Baldwin & Co. Ideas Explored

What happens when two of America’s sharpest thinkers get brutally honest about race, power, hope—and the lie of progress? In this electric, no-holds-barred conversation, Charles Blow and Don Lemon blow the lid off respectability politics, coalition fatigue, and the myth of a post-racial America. From the illusion of diversity to the erasure of Black history, they lay bare the truth: we’re not returning from the edge—we’re going over it.Charles Blow, a New York Times columnist and bestselling author known for his sharp, uncompromising analysis of race and politics, and Don Lemon, is an Emmy-winning journalist and longtime news anchor recognized for his fearless commentary on social and cultural issues.Charles challenges the idea of waiting for white America to "come around" while Don urges Black America to build without begging. They debate reparations, the crumbling political system, and why the mask is finally off—for everyone. It’s personal, intellectual, spiritual, and radical. If you’ve ever felt exhausted, enraged, or inspired by what’s happening in America right now, this conversation will shake you—and maybe wake you up.#CharlesBlow #DonLemon #CNN Welcome to Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues, the official podcast of Baldwin & Co. coffee + bookstore—a sanctuary for literature, creativity, and community. Sponsored by Baldwin & Co. Foundation 501(c)3.This podcast is your front-row seat to the world of books, ideas, and thought-provoking conversations with some of the most brilliant minds and celebrated authors of our time.At Baldwin & Co., we believe that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Through this podcast, we bring the pages of bestselling novels, memoirs, and groundbreaking works of nonfiction to life. Whether you’re an avid reader, aspiring writer, or simply someone who enjoys meaningful discussions, Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues is here to ignite your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world.

Order Imani Perry Books Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9780062977397Order Maurice Ruffin Books Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9780593729410Order Baldwin & Co. Merch Here: https://shop.baldwinandcobooks.comLearn more about Baldwin & Co. Foundation: https://bcofoundation.orgImani Perry and Maurice Carlos Ruffin delivered a conversation that was part history lesson, part cultural critique, and part sermon on survival. Imani Perry, with her blend of razor-sharp intellect and poetic cadence, challenged the myths America tells itself about freedom and progress, while Maurice Ruffin brought wit and piercing clarity to the lived realities of race, class, and power in New Orleans and beyond. Together, they wrestled with the contradictions of American democracy, the erasure of Black voices, and the radical necessity of joy as resistance. Their dialogue was less about answers than about urgency—an insistence that literature is not escape, but confrontation, and that remembering the past is the most revolutionary act we can commit.SUBSCRIBE NOW!! #impaniperry #mauriceruffinWelcome to Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues, the official podcast of Baldwin & Co. coffee + bookstore—a sanctuary for literature, creativity, and community. Sponsored by Baldwin & Co. Foundation 501(c)3.This podcast is your front-row seat to the world of books, ideas, and thought-provoking conversations with some of the most brilliant minds and celebrated authors of our time.At Baldwin & Co., we believe that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Through this podcast, we bring the pages of bestselling novels, memoirs, and groundbreaking works of nonfiction to life. Whether you’re an avid reader, aspiring writer, or simply someone who enjoys meaningful discussions, Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues is here to ignite your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world.

