick by Brick'22:40 Educational Equality and Systemic Barriers26:33 Future Aspirations for the Community27:47 Navigating the Future of Work and Education32:20 Transforming Pain into Power35:51 The Role of Faith and Resilience40:13 Building a Sustainable Nonprofit49:57 Legacy and Community Impact
Connect with Khadijah Butler:
Website: www.craigdbutlerscholarship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cdbscholarship
🎧 Listen & ShareTune in on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all streaming platforms.
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Summary
In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen interviews Regie Tiu, a resilient entrepreneur who overcame a challenging childhood in the Philippines to build a successful physical therapy business in New York. Regie shares his journey of facing bullying, cultural challenges, and the determination to create a better life for himself. He discusses the importance of resilience, leadership, and the unique approach his business takes in serving patients. Regie also reflects on his experiences with self-doubt, the significance of mentorship, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the power of perseverance and the impact of community support in achieving success.
Key Takeaways
Regie's journey exemplifies the power of resilience and determination.Childhood bullying shaped Regie's character and drive.The decision to pursue a better life was influenced by stories of success in America.Regie's move to New York was a significant turning point in his life.Struggles in New York included adjusting to a new culture and financial hardships.Overcoming adversity often requires a strong support system and self-belief.Resilience is about continuously moving forward despite challenges.Leadership involves responsibility for others and maintaining motivation.Creating a unique patient experience is key to business success.Regie's YouTube channel started as a way to educate patients and has grown significantly.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Determination01:32 Childhood Challenges and Bullying04:23 Pursuing a Better Life05:59 The Decision to Move to America07:38 Adjusting to Life in New York13:27 Overcoming Adversity and Self-Doubt16:06 Defining Resilience and Staying Grounded18:10 Leadership and Responsibility19:48 Overcoming Obstacles and Building a Business20:40 The Heart of Physical Therapy: Community and Care22:03 Navigating Challenges in a Competitive Market24:26 From Clinic to YouTube: Expanding Reach26:14 Lessons from the Past: Advice to My Younger Self27:18 Transforming a Business: Leadership and Growth29:14 Enhancing Patient Experience: A Holistic Approach30:41 Understanding Pain Relief: The Whole Person Perspective31:51 Misconceptions in Physical Therapy and Entrepreneurship32:56 Flip Mode: Questions and Insights37:26 Resilience and Legacy: Inspiring Others
📲 Connect with Regie:
Restore Plus Physical Therapy – https://restoreplusny.com
Regie Tiu on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/regietiu
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/regie.tiu
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aew4sMdQ4/
YouTube Channel – Search for “Restore Plus Physical Therapy” https://youtube.com/@UC0OEU8IjYvmHXTT0DQORpmw 
👉 Subscribe to the All About Us Podcast for more inspiring episodes!https://standupndosomething.podbean.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-about-us-africa-diaspora/id1710942057https://www.youtube.com/@UCfHyvzCo3w0oIv7qphIj41w 
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Summary
In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen speaks with Joshua Walitt, a consultant and mentor with over 25 years of experience in valuation compliance and regulatory consulting. Joshua shares his unexpected journey through a health crisis that led to a two-month stay in Boston, where he learned valuable lessons about community, support, and personal growth. The conversation delves into his professional background, the importance of empathy in client relationships, and the insights gained from navigating adversity. Joshua emphasizes the significance of human connection and the power of kindness, ultimately reflecting on his purpose and future aspirations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Joshua Walitt's Journey02:54 Unexpected Health Crisis in Boston05:32 Transitioning to Consulting and Business Development08:19 Cultural Background and Personal Insights10:57 Community Support During Crisis13:50 Professional Mindset in Personal Challenges19:45 A Journey of Reflection and Growth23:02 Finding Clarity in Solitude26:33 Empathy and Perspective Through Adversity29:46 Navigating Setbacks with Resilience32:39 Surprising Discoveries About Kindness and Connection34:15 The Importance of Relationships and Memories37:15 Looking Ahead: Purpose and Future Aspirations
🔗 Links Mentioned:Joshua Walitt's Company: walitt.com
Contact Joshua: joshua@walitt.com
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuawalitt 
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In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen speaks with Melody, a Pilates instructor and founder of two successful studios in Texas. They explore Melanie's journey from a struggling actress to a Pilates instructor, the healing power of movement, and how Pilates can empower children and support women's leadership. The conversation delves into the importance of movement for mental health, the mechanics of Pilates, and the need for movement programs in schools to combat childhood obesity and promote wellness.
