The Jali, host Melyssa Barrett

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

The Jali ep 162: Legacy of Leadership – LaJuana Bivens on Civil Rights, Equity, and Empowering Communities

In this powerful episode of The Jali Podcast, host Melyssa Barrett sits down with the esteemed LaJuana Johnson Bivens—civil rights activist, government leader, and champion for socio-economic empowerment. From her roots in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, to her influential work in Stockton, California, LaJuana has dedicated her life to advancing equity and justice.
As the CEO of Equity Alliance Group, Inc., a longtime leader within the NAACP, and the current President of the Mu Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, LaJuana has played a pivotal role in advocating for policies that uplift marginalized communities. She has served on the NAACP National Board of Directors, the National Elections Committee, and led critical initiatives in human rights, voting access, and affirmative action.
This episode delves into her incredible journey—her early inspirations, the challenges she has faced, and the legacy she continues to build. As we honor the founding of the NAACP, LaJuana reflects on the organization’s historical fight for justice and its evolving mission in today’s socio-political climate. With a heart for service and a mind for strategy, she shares insights on leadership, mentorship, and the ongoing work required to create systemic change.
Join us for a compelling conversation that bridges history and the future of civil rights activism. Whether you're an advocate, leader, or simply passionate about justice, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
 Tune in now to be inspired by a true trailblazer!
Let's make sure we also add #naacp #keepadvancing #naacpstockton #naacpstocktonyc #cahinaacp 
She also celebrates a lot of people and names in here... she is a Legacy builder so let's go with the Title: Legacy of Leadership – LaJuana Bivens on Civil Rights, Equity, and Empowering Communities

The Jali Ep 161: Kendrick Lamar: Storytelling Hip-Hop and the Fight for DEI

In this episode, I reflect on the Kendrick Lamar’s electric Super Bowl Halftime presentation showcasing DEI center stage during the most-watched event nationwide. Join me as we deep dive and unpack the cultural significance, legacy and contemporary storytelling of the performance. 
 
 

The Jali Ep 160: Holistic Healing: A Strategic Guide to Overcome Burnout

This week I am joined by Self-care Surgeon Benita Williams. Benita is the founder of a boutique coaching and consulting company that aims to relieve women executives from burnout while restoring their purpose to pursue their business endeavors. This episode will explore promoting self-healing using a holistic restoration method to achieve mental clarity and prioritize one’s well being. 
Benita Williams, The Self-Care Surgeon, is an International Bestselling Author and CEO of Benita Williams Enterprises LLC, a boutique coaching and consulting company where she helps women leaders who feel drained revive so that they can thrive in purpose. Through her signature programs and retreats, she empowers women executives and entrepreneurs to master strategic rest, leading to enhanced clarity, innovation, and sustainable growth. Coach Benita transforms how high-achieving leaders approach success by integrating holistic restoration with business excellence. Her proven methodology has helped countless leaders break free from burnout to lead with renewed purpose and vision, while scaling their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing.
Social Media Accounts to Tag:: https://www.facebook.com/authorbenitakbrown
https://www.instagram.com/benitabwilliams/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/benita-williams-688393175/