Ep. 113 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 22
Mike Bowen and Wink Twyman explore the multifaceted themes of black manhood, family dynamics, and the impact of first encounters on perceptions of race.
Jun 25, 2025•2 hr 12 min•Season 4Ep. 113
Free Black Thought Podcast
Shining a light on black viewpoint diversity.
https://freeblackthought.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast (freeblackthought.substack.com)
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Episodes
Ep. 112 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 21
Wink and Mike dive into how AI is shaking up everything—from jobs and schools to global power plays. They keep it real, balancing excitement with skepticism as they talk about the big stuff: job loss, AI in education, ethical gray areas, and whether machines could one day be conscious. They also touch on China’s AI strategy, the idea of an intelligence explosion in 2027, and how culture (like Japan’s tech aesthetics) ties into all this. It’s a deep but casual convo about where humanity and AI mi...
Jun 11, 2025•1 hr 46 min•Season 4Ep. 112
Ep. 111 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 20
Michael DC Bowen and Winkfield Twyman explore how AI is reshaping law, identity, and human connection. From legal ethics to cultural shifts, they unpack the challenges and possibilities of living with intelligent machines in a rapidly evolving world.
May 28, 2025•2 hr 31 min•Season 4Ep. 111
Ep. 110 - Can DEI Be Fixed? (George Yancey)
Dr. George A. Yancey shares how his experiences shaped his work as a race scholar and why he thinks today’s DEI efforts are missing the mark. He and host Connie Morgan talk about the need for real, collaborative conversations around race, the politics of Juneteenth, and the rise of black Republicans. Show notes: George’s “The Future of DEI” for the Journal of Free Black Thought George’s website George on X George’s book Compromising Scholarship George’s book What Motivates Cultural Progressives?...
May 21, 2025•59 min•Season 4Ep. 110
Ep. 109 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 19
Michael DC Bowen and Wink Twyman dive into wide-ranging conversations about writing, the stock market, AI, and Black identity. They explore how personal experience, culture, and technology shape the way we live and think today—always with curiosity and a fresh perspective.
May 20, 2025•1 hr 46 min•Season 4Ep. 109
Ep. 108 - Only the Poets (Tim Seibles)
Poet Tim Seibles discusses his journey into poetry, influenced by his mother's love for literature and a college creative writing class. He reflects on growing up in a predominantly black Philadelphia neighborhood and how the 1960s shaped his political perspective. Tim emphasizes the importance of accessible poetry that resonates emotionally and connects with audiences. He shares insights on the creative process, the responsibilities of artists, and the power of poetry to address personal and po...
May 14, 2025•1 hr 29 min•Season 4Ep. 108
Ep. 107 - It's Cool to Disagree (Miriam Thompson)
Miriam Thompson opens up about her journey from facing learning struggles to thriving in academia. She and host Connie Morgan speak on how COVID affected students, why it’s crucial to hear different perspectives, and the tricky territory of discussing controversial issues in school. Miriam also touches on preparing students for real life, staying open-minded, and the role of therapy. Show notes: Miriam’s “ The Courage to Disagree in Academia ” for the Journal of Free Black Thought Mind & Beh...
May 07, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Season 4Ep. 107
Ep. 106 - The Klan Whisperer (Daryl Davis)
In this conversation, Daryl Davis talks about growing up around the world, facing racism as a kid, and what led him to sit down with members of the KKK. It’s a wild, powerful story about curiosity, fear, and how real conversations can change minds. Show notes: Daryl’s book The Klan Whisperer Daryl’s website Prohuman Foundation...
Apr 30, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Season 4Ep. 106
Ep. 105 - Civil Rights Succeeded (Daniel Aldridge)
In this colorful conversation, Daniel Aldridge shares his journey from a civil rights-focused upbringing to life as a public defender and professor. He talks about the importance of self-education in black history, personal responsibility, and pushing past a victim mindset. Dan challenges romanticized views of crime, critiques how history is taught, and urges individuals to take charge of their own growth—regardless of background. Show notes: Dan’s Becoming American: The African American Quest f...
Apr 23, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 4Ep. 105
Ep. 104 - You Should be Reading Charles Chesnutt (Tess Chakkalakal)
Tess Chakkalakal chats with Connie Morgan about her deep dive into the life and work of Charles W. Chesnutt. They explore race, identity, and the challenges black writers face, especially when expectations clash with lived experience. The conversation highlights Chesnutt’s impact, his key relationships, and why his work still matters today. Show notes: Tess’s A Matter of Complexion: The Life and Fictions of Charles W. Chesnutt...
Apr 16, 2025•56 min•Season 4Ep. 104
Ep. 103 - Do NOT Get Divorced (Anthony Bradley)
Anthony Bradley is an expert on family structure and its impact on academic success. He and host Connie Morgan discuss the importance of marriage, fatherhood, and strong family dynamics. Show notes: Anthony on X Anthony on Substack Anthony’s Heroic Fraternities: How College Men Can Save Universities and America...
