Roots, Race & Culture Castos https://www.pbsutah.org/pbs-utah-productions/series/roots-race-and-culture/podcast/ Roots, Race & Culture invites viewers into bold and honest conversations on identity and culture, centered around the experiences of Black and POC communities in Utah. Hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald are joined by newsmakers, change makers, experts, and entrepreneurs from Utah’s communities of color to discuss shared experiences with a healthy dose of humor, empathy, and candor. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 20:36:00 +0000 en © 2024 PBS Utah US https://episodes.castos.com/the-hinckley-report/images/RRC-Podcast-Art-Draft-3.jpg Roots, Race & Culture https://www.pbsutah.org/pbs-utah-productions/series/roots-race-and-culture/podcast/ Roots, Race & Culture invites viewers into bold and honest conversations on identity and culture, centered around the experiences of Black and POC communities in Utah. Hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald are joined by newsmakers, change makers, experts, and entrepreneurs from Utah’s communities of color to discuss shared experiences with a healthy dose of humor, empathy, and candor. PBS Utah episodic Roots, Race & Culture invites viewers into bold and honest conversations on identity and culture, centered around the experiences of Black and POC communities in Utah. Hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald are joined by newsmakers, change makers, experts, and entrepreneurs from Utah’s communities of color to discuss shared experiences with a healthy dose of humor, empathy, and candor. PBS Utah kuedchannel7@gmail.com false https://feeds.castos.com/3n2jp yes <![CDATA[Is AI Changing How We See Ourselves? ]]> Thu, 26 Feb 2026 20:36:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2362428 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/is-ai-changing-how-we-see-ourselves You see it everywhere: in your search engine, in your apps, in your media. AI is integrating into all aspects of our daily lives. This technological revolution is happening much faster than some experts ever expected. As we approach this new frontier in human history, how does AI skew our view of the world? And how is it impacting our understanding of what it means to be human?

To explore this topic, two experts who are studying and applying AI in their work and art weigh in.

Gretchen Andrew is a fine artist and AI tech expert. In Facetune Portraits, Andrew explores how AI changes our perceptions of appearance by representing the differences between reality and beauty filters. The filters you see on your social media and in Zoom meetings may not be noticeable, but Andrew’s goal is to turn those changes into a series of marks and scars on a canvas.

Avery Holton, Ph.D., is the Communications Department Chair at the University of Utah. The University has a large investment in responsible AI uses. For Holton, that means researching how people can integrate AI into their daily lives in helpful ways. His goal: make AI a little less scary and more fun to use, and to have a significant positive impact on people’s lives, wellbeing, and happiness.

Join hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins to ask a chilling question: at what point does artificial intelligence surpass human intelligence? And how does AI impact how we see ourselves?

]]> full 4 8 false You see it everywhere: in your search engine, in your apps, in your media. AI is integrating into all aspects of our daily lives. This technological revolution is happening much faster than some experts ever expected. As we approach this new frontier in human history, how does AI skew our view of the world? And how is it impacting our understanding of what it means to be human?

To explore this topic, two experts who are studying and applying AI in their work and art weigh in.

Gretchen Andrew is a fine artist and AI tech expert. In Facetune Portraits, Andrew explores how AI changes our perceptions of appearance by representing the differences between reality and beauty filters. The filters you see on your social media and in Zoom meetings may not be noticeable, but Andrew’s goal is to turn those changes into a series of marks and scars on a canvas.

Avery Holton, Ph.D., is the Communications Department Chair at the University of Utah. The University has a large investment in responsible AI uses. For Holton, that means researching how people can integrate AI into their daily lives in helpful ways. His goal: make AI a little less scary and more fun to use, and to have a significant positive impact on people’s lives, wellbeing, and happiness.

Join hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins to ask a chilling question: at what point does artificial intelligence surpass human intelligence? And how does AI impact how we see ourselves?

]]> 00:57:20 <![CDATA[Utah’s Latino Life and Legacy]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:34:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2362425 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/utahs-latino-life-and-legacy We’re diving into the story of Latinos in Utah!

From railroad laborers and miners in the early 1900s to thriving entrepreneurs, educators, artists and political leaders today, Latinos are rewriting Utah’s cultural and economic landscape. Explore the challenges and successes that define the Hispanic community in Utah. How does Latino culture shape Utah’s past, present, and future?

