A Moment with Erik Fleming
My name is Erik Fleming. I am an African American native of Chicago. I have had the privilege of being an elected official in the Deep South. Therefore I created this podcast to express my unique take on politics, as well as encouraging black excellence in leadership. This podcast was a 2021 and 2024 Black Podcasting Awards Nominee for Best Black News & Politics Podcast and with your support, this podcast will continue to be an uplifting experience and a strong voice in our American political discourse.
Recommended
7
Sept. 7, 2025
Wellbeing Economics & The Battle for the Black Mind Featuring Amanda Janoo and Dr. Karida Brown
In this episode, Amanda Janoo, Economics & Policy Lead at the Wellbeing Economy Alliance, explains the concept of wellbeing economics, and award-winning author Dr. Karida Brown, Professor of Sociology at Emory University, discusses her new book, The Battle for the Black Mind, which explores the historical struggles and triumphs of Black education in America.
4
Aug. 17, 2025
Persuade, Energize, Transform Featuring Anat Shenker-Osorio and Dr. Stacey Schultz
In this episode, Anat Shenker-Osorio, Principal of ASO Communications, guides us through the process of effective political messaging. Then, Dr. Stacey Schultz, President of EducateLLC, describes her work in transforming American education.
3
Aug. 10, 2025
The Great American Games Featuring Wajahat Ali, Rick Roberts and Dave Heller
In this episode, we discuss the great American games of politics, money, and baseball. Wajahat Ali, Editor of The Left Hook on Substack, talks politics; Rick Roberts, economics professor at Monmouth University, explains what is going on in the economy; and Dave Heller, President/CEO of Main Street Baseball, bridges the connections between politics and baseball.
24
Jan. 20, 2025
Going Forward Featuring Ianta Summers and Dr. Reneé Carr
In this episode, Ianta Summers, CEO of Summers Public Affairs, and Dr. Reneé Carr, licensed psychologist and host of the Politics & Psychology podcast, offer their perspectives on how we, as African Americans, go forward during this period in American politics.
21
Dec. 30, 2024
A Georgia Perspective Featuring Jessica Weinstein and Dr. Tammy Greer
In this last episode of 2024, Jessica Weinstein, LCSW/Psychotherapist and Democratic Party activist, and Dr. Tammy Greer, Director of the BIS Social Entrepreneurship Program at Georgia State University, offer their perspectives on why Georgia performed better than any other swing state in the 2024 election, as well as opinions on other key issues.
9
Nov. 8, 2022
On Violence Featuring Pastor Michael McBride and Dr. Shani Buggs
In this episode we address violence, particularly gun violence, in the African American community. Pastor Michael McBride, Director of the LIVE FREE Campaign, and Dr. Shani Buggs, Assistant Professor at the UC-Davis Violence Prevention Research Program, give their unique perspectives on how to end the violence. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
18
July 18, 2022
On Democracy Forward Featuring Skye Perryman
Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, discusses how we move our nation forward during this post-Roe era. Plus, I'll share my thoughts on how both political parties are missing the mark. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
14
June 20, 2022
On Inclusion and Economics Featuring Annemarie Shrouder and Rick Roberts
In this episode: Annemarie Shrouder, author of Being Brown In A Black and White World, discusses inclusion and Rick Roberts, Economist and Monmouth University Professor, discusses economics. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
9
May 1, 2023
Profit Without Oppression Featuring Kim Crayton
In this episode, Kim Crayton, The Anti-Racist Economist, talks about her book, Profit Without Oppression, and the work she does based off the book. Later, I offer a tribute to the iconic Harry Belafonte. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
12
Nov. 28, 2022
On Smarter Safety Solutions, TEEM Leadership and Blackjack Christmas Featuring Patrice Sulton, Dr. Cecelia Martin and Victoria Rowell
Attorney Patrice Sulton, Executive Director of DC Justice Lab, discusses her ground breaking work revising the District of Columbia Criminal Code; Dr. Cecelia Martin, author of the book, Incarcerated: Escaping the Prison of Your Mind, explains what TEEM Leadership is and Award-Winning Actress Victoria Rowell talks about her new film projects, as well as issues she is passionate about. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this
3
March 21, 2023
Preventing Chicago Gun Violence Featuring Artinese Myrick
In this episode, Artinese Myrick, Lead Organizer for Live Free Illinois, makes the case for a permanent Office of Gun Violence Prevention to be created in the City of Chicago. This podcast also highlights the victory the Divine 9 achieved recently in the Florida Legislature. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
19
July 25, 2022
On Racelessness and Advocacy Featuring Dr. Sheena Mason and Mark Talley
On this episode, Dr. Sheena Mason, author of Theory of Racelessness, discusses her work in moving American society from the binding thoughts of "race" and racism. Also, Mark Talley, son of Geraldine Talley, talks about the advocacy work he's involved in since the May 14, 2022 Terrorist Attack at Tops Grocery Store in Buffalo, NY. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