Takeaways
Melody's journey began in LA as a struggling actress.Movement has healing properties for mental health.Pilates can empower children and support women's leadership.The importance of intention and words in healing.Pilates is a movement system based on progression.Children need movement to combat obesity and health issues.The role of women in Pilates has grown significantly.Pilates can help release trauma stored in the body.Teaching kids about posture and breath is essential.Movement is crucial for overall wellness and mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Building a Retreat in Palestine, Texas03:10 The Healing Power of Nature and Environment05:58 Designing Retreats and Workshops for Empowerment09:07 Transformative Experiences with Horses12:00 Creating a Soulful Pilates Studio14:50 Integrating Wellness into Healthcare18:07 The Importance of Movement and Healing21:00 Empowerment Through Presence and Community23:50 Inspiring the Next Generation through Arts26:56 Connecting Movement, Healing, and Spirituality
🔗 Links Mentioned:🌐 Melody's Studio: The Good Space → [www.thegoodspace.com]🧘‍♀️ Truemed - Use HSA/FSA for Pilates → [www.truemed.com]📚 National Pilates Certification Program → nationalpilatescertificationprogram.org
Follow Melody on social:📲 Facebook → facebook.com/melody.mortonbuckleair📲 Instagram → instagram.com/thepilatescowgirl
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In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen speaks with Melody, a Pilates instructor and founder of two successful studios in Texas. They explore Melanie's journey from a struggling actress to a Pilates instructor, the healing power of movement, and how Pilates can empower children and support women's leadership. The conversation delves into the importance of movement for mental health, the mechanics of Pilates, and the need for movement programs in schools to combat childhood obesity and promote wellness.
Takeaways
Melody's journey began in LA as a struggling actress.Movement has healing properties for mental health.Pilates can empower children and support women's leadership.The importance of intention and words in healing.Pilates is a movement system based on progression.Children need movement to combat obesity and health issues.The role of women in Pilates has grown significantly.Pilates can help release trauma stored in the body.Teaching kids about posture and breath is essential.Movement is crucial for overall wellness and mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Pilates and Healing Journeys02:34 Melody's Journey: From Struggles to Pilates05:10 The Birth of The Good Space Studio07:26 Influence of Dance and Acting on Pilates10:05 Finding Meaning and Purpose in Life12:19 The Healing Power of Movement and Sound14:50 The Pilates Cowgirl: Empowering Women and Kids17:08 Integrating Science and Movement in Pilates19:46 Understanding the Nervous System through Pilates22:09 Defining Pilates: A Movement System for Healing24:07 Healing Through Movement: The Body's Memory28:07 Transformative Stories: Empowerment Through Pilates32:10 The Role of Movement in Mental Health37:07 Pilates for Children: A New Approach
🔗 Links Mentioned:🌐 Melody's Studio: The Good Space → [www.thegoodspace.com]🧘‍♀️ Truemed - Use HSA/FSA for Pilates → [www.truemed.com]📚 National Pilates Certification Program → nationalpilatescertificationprogram.org
Follow Melody on social:📲 Facebook → facebook.com/melody.mortonbuckleair📲 Instagram → instagram.com/thepilatescowgirl
Follow Us:All About Us Podcast: IG:https://www.instagram.com/dalla_s4lr/Website:http://www.standupndosomething.org/Facebook: All About Us Africa & Diaspora

SummaryThis is part two of this amazing show.In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen interviews Angela Betancourt, a global communications professional with a remarkable career. Angela shares her transformative experience working in Sierra Leone during the Ebola crisis, discussing the challenges of communication in a crisis, the importance of taking risks, and the impact of her work on local communities. She emphasizes the need for adaptability in communication strategies and the significance of amplifying positive stories in the face of adversity. Angela also reflects on her personal journey, including her passion for scuba diving and balancing her professional and family life.
