Black Austin Matters

Dr. Cheryl Clark-Brown

In this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa and Rich sit down with Austin native Dr. Cheryl Clark-Brown, founder of Clark-Brown Family Care Clinic. Dr. Clark-Brown shares her inspiring journey into medicine, her deep-rooted passion for integrative healing, and her unwavering dedication to serving the community.

She also offers heartfelt advice to the Black community on prioritizing self-care, explains why spending meaningful time with each patient is essential, highlights her favorite healing herbs, and names the travel destinations that help her recharge and stay grounded.

China Smith

In the latest episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa and Rich chat with Ballet Afrique founder and contemporary dancer China Smith.

China takes us on a joyful stroll down memory lane, sharing what she loved about growing up in Austin and why her community means so much to her. She talks about how her time in the Bay Area shaped her, the music that moves her, and why movement is so important for our physical, emotional, and spiritual health — no dance skills required!

She also emphasizes the importance of taking care of your body and shares her passion for a vegan lifestyle.

Richard J. Reddick

In this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa sits down with her co-host, Richard J. Reddick, to discuss his upbringing as an Air Force brat, his undergraduate experience at Harvard University, his journey as an educator, and the insights behind his book, Restorative Resistance in Higher Education: Leading in an Era of Racial Awakening and Reckoning.

Simone Talma Flowers

In the last episode of Season 2 of Black Austin Matters Lisa and Rich talk all things Trinidadian with Executive Director of iACT Simone Talma Flowers. She shares her experiences growing up in Trinidad, what faith means to her and some of her favorite recipes.

Shay Nobles and Jules Alcindor

On this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa and Rich speak with local photographer Jules Alcindor and graphic designer Shay Nobles to discuss their daily experiences working at a local shipping store, living in Austin, and their individual interests outside of work.

John L. Hanson, Jr.

Lisa and Rich talk with broadcasting legend John L. Hanson, Jr.

Patricia Bedford

In a conversation with Patricia Bedford, a native of Austin, she shares her amazing journey from being an engineer to becoming a successful business owner and master baker. She also talks about how she keeps her grandmothers’ legacy alive through her work and passion.

Calvin J. Turner

Lisa and Rich speak with Army veteran and entrepreneur Capt. Calvin J. Turner.

Jahmal Fenner

In this episode, Rich and Lisa talk with LBJ High School football coach Jahmal Fenner.

Ariel René Jackson

We talk with anti-disciplinary film-based artist Ariel René Jackson in this episode of Black Austin Matters.

Riders Against the Storm

In this episode, Lisa and Rich talk with Chaka and Qi Dada, the husband and wife duo who make up the hip-hop group Riders Against the Storm.

Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette

In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Richard J. Reddick talk with Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, the outgoing president of Huston-Tillotson University.

Joe Harper, Jr.

On this episode of Black Austin Matters, Lisa B. Thompson and Rich Reddick talk with barber Joe Harper, Jr. about what really happens at the barbershop.

Stephanie Lang

In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Rich Reddick talk with writer, community curator and social justice activist Stephanie Lang about her deep roots in Austin, what newcomers misunderstand about Black Austin and preserving history.

Chas Moore

In this episode of Black Austin Matters, hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Rich Reddick talk with Chas Moore, the executive director of the Austin Justice Coalition. His organization has been deeply involved with advocating for racial justice and police reform in Austin and organized some of the largest demonstrations against police violence in the wake of the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

J.Cole vs Noname

This week on The Breaks, Confucius and Fresh

Touch on their memories of past Juneteenth celebrations and talk about what this year’s event might look like.
Discuss the criticism surrounding J.Cole’s new song ” Snow on Da Bluff” and the way he appears police the tone used by a Black woman activist (presumably Noname).
Talk about the Black Austin Matters mural and explain why grand public gestures can not replace policy addressing systemic racism.
Explore why Black Austin Artists are no longer willing to stay silent about systemic racism in the Austin Music Scene.
In his Unpopular Opinion, Fresh argues that fans do appreciate Kendrick Lamar and are ready for his next album.
In his Confucius Says, Confucius discusses the integral role of Black women in the struggle for Black liberation.
This week’s local song of the week is “RED” by MALIK.

Listen to this week’s episode of The Breaks