Two Latino Utahns join hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald to discuss Utah’s Latino life and legacy.

As Director of the SLC Department of Economic Development, Lorena Riffo-Jensen works to ensure the local economy is supported and retention and expansion of local companies. She also works with educational departments to funnel students into jobs.

Armando Solorzano, Ph.D. of Ethnic Studies at the University of Utah, wants to make sure the history of Mexican Americans in Utah is shared and remembered. In his book, “Recuerdo, Celebración, y Esperanza: Latinos in Utah goes into the history of Mexican Americans in Utah”, Solorzano writes: “Erasure is a form of violence. Recognition is it’s healing. Remembering is an act of justice.”

Join Roots, Race & Culture in remembering, recognizing, and celebrating the history and future of Latinos in Utah.

]]> full 3 8 false We’re diving into the story of Latinos in Utah!

From railroad laborers and miners in the early 1900s to thriving entrepreneurs, educators, artists and political leaders today, Latinos are rewriting Utah’s cultural and economic landscape. Explore the challenges and successes that define the Hispanic community in Utah. How does Latino culture shape Utah’s past, present, and future?

Two Latino Utahns join hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald to discuss Utah’s Latino life and legacy.

As Director of the SLC Department of Economic Development, Lorena Riffo-Jensen works to ensure the local economy is supported and retention and expansion of local companies. She also works with educational departments to funnel students into jobs.

Armando Solorzano, Ph.D. of Ethnic Studies at the University of Utah, wants to make sure the history of Mexican Americans in Utah is shared and remembered. In his book, “Recuerdo, Celebración, y Esperanza: Latinos in Utah goes into the history of Mexican Americans in Utah”, Solorzano writes: “Erasure is a form of violence. Recognition is it’s healing. Remembering is an act of justice.”

Join Roots, Race & Culture in remembering, recognizing, and celebrating the history and future of Latinos in Utah.

]]> 00:56:38 <![CDATA[Pacific Islanders in Utah]]> Thu, 12 Feb 2026 20:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2351380 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/pacific-islanders-in-utah From early pioneers to today’s educators, entrepreneurs, athletic stars, and leaders, Pacific Islanders are an important part of Utah’s history and cultural landscape.

For over a century, Utah’s Polynesian and Pacific Islander story begins with religious families coming to Utah to practice their religion. Now, many are drawn to Utah for its economic perks and strong sense of community and values.

Two local leaders join hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins to talk about how perspectives from two different cultures, Tongan and Samoan, changes their outlook on life; as well as the myths and stereotypes that they overcome—including having their individual culture mistaken or combined with another distinct culture.

Susi Feltch-Malohifo-ou, founder of PIK2AR, a nonprofit serving the Pacific Islander community in Utah, and Utah State Representative Verona Mauga to talk about how faith and community have historically impacted Utah’s Pacific Islanders.

]]> full 2 8 false From early pioneers to today’s educators, entrepreneurs, athletic stars, and leaders, Pacific Islanders are an important part of Utah’s history and cultural landscape.

For over a century, Utah’s Polynesian and Pacific Islander story begins with religious families coming to Utah to practice their religion. Now, many are drawn to Utah for its economic perks and strong sense of community and values.

Two local leaders join hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins to talk about how perspectives from two different cultures, Tongan and Samoan, changes their outlook on life; as well as the myths and stereotypes that they overcome—including having their individual culture mistaken or combined with another distinct culture.

Susi Feltch-Malohifo-ou, founder of PIK2AR, a nonprofit serving the Pacific Islander community in Utah, and Utah State Representative Verona Mauga to talk about how faith and community have historically impacted Utah’s Pacific Islanders.

]]> 00:49:34 <![CDATA[How Closing the Black Wealth Gap Helps Everyone]]> Thu, 05 Feb 2026 20:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2351373 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/how-closing-the-black-wealth-gap-helps-everyone Black and POC communities have historically faced systemic barriers to growing wealth both individually and as a group, creating a gap of disparity in financial assets and equity between white and Black households.