3
Sept. 26, 2022
On Libertarianism Featuring Larry Sharpe
In this episode, Larry Sharpe, host of The Sharpe Way podcast, makes the case for African American voters to choose Libertarianism and I’ll do my best to play catch-up on some of the recent hot topics. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
1
Sept. 12, 2022
On Jackson Water Crisis Featuring Rep. Chris Bell
In this episode, the first of the 6th Season, Mississippi State Representative Chris Bell, (D-Jackson 65th Dist.), updates us on the Jackson, Mississippi Water Crisis. Later, I give my thoughts on the African Diaspora's reaction to the death of Queen Elizabeth II. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
10
May 9, 2023
Four Names
This episode lifts up the names of Anthony Watts, Areanah Preston, Amy St. Pierre and Jordan Neely. It is the hope that their tragic deaths invokes conversations concerning gun violence, homelessness, mental health awareness and the value of human life. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
21
Aug. 8, 2022
On Black Health Featuring Dr. Jayne Morgan
Dr. Jayne Morgan, M.D., creator of the Stairwell Chronicles and CNN Medical Contributor, updates us on our current Covid pandemic status, what monkeypox is, and explains how poverty/systemic racism creates a health disparity in America. In the second half, I do my best to explain the Inflation Reduction Act that's making its way through Congress. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fle
7
Oct. 24, 2022
On FordMomentum Featuring Maya Ford
In this episode, Maya Ford, Principal of FordMomentum!, talks about her unique strategies to empower the disenfranchised. Later, I make the case for the Delegate of the Cherokee Nation to be seated in Congress. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
22
Aug. 15, 2022
On Conscious Conservatism and Political Analysis Featuring Coach Felecia Killings and William Cooper
In this episode, Coach Felecia Killings, author, minister and founder of the Conscious Conservative Movement, explains why African American voters should not put their political eggs in one basket, and Attorney Will Cooper, political columnist and author of Stress Test: How Donald Trump Threatens American Democracy, returns to the podcast to give analysis on the FBI search at Mar-A-Lago and the upcoming Midterm Congressional Elections. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest wa
19
Dec. 16, 2024
Living Loudly & Unlike The Rest Featuring Tammy McCall Browning and Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa
In this episode, celebrity fashion designer Tammy McCall Browning talks about her triumphant journey with mental illness and Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa, Resident Physician of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto, discusses her new memoir, Unlike The Rest: A Doctor’s Story.
17
July 12, 2022
On Buffalo Honest and International Affairs Featuring Jillian Hanesworth, Alexandria J. Maloney and Dr. Nola Haynes
The Poet Laureate of Buffalo, NY, Jillian Hanesworth, gives an update on the East Buffalo community nearly two months after the mass shooting there and talks about the honest conversations that need to happen now in her city. On the international front, Alexandria J. Maloney, President of Black Professionals in International Affairs, and Dr. Nola Haynes, Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University, discuss the Britney Griner situation and why African Americans should be concerned about what goes
11
Nov. 21, 2022
On Social Media Influence, Political Violence and Female Political Activism Featuring April Reign, Dr. Garen Wintemute and Ianta Summers
In this episode, the legendary April Reign explains how African American social media influencers, like herself, can impact future political campaigns. Next, Dr. Garen Wintemute, Director of the UC-Davis Violence Prevention Research Program, discusses the rise of political violence in America. Finally, Ianta Summers, Principal at Summers Public Affairs, talks about female political activism. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Suppo
4
Oct. 3, 2022
On Real Men Teach Featuring Curtis Valentine
In this episode, Curtis Valentine, Founder of Real Men Teach, talks about why he started the organization and the importance of African American men in the classroom. Later, I appeal for us, as a community, to uplift Black men. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/erik-fleming1/support
1
Aug. 28, 2023
The Struggle For The People’s King Featuring Hajar Yazdiha
On this first episode of Season 8, Hajar Yazdiha, author of The Struggle for the People’s King, discusses her book and expresses her thoughts about the current political climate. Then, I express my thoughts about Donald Trump being booked in at the Fulton County, GA Jail. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
7
Oct. 9, 2023
Is DEI dying? + Pearson & Pearson Featuring Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott, Dr. Tracy A. Pearson, and Melba Pearson
In this episode, Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott, Principal and Founder of Stamey Street Consulting, discusses the future of DEI in corporate America. Then, it’s the debut of The Podcast Law Firm of Pearson & Pearson, as Dr. Tracy and Legal Diva Melba give their takes on current legal news. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
