Welcome to the Espresso Talk Today Podcast!
Where we go on an enriching journey through the heart of Black history, culture, and health. Our mission is to not just discuss but to connect, inspire, and illuminate.

Episode 93: April Deliberations of a Black American
Police violence. Reparations. DC Statehood. Death of DMX. Everything is on the table in this "uncommon" news show--from a Black perspective. Join host, Ben Koponen, on this show as he deliberates about the news and events and their effects on the Black community.

Episode 92: Easy Ways to Protect your Income and Financial Future
Financial hardships can happen to anyone. Anytime. But there are ways to protect your income and future--and it's easier than ever! Yet many people remain unprotected and vulnerable. If you like tax-free cash income then join us to discuss the power of life insurance. In this show, financial educator, Jorick Gaines with WealthWave, Inc. will discuss the importance and power of life insurance.

Episode 91: Black Athlete Activists who have changed the World
Muhammed Ali. Wilma Rudolph. Colin Kaepernick. All of these African Americans were great athletes. But they were also great activists fighting for racial and social justice. Many people forget the important contributions made by Black athlete activists. Yet they have had an incredible impact on highlighting racial and social injustices--and changing the world.

Episode 90: Black Inventors that You Didn't Learn about in School
The lawnmower. The key chain. The gas mask. The video security system. The modern traffic signal. These were invented by African Americans. And there is so much more!

Episode 89: Why & How to Buy Black First
How can you support Black economic empowerment? The easiest yet most powerful way is to buy from Black businesses. Invest in Black businesses. Donate. Collaborate. And always buy Black first!

Episode 88: The Struggle & Reality of Black Economic Empowerment in America
Black Wall Street. Madame C.J. Walker. BET. OWN. Vista Equity Partners. Black Americans have always worked for economic power and independence. There have been notable successes--and many obstacles.

Episode 87: Deliberations of a Black American: March Edition
An "uncommon" monthly news perspective show that reflects on events and their effects in the Black community. Join March host, Ben Koponen, in this show about March news events.

Episode 86: King Kong to Black-ish: 90 Years of Black Stereotypes
The ETT Team has a lively inter-generational discussion on the existence and effects of Black stereotyping in the media. Whew! From King Kong through YouTube, we discuss the differing social and emotional effects of early and modern Black stereotypes. Everything was on the table for discussion.

Episode 85: Yes, Black Stereotypes still Exist in the Movies
Stereotypes exist in every part of society. Modern movies and television shows are not immune to this problem. It's frustrating. It's persistent. It's inexcusable. And today we call it out.

Episode 84: Why Everyone needs a Financial Education
In this show, financial advisor and educator, Jorick Gaines with WealthWave, Inc. discuss the importance of having a good financial education--he calls it financial literacy--and why everyone needs it.

Episode 83: The Persistent Problem of Black Stereotyping
Thugs. Criminals. Angry. Dangerous. These are common stereotypes of African Americans. Stereotypes are pervasive in society. Everyone harbours stereotypes about other groups. Are they all harmful?

Episode 82: The Trials & Tribulations of Black Lawyers
Black lawyers have always been a strong and influential part of the Black community. But they have problems too. Mel and Barry--both attorneys--discuss the struggles faced by Black lawyers.

Episode 81: A Sports Hero's 3-Step Plan for Achieving your Goals
Everyone has a goal to reach. Everyone has a dream. In this unique episode, the Espresso Talk Today team presents a proven and surefire plan for achieving your goals--in 3 simple steps!

Episode 80: Special Performance on Fight for School Desegregation
In 1954, the Supreme Court invalidated school segregation in the famous Brown v. Board of Education case. In this special episode, the ETT Team performs a play showing the real struggle to desegregate the public schools.

Episode 79: Sixty years in America. What's the Difference?
Sixty years makes a difference. Or does it? The period from 1960 to 2020 was a turbulent time in the United States. What has really changed?

Episode 78: Racial Battle Fatigue and Other Effects of Systemic Racism
Did you know that systemic racism can cause depression, anxiety, hypertension, insomnia, and other health conditions? People of color are constantly suffering from high levels of stress as a result of daily trauma (or the threat of daily trauma) of racism.

Episode 77: Black History "TV-Style" Game Show Quiz
What percentage of American cowboys were Black? What famous Black singer is "unforgettable"? Join the ETT Team for a fun and educational game show-style quiz on Black History!

Episode 76: The Key to Financial Security: The Wealth Mindset
Do you have a wealth mindset? What is a wealth mindset? Great questions. In this financial empowerment show, financial advisor and educator, Jorick Gaines with WealthWave, Inc., discusses the road to financial security and wealth building.

Episode 75: Black History All Year Long!
Dr. Carter G. Woodson started Black history month to encourage all people to learn the contributions, achievements, and struggles of Black people. Keep it coming! There is so much to learn and so many ways to learn Black history.

Episode 74: Sankofa Wellness for Black History Month
Happy Black History Month! The Espresso Talk Today Team is focusing this wellness show on an African (Akan) theme from Ghana called Sankofa.
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