The idea of Black Wealth is more than just dollars in a bank account. It’s access to opportunity, ability to build legacy, and overall community elevation. For generations in the U.S., Black and POC communities have faced redlining, discriminatory lending, and barriers in education, employment, and corporate leadership systems that blocked that access to capital.

Today, changes are happening in banking, in the workplace, in policy, and in communities to finally close that gap.

Hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins are joined in the studio with two guests: Ashley D Bell and Sui Lang L Panoke. Bell is chairman of Redemption Bank, the first Black-owned bank west of the Mississippi, and part of the first Black-led investment group in the Western U.S. Panoke is founder of Rethink International, an organization designed to challenge people to rethink how and what they think.

Join the discussion to see how we can work today to close the Black wealth gap.

]]> full 1 8 false Black and POC communities have historically faced systemic barriers to growing wealth both individually and as a group, creating a gap of disparity in financial assets and equity between white and Black households.

The idea of Black Wealth is more than just dollars in a bank account. It’s access to opportunity, ability to build legacy, and overall community elevation. For generations in the U.S., Black and POC communities have faced redlining, discriminatory lending, and barriers in education, employment, and corporate leadership systems that blocked that access to capital.

Today, changes are happening in banking, in the workplace, in policy, and in communities to finally close that gap.

Hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins are joined in the studio with two guests: Ashley D Bell and Sui Lang L Panoke. Bell is chairman of Redemption Bank, the first Black-owned bank west of the Mississippi, and part of the first Black-led investment group in the Western U.S. Panoke is founder of Rethink International, an organization designed to challenge people to rethink how and what they think.

Join the discussion to see how we can work today to close the Black wealth gap.

]]> 00:58:05 <![CDATA[Is Race a Choice?]]> Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2177569 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/is-race-a-choice Is someone's race the same everywhere you go? Surprisingly, no: every place has a unique take on race and culture. As the construct of race varies from country to country, where do these categories come from and why do they differ?

Join Roots, Race & Culture to explore the different cultural customs that influence how people define themselves different places, with a special spotlight on the difference between the U.S. and Brazil.

Both Americans and Brazilians agree that race is generally determined by your ancestry, as well as how you look. Most Americans believe that ancestry determines race, whereas Brazilians are more likely to say appearance or skin color determines race. For example, take two famous figures: President Barack Obama and Brazilian soccer star Neymar, both with similar skin color. Barack Obama self-identifies as black, whereas Neymar does not.

Learn more about how self-identification can be impacted by community and culture with hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins, joined by two guests: Jackie Chen, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Utah, and Jomens Marques, a food and production engineer with first-hand experience of how ideas of race differ in Brazil and America. 

]]> full 4 7 false Is someone's race the same everywhere you go? Surprisingly, no: every place has a unique take on race and culture. As the construct of race varies from country to country, where do these categories come from and why do they differ?

Join Roots, Race & Culture to explore the different cultural customs that influence how people define themselves different places, with a special spotlight on the difference between the U.S. and Brazil.

Both Americans and Brazilians agree that race is generally determined by your ancestry, as well as how you look. Most Americans believe that ancestry determines race, whereas Brazilians are more likely to say appearance or skin color determines race. For example, take two famous figures: President Barack Obama and Brazilian soccer star Neymar, both with similar skin color. Barack Obama self-identifies as black, whereas Neymar does not.

Learn more about how self-identification can be impacted by community and culture with hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins, joined by two guests: Jackie Chen, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Utah, and Jomens Marques, a food and production engineer with first-hand experience of how ideas of race differ in Brazil and America. 

]]> 00:33:36 <![CDATA[Being Black Latter-day Saints]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2025 20:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2177566 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/being-black-latter-day-saints On this episode of Roots, Race & Culture, meet LaShawn Williams, LCSW, and filmmaker Mauli Bonner, two Black members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins learn how the religion shapes their lives, their favorite memories, and their interpretation of historical doctrine in the Church.

Filmmaker Mauli Bonner creates films about Black history in the Church of Jesus Christ, including his production “His Name is Green Flake,” which tells the story of a 19-year-old Black pioneer who led one of the largest pioneer migrations in America. Hear why representing Black people in religious history and art is iso important to him.