In a sharp, witty, and unflinching conversation at Baldwin & Co. bookstore, W. Kamau Bell and Cebo Campbell dissected the deep roots and modern manifestations of privilege, power, and race in America. Drawing parallels between environmental mismanagement and cultural erasure, they lamented how indigenous wisdom and Black creativity are often ignored or co-opted, while white privilege continues to reward audacity and mediocrity—evident in everything from Silicon Valley scams to the myth-making of American media. Cebo reflected on the inspiration for his book, “Sky Full of Elephants,” revealing how the simple act of swapping a Black protagonist into a classic white-centered narrative exposes the double standards and biases embedded in American storytelling. Both men skewered the way white-collar criminals are lionized and how trust and opportunity are so often reserved for those who fit a narrow, privileged mold. Their exchange ultimately challenged the audience to question who gets to fail, who gets to dream, and why America still struggles to see beyond the surface.W. Kamau Bell is an Emmy-winning comedian, director, author, and social commentator best known as the host of CNN’s United Shades of America. Combining humor with incisive cultural critique, Bell uses storytelling and satire to confront race, identity, and inequality in the United States. His work spans bestselling books, acclaimed documentaries, and stand-up stages across the country, making him one of today’s most essential and influential voices on race and social justice.Cebo Campbell is an author, creative director, and storyteller whose work blends sharp cultural insight with imaginative, emotionally rich narratives. Known for his novel Sky Full of Elephants and his acclaimed audio fiction projects, Campbell’s writing explores identity, love, memory, and the surreal dimensions of everyday life. His voice is distinct, lyrical, and deeply human—marking him as one of the most inventive contemporary storytellers of his generation.Order W. Kamau Bell Book Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9781101985885Order Cebo Campbell Book Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9781668034927Order Baldwin & Co. Merch Here: https://shop.baldwinandcobooks.comLearn more about Baldwin & Co. Foundation: https://bcofoundation.orgThis podcast is your front-row seat to the world of books, ideas, and thought-provoking conversations with some of the most brilliant minds and celebrated authors of our time.At Baldwin & Co., we believe that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Through this podcast, we bring the pages of bestselling novels, memoirs, and groundbreaking works of nonfiction to life. Whether you’re an avid reader, aspiring writer, or simply someone who enjoys meaningful discussions, Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues is here to ignite your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world.#KamauBell, #CeboCampbell, #RaceInAmerica, #CulturalBias, #StorytellingMatters, #PrivilegeExposed, #AmericanScam, #MediaBias, #DoubleStandards, #BlackExcellence, #RepresentationMatters, #SystemicRacism, #PowerAndPrivilege, #DismantleTheSystem, #TruthToPower, #UnmaskingPrivilege, #DiversityInMedia, #BlackVoices, #ComedyWithPurpose, #BookTalk, #BaldwinAndCo, #MustWatch#WhitePrivilege, #BlackCreativity, #SkyFullOfElephants, 

This conversation with Dr. Daniel Black moves through the delicate and difficult terrain of healing—across bloodlines, across memory, across time. Drawing from his novel Isaac’s Song, Dr. Black explores what it means to face generational wounds without letting them define us. He breaks open the quiet myths of Black masculinity, the fear of vulnerability, the stories we fabricate to survive, and the ancestral technologies that still guide us toward freedom.Through intimate storytelling and sharp cultural insight, Dr. Black unpacks power, forgiveness, usefulness, memory, and the ritual genius of Black people. This is a conversation about reclaiming the parts of ourselves we abandoned, learning to touch without violence, honoring flawed parents, and choosing a version of manhood that doesn’t destroy the men who carry it.A profound, soulful dialogue that lingers long after it ends.Bio: Dr. Daniel Black — Professor at Clark Atlanta UniversityDr. Daniel Black is an award-winning novelist, scholar, and professor whose work centers the depth, beauty, and complexity of Black life. A graduate of Clark Atlanta University and Temple University, he is known for novels such as The Coming, Perfect Peace, and Black on Black, blending storytelling with cultural history, spirituality, and ancestral wisdom. As a longtime professor at Clark Atlanta, Dr. Black has become one of the leading literary voices of his generation, celebrated for his ability to illuminate the inner lives of Black families, explore generational healing, and honor the traditions that shape the African American experience.Bio: Pastor Jonathan Everett — Rock of Ages ChurchPastor Jonathan Everett is the visionary leader of Rock of Ages Church in New Orleans, where he is widely known for his dynamic preaching, community-centered ministry, and unwavering commitment to empowering families, healing neighborhoods, and developing the next generation of leaders. Through bold outreach initiatives, innovative programs, and a message rooted in faith and real-life transformation, Pastor Everett has become one of the city’s most influential spiritual voices and a driving force for hope, unity, and uplift.Bio: Jerid P. Woods — A Black Man ReadingJerid P. Woods, known to thousands as A Black Man Reading, is a celebrated literary curator, educator, and digital tastemaker who has reshaped contemporary reading culture through his vibrant engagement with Black literature. With a platform dedicated to amplifying Black authors, uplifting community storytelling, and sparking critical dialogue, Woods has become one of the most trusted voices in modern book advocacy. His work bridges classrooms, bookstores, and online communities, inspiring people everywhere to read more deeply, think more critically, and love Black stories unapologetically.Watch on YouTube Here: https://youtu.be/ajCPpUKL8L4Order Dr. Daniel Black Books Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9781335090416Order Baldwin & Co. Merch Here: https://shop.baldwinandcobooks.comLearn more about Baldwin & Co. Foundation: https://bcofoundation.org#drdanielblack #danielblack #isaacssong #blackonblack #dontcryforme #perfectpeace #theytellmeofahome #jeridpwoods #ablackmanreading #pastoreverret #rockofages 

