In this episode of Black Gems Dive In Podcast, Kua and Kendra dive deep into a controversial bill signed by the Alabama governor banning state funding for DEI programs in schools and public colleges. The hosts then discuss the world of women's basketball and a recent game between Iowa and LSU, where players like Angel Reese faced scrutiny and unfair labeling in the media. Lastly, Kua and Kendra share their gem of the day. 

Join us in Ep. 42 of the Black Gems Dive In Podcast, where host Ekua sits down with Sheldon Anderson, CEO of Public Flower Co. Dive into a candid discussion on entrepreneurship, social justice, and the intricacies of the cannabis industry.

- Sheldon Anderson shares his experience opening a black-owned cannabis dispensary in Buffalo, navigating legal hurdles and emphasizing community representation.

- A breakdown of Public Flower Co.'s range of cannabis products, prices, and their approach to customer education on safe consumption practices.

- Insights on the State of the Union address, touching on how fashion, theatrics, and passionate responses play a role in political discourse.

- Sheldon reflects on the importance of qualifying for New York's car license program, aimed at creating equity in the cannabis market for those unjustly affected by past policies.

- The podcast concludes with a focus on the complexities of political policies, from regional conflicts like the Middle East to the impact of affirmative action in the cannabis industry.

In this episode, join Kendra and Kua as we dive into the latest hot topic: the University of Florida's controversial decision to eliminate all diversity, equity, and inclusion positions following a new state rule. We explore the rapid shifts occurring within DEI initiatives and Kendra's announcement of her new career path amidst these changes. Tune in as we wrap up with a thought-provoking gem of the day that will leave you inspired and empowered.

In this episode of the "Black Gems Dive In Podcast," we dive into the inspiring story of our co-host, Kua, as she shares her journey of leaving her full-time job to pursue entrepreneurship. Join us as we explore the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that led Kua to take the leap into building her own business. From overcoming fears to embracing new opportunities, Kua's story is a testament to the power of following your passion and chasing your dreams.

Join hosts Kua and Kendra as they make their return to the "Black Gems Dive In Podcast." In this highly-anticipated episode, the dynamic duo dives deep into the critical topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) facing unprecedented challenges and the recent setbacks in affirmative action policies.

On this episode, Kua and Kendra discuss how Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives are under attack in many states. The pair discussed the Oscar Winners of 2023, how international talent dominated the Oscar’s, and is #OscarsSoWhite still relevant? 

On this episode, Kua and Kendra welcome, Stephanie Peete, Director of Workforce Development for Say Yes Buffalo, and Co-founder of Second Chapter Bookstore, a Black-owned small business operated in Buffalo, NY. The pair discussed how Resenteeism is the latest trend plaguing workers, and dives into ways that organizations like Say Yes Buffalo are creating career pathway programs for high school graduates. Lastly, Stephanie shares her “gem of the day”. LinkedIn: Stephanie Peete and Second Chapter Bookstore.

On this episode, Kua and Kendra share some exciting news. The pair discuss 5 DEI trends to retire in 2023 in order for organizations to be intentional about how to execute DEI. Lastly, the duo shares their “gem of the day”.

On this episode, Kua and Kendra welcome Dr. Barbara Seals-Nevergold, Founder of the Uncrowned Queens Institute and former president of the Buffalo School Board. They discuss the hot topic of the week, “Smithsonian Committee of WNY Women Making History”. The pair reviews Dr. Seals-Nevergold’s article, “East Presbyterian Church: The Forgotten Congregation”, a piece that dives into three churches that were formed to meet the needs of Buffalo’s African American community. Lastly, Dr. Seals-Nevergold shares her “gem of the day”.

On this week’s episode, Kua and Kendra discus the hot topic of the week “10 Most Affordable Cities to Buy a Home”. The pair welcome Malkijah Griffiths and Sonya Tareke from Team Real Talk, Inc. to discuss their DEI application and process. They also discus generational point of views in the workplace and how generations can mend bridges to work together. Lastly, they share their “gem of the day.

On this episode, Kua and Kendra catch up and talk about this season of growth and gratitude. The pair discuss Kendra’s contribution to her new book release, “The Six Figure Athlete” and how with hard work, manifesting the life you want can be assessable. Lastly, the duo shares their “gem of the day”.