LaShawn Williams, licensed clinical social work with 20 years of experience in higher education, gives poignant advice and support to any young Black member of the of Church. Williams discusses how she interprets scriptural doctrine, and the impact it has had on her experience in the faith.

Not familiar with the history of the LDS Church? Here’s a quick overview:

Originally, when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded by Joseph Smith in 1830, Black members had equal standing to their white counterparts. However, after the death of Joseph Smith, that all changed as Brigham Young took leadership of the Church and helped establish Utah as a slave territory and placed major restrictions on Black church members. It wasn't until 1978 that the Church allowed Black members to once again have full participation within the faith.

How does this history shape today’s members? Tune in to find out!

]]> full 3 7 false On this episode of Roots, Race & Culture, meet LaShawn Williams, LCSW, and filmmaker Mauli Bonner, two Black members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins learn how the religion shapes their lives, their favorite memories, and their interpretation of historical doctrine in the Church.

Filmmaker Mauli Bonner creates films about Black history in the Church of Jesus Christ, including his production “His Name is Green Flake,” which tells the story of a 19-year-old Black pioneer who led one of the largest pioneer migrations in America. Hear why representing Black people in religious history and art is iso important to him.

LaShawn Williams, licensed clinical social work with 20 years of experience in higher education, gives poignant advice and support to any young Black member of the of Church. Williams discusses how she interprets scriptural doctrine, and the impact it has had on her experience in the faith.

Not familiar with the history of the LDS Church? Here’s a quick overview:

Originally, when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded by Joseph Smith in 1830, Black members had equal standing to their white counterparts. However, after the death of Joseph Smith, that all changed as Brigham Young took leadership of the Church and helped establish Utah as a slave territory and placed major restrictions on Black church members. It wasn't until 1978 that the Church allowed Black members to once again have full participation within the faith.

How does this history shape today’s members? Tune in to find out!

]]> 00:28:01 <![CDATA[Refugee Experiences in Utah]]> Thu, 16 Oct 2025 20:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2177563 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/refugee-experiences-in-utah Utah has a history of refugees predating statehood itself, starting with the Mormon pioneers in the mid-1800s. Today, over 70,000 refugees call the Beehive State home. Learn some of the names, faces, and stories from our own backyard.

Amandine Akimana, refugee advocate, and Madelaine Lamah, advocate and entrepreneur join Roots, Race & Culture hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins to discuss their lived experiences.

In this episode, our panel defines the terms immigrant, refugee, and migrant, and discusses the founding of America by refugees. Learn some famous refugees in our history that might surprise you!

Join the discussion to get a better understanding of your neighbors and friends.

]]> full 2 7 false Utah has a history of refugees predating statehood itself, starting with the Mormon pioneers in the mid-1800s. Today, over 70,000 refugees call the Beehive State home. Learn some of the names, faces, and stories from our own backyard.

Amandine Akimana, refugee advocate, and Madelaine Lamah, advocate and entrepreneur join Roots, Race & Culture hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins to discuss their lived experiences.

In this episode, our panel defines the terms immigrant, refugee, and migrant, and discusses the founding of America by refugees. Learn some famous refugees in our history that might surprise you!

Join the discussion to get a better understanding of your neighbors and friends.

]]> 00:27:04 <![CDATA[Black Mental Health]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:07:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2177440 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/black-mental-health Join Roots, Race & Culture to unpack cultural and societal barriers that contribute to mental health struggles and explore resources to help Utahns.

Hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins are joined by two experts in their fields: Niecie Jones, licensed marriage and family therapist, and Stormey Nielsen, LCSW. Both weigh in on how to understand, define, and improve mental health.

Mental health can be a taboo topic among many Black families and people of color. However, mental health is a more important issue than ever, as data from the CDC shows suicide rates among Black youth have increased 54 percent since 2019 - surpassing white youth for the first time; and Black adults are 20 percent more likely to experience serious mental health problems compared to the general population. With these alarming statistics in mind, how can Utahns work to normalize and improve their mental health? Find out how to take care of your mental health and find the safe spaces that are right for you.

If you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out to the following resources for help:

Utah Suicide & Crisis Hotline: 988

SafeUT: 833-372-3388

]]> full 1 7 false Join Roots, Race & Culture to unpack cultural and societal barriers that contribute to mental health struggles and explore resources to help Utahns.

Hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins are joined by two experts in their fields: Niecie Jones, licensed marriage and family therapist, and Stormey Nielsen, LCSW. Both weigh in on how to understand, define, and improve mental health.

Mental health can be a taboo topic among many Black families and people of color. However, mental health is a more important issue than ever, as data from the CDC shows suicide rates among Black youth have increased 54 percent since 2019 - surpassing white youth for the first time; and Black adults are 20 percent more likely to experience serious mental health problems compared to the general population. With these alarming statistics in mind, how can Utahns work to normalize and improve their mental health? Find out how to take care of your mental health and find the safe spaces that are right for you.

If you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out to the following resources for help:

Utah Suicide & Crisis Hotline: 988

SafeUT: 833-372-3388

]]> 00:27:10 <![CDATA[Shining the Light on how Kilo-Wat Broke Basketball’s Color Barrier]]> Thu, 24 Apr 2025 20:52:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2020165 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/shining-the-light-on-how-kilo-wat-broke-basketballs-color-barrier In America, Jackie Robinson is a household name, known for breaking the color barrier in professional baseball. But did you know that the color barrier in basketball was broken by a Utah native?

Wataru Misaka was the first non-white athlete in professional basketball when he was drafted by the New York Knicks. At the time, there were two professional leagues which merged into the NBA in 1949, so this legend of professional basketball has largely gone unrecognized until recently.

Meet two people who are working to bring Wat’s story to Utah audiences through a stage play: Aaron Asano Swenson, playwright of "Kilo-Wat", and actor Bryan Kido.

]]> full 4 6 false In America, Jackie Robinson is a household name, known for breaking the color barrier in professional baseball. But did you know that the color barrier in basketball was broken by a Utah native?

Wataru Misaka was the first non-white athlete in professional basketball when he was drafted by the New York Knicks. At the time, there were two professional leagues which merged into the NBA in 1949, so this legend of professional basketball has largely gone unrecognized until recently.

Meet two people who are working to bring Wat’s story to Utah audiences through a stage play: Aaron Asano Swenson, playwright of "Kilo-Wat", and actor Bryan Kido.

]]> 00:50:49 <![CDATA[Meet the Fashion Minds Behind Bohme and Kenneth Boggs Custom]]> Thu, 17 Apr 2025 20:43:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2020163 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/meet-the-fashion-minds-behind-bohme-and-kenneth-boggs-custom Two of America’s most dynamic fashion designers call Utah home: Fernanda Böhme Birkland, owner of Böhme Apparel, and Kenneth Boggs, owner of Kenneth Boggs Custom. Learn how they broke into the industry, and how their cultural heritage influences their styles, stores, and more.

Also, discover the strong influence of Africa and Latin America on American fashion today. Watch Roots, Race & Culture to focus on the intersection of passion meeting fashion.

]]> full 3 6 false Two of America’s most dynamic fashion designers call Utah home: Fernanda Böhme Birkland, owner of Böhme Apparel, and Kenneth Boggs, owner of Kenneth Boggs Custom. Learn how they broke into the industry, and how their cultural heritage influences their styles, stores, and more.

Also, discover the strong influence of Africa and Latin America on American fashion today. Watch Roots, Race & Culture to focus on the intersection of passion meeting fashion.

]]> 00:52:09 <![CDATA[Exploring the Connection Between Food and Wellness]]> Thu, 10 Apr 2025 20:27:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2020158 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/exploring-the-connection-between-food-and-wellness Our diet can make a difference in how we feel and think. What’s best for our bodies? Learn how conscious food choices impact physical and mental health.

Meet Omar Abou Ismail, founder of Rawtopia and food enthusiast. His passion is sustainability and making meals from scratch in his restaurant.

Debbie Dworkin, founder of the tea brand Dr. Mushroom, is dedicated to being part of a ‘wellness renaissance’ and making mushrooms available to everyone.

Tune in to Roots, Race & Culture to see if the old saying is true that ‘you are what you eat’!

]]> full 2 6 false Our diet can make a difference in how we feel and think. What’s best for our bodies? Learn how conscious food choices impact physical and mental health.

