In this episode of Conversations for the People, Matthew Solomon reflects deeply on othering, belonging, and the pursuit of justice. Drawing from personal experiences, he examines how these concepts manifest in our society—touching on critical issues like police militarization, the ongoing Palestinian struggle, and the complex dynamics of Jewish identity. With a focus on personal and societal transformation, this episode invites you to consider: Who do we deem worthy of care and dignity, and who do we exclude?

Timestamps:

0:00 - Introduction

1:10 - Defining "Othering" and Belonging

7:30 - Personal Journey: Jewish Identity and the Holocaust

12:40 - Zionism, Palestine, and Global Oppression

18:20 - Police Militarization: The U.S. and Beyond

22:00 - Final Reflections on Justice and Belonging

🔔 Join Matthew for this intimate exploration of what it means to build a world rooted in community, equity, and belonging.

💬 Share your thoughts in the comments and be part of the conversation!

Watch Reimagining Safety:

👉 https://reimaginingsafetymovie.com

Connect with Us on Social Media:

📸 Instagram: @conversationsforthepeople

🎥 Instagram (Film): @reimaginingsafetymovie

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📘 Facebook: @conversationsforthepeople

👍 If this episode speaks to you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Let’s work together to create a world based on care, dignity, and justice for all.

Join Matthew Solomon as he dives into an eye-opening conversation with Renee Johnston, a prolific abolitionist, researcher, and advocate for justice. Renee, known for her extensive research into “Cop City” developments, Project 2025, and complex government alliances, brings a wealth of knowledge on the interconnections between U.S. policing, global influence, and power structures that perpetuate oppression.

In this episode, Matthew and Renee discuss:

• Renee’s extensive citizen research, including tracking over 80 “Cop Cities” across the U.S. and the hidden implications of Project 2025
• How Renee’s work exposes the far-reaching connections between political campaigns and global policing tactics
• The historical ties that reveal the strategic coordination of government, policing, and economic interests
• The critical need for public awareness and advocacy in resisting the expansion of police infrastructure
• Insights on effective activism and supporting local efforts to counter oppression

🔗 Follow and Connect:

• Renee Johnston’s Website: IsYourLifeBetter.com
• Black Liberation Media: blackliberationmedia.org
• Public Square Amplified: publicsq.org
• Conversations for the People: facebook.com/conversationsforthepeople
• Instagram: instagram.com/conversationsforthepeople
• Reimagining Safety Movie: reimaginingsafetymovie.com
• Matthew Solomon: matthewsolomonconsulting.com

🛑 Watch our latest screenings at: reimaginingsafetymovie.com

Timestamps:

0:00 – Intro with Matthew Solomon

2:00 – Background and friendship with Renee

3:12 – How Renee’s research began and her work with Black Liberation Media

5:57 – Tracking “Cop Cities” and Project 2025

10:48 – Hidden historical ties in U.S. policing

14:00 – Political and media influences on public perception

24:18 – Challenges in speaking out on oppression

35:55 – Activism and connecting with community support

38:41 – What listeners can do to promote social change

If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, like, and share the podcast to help spread awareness on these crucial issues.

In this episode of Conversations for the People, host Matthew Solomon interviews Marissa Barrera, a powerful advocate and activist who transformed her grief into a relentless fight for justice after her brother’s tragic death at the hands of police in 2017. In this raw and emotional discussion, Marissa shares the details of her journey, from seeking justice for her brother to dealing with harassment to building support for impacted families. She discusses how her nonprofit, Voices of Strength, empowers families affected by police violence and her new reporting series, Marissa Reports, that highlights stories of injustice. This episode is essential for those interested in police reform, community activism, and healing through advocacy.

👉 Remember to subscribe for more conversations on justice and activism. And please leave a review.

Connect with us:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conversationsforthepeople

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conversationsforthepeople

Connect with Marissa Barrera:

Website: www.marissabarrera.online

Facebook: @marissamariebarrera

YouTube: @marissa_reports

Instagram: @marissabarrera_

Voices of Strength:

Website: www.VoicesofStrength.info

Facebook: @VoicesOfStrengthX

Instagram: @voicesofstrength, @killercopsusa

In this episode of Conversations for the People, Matthew Solomon shares the behind-the-scenes journey of creating Reimagining Safety, his impactful documentary exploring police reform and community safety. From its DIY production roots to over 60 screenings nationwide, Matthew recounts stories of resilience, collaboration with activists, and the challenges faced along the way. Discover how interviews with experts like Alex Vitale, Jody Armour, and Hawk Newsome shaped the film’s vision for justice and equity.