Order Ta-Nehisi Coates Books Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9780593230381Order Joy-Ann Reid Book Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9780063068803Order Baldwin & Co. Merch Here: https://shop.baldwinandcobooks.comLearn more about Baldwin & Co. Foundation: https://bcofoundation.orgIf you’re not ready for the truth, stay in your bubble. But if you want to witness the most unfiltered, unapologetic, and necessary conversation of our time, then buckle up. Ta-Nehisi Coates and Joy-Ann Reid just dropped what can only be described as the Dialogue of the Decade at Baldwin & Co. bookstore in New Orleans—a conversation so raw, so real, and so utterly necessary that America might just pretend it didn’t happen. But we won’t let that happen.In a world where soundbites pass for substance and political theater replaces real justice, Ta-Nehisi and Joy sat down to burn through the illusions and expose the rot at the core of America’s so-called values. And trust me, no one walked away unscathed.Truth #1: America has never truly cared about Israel.Truth #2: White America is still as racist as ever.Truth #3: People only support you if they’re getting something in return.Truth #4: Why Kamala Harris lost to Donald Trump.Truth #5: Black authors are being banned for a reason.Truth #6: The genocide in Gaza is funded by American tax dollars.This wasn’t just another intellectual discussion—it was an awakening. And it happened at Baldwin & Co., the heartbeat of radical thought in New Orleans. If you missed it, fix that mistake now. Watch. Listen. Share. Because this is the most important dialogue you’ll witness this decade—and America needs to hear it.Baldwin & Co. isn’t just a bookstore. It’s a battleground for truth. And last night, Coates and Reid went to war.Welcome to Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues, the official podcast of Baldwin & Co. coffee + bookstore—a sanctuary for literature, creativity, and community. This podcast is your front-row seat to the world of books, ideas, and thought-provoking conversations with some of the most brilliant minds and celebrated authors of our time.At Baldwin & Co., we believe that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Through this podcast, we bring the pages of bestselling novels, memoirs, and groundbreaking works of nonfiction to life. Whether you’re an avid reader, aspiring writer, or simply someone who enjoys meaningful discussions, Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues is here to ignite your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world.#tanehisicoates #joyannreid #joyreid #reidout #baldwinandco #baldwinandcompany