Meet Omar Abou Ismail, founder of Rawtopia and food enthusiast. His passion is sustainability and making meals from scratch in his restaurant.

Debbie Dworkin, founder of the tea brand Dr. Mushroom, is dedicated to being part of a ‘wellness renaissance’ and making mushrooms available to everyone.

Tune in to Roots, Race & Culture to see if the old saying is true that ‘you are what you eat’!

]]> 00:46:37 <![CDATA[Finding Common Ground in Politics]]> Fri, 04 Apr 2025 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/2006936 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/finding-common-ground-in-politics Sen. Luz Escamilla (D) and Sen. John Johnson (R) discuss how they navigate ideological differences to find common ground, even from across the aisle.

“I would say it’s about building relationships that keep us in this respectful, civil way of dealing with issues that are difficult and hard,” said Sen. Escamilla.

Sen. Johnson added, “I think at the end of the day, we can see needs, and make sure that we take care of those among us. I think that’s something we share.”

Join Roots, Race & Culture to see how productive discourse is possible despite deep political divides. By prioritizing relationships over politics, can Americans encourage dialogue, not division?

]]> full 1 6 false Sen. Luz Escamilla (D) and Sen. John Johnson (R) discuss how they navigate ideological differences to find common ground, even from across the aisle.

“I would say it’s about building relationships that keep us in this respectful, civil way of dealing with issues that are difficult and hard,” said Sen. Escamilla.

Sen. Johnson added, “I think at the end of the day, we can see needs, and make sure that we take care of those among us. I think that’s something we share.”

Join Roots, Race & Culture to see how productive discourse is possible despite deep political divides. By prioritizing relationships over politics, can Americans encourage dialogue, not division?

]]> 01:00:49 <![CDATA[Being Biracial]]> Fri, 25 Oct 2024 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1867194 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/being-biracial Chantelle Squires and Ebay Hamilton join this discussion to shed light on the experience of what it is like to grow up with parents from two different racial or ethnic backgrounds, and how that shapes their view of the world. Plus, dive into an exploration of the benefits of a multicultural upbringing. Is there such a thing as a “biracial advantage?”

]]> full 3 5 false Chantelle Squires and Ebay Hamilton join this discussion to shed light on the experience of what it is like to grow up with parents from two different racial or ethnic backgrounds, and how that shapes their view of the world. Plus, dive into an exploration of the benefits of a multicultural upbringing. Is there such a thing as a “biracial advantage?”

]]> 00:50:27 <![CDATA[Celebrating Queerness and Race]]> Fri, 18 Oct 2024 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1860862 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/celebrating-queerness-and-race Explore the challenges and successes of being an LGBTQ+ person of color in Utah. How can we make inclusion intentional to accept and celebrate our differences? Special guests Olivia Jaramillo and Harry Hawkins join in on a comprehensive discussion on the realities of being LGBTQ+ in the BIPOC community in Utah.

]]> full 2 5 false Explore the challenges and successes of being an LGBTQ+ person of color in Utah. How can we make inclusion intentional to accept and celebrate our differences? Special guests Olivia Jaramillo and Harry Hawkins join in on a comprehensive discussion on the realities of being LGBTQ+ in the BIPOC community in Utah.

]]> 00:42:24 <![CDATA[The Value of a Vote]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2024 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1856562 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/the-value-of-a-vote Uncover the remarkable story of civil rights activist Joan Trumpauer, a legendary Freedom Rider who worked to help de-segregate America. Trumpauer and her son Loki Mullholland join this episode of Roots, Race, & Culture to discuss topics of voter suppression, gerrymandering, and the importance of every vote.

]]> full 1 5 false Uncover the remarkable story of civil rights activist Joan Trumpauer, a legendary Freedom Rider who worked to help de-segregate America. Trumpauer and her son Loki Mullholland join this episode of Roots, Race, & Culture to discuss topics of voter suppression, gerrymandering, and the importance of every vote.

]]> 00:44:32 <![CDATA[Inclusive Outdoors]]> Fri, 01 Mar 2024 04:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1677614 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/inclusive-outdoors Explore the racist history that discourages Black and Hispanic communities from engaging in outdoor activities in Utah even to this day. Plus, discover the transformative work of organizations challenging stereotypes and making outdoor spaces more inclusive. Special guests Ashley Cleveland and Esteban Benites-Moreno share their perspectives in this inspiring episode of Roots, Race & Culture.

