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The Emotional Burden of Being the Only Black Voice in the Room
In this deeply personal episode of Black All Year, host Steph Edusei takes us back to September 2022 for a powerful reflection on the challenges of being the only Black person in predominantly white spaces. Originally recorded after a particularly frustrating experience, Steph opens up about the emotional toll of representation and the often-overlooked burden placed on Black individuals in leadership roles.

With candid honesty, Steph shares her feelings of anger and disappointment when conversations about the deteriorating experiences of Black and brown people are met with silence. She highlights the pressure to speak up, the responsibility to represent, and the free labour that comes with being the "token" Black voice in the room. Steph's reflection is a call to action for organisations to rethink their approach to diversity and representation, especially as we approach another Black History Month.

Listen as Steph challenges the status quo and emphasises why true representation goes beyond simply having a seat at the table. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to making a meaningful change in the fight for racial equality.

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
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In this inspiring episode of Black All Year, Steph Edusei sits down with Loveness Scott, the Positive Action Lead at the North East Ambulance Service and Vice Chair of the National Ambulance BME Forum. With a deep commitment to race equity and community wellbeing, Loveness shares her inspiring journey from answering 111 calls during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to leading initiatives that have doubled the representation of ethnically minoritised staff in the North East Ambulance Service.

Loveness discusses the life-saving importance of diversity in emergency services, the challenges faced by underrepresented communities in accessing healthcare, and how tailored recruitment strategies can make a significant impact. She also sheds light on the vital role of culturally competent care, and how simple yet effective education can bridge the knowledge gap that puts lives at risk.

Whether you're involved in recruitment, community outreach, or simply passionate about equality and healthcare, this episode is packed with insights that could make a real difference in your life or the life of a loved one.

Listen to learn how small actions can lead to big changes, and why representation truly matters in life-or-death situations.

Loveness Scott's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/loveness-scott-msc-58b4521ba/
North East Ambulance Service https://www.neas.nhs.uk/

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
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www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
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In this week's compelling episode of Black All Year, host Steph Edusei sits down with an extraordinary 13-year-old playwright, Kayla Ayerty. Hailing from East London, Kayla has already made significant strides in the theatre world, having written and produced her first play at just nine years old. Now, she is gearing up for the premiere of her second play, "War Crown," set to debut this autumn at the Courtyard Theatre in London.

Episode Highlights:

• Meet Kayla Ayerty: Discover how Kayla’s passion for English and storytelling, encouraged by her father and grandmother, blossomed into a love for playwriting.
• Early Inspirations: Kayla shares her journey from writing short stories to creating her first play, "Walking Blind," and the influences that shaped her work.
  
  
• Navigating Challenges: Learn how Kayla persevered through the setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic to continue pursuing her dreams.
  
  
• "War Crown": Get an inside look at Kayla's latest project, its themes of black and migrant experiences, and her ambitious plans for its staging.
  
  
• Future Aspirations: Hear about Kayla's goals and what drives her to create stories that resonate and inspire.
  
  
• Support Kayla: Find out how you can help ensure the success of "War Crown" by contributing to her crowdfunding campaign.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the importance of nurturing young talent and supporting diverse voices in the arts. This episode is a testament to the power of determination and the joy of storytelling. Don’t miss it!

Support Kayla's Crowdfunding Campaign
Kayla Ayerty's website

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
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www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
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When did you first become aware of your race? Join me, Steph Edusei, along with writer, performer and producer, Risaria Langley, as, in the second part of our discussion, we explore the profound experiences that shaped our understanding of race and racism. Risaria recounts when she first became aware of her whiteness and I share my own journey, from enduring racial taunts to the unsolicited touches to my hair, revelations that only later clarified as racism.

This is at times an emotional exploration of mixed heritage and ancestry with us as we uncover the complexities that come with discovering one's roots. Sharing a friend's late discovery of her Indian ancestry, we journey through historical interracial relationships and the secrecy that often cloaked them. We dive into the history of Ghana's coastal regions, revealing how pregnant enslaved women found freedom and integration in local society.

We encourage you to listen to part one of this conversation for more honest and insightful discussion.

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
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www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
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Is the idea of a "pure British lineage" nothing more than a myth? Join us for an eye-opening conversation as (in a release of an episode from 2022) I, Steph Edusei, am joined by Risaria Langley, and explore the complex layers of race and racism in the UK. Guided by Professor Ibram X. Kendi's Anti-racist deck, we share personal stories and insights rooted in our shared Geordie heritage from North East England. Risaria recalls a defining moment from her childhood, while I reflect on how Brexit has acted as a catalyst, revealing the entrenched racism within our society.