Order Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah Books Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9780593469316Order Baldwin & Co. Merch Here: https://shop.baldwinandcobooks.comLearn more about Baldwin & Co. Foundation: https://bcofoundation.orgBestselling author Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah doesn’t just tell stories—he dissects the systems that shape our reality. In this electrifying conversation with Jerid P. Woods (aka Akili Nzuri), the two dive deep into why Nana’s work thrives at the intersection of fiction and brutal truth. From the dystopian horrors of capitalism to the everyday absurdities of American injustice, they unpack why the world’s most pressing systemic issues make for the most compelling storytelling.Welcome to Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues, the official podcast of Baldwin & Co. coffee + bookstore—a sanctuary for literature, creativity, and community. This podcast is your front-row seat to the world of books, ideas, and thought-provoking conversations with some of the most brilliant minds and celebrated authors of our time.At Baldwin & Co., we believe that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Through this podcast, we bring the pages of bestselling novels, memoirs, and groundbreaking works of nonfiction to life. Whether you’re an avid reader, aspiring writer, or simply someone who enjoys meaningful discussions, Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues is here to ignite your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world.What to Expect:Author Talks and Exclusive InterviewsJoin us as we sit down with internationally acclaimed authors, rising literary stars, and thought leaders across genres. Discover the stories behind the stories—their creative processes, challenges, and inspirations—and gain insights into the craft of writing.Spotlight on Book EventsThe Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues goes behind the scenes of our renowned book events and signings, giving you an intimate glimpse into conversations that define literary culture. Celebrating the Joy of ReadingWhether it’s uncovering hidden literary gems, diving deep into classic works, or exploring contemporary issues through literature, every episode is a celebration of books and the role they play in shaping our perspectives.Baldwin & Co. as a BusinessGet an insider's view of Baldwin & Co. coffee + bookstore, from its beginnings in the vibrant city of New Orleans to becoming a hub for intellectual and cultural exchange. We’ll share stories about our journey, our mission to champion literacy and creativity, and our partnerships with local and global literary communities.Smart Conversations for Intellectual MindsEach episode features engaging discussions that challenge conventional thinking, spark curiosity, and inspire action. From social justice to personal growth, every conversation is a testament to the transformative power of ideas.Why Listen?For Book Lovers: If you’re passionate about reading and crave deep, thoughtful conversations, this is your space.For Writers: Learn from the experiences and advice of established authors and find inspiration to hone your craft.For Thinkers: Dive into stimulating discussions that expand your horizons and provoke meaningful reflection.For the Curious: Whether you’re exploring a new genre or seeking fresh perspectives, The Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues offers something for everyone.About Baldwin & Co. Coffee + BookstoreLocated in the heart of New Orleans, Baldwin & Co. is more than just a bookstore—it’s a community-driven space where books, coffee, and culture converge. Known for its artful design, close partnerships with non-profits, and dedication to literacy, Baldwin & Co. is a haven for readers and thinkers alike. Through Baldwin & Co. podcast, we aim to bring this unique experience to listeners everywhere.Featured Guests and EventsOur episodes feature authors whose works resonate with the spirit of Baldwin & Co., including:Bestselling novelists who redefine storytelling.Poets and essayists who illuminate the human experience.Non-fiction authors who explore history, politics, and culture.Local voices and global icons, all united by their passion for sharing ideas.From deep dives into groundbreaking works to candid discussions about the writing life, Baldwin & Co. podcast captures the essence of intellectual and creative excellence.#nanakwame #jeridwoods #jeridpwoods #ablackmanreading #baldwinandco #authordialogues #baldwindialogues #authortalk #authoronauthor #history #chaingangallstars #fridayblack

Join us for a powerful and timely podcast discussion between Jarvis Deberry and Bakari Sellers as they dive into the critical themes of When Dictatorship Becomes a Fact, Revolution Becomes a Right. In this conversation, they’ll explore the historical and modern-day implications of authoritarianism, the resilience of marginalized communities, and the urgent need for collective action in the face of oppression. Their insights will challenge, inspire, and spark dialogue about what it truly means to stand up for justice. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion—tune in and be part of the conversation!Order Bakari Sellers Books Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9780063085022Order Jarvis Deberry Book Here:https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9781608011858Order Baldwin & Co. Merch Here: https://shop.baldwinandcobooks.comLearn more about Baldwin & Co. Foundation: https://bcofoundation.orgWelcome to Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues, the official podcast of Baldwin & Co. coffee + bookstore—a sanctuary for literature, creativity, and community. This podcast is your front-row seat to the world of books, ideas, and thought-provoking conversations with some of the most brilliant minds and celebrated authors of our time.At Baldwin & Co., we believe that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Through this podcast, we bring the pages of bestselling novels, memoirs, and groundbreaking works of nonfiction to life. Whether you’re an avid reader, aspiring writer, or simply someone who enjoys meaningful discussions, Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues is here to ignite your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world.What to Expect:Author Talks and Exclusive InterviewsJoin us as we sit down with internationally acclaimed authors, rising literary stars, and thought leaders across genres. Discover the stories behind the stories—their creative processes, challenges, and inspirations—and gain insights into the craft of writing.Spotlight on Book EventsThe Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues goes behind the scenes of our renowned book events and signings, giving you an intimate glimpse into conversations that define literary culture. Celebrating the Joy of ReadingWhether it’s uncovering hidden literary gems, diving deep into classic works, or exploring contemporary issues through literature, every episode is a celebration of books and the role they play in shaping our perspectives.Baldwin & Co. as a BusinessGet an insider's view of Baldwin & Co. coffee + bookstore, from its beginnings in the vibrant city of New Orleans to becoming a hub for intellectual and cultural exchange. We’ll share stories about our journey, our mission to champion literacy and creativity, and our partnerships with local and global literary communities.Smart Conversations for Intellectual MindsEach episode features engaging discussions that challenge conventional thinking, spark curiosity, and inspire action. From social justice to personal growth, every conversation is a testament to the transformative power of ideas.Why Listen?For Book Lovers: If you’re passionate about reading and crave deep, thoughtful conversations, this is your space.For Writers: Learn from the experiences and advice of established authors and find inspiration to hone your craft.For Thinkers: Dive into stimulating discussions that expand your horizons and provoke meaningful reflection.For the Curious: Whether you’re exploring a new genre or seeking fresh perspectives, The Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues offers something for everyone.About Baldwin & Co. Coffee + BookstoreLocated in the heart of New Orleans, Baldwin & Co. is more than just a bookstore—it’s a community-driven space where books, coffee, and culture converge. Known for its artful design, close partnerships with non-profits, and dedication to literacy, Baldwin & Co. is a haven for readers and thinkers alike. Through Baldwin & Co. podcast, we aim to bring this unique experience to listeners everywhere.Featured Guests and EventsOur episodes feature authors whose works resonate with the spirit of Baldwin & Co., including:Bestselling novelists who redefine storytelling.Poets and essayists who illuminate the human experience.Non-fiction authors who explore history, politics, and culture.Local voices and global icons, all united by their passion for sharing ideas.From deep dives into groundbreaking works to candid discussions about the writing life, Baldwin & Co. podcast captures the essence of intellectual and creative excellence.Join the ConversationBaldwin & Co. Author Dialogues isn’t just a podcast—it’s a community. Follow us on social media, share your favorite episodes, and let us know what books, authors, and topics you’d like us to cover. Together, let’s celebrate the power of books to inspire, educate, and connect us all.#bakarisellers #jarvisdeberry #baldwinandcompany