Takeaways
Angela's career reflects a journey of courage and adventure.Sierra Leone's rich history is intertwined with its struggles.The Ebola crisis presented unique communication challenges.Taking risks can lead to transformative experiences.Flexibility in communication strategies is essential.Personal growth often comes from stepping outside comfort zones.Scuba diving has enhanced Angela's swimming skills.The Betancourt Group focuses on amplifying positive environmental stories.Listening to intuition can guide important life decisions.Work-life balance is a dynamic and evolving process.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Angela Betancourt's Journey04:21 Understanding Sierra Leone: Geography and History06:51 Angela's Arrival in Sierra Leone During the Ebola Crisis09:23 The Decision to Work in Sierra Leone12:07 First Impressions of Sierra Leone14:36 The Nature of Ebola and Its Impact17:04 Angela's Role in Crisis Communication19:17 Challenges Faced in Sierra Leone21:49 Lessons Learned from the Experience24:33 Communication Strategies in a Crisis27:04 The Importance of Context in Communication29:29 Reflections on Risk and Opportunity32:07 Advice for Taking Big Chances35:20 Honoring Intuition and Taking Risks37:02 The Journey to Scuba Diving39:03 Balancing Responsibilities and Work-Life Harmony44:47 The Betancourt Group: Amplifying Good Work
🔗 Links Mentioned🌐 Betancourt Group Website: groupbetancourt.com💬 30-Minute Free PR Consultation: Available through Contact Form on Website💼 Angela on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelabetancourt1/ 📧 Email Angela: angela@groupbetancourt.com🌍Visit the Nonprofit http://www.standupndosomething.org/ 
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SummaryThis is part one of this amazing show.In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen interviews Angela Betancourt, a global communications professional with a remarkable career. Angela shares her transformative experience working in Sierra Leone during the Ebola crisis, discussing the challenges of communication in a crisis, the importance of taking risks, and the impact of her work on local communities. She emphasizes the need for adaptability in communication strategies and the significance of amplifying positive stories in the face of adversity. Angela also reflects on her personal journey, including her passion for scuba diving and balancing her professional and family life.
Takeaways
Angela's career reflects a journey of courage and adventure.Sierra Leone's rich history is intertwined with its struggles.The Ebola crisis presented unique communication challenges.Taking risks can lead to transformative experiences.Flexibility in communication strategies is essential.Personal growth often comes from stepping outside comfort zones.Scuba diving has enhanced Angela's swimming skills.The Betancourt Group focuses on amplifying positive environmental stories.Listening to intuition can guide important life decisions.Work-life balance is a dynamic and evolving process.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Angela Betancourt's Journey04:21 Understanding Sierra Leone: Geography and History06:51 Angela's Arrival in Sierra Leone During the Ebola Crisis09:23 The Decision to Work in Sierra Leone12:07 First Impressions of Sierra Leone14:36 The Nature of Ebola and Its Impact17:04 Angela's Role in Crisis Communication19:17 Challenges Faced in Sierra Leone21:49 Lessons Learned from the Experience24:33 Communication Strategies in a Crisis27:04 The Importance of Context in Communication29:29 Reflections on Risk and Opportunity32:07 Advice for Taking Big Chances35:20 Honoring Intuition and Taking Risks37:02 The Journey to Scuba Diving39:03 Balancing Responsibilities and Work-Life Harmony44:47 The Betancourt Group: Amplifying Good Work
🔗 Links Mentioned🌐 Betancourt Group Website: groupbetancourt.com💬 30-Minute Free PR Consultation: Available through Contact Form on Website💼 Angela on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelabetancourt1/ 📧 Email Angela: angela@groupbetancourt.com🌍Visit the Nonprofit http://www.standupndosomething.org/ 
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Summary
In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen speaks with Joseph Barnett, founder of Math Perimeter LLC, an educational platform aimed at making undergraduate mathematics accessible and engaging. Joseph shares his journey as an entrepreneur living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and discusses how his experiences shape his approach to business and innovation. The conversation explores the intersection of disability, education, and technology, particularly the role of AI in enhancing business operations and educational resources. Joseph's vision for the future of Math Perimeter includes expanding resources for undergraduate math students and leveraging platforms like YouTube to reach a wider audience.
Takeaways
Joseph Barnett founded Math Perimeter to make math accessible.His journey is shaped by living with a disability.AI can significantly enhance business efficiency.Building a business with purpose is crucial.YouTube is a valuable tool for educational outreach.Disability can drive unique innovation in business.Feedback from the audience is essential for growth.Time management is key for entrepreneurs with disabilities.Joseph aims to create a comprehensive resource hub for math students.Staying motivated involves setting daily goals.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Joseph Barnett and Math Perimeter02:30 The Journey of Building a Business with Purpose04:54 Navigating Disability and Entrepreneurship06:55 The Role of AI in Business and Education09:23 Long-term Vision for Math Perimeter11:30 Feedback and Motivation in Entrepreneurship13:41 Conclusion and Call to Action
🔗 Links & Mentions🎯His Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheMathPerimeter🌐 [The Math Perimeter LLC]  https://themathperimeter.com/about-joseph-barnett/📱 Follow Joseph on LinkeIn: @TheMathPerimeter https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-barnettJoe personal website: https://www.josephwbarnett.com/🧠 Learn more about Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT): [cmtausa.org](https://www.cmtausa.org)🎓 Recommended tools: AI Agents, Notion, Canva, GPT-based tools (as mentioned)
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Summary
In this episode of the All About Us podcast, host Carl Allen speaks with Josie Ann Fulbear, founder and CEO of Picha Stok, an Afrocentric image library that challenges visual stereotypes. Josie shares her journey from Gabon to the United States, her passion for visual storytelling, and the importance of authentic representation in media. They discuss the challenges of misrepresentation in mainstream media, the impact of social media on visibility, and the role of Picha Stok in empowering photographers from Afrocentric communities. Josie also highlights her work with the Digital Media Licensing Association (DMLA) and the implications of AI on the creative industry. The conversation concludes with a focus on community building, grants for photographers, and the legacy Josie hopes to leave through her work.
