The Jali, host Melyssa Barrett

The Jali Ep 172: Pass the Power! Build & Transfer Wealth

Welcome to the Jolly Podcast. I'm your host, Melissa Barrett, and this is episode 171 Past the Power. Did you know that the median wealth of a single black woman is just $100, while white men own a median of over 28,000 in wealth individually? Or that the racial wealth gap between black and white families hasn't budged in more than 30 years? We're talking about generations of missed opportunities not because we don't work hard, but because access, education and estate planning have often been withheld from our communities. That's why this episode is so important. We are sharing a special replay of a live webinar hosted by the Tracy Area Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, where I serve on the Economic Development Committee. This webinar featured a powerhouse attorney, Charlene Usher, who is the Managing partner of Ulg Law APC, and Charlene breaks down why estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. How living trusts can protect your legacy and what steps you can take right now to build intergenerational wealth

The Jali Ep 171: Unapologetic Leadership: Dr. Nancy D. Young on Legacy, Faith and Breaking Barriers

In this inspiring episode, host Melyssa Barrett sits down with Dr. Nancy D. Young, a transformational leader, speaker and author who made history as the first elected African American and female mayor of Tracy, California. Dr. Nancy shares how faith, resilience and unapologetic leadership shaped her path from Compton to public office, rising above adversity and racial harassment along the way.
They explore powerful themes from her book Unapologetic Leadership, including how to unleash your inner warrior, create your own table, and mentor future leaders with purpose. From community empowerment to DEI and legacy-building, Dr. Nancy reflects on what it truly means to serve, lead and inspire lasting change.

The Jali Ep 170: Interview with Stacie Selise

In this inspiring episode of The Jali Podcast, host Melyssa Barrett sits down with powerhouse entrepreneur and thought leader Stacie Selise—a proud Delta and legacy-builder making waves both personally and professionally. From a fun sorority moment to a heartfelt discussion about the values shared across the Divine Nine, this conversation is a true celebration of sisterhood, service, and strategy.
Stacie shares her journey of empowering individuals to step fully into their purpose and lead with clarity and confidence. She talks about the impact of her Legacy Lab, her commitment to helping others rise to their next level, and how she continues to show up as a force for good in the community.

The Jali Ep 169: How a Teen Leader Built a Global Scholars Program: The Miles Lima Story

At just 16 years old, Miles Lima is breaking barriers in leadership, education, and global opportunity. Blind since childhood and a three-time cancer survivor, Miles is the founder of Manteca Scholars LLC - a student-led program bringing public school students into the prestigious World Scholars Cup, an international academic competition blending debate, collaborative writing, and team challenges. In this episode, he shares how he built a network across continents, launched a high-performing team from his public high school, and leads with purpose and vision. Miles is also a self-employed travel consultant, accomplished musician, and passionate advocate for equity in education and intercultural dialogue.
Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, innovation, and global impact - led by a young changemaker redefining what’s possible.

The Jali Ep 168: Tamara Shiloh on Literacy, Legacy & Building Inclusive Classrooms

In this inspiring episode of the Jali Podcast, host Melyssa Barrett sits down with Tamara Shiloh—author, entrepreneur, educator, and founder of the Multicultural Children’s Bookstore—to explore how she's transforming the way we teach and understand diverse history. From her acclaimed children’s book series like Jaxon’s Magical Adventure with Black Inventors and Scientists to launching inclusive lesson plans and a new K-6 micro school rooted in Black culture, Tamara shares how she’s rewriting the narrative for the next generation. Discover her powerful approach to literacy, representation, and education reform, and hear how she turns banned books into bestsellers and empowers educators with ready-to-use Black, Latinx, Asian, and Women in History materials.
Whether you're a teacher, parent, entrepreneur, or changemaker—this episode will leave you inspired to reimagine what inclusive education can truly look like.
🔗 Learn more at: multiculturalbookstore.com
#BlackHistory365 #InclusiveEducation #STEAM #RepresentationMatters #WomenInHistory #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #TamaraShiloh #JaliPodcast #MulticulturalBooks

The Jali Ep 167: Empowering Change: Ronaldo Hardy on Financial Education and DEI

Join us as we sit down with Ronaldo Hardy, a transformative leader in the financial education sector. As the CEO of BALANCE, Ronaldo is at the forefront of providing essential financial wellness programs across the nation. In this episode, he shares his insights on the importance of financial literacy, the challenges and strategies for inclusive financial education, and his passionate commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Dive into a discussion that not only enlightens but also empowers individuals and communities to navigate the complexities of financial stability in today's world. (@BALANCEFinFit)
#FinancialEducation #DEILeadership #Empowerment #FinancialWellness #InclusiveFinance #JaliPodcast #LeadershipInsights #CommunityImpact #RonaldoHardy #FinancialLiteracyMonth #DEI