Apr 09, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Season 4Ep. 103
Ep. 102 - Together Without Race (Sheena Mason)
Dr. Sheena Mason opens up about her tough childhood and how it shaped her passion for racial justice and education. She talks about the role literature played in her life, and her journey into academia, where she developed her views on race and anti-racism. Sheena shares her vision of the Togetherness Wayfinder, a framework to challenge racial constructs and promote unity. Show notes Sheena’s book The Raceless Antiracist: Why Ending Race Is the Future of Antiracism Sheena’s book Theory of Racele...
Apr 02, 2025•1 hr 26 min•Season 4Ep. 102
Ep. 101 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 18
Mike and Wink dive into topics like U.S. military actions in Yemen, the impact of asymmetrical warfare, and media influence. They talk about the pros and cons of economic sanctions versus military intervention, plus the role of independent thinkers in today’s media. The conversation also touches on AI's limitations, its impact on society, and its potential for the future. They explore how tech, race, and identity intersect, and discuss the importance of staying connected to authentic human exper...
Apr 01, 2025•1 hr 54 min•Season 4Ep. 101
Ep. 100 - Reforming Black Thought (Chocolate Knox)
In this fun conversation, the Chocolate Knox shares his journey from a charismatic upbringing to embracing Reformed theology. Chocolate Knox also dives into his experiences in ministry, his move to Idaho, and his approach to parenting, highlighting the importance of nurturing each child’s unique talents. An episode for those who like discussing faith and family Show notes: Cross Politic Chocolate Knox on X...
Mar 26, 2025•1 hr 25 min•Season 4Ep. 100
Ep. 99 - Not Black but Café au lait (Greg Thomas)
Music entrepreneur and race abolitionist Greg Thomas shares his passion for jazz and writing, discussing the role of education, music, and his views on race and culture. He emphasizes moving beyond racial identities to focus on cultural contributions and understanding regional differences within black American culture. In this conversation with host Connie Morgan, they explore cultural identity, family heritage, and the Jazz Leadership Project , which uses jazz principles to foster leadership an...
Mar 19, 2025•1 hr 28 min•Season 4Ep. 99
Ep. 98 - Affirming Gender Reality (Gabrielle Clark)
Gabrielle Clark shares her journey from a diverse upbringing in Houston to becoming a single mother and homeschooling advocate. She discusses the challenges of raising five children after losing her husband, her concerns about indoctrination in the public education system, and her work as a parent coach. Gabrielle emphasizes the importance of parental involvement and the need for education reform, particularly in relation to Critical Race Theory and social-emotional learning. Show Notes: Affirmi...
Mar 12, 2025•1 hr 20 min•Season 4Ep. 98
Ep. 97 - Leave the Kids Alone (Kofi Montzka)
Activist Kofi Montzka gives host Connie Morgan advice on finding like-minded individuals and building supportive communities. Kofi shares her thoughts on how the ethnic studies curriculum may promote a narrative of hopelessness for Black children and opens up about the backlash she’s faced for speaking out against these ideas. She also talks about the importance of curiosity over certainty, the need for kindness in disagreements, and the value of engaging with diverse perspectives. Show notes: K...
Mar 05, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Season 4Ep. 97
Ep. 96 - Canceled From the Right (Khadijah La Musa)
Khadijah La Musa opens up about her unique upbringing, from growing up in a strict Muslim environment to experiencing life at a liberal university. She talks about the mental health struggles she faced during college, how social media and cancel culture impacted her, and her journey toward Buddhism. Khadijah shares her evolving views on feminism and gender ideology and expresses her hopes for a safer world for her daughter in today's complex society. Show notes: Khadijah’s Substack: Bush Tea Kha...
Feb 26, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 4Ep. 96
Ep. 95 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 17
In this conversation, Michael DC Bowen and Winkfield Twyman Jr. discuss the varying perceptions of Black history, the importance of literature, and influential figures in Black history. They emphasize the need for curiosity and understanding of Black history as an integral part of American history, while also highlighting the impact of Black authors and their contributions to the narrative.
Feb 20, 2025•1 hr 26 min•Season 4Ep. 95
Ep. 94 - DEI Pushes Untrue Caste Narratives (Pushpita Prasad)
Pushpita Prasad discusses the complex interplay between caste, media representation, and policy-making in the context of Hindu identity in North America. Pushpita is a board member of the Coalition of Hindus of North America . Show notes: “ DEI Training Material Increases Perception of Nonexistent Prejudice, Agreement with Hitler Rhetoric, Study Finds ” by Abigail Anthony for National Review “ Caste Training Fuels Hate and Authoritarianism, Reveals New Study by Network Contagion Research Institu...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr 32 min•Season 4Ep. 94
Ep. 93 - Don't Equate Victimhood with Goodness (Kayla)
In this conversation, Kayla (who likes to go by just her first name publicly) shares her personal journey, touching on her upbringing, mental health struggles, and evolving political views. She discusses feeling alienated in her youth and her critiques of both political sides. Kayla also reflects on her love for goth fashion, the importance of empathy, and the challenges of forming connections. Show notes: Kayla’s “ Daniel Penny Is A Hero ” for the Journal of Free Black Thought Kayla on X Kayla ...