Through this episode, you’ll get an in-depth look at the step-by-step process that turned an idea into a powerful documentary now part of educational curriculums and community dialogues. Perfect for creators, activists, and film enthusiasts alike!

Connect with us:

🎬 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conversationsforthepeople

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conversationsforthepeople

Connect with Matthew Solomon:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattytheglue

Website: https://matthewsolomonconsulting.com

Follow Reimagining Safety:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reimaginingsafetymovie

Watch Matthew's Horror Film "Chatter":

https://www.followthechatter.com

👉 Don’t miss this in-depth look at how Reimagining Safety was created.

Subscribe to see more impactful conversations on justice and activism!

How can we use creativity to transform society and live more fulfilling lives? Join Matthew Solomon and actor, author, and storyteller Christopher Rivas as they discuss the power of art, media, and self-expression to drive personal and social change.

In this episode of Conversations for the People, Christopher Rivas shares his journey, including his acclaimed book Brown Enough, which explores identity, colorism, and breaking free from societal expectations. Together, they dive into how storytelling can help us understand our deepest selves and dismantle oppressive systems, paving the way for wellness, joy, and genuine connection. From addressing stereotypes in Hollywood to imagining new worlds, Christopher discusses what it takes to use our creative power for personal fulfillment and collective liberation.

Connect with Christopher Rivas:

• Website: www.christopherrivas.com
• Follow him on social media: Instagram and Twitter @christopherrivas

Explore More:

• Watch Reimagining Safety and join the conversation: www.reimaginingsafetymovie.com

If this episode resonates, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments. Together, let’s create a world where everyone’s story matters!

What does it mean to decolonize our finances and build real community wealth? Doctora Vanessa Bustamante joins Matthew Solomon to explore how financial empowerment intersects with social justice and decolonization.

In this episode of Conversations for the People, Doctora Bustamante shares her insights as a Chicana scholar, social justice advocate, and financial planner. Together, they dive into the deeper impact of colonization on communities of color and the steps needed to reclaim financial independence and build intergenerational wealth. Doctora Bustamante discusses how a decolonized approach to money can help us move from survival to empowerment, while also reinvesting in our communities. Whether you’re new to financial planning or an advocate for social change, this conversation reveals actionable ways to create lasting impact and foster resilience.

Stay Connected:

Visit Doctora Bustamante’s website for resources and consultations: www.homegirldoctora.com

Follow Doctora Bustamante on Instagram: www.instagram.com/homegirldoctora

Watch Reimagining Safety and join the conversation: www.reimaginingsafetymovie.com

If this conversation resonates, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments. For more discussions on justice, community, and financial empowerment, stay tuned for future episodes!

#decolonizingwealth #communitywealth #vanessabustamante #generationalwealth #conversationsforthepeople #socialjusticefinance #reimaginingsafety

What does Tyreek Hill’s recent arrest reveal about police power and control? Matthew Solomon dives into the deeper issues behind this incident and what it means for us all.

In this episode of Conversations for the People, Matthew reflects on the culture of policing, exploring why so many incidents escalate unnecessarily and what this says about our society’s approach to “public safety.” Using Tyreek Hill’s experience as a focal point, Matthew questions the “just comply” mindset and unpacks how we’ve been conditioned to accept authority without accountability. From the roots of policing to today’s power dynamics, this conversation challenges us to rethink how we view safety, respect, and community.

Stay Connected:

• Watch Reimagining Safety on Amazon, Tubi, YouTube, and Google Play: www.reimaginingsafetymovie.com
• Follow Matthew on Instagram for updates: www.instagram.com/mattytheglue
• Explore more about the journey at: www.reimaginingsafetymovie.com

If this conversation resonates, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments. For more on justice, community, and the fight for real safety, stay tuned for future episodes!

What does decolonization really mean for our lives and communities? Matthew Solomon dives deep into the impact of colonization, anti-racism, and community-driven change across the U.S.

In this episode, Matthew shares powerful moments from his journey, connecting with people, building resilience and fighting for justice in unexpected places. From a community screening in Dallas to movement spaces across the country, Matthew unpacks how colonization, imperialism, and systemic oppression shape our lives today—and why we all have a role in working toward justice. Through personal stories, historical insights, and real conversations, he explores how showing up for each other with care, curiosity, and dignity can lead to true collective liberation.

Stay Connected:

Watch Reimagining Safety on Amazon, Tubi, YouTube, and Google Play: www.reimaginingsafetymovie.com

Follow Matthew on Instagram for updates: www.instagram.com/mattytheglue

Learn more about Reimagining Safety: www.reimaginingsafetymovie.com