The Jali Ep 166: Trailblazing Spirits: Old Hillside's Tribute to Black Women in Horse Racing

In this episode of the Jali Podcast, we delve deep into the inspiring stories of three trailblazing African American women in horse racing - Eliza Carpenter, Sylvia Bishop, and Cheryl White. These remarkable figures broke barriers in a dominantly male sport and left an indelible mark on its history. Join us as Emmanuel Waters from Old Hillside Bourbon Company discusses their unique contributions, the creation of the 'Trifecta' bourbon in their honor, and the impact of their legacies on both the sport and African American history.
 
We'll also explore how Old Hillside Bourbon blends entrepreneurship with social justice, using their products to amplify underrepresented stories and support community initiatives. This conversation not only highlights historical achievements but also sparks discussions on the importance of diversity and inclusion in all sectors of society. Learn how embracing our past can inspire future generations and drive meaningful change in our communities.
 
Don't miss this compelling blend of history, entrepreneurship, and advocacy - a true tribute to the power of perseverance and the spirit of innovation in the face of adversity.
 
#TheJaliPodcast #MelyssaBarrett #TrailblazingSpirits #BlackHeritage #WomenInHistory #InnovativeEntrepreneurship #JaliPodcast #Entrepreneur #BlackOwnedBusiness #SupportBlackBusiness #BuyBlack #BlackEntrepreneurs #BlackExcellence #BourbonCulture #BourbonLovers #CraftBourbon #BourbonLife #BourbonWhiskey #HorseRacing #JockeyLife #RaceDay #ThoroughbredRacing #EquestrianLife #OldHillsideBourbon #Trifecta #HonoringLegends

The Jali Ep 165: When They Step Back, We Step Forward: Keeping DEI Alive

On today’s podcast, I want to shine a light on the recent cutbacks to DEI initiatives that have been happening as of late. I’ll explore the pushback against these efforts and discuss how we can reenergize the movement through the teachings of the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa.
As corporations and governments scale back their commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, what can we do to keep the movement strong? Let's explore ways to reclaim the power of DEI through community action, advocacy, and economic investment. We don’t need permission to create change—we ARE the change.

The Jali Ep 164: Courageous Leadership: Black Wealth & Boycotts

Amidst this month's critical economic discussions and the rising economic boycotts—Target, Amazon, Walmart—Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt joins Melyssa Barrett on The Jali Podcast to address courageous leadership and economic empowerment. With DEI under attack, Dr. Shelley shares vital strategies for building Black wealth, leveraging cooperative economics, and fighting back against erasure. Discover the power of strategic ownership and community-driven resilience in these challenging times. Tune in for actionable insights and a powerful call to action.
 
#TheJaliPodcast #MelyssaBarrett #CourageousLeadership #DEI #DiversityEquityInclusion #EconomicEmpowerment #BlackWealth #CooperativeEconomics #FinancialLiteracy #Ownership #Community #Resilience #Kwanzaa #Nia #Ujamaa #BlackHistoryMonth #SupportBlackBusinesses #BlackPodcast #PodcastRecommendations #ListenNow #EconomicBoycott #TargetBoycott #AmazonBoycott #WalmartBoycott #DEIErasure #BlackDollar #DrShelleyJonesHolt #LeadershipLegacyConsulting #FamilyLegacy5

The Jali Ep 163: Navigating Leadership and Empowerment

Dive into Episode 163 of The Jali Podcast featuring C.G. Lewis—business leader, inspirational speaker, and author. This episode focuses on leadership, self-empowerment, and intentional living, particularly aimed at women navigating career transitions and economic uncertainties. C.G. Lewis shares essential tools and strategies for fostering values-driven leadership and achieving genuine self-realization. Discussing her newly released book, “Brown Sugar Goals: Sweet Success,” she provides insightful methods for setting impactful goals. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to thrive in their personal and professional life. Listen now for free on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred streaming service.
Hashtags:#Leadership #Empowerment #WomenInBusiness #PersonalGrowth #JaliPodcast #CGLewis #BrownSugarGoals #SustainableSuccess #CareerDevelopment #LeadershipGoals