Food has always been more than just nourishment—it’s a universal language that brings people together. In this engaging discussion, Tamron Hall and Lish Steiling explore how food has become the ultimate friendship glue, fostering deep connections and lifelong memories.From shared meals that strengthen bonds to the magic of cooking together, they dive into the ways food shapes relationships, sparks conversations, and creates moments that last a lifetime. Whether it’s the comfort of a home-cooked dish, the adventure of trying new flavors with friends, or the joy of gathering around the table, this conversation highlights the profound role food plays in building community.If you’re a food lover, a friendship enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a meaningful conversation, this is one discussion you won’t want to miss. Tune in now and get inspired to break bread, share stories, and connect in new and delicious ways!

On this powerful episode of the Baldwin & Co. Podcast, Dr. Eddie Glaude Jr. and Imani Perry engage in a transformative conversation about imagining freedom in captivity. With unmatched depth and clarity, they explore how the human spirit envisions liberation even within the confines of oppression—whether through history, culture, or personal struggle. This isn’t just an intellectual exercise; it’s a profound dialogue that challenges the very fabric of American identity and dares us to reconsider what freedom truly means. Their compelling insights and raw honesty will stir your soul, expand your mind, and leave you reflecting long after the episode ends. This is more than a podcast—it’s a conversation that could reshape American dialogue as we know it, one you’ll want to experience over and over again.Follow Baldwin & Co.:Subscribe and watch Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues on YouTube for video of this episode. Instagram: @baldwinandcompanyTikTok: @baldwincompanyYouTube: @baldwinandcoFacebook: @baldwinandcompanyLinkedIn: @linkedin.com/in/dj-johnsonShop Baldwin & Co. Bookstore: https://bookshop.org/shop/baldwinandcompanyShop Baldwin & Co. Merch: https://shop.baldwinandcobooks.com/

Join award-winning authors Jesmyn Ward and Clint Smith in an intimate and thought-provoking podcast conversation about Writing Our Roots. Together, they explore the power of storytelling to preserve history, honor ancestry, and shed light on the lived experiences of Black communities across generations. From the Deep South to the broader African diaspora, Ward and Smith discuss how their personal journeys influence their writing, the importance of historical memory, and the role of literature in shaping cultural identity. Tune in for a compelling dialogue that delves into themes of resilience, legacy, and the profound connection between place and narrative.Welcome to Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues, the official podcast of Baldwin & Co. coffee + bookstore—a sanctuary for literature, creativity, and community. This podcast is your front-row seat to the world of books, ideas, and thought-provoking conversations with some of the most brilliant minds and celebrated authors of our time.At Baldwin & Co., we believe that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Through this podcast, we bring the pages of bestselling novels, memoirs, and groundbreaking works of nonfiction to life. Whether you’re an avid reader, aspiring writer, or simply someone who enjoys meaningful discussions, Baldwin & Co. Reels is here to ignite your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world.