To pre-oder a copy of Kendra's new book The Six-Figure Athlete: Convert Your Skills Into Cash: Stories & Strategies of High Performers, CLICK HERE

On this week’s episode, Kua and Kendra discuss the hot topic of the week “Adidas Ends Partnership with Kanye West at a Considerable Cost”. The pair also discusses the fear of cancel culture and how it is driving employers off social media, sometimes hindering DEI efforts. Lastly, they share their “gem of the day”. 

On this week’s episode, Kua discusses the hot topic of the week “Changes in leadership of Buffalo nonprofit organizations”. She welcomes Durgham Alyasiri and Leah Daniel who shared their role in the design of the “LOC Step Platform,” an online community designed by BIPOC Leaders for BIPOC Leaders in WNY. The pair also share their “gem of the day”. 

On this week’s episode, Kua and Kendra discuss their experience at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles at the Buffalo Bills vs LA Rams game. The pair welcome Christian Johnson, CEO of Beautiful Brains Consulting Company, which provide business technology solutions through a full lifecycle of services ranging from business analysis and IT consulting to cloud hosting. Christian sheds light on the Invest Well Erie Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) regarding the new Buffalo Bills Stadium. The CBA outlines that the parties involved will “ensure the New Stadium will not only benefit the Team, but all segments of the local community including historical underserved communities within the county”. Christian highlights the need for reinvestments back into local communities. Lastly, Christian shares her “gem of the day.” Invest Well Erie CBA Report: https://www2.erie.gov/legislature/sites/www2.erie.gov.legislature/files/uploads/Session_Folders/2022/14/22COMM.%2014E-16.pdf

On this week’s episode, Kua and Kendra discuss the hot topic of the week, “Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, ending right to abortion upheld for decades.” In a historic and far-reaching decision, the U.S. Supreme Court officially reversed Roe v. Wade, declaring that the constitutional right to abortion, no longer exists. The pair welcome Shannon Bryant, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Kaleida Health. She sheds light on her roles and responsibilities of providing strategic leadership in the development, implementation and monitoring of diversity plans for Kaleida Health. Shannon shares her journey being the first person to occupy this role and provides us with upcoming initiatives and how data informs her daily decisions. Lastly, Shannon shares her “gem of the day”.

Welcome to Season 4! On the first episode back, Kendra welcomed Chantele Thompson, City of Buffalo Chief Diversity Officer. Thompson shares how she prepared for this position through her previous roles and responsibilities within the diversity, equity and inclusion field. She also discusses assuming the role immediately after May 14, 2022, the day the mass shooting occurred in Buffalo, New York, at a Tops Friendly Markets supermarket, located in a predominantly Black neighborhood. Lastly, Chantele shares her “gem of the day”.

In collaboration with the Buffalo Museum of Science and Delaware North, Black Gems Dive In hosted a live podcast featuring Dr. Russell Wigginton, president of the National Civil Rights Museum.  Reflecting on the tragic events of May 14 in Buffalo, New York where ten innocent lives were taken, the group discussed urgent topics of civil and human rights and the pursuit of social justice through the context of historic milestones in the American civil rights movement.

On this week’s episode, Kua and Kendra discuss the hot topic of the week, “Senate panel tied 11-11 on Ketanji Brown Jackson's nomination, forcing an extra vote on her way to being confirmed to the Supreme Court”. The pair welcome Kristin Braye, Manager of DEI at Brooklyn Sports Entertainment (BSE) Global. Kristin shares information on BSE Global’s Supplier Diversity Program and Nets United Games. She also sheds light on how folks can get into sports if they’re interested in sports entertainment. Lastly, Kristin shares her “gem of the day”. 

On this week’s episode, Kua and Kendra discuss the “grooming gap” and what “looking the part” costs women. They each get personal on how their own appearance has evolved over time and how they’ve embraced their own unique styles in the workplace. The pair also share their “gem of the day”.

On this week’s episode, Kua and Kendra welcome former NFL players and community leaders; Derek Brim and Adam Redden, to discuss the hot topic of the week, “Why a 20 year effort by the NFL hasn’t led to more minorities in coaching jobs”. The group also discuss the “Rooney Rule” and the culture of the NFL. Derek and Adam also share their “gem of the day”.