]]> full 5 4 false Explore the racist history that discourages Black and Hispanic communities from engaging in outdoor activities in Utah even to this day. Plus, discover the transformative work of organizations challenging stereotypes and making outdoor spaces more inclusive. Special guests Ashley Cleveland and Esteban Benites-Moreno share their perspectives in this inspiring episode of Roots, Race & Culture.

]]> 00:49:34 <![CDATA[Diversity on Stage and Screen]]> Fri, 23 Feb 2024 04:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1668722 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/diversity-on-stage-and-screen Explore the careers of BIPOC actors in Utah's theatrical market and learn about the challenges faced by these artists, from implicit bias to casting paradoxes, and the limited local projects available. Yolanda Wood and Jerry Rapier join in a comprehensive discussion on the realities BIPOC actors face and the importance of equitable opportunities in Utah’s entertainment industry.

]]> full 4 4 false Explore the careers of BIPOC actors in Utah's theatrical market and learn about the challenges faced by these artists, from implicit bias to casting paradoxes, and the limited local projects available. Yolanda Wood and Jerry Rapier join in a comprehensive discussion on the realities BIPOC actors face and the importance of equitable opportunities in Utah’s entertainment industry.

]]> 00:53:41 <![CDATA[Is Your History Being Erased?]]> Fri, 16 Feb 2024 04:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1662833 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/is-your-history-being-erased Examine the disturbing trend of book banning and the exclusion of African American history from school curricula. With Utah ranking among the top five states for book bans, join us as we explore what exactly is being banned and who has the authority to decide. Prepare to explore censorship and the ongoing struggle to ensure an accurate and inclusive representation of African American history.

]]> full 3 4 false Examine the disturbing trend of book banning and the exclusion of African American history from school curricula. With Utah ranking among the top five states for book bans, join us as we explore what exactly is being banned and who has the authority to decide. Prepare to explore censorship and the ongoing struggle to ensure an accurate and inclusive representation of African American history.

]]> 00:59:32 <![CDATA[The Upside to Lowriders]]> Fri, 09 Feb 2024 04:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1658067 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/the-upside-to-lowriders Discover the rich history and positive aspects of Hispanic American lowriding culture as we explore how it transformed into a thriving community. Connie Mendoza and Nick Peck, two big names in Utah’s lowriding scene debunk stereotypes and highlight how lowriding serves as a deterrent to gangs, imparts valuable skills, and fosters a supportive family dynamic.

]]> full 2 4 false Discover the rich history and positive aspects of Hispanic American lowriding culture as we explore how it transformed into a thriving community. Connie Mendoza and Nick Peck, two big names in Utah’s lowriding scene debunk stereotypes and highlight how lowriding serves as a deterrent to gangs, imparts valuable skills, and fosters a supportive family dynamic.

]]> 00:47:50 <![CDATA[Utah's Black Churches]]> Fri, 02 Feb 2024 04:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1653123 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/utahs-black-churches Experience the captivating history and profound legacy of Black churches in Salt Lake City in an enlightening episode of Roots, Race & Culture. Uncover the remarkable story of Biddy Mason and her role in establishing the Black Church in Utah. Join esteemed guests Rev. France Davis and Reverend Daryell Jackson as we explore the hidden history and experiences of these diverse congregations.

]]> full 1 4 false Experience the captivating history and profound legacy of Black churches in Salt Lake City in an enlightening episode of Roots, Race & Culture. Uncover the remarkable story of Biddy Mason and her role in establishing the Black Church in Utah. Join esteemed guests Rev. France Davis and Reverend Daryell Jackson as we explore the hidden history and experiences of these diverse congregations.

]]> 00:50:26 <![CDATA[Is Diversity & Inclusion Under Attack?]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1613733 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/is-diversity-inclusion-under-attack Lonzo and Danor lead a conversation about diversity and inclusion in businesses and culture overall. The episode addresses the backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and how this threatens progress towards equality. The guests, Dr. Sidney Shorter and Nikki Walker, provide their insights and experiences related to DEI challenges.