Takeaways
👉Josie Ann Fulbear is transforming visual representation through Picha Stok.👉Picha Stok addresses the lack of authentic imagery of African communities.👉The journey from Gabon to the U.S. shaped Josie's perspective on storytelling.👉Social media has played a crucial role in changing perceptions of Africa.👉Authentic representation is essential for inclusivity in media campaigns.👉DMLA advocates for copyright and fair compensation for creators.👉AI poses challenges and opportunities for the creative industry.👉Community building is key to the success of Picha Stok.👉Grants for photographers empower creatives to tell their own stories.👉Legacy is about creating opportunities for future generations of artists.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Josie Ann Fulbear and Picha Stok03:46 Journey from Gabon to Visual Storytelling07:37 Identifying the Gap in Representation13:50 Challenges in Building a Diverse Image Library19:46 Positioning Picha Stok Against Stereotypes22:46 The Impact of Authentic Imagery24:57 Weaving Stories: A Photography Book27:40 Empowering Voices in Digital Media30:16 Navigating AI and Copyright Challenges34:03 Purpose Beyond Profit in Business36:18 Building a Creative Community37:43 Overcoming Challenges in the Age of AI40:28 Moments of Success and Empowerment41:43 Inspiring Future Generations46:22 The Future of Visual Storytelling47:48 Legacy and Impact in Visual Storytelling
🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned📸 Picha Stock – Stock photo platform for Afrocentric communities🌍 https://pichastock.com
📖 Weaving Stories Book – A photography book by Afro-diasporic creatives🌍 https://weavingstoriesbook.com
🏛️ DMLA (Digital Media Licensing Association)🌍 https://digitalmedialicensing.org
📍 Cannes Lions – Global advertising and creativity festival🌍 https://www.canneslions.com
💡 Academy for Educational Development (AED) – Former nonprofit Josiane worked with (now merged with FHI 360)🌍 https://www.fhi360.org
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Episode SummaryIn this powerful and deeply moving episode, Carl Allen sits down with Jen Soriano, an award-winning Filipina-American writer, performer, scholar, and trauma expert. They explore the intersections of intergenerational trauma, cultural resilience, narrative justice, and the healing power of storytelling—particularly within marginalized and diasporic communities.
Jen reflects on growing up in Chicagoland as an isolated Filipina-American, her early exposure to writers like Toni Morrison, and how books became her escape and early source of empowerment. The conversation dives into her book Nervous, generational trauma in the Filipino diaspora, colonialism, indigenous traditions, cultural memory, and the role of art, music, and rituals in healing.
🌟 Key Topics Discussed👉What is intergenerational trauma and how it manifests in marginalized communities👉Jen’s personal journey: From isolation in the Midwest to community discovery in San Francisco👉The influence of colonialism on Filipino identity and health disparities👉Crab mentality, silence, and secrecy as trauma responses in Filipino culture👉Indigenous Filipino music: kulintang, agong, bamboo instruments, and cultural erasure👉The importance of narrative justice and intersectional writing👉How lyric essays and hybrid forms help process trauma👉Cultural memory and how to preserve lost or unwritten stories👉Jen’s queer and non-binary identity and how it informs her work👉The difference between dominant culture and marginalized worldviews👉Religion in pre-colonial Philippines: animism, Islam, and resistance👉The significance of hope, love, and community in the face of collective pain
📓 Mentioned Books & ProjectsNervous: Essays on Heritage and Healing by Jen Soriano📚 Order on Bookshop.org or wherever books are sold
Making the Tongue DryCloser to Liberation (Anthology contribution)Pearl Abongan’s performance (cultural dance at the Presidio, SF)
📲Jen Soriano contact details:
Paperback book on pre sale - https://bookshop.org/p/books/nervous-essays-jen-soriano/19258500?ean=9780063230132&next=t
Her website   - https://www.jensoriano.net/
https://www.instagram.com/jensorianowrites/
https://twitter.com/LionsWrite
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensoriano/
https://medium.com/@Lionswrite
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqPVe9oNwDUeU2-AI_Mhi2A
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