Ray Christian

In this engaging discussion, Ray Christian, a former Army drill sergeant, shares how military life shaped his identity and influenced American style, while Patricia Ziegler, co-founder of Banana Republic, recounts transforming military surplus into fashionable attire. They delve into the M65 field jacket’s evolution, the shift from protest fashion to mainstream trends, and the impact of scarcity on surplus clothing, offering a fascinating look at how military gear became a stylish staple in civilian wardrobes.

Ray Christian, a 20-year Army veteran and skilled storyteller, shares his compelling journey from a segregated childhood in Richmond to military service. He reflects on the complex motivations for enlistment during peacetime and the bonds forged amidst challenges. Ray discusses the psychological hurdles he faced transitioning back to civilian life, including grappling with PTSD. His anecdotes illuminate the paradoxes of military identity and the transformative power of camaraderie, all while navigating the path to academia and storytelling.

Join Ray Christian, a 20-year Army veteran and host of "What's Ray Saying?", along with fellow veterans Dario DiBatista and Jesse Martinez as they reflect on the raw and poignant realities of military life. They dive into personal tales of emotional journeys post-combat, the lasting impacts of September 11th, and the significance of camaraderie amidst chaos. They discuss challenges like PTSD and the importance of mental health support while emphasizing the power of storytelling to connect and heal.

Ray Christian, storyteller and historian, explores the historical mistrust of medicine among black individuals, the survival mechanism behind self-care practices developed by slaves, and the historical barriers faced by black people in accessing medical care in the United States.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Ray Christian, a storyteller and creator of "What's Ray Saying?", highlights the intersection of Black culture and health. He shares his first experience at the doctor’s office, revealing the layers of mistrust in medical systems rooted in historical injustices like the Tuskegee study. Through personal anecdotes about childhood remedies, Ray illustrates the resilience of traditional healing. The discussions tackle healthcare accessibility, emotional journeys in engagements, and the importance of cultural practices in fostering trust within the Black community.