15
Dec. 4, 2023
The Truth About Trump and the FBI Featuring David Cay Johnston and Jerri Williams
In this episode, Pulitzer Prize winning journalist David Cay Johnston talks about the real Donald Trump, while Retired Special Agent Jerri Williams talks about her experience with the FBI and the truth about the Bureau. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
17
Dec. 18, 2023
Da Dems 2024 Featuring Kaivan Shroff, Chai Komanduri, and Shalonda Spencer
In this episode, three Democratic political commentators: Kaivan Shroff, Chai Komanduri, and Shalonda Spencer give their thoughts on how 2024 will go for the Democrats. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
22
Jan. 22, 2024
Authors’ Spotlight Featuring Dr. Karida Brown, Charly Palmer, Juliet Hooker, and Fatimah Gilliam
In this episode, we spotlight three books and their authors: Dr. Karida Brown & Charly Palmer of the New Brownies’ Book; Professor Juliet Hooker of Black Grief/White Grievance; and Fatimah Gilliam of Race Rules: What Your Black Friend Won’t Tell You. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
24
Feb. 5, 2024
American Shield, PoliSci, & Black Voters Matter Featuring Aquilino Gonell, Marvin King, and Alexis Buchanan Thomas
In this episode, former US Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell talks about his book, American Shield; Professor Marvin King discusses the challenges and importance of political science; and Development Director Alexis Buchanan Thomas talks about the challenges of fundraising for political nonprofits. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
25
Feb. 12, 2024
The Current State of Israel and The Resurgence of Labor Featuring Anat Sultan-Dadon and Mike Podhorzer
In this episode, the Consul General of Israel for the Southeastern United States, Anat Sultan-Dadon, discusses the current state of the Israeli-Hamas conflict, and Mike Podhorzer, former political director of the AFL-CIO, talks about the resurgence of the U.S. Labor Movement. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
1
Feb. 19, 2024
Renegade Economics, Breaking Free, & Field Team 6 Featuring Della Duncan, Marcie Bianco, and Jason Berlin
In this the first episode of the 9th season, Della Duncan explains the concept of Renegade Economics; Author Marcie Bianco talks about her new book: Breaking Free; and Jason Berlin, founder of Field Team 6, discusses his work to help elect Democrats nationwide. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
3
March 4, 2024
100% Real, ChangeLab Global, & Domestic Darkness Featuring Ashleigh Ewald, Nikola Ilic, and Julie Farnam
In this episode, Ashleigh Ewald, Student Body President at Oglethorpe University, talks about issues that impact her generation; Nikola Ilic, founder of ChangeLab Global, explains why he focuses his activism towards human development; and Julie Farnam discusses her new book, Domestic Darkness, and the lessons that can be learned from January 6, 2021. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
7
April 1, 2024
Theological Activism, Political Experience, & Afrocentric Education Featuring Ekemini Uwan, Glenn Rushing and Dr. Nah Dove
In this episode, Ekemini Uwan, author of Truth’s Table, talks about the challenges of theological activism; Glenn Rushing, Managing Director/SVP at the PeterDamonGroup, discusses his experience and observation as a Black man in American politics; and Dr. Nah Dove, author of The Afrocentric School [a blueprint], stresses the importance of an Afrocentric education for our children. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
8
April 8, 2024
Resilience & Empowerment Featuring Evelyn LaChapelle and Dr. C. Nicole Mason
In this episode, Evelyn LaChapelle, founder of The Weed Lady Gift Shop/lifestyle brand, talks about her mission to be a successful entrepreneur and an advocate for the formerly incarcerated. Then, Dr. C. Nicole Mason, founder of Future Forward Women, discusses the importance, and challenges, of empowering women in America. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
11
April 29, 2024
Marty’s Crystal Ball & The Epitome of Black Excellence Featuring Marty Davis and MiDian Holmes
In this episode, former news anchor and print journalist Marty Davis looks into her crystal ball to see, and assess, what’s happening in our political world. Then, MiDian Holmes, Founder/CEO of The Epitome of Black Excellence & Partnership, updates us on the seeking of justice for Elijah McClain, as well as the work she is doing in the Denver, Colorado area. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
13
May 13, 2024
RaveVenn & You Talk, I Listen, We Do! Featuring Bridgette Washington and Ty Pinkins
In this episode, Bridgette Washington, Founder/CEO of RaveVenn App, discusses how her app will better inform young Americans about the political process, and Ty Pinkins, the Democratic Nominee for the United States Senate in Mississippi, talks about his campaign efforts. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
15
May 27, 2024
Hip-Hop Feminism Featuring Dr. Dawn Hicks Tafari
In this episode, Dr. Dawn Hicks Tafari, Associate Professor at Winston-Salem State University, defines hip-hop feminism and promotes her book, The Journey of Kamau Miller. Then, I offer my opinion about the lack of integrity, honesty, and courage exhibited by Republican leaders. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