Feb 12, 2025•59 min•Season 4Ep. 93
Ep. 92 - An Interracial Love Story (Adam Gussow)
Adam Gussow talks about his life growing up, his path into music and academia, and his thoughts on race in America. As a blues musician and scholar, Adam offers a unique take on culture and activism. He and host Connie Morgan also discuss the evolving dynamics of interracial relationships, focusing on black women and white men, and how marriage and dating have changed over time. They explore cultural influences, race perceptions, and how it all ties into Adam’s upcoming book . Show notes: My Fam...
Feb 05, 2025•1 hr 38 min•Season 4Ep. 92
Ep. 91 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 16
Michael DC Bowen and Wink Twyman discuss the impact of recent wildfires in California, particularly in Pacific Palisades and Altadena. They dive into the environmental and emotional challenges for residents, as well as the difficulties firefighters face. They also talk about the aftermath of a disaster in Pasadena, touching on housing, leadership, and community recovery. Finally, they explore issues around homelessness, public safety, and mental health, emphasizing the need for better solutions ...
Feb 04, 2025•1 hr 34 min•Season 4Ep. 91
Ep. 90 - Black British vs African American (Aaron Fenton-Hewitt)
Aaron Fenton-Hewitt discusses the impact of his upbringing, the challenges of stereotypes, and the importance of community. The conversation also delves into the complexities of DEI initiatives and social engineering, exploring how these concepts relate to class and opportunity in the media industry. Show notes: Aaron’s “ DEI: The Arrogance of Social Engineering ” for the Journal of Free Black Thought Aaron’s “ The Economy of Victimhood ” for the Journal of Free Black Thought Aaron on X...
Jan 29, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 4Ep. 90
Ep. 89 - Family Structure Over Everything (Ian Rowe)
Ian Rowe shares his journey from his upbringing in Jamaica to becoming a leader in education with host Connie Morgan. He discusses the importance of family structure, the impact of education on identity, and his commitment to improving educational opportunities for all children, particularly in underserved communities. Ian also introduces the 'success sequence' as a framework for young people to avoid poverty and achieve a fulfilling life. Show notes: Ian on X Ian’s book: Agency: The Four Point ...
Jan 22, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 4Ep. 89
Ep. 88 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 15
In this conversation, Michael DC Bowen and Winkfield Twyman Jr. discuss the significance of the New Year, their personal reflections on the holiday, and predictions for the future, particularly regarding the impact of AI on society. They delve into the concept of role models, exploring their influence on personal development and societal expectations, especially within the context of Black America. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of recognizing authentic figures in history and the dangers ...
Jan 21, 2025•1 hr 25 min•Season 4Ep. 88
Ep. 87 - "Never Stop Asking Why" (Kyle Jordan Maxwell)
In this episode, Kyle Jordan Maxwell shares his journey from posting a black square on social media to questioning the very ideals it symbolized—identity politics and wokeism. He reflects on how he transitioned from following the crowd to thinking critically for himself. What began as a path of self-described ignorance led him to become a self-taught philosophy enthusiast, embracing the realization that, while he doesn't have all the answers, that uncertainty is something to be valued. Show note...
Jan 15, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 4Ep. 87
Ep. 86 - Our Division is an Illusion (Monica Harris)
The Free Black Thought Podcast returns with guest Monica Harris. Monica holds a Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, where she was an editor of the Harvard Law Review . Over the course of more than a decade, she held senior roles in business and legal affairs at Walt Disney Television, NBCUniversal Media, and Viacom Media Networks. In 2011, Harris made a bold shift, leaving corporate life behind and relocating with her family to Montana. She is c...
Jan 08, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 4Ep. 86
Ep. 85 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Tywman, Ep. 14
A writer cannot be told what to write. The artist is free do what he has to do. In this end of the year podcast, Michael Bowen and Wink Twyman close out the year with an honest and moving review of Nikki Giovanni (1943-2024). A Native of Knoxville, Tennessee, Giovanni wrote moving poetry about the meaning of Blackness in America. Poems such as Nikka-Rosa struck a chord with Black Americans in the 1970s. Bowen and Twyman come from different places as they grapple with the poetic genius of an Afro...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 57 min•Season 3Ep. 85
Ep. 84 - BONUS: Have We Ever Been 'Woke'? (Musa al-Gharbi)
In this episode, guest host Jake Mackey sits down with sociologist Musa Al-Gharbi to discuss his unconventional academic journey, the personal impact of his cancellation, and his current research pursuits. Musa also delves into his book, We Have Never Been Woke , which explores the rise of 'awokenings' and the factors driving major shifts in social justice discourse. He offers thought-provoking insights on the future under Trump, touching on concerns about growing authoritarianism and the import...
Nov 22, 2024•2 hr 3 min•Season 3Ep. 84
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