We tackle the contentious notion of British identity and its implications in today's multicultural landscape. What does it mean to be "indigenous British"? Through our own experiences, we highlight the fluidity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, emphasizing the frustration of being questioned about one's origins. Our discussion underscores the vital role of recognizing and valuing the contributions of immigrants and their descendants, showing how personal relationships can break down superficial barriers and foster inclusivity.

Can saying "I don't see color" actually do more harm than good? We unpack this loaded phrase and its implications, arguing for the necessity of acknowledging racial and cultural differences to truly understand and appreciate each other. Through heartfelt anecdotes, we discuss why it's essential to recognise these differences and the discomfort caused when they are dismissed. Reflecting on Maya Angelou's wise words, "Do the best that you can until you know better and then, when you know better, do better," we stress the importance of continual growth and humility.

Don't miss this candid and thought-provoking dialogue—and tune in next week for part two.

Be sure to subscribe and leave a review to help others find this important conversation.

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
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What if the recent UK general election was more than just a competition between Labour and Conservative parties? Join me, Steph Edusei, as I try to make meaning of the election results and what they reveal about the state of British opinion. Using insights from renowned thinkers like Robert O. Paxton, Erich Fromm, and Noam Chomsky, I try to decode the rise of the Reform UK Party Limited and its 4% vote share. I also spotlight the gains made by the Liberal Democrats and Green Party in this shifting political landscape.

Beyond election mechanics, in this episode I attempt to give some answers to address the move towards radical views, stressing the crucial role of critical thinking and media literacy in combating misleading narratives. I discuss how we need to build inclusive communities grounded in mutual understanding and cooperation along with critical economic reforms aimed at tackling inequality are highlighted. I make a case for the importance of political engagement and supporting marginalised groups amid rising far-right rhetoric. Finally, I call on you to get involved, share your thoughts, and work collectively towards a more just society.

Subscribe, review, and be part of this essential conversation on Black All Year!

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
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What happens when a traumatic incident in your youth shapes your entire worldview? Join Steph Edusei in conversation with James Carss, founder and chief executive of Castle Peak Group, as he recounts his poignant journey from his childhood in the predominantly white North East of England to his experiences in London, Hong Kong, and Canada. James opens up about a pivotal moment of racial violence that fuelled his dedication to equality and justice. Discover how his personal trials have translated into a professional mission to create inclusive spaces and promote social justice.

Sharing his experience of building truly inclusive organisations, James emphasizes the necessity of having diverse executive teams and the importance of starting these efforts at the leadership level. He sheds light on the progress in diversity across regulated sectors like financial services while highlighting ongoing challenges in other industries, including charities. Learn about the pitfalls of tokenism and the importance of genuine, strategic approaches to fostering diversity that reflects the community and customer base. James shares invaluable insights into how organizations can move beyond superficial policies to demonstrate real commitment through actions and leadership.

James discusses the pressures faced by minoritised individuals, particularly black women in senior positions, and how structured interviews can help reduce unconscious bias. We explore the value of diverse boards and the significant benefits they bring to organisational success. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing relevance of diversity and inclusion, and the profound impact of personal experiences on one’s professional dedication to these crucial issues.

James Carss contact info:
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescarss/

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
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This week we share the keys to understanding power and privilege in our latest episode of Black All Year, featuring the insightful Ngozi Lyn Cole, one of our most popular topics and guests from Season 1. Together, we uncover how power often operates unseen among dominant groups and the systemic advantages this creates. We discuss how privilege manifests on multiple levels—personal, interpersonal, institutional, and systemic—and how these unearned benefits favour white individuals over non-white individuals. Our conversation highlights the complex layers of intersectionality, where race intersects with gender, age, and sexual orientation, to influence experiences of discrimination.

Ever wonder how you can use your inherent power and privilege to fight racism? Ngozi stresses the importance of active and intentional efforts to dismantle systemic racism and combate personal biases. We discuss educational resources like "How to Be an Antiracist" by Ibram X. Kendi and tools such as the Harvard Implicit Association Test that can help you uncover and address your own biases. The necessity of continuous, proactive work in challenging the status quo is emphasized, ensuring the burden of education does not fall solely on marginalised communities.

We reinforce the importance of seeking guidance from individuals with lived experiences of racism and compensating them fairly.

Explore actionable strategies for challenging racism within organisations, even those without Black employees.
Learn the significance of thorough preparation, conducting audits, and creating detailed plans to foster inclusivity.

Ngozi Lyn Cole LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngozi-lyn-cole-she-her-9232135/

Ngozi Lyn Cole: https://www.lyncole.org.uk/

Steph Edusei LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-edusei/
Steph Edusei Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephedusei/

Original music by Wayne C McDonald, #ActorSlashDJ
www.facebook.com/waynecmcdonald
www.mixcloud.com/waynecmcdonald
...