16
June 3, 2024
The Golden Brain & Civic Leadership/Engagement Featuring Sabrina Clarke and Dr. Agatha Caraballo
In this episode, Sabrina Clarke, The Golden Brain Entrepreneur, explains the challenges of being a female entrepreneur, British politics, and the similar struggles of Africans in the UK. Then, Dr. Agatha Caraballo, Founding Director of the Maurice A. Ferré Institute for Civic Leadership, talks about the work of the institute and the importance of civic leadership/engagement. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
17
June 10, 2024
Strategic Casemaking & Saving Our Ancestors’ Legacy Featuring Dr. Tiffany Manuel and Rachael Keri Williams
In this episode, Dr. Tiffany Manuel, President/CEO of TheCaseMade, explains the concept of strategic casemaking and its impact on social change. Then, Rachael Keri Williams, Executive Director of SOAL: Saving Our Ancestors’ Legacy, talks about her journey towards preserving Lincoln Cemetery in Harrisburg, PA and the movement toward restoring Black cemeteries nationwide. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
Sept. 23, 2024
Political Humor + Pearson & Pearson Featuring Kellee Knighten Hough, Maura Quint, Melba Pearson and Dr. Tracy A. Pearson
In this jam packed episode, Kellee Knighten Hough (The social media personality known as “Kell Belle”) and Maura Quint (Campaign/Comms Director, Americans For Tax Fairness) discuss the importance of humor in American political discourse. As a bonus, our podcast law firm of Pearson & Pearson breaks down some recent and significant legal issues. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support
8
Sept. 30, 2024
Us, After & World Afro Day Featuring Rachel Zimmerman and Michelle De Leon
In this episode, Rachel Zimmerman, author of Us, After: A Memoir of Love and Suicide, talks her personal journey after the loss of husband and Michelle De Leon, founder of World Afro Day, explains the importance of ending texturism in the workplace, as well as in society. Then the episode concludes with my commentary on the execution of Marcellus Williams.
12
Oct. 28, 2024
Understanding Kamala Featuring Sophia Casey, Tia Oso and Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey
In this episode, Master Certified Coach Sophia Casey, Tia Oso, Senior Director for Media 2070, and Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey, author of Kamala, the Motherland, and Me, engage in a discussion concerning the challenges Vice President Harris has faced and offer a better understanding of the person seeking to be the first female President of the United States.
Recent Episodes
7
Aug. 30, 2026
Rewiring How We Think Featuring Akil Parker and Cole Davis
In this episode, Akil Parker, founder of All This Math, explains his crusade to improve an understanding of mathematics in the Black community, and psychologist Cole Davis talks about his new book, The Stone Age Now, which makes the argument that our adherence to old ideas will be society’s detriment.
6
Aug. 23, 2026
Addiction, Advocacy & Afrofuturism Featuring Erica Kent, Aaron Bos-Lun and Ke’Aun Charles
In this episode, Erica Kent addresses the issue of addiction in her book, Black Dog; Aaron Bos-Lun talks about the importance of Men4Choice; and Ke’Aun Charles explains the concept of Afrofuturism.
5
Aug. 16, 2026
Law, Race & Empathy Featuring Michael Klarman and Joseph Margulies
In this episode, Harvard Law Professor Michael Klarman gives his thoughts on white supremacy in America and Cornell Law Professor Joseph Margulies talks about his new book, Cast Out.
4
Aug. 9, 2026
The Unfinished American Experiment Featuring Alexandra Natapoff and Dr. Bianca J. Baldridge
In this episode, two distinguished Harvard professors join the program. Law professor Alexandra Natapoff discusses the new book she co-authored, America Unfinished, while Education professor Dr. Bianca J. Baldridge talks about her latest book, Laboring in the Shadows.
3
Aug. 2, 2026
Breaking Barriers & Unpacking Privilege Featuring Eileen Isola and Ryan Virden
In this episode, Eileen Isola discusses her book that covers the fifty year history of women attending the US Air Force Academy and Ryan Virden touts his book which explains why white privilege needs to be done away with.
2
July 26, 2026
Leadership, Artificial Intimacy & Political Power Featuring Dr. Erica B. Wattley, Victoria Hetherington and Pamela Campos-Palma
In this episode, Dr. Erica B. Wattley shares her thoughts about leadership; Victoria Hetherington talks about her new book concerning AI relationships, The Friend Machine; and political consultant Pamela Campos-Palma discusses her thoughts on political parties and veterans issues.
The multi-talented Grace G. provides a summary of the previous week's news each episode.
Grace is an award-winning broadcast journalist and an experienced voiceover artist with a dedicated broadcast-quality home studio offering same-day turnaround. Authentic and adaptable, her voice fits everywhere. It’s often described as warm, friendly, clear, upbeat, relatable and sassy. Some of her past and present clients include The City of New York, Humana, Florida Blue and Caribbean One TV.
Grace is based in New York City, loves to travel and is a Brown Belt in Shotokan Karate.