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Summary

For this episode, I am in conversation with Dr. Nathaniel Bryan, author of the book, Toward a BlackBoyCrit Pedagogy: Black Boys, Male Teachers, and Early Childhood Classroom Practices. We explore the complexities of Black boyhood studies, the importance of relational engagement in education, and the impact of anti-Black misandry on Black boys. We also discuss the need for early childhood educators to understand these dynamics and challenge misconceptions about Black male teachers. The conversation emphasizes the brilliance of Black boys and the necessity of providing support for Black male educators, while also rethinking the role model narrative often associated with Black boys. Additionally, Dr. Bryan advocates for a shift in how literacy is assessed and taught to better reflect the rich cultural backgrounds of Black boys. Our conversation also highlights the necessity of centering Black boys' perspectives and experiences in educational practices to foster their authentic selves and promote their well-being. Furthermore, although Black male teachers serve as critical role models for Black boys, we discuss the importance of recruiting Black male teachers who are connected to the communities of Black boys.

Takeaways

• Focusing on Black boys uplifts all marginalized children.
• Complexity in Black boyhood studies is essential.
• Anti-Black misandry affects educational practices.
• Early childhood education must address anti-Blackness.
• Black male teachers are more than disciplinarians.
• Black boys possess brilliance that needs recognition.
• Misconceptions about role models for Black boys need to be challenged.
• Understanding the unique experiences of Black boys is vital.
• Recruiting teachers from within the community enhances educational outcomes.
• Black boys need to be seen as whole individuals, not just problems to be solved.
• Literacy assessments must honor the diverse ways Black boys express their literacies.
• Authenticity in the classroom allows Black boys to thrive.

Books and Articles mentioned in this Episode:

• Solutions For Anti-Black Misandry, Flat Blackness, and Black Male Death: The Black Masculinist Turn by T. Hasan Johnson
• Understanding Critical Race Research Methods and Methodologies: Lessons from the Field edited by Jessica T. DeCuir-Gunby, Thandeka K. Chapman, and Paul A. Schutz
• We want to do more than Survive: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom by Bettina L. Love
• "Spirit-Murdering the Messenger: The Discourse of Fingerpointing as the Law's Response to Racism" by Patricia Williams

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Summary

In our conversation, Richie Wills and Dr. Joseph Derrick Nelson explore themes of Black boyhood, diverse masculinities, and the role of Black male teachers (and other educators) in supporting the growth and development of Black boys. They discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for expression, countering negative narratives, and embracing cultural responsiveness in education. The conversation highlights the richness of Black boyhood, the need for kindness and community, and the challenges posed by societal expectations and stereotypes. This conversation considers the challenges and opportunities surrounding Black boys in educational settings, focusing on the impact of societal norms of masculinity, the importance of play, and the need for supportive environments that foster positive masculinity. Additionally, guests emphasize the necessity of recognizing and celebrating the diverse expressions of being among Black boys, advocating for educational practices that honor their childhood and allow them to thrive both socially and emotionally.

Takeaways

• Black boyhood is diverse and rich with imagination.
• Educators play a crucial role in supporting Black boys.
• Creating safe spaces allows for authentic expression.
• Counter narratives can challenge negative stereotypes.
• Cultural responsiveness enhances student engagement.
• Diverse masculinities should be welcomed and celebrated.
• Kindness among Black boys often goes unnoticed.
• Implicit biases affect perceptions of Black boys.
• Celebrating creativity and joy is essential in education.
• The norms of masculinity can be restrictive and harmful.
• A supportive school environment can enhance boys' emotional well-being.
• Positive masculinity can be fostered through kindness and collaboration in classrooms.
• Black boys' play is often misread as disruptive or problematic.
• Play is essential for Black boys' development and should be encouraged.
• Educators need to recognize the value of Black boys' expressions and interactions.
• Black boys should be allowed to explore their identities without fear of judgment.
• The presence of Black male teachers can positively impact Black boys' educational experiences.
• Childhood should be preserved for Black boys, allowing them to dream and play freely.
• Educational systems must challenge stereotypes and create inclusive environments for all children.

Essay mentioned in this Episode

• "A Place Where The Soul Can Rest" by bell hooks from her book, Belonging: A Culture of Place

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Summary
For this episode, Dr. Josephine Pham of the Mai Pedagogy Project interviews Dr. Tiffany M. Nyachae about the Evolving Education Project, its origins, and the importance of creating a platform for diverse voices in education. Their discussion also covers how topics and guests are selected for the podcast, listener engagement, and future visions for the project. They also emphasize the power of podcasting as a medium for dialogue and knowledge sharing, particularly among Communities of Color. In this engaging conversation, Tiffany and Josephine explore themes of connection, sisterhood, and the importance of writing partnerships in academia. They reflect on their shared journeys, the vulnerability of sharing scholarly work, and the affirmation they find in each other's support. The discussion highlights the interplay between community engagement and scholarship, emphasizing the value of dialogue in creating knowledge. As they look towards future collaborations, they express gratitude for their relationship and the impact it has on their personal and professional growth.

Takeaways

• The Evolving Education Project aims to bridge the gap between academia and community practitioners.
• Podcasting allows for intimate conversations that honor oral traditions in Communities of Color.
• Selecting topics for the podcast is driven by personal interests and the desire to amplify voices of Color.
• Engagement from listeners has been surprising and heartwarming, showing the impact of the podcast.
• Future plans include expanding into TV series and documentary reviews to further explore educational themes.
• The podcast is a space for love, respect, and solidarity among Communities of Color.
• Tiffany values the contributions of her former students and co-hosts in shaping the podcast.
• The importance of creating accessible knowledge in education is a core mission of the project.
• Tiffany's approach to podcasting is informed by her experiences as a scholar and educator.
• Building a supportive team is essential for the sustainability of the Evolving Education Project.
• Listeners are deeply considered and appreciated.
• Sisterhood provides strength and support in challenging times.
• Writing partnerships can enhance personal and professional growth.
• Vulnerability in sharing work fosters deeper connections.
• Affirmation from peers is crucial for confidence in scholarship.
• Community engagement enriches academic work.
• Dialogue is essential for knowledge creation.
• Future collaborations can expand the impact of their work.
• The importance of being succinct in communication is emphasized.
• Gratitude for shared experiences strengthens relationships.

Previous Episodes and Book mentioned in this Episode

• S2:E13: "Dr. Nyachae, Where You Been!?"
• Reclaiming the Multicultural Roots of U.S. Curriculum: Communities of Color and Official Knowledge in Education by Wayne Au, Anthony L. Brown, and Dolores Calderón
• S1:E5 A Dialogue with Asian and Asian American Women: Responding to the Moment
• S2: E26 Interlude: Should We Abandon the Term "People of Color" as an Identifier?
• S2:E23 A Gathering on Reservation Dogs (TV Series Review) - Part 1 of "Honor

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