]]> full 4 3 false Lonzo and Danor lead a conversation about diversity and inclusion in businesses and culture overall. The episode addresses the backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and how this threatens progress towards equality. The guests, Dr. Sidney Shorter and Nikki Walker, provide their insights and experiences related to DEI challenges.

]]> 00:48:07 <![CDATA[Jazzin' in the Beehive State]]> Fri, 20 Oct 2023 03:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1579132 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/jazzin-in-the-beehive-state Celebrate the history of Jazz music in Utah. Along with guests Dee-Dee Darby-Duffin and George Brown, Danor and Lonzo discuss the evolution of jazz in Utah, particularly during the 1940s to 1960s when musicians played at ski resorts and carved out a space for themselves in the music scene. The panel explores the current state of jazz in Utah and how it enhances the state's cultural landscape.

]]> full 3 3 false Celebrate the history of Jazz music in Utah. Along with guests Dee-Dee Darby-Duffin and George Brown, Danor and Lonzo discuss the evolution of jazz in Utah, particularly during the 1940s to 1960s when musicians played at ski resorts and carved out a space for themselves in the music scene. The panel explores the current state of jazz in Utah and how it enhances the state's cultural landscape.

]]> 00:38:42 <![CDATA[Distrust in Healthcare]]> Thu, 12 Oct 2023 15:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1571069 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/distrust-in-healthcare Learn about healthcare distrust in marginalized communities. Lonzo and Danor discuss historical factors with healthcare professionals and advocates, highlighting events like experimentation on enslaved Africans and the Tuskegee Syphilis Study. They explore solutions for rebuilding confidence, including education for healthcare professionals, and creating an equitable healthcare system for all.

]]> full 2 3 false Learn about healthcare distrust in marginalized communities. Lonzo and Danor discuss historical factors with healthcare professionals and advocates, highlighting events like experimentation on enslaved Africans and the Tuskegee Syphilis Study. They explore solutions for rebuilding confidence, including education for healthcare professionals, and creating an equitable healthcare system for all.

]]> 00:51:25 <![CDATA[Race and The Beauty Standard]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 03:30:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1569552 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/race-and-the-beauty-standard Lonzo and Danor host a discussion with Tiffany Rasmussen and Dr. Harjit Kaur about race and beauty standards. Inspired by Malcolm X's 1962 speech, the episode questions negative attitudes towards physical features such as hair texture, skin color, and body shape. The panelists share personal experiences and emphasize the importance of inclusivity and embracing natural beauty.

]]> full 1 3 false Lonzo and Danor host a discussion with Tiffany Rasmussen and Dr. Harjit Kaur about race and beauty standards. Inspired by Malcolm X's 1962 speech, the episode questions negative attitudes towards physical features such as hair texture, skin color, and body shape. The panelists share personal experiences and emphasize the importance of inclusivity and embracing natural beauty.

]]> 00:43:33 <![CDATA[Indigenous Food Activism]]> Fri, 24 Feb 2023 03:56:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1423322 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/indigenous-food-activism Since colonization, Native American rates of diabetes, blood pressure and heart disease have skyrocketed. We’ll discuss the benefits of returning to a simpler pre-colonization Native American diet, including herbs and plants that have been a source of medicine and nourishment for thousands of years.

]]> full 4 2 false Since colonization, Native American rates of diabetes, blood pressure and heart disease have skyrocketed. We’ll discuss the benefits of returning to a simpler pre-colonization Native American diet, including herbs and plants that have been a source of medicine and nourishment for thousands of years.

]]> 00:59:06 <![CDATA[STEM & POC]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2023 02:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1413631 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/stem-poc Colleges across the nation are facing a crisis with the lack of Black and Latino students in STEM fields. We speak with Dr. Ferguson and Juliette Bautista about why Blacks and Latinos aren’t leaning towards STEM careers, and how Utah measures in this spectrum. How can we help to tip the scales and help more Blacks and Latinos to enter these fields?

]]> full 3 2 false Colleges across the nation are facing a crisis with the lack of Black and Latino students in STEM fields. We speak with Dr. Ferguson and Juliette Bautista about why Blacks and Latinos aren’t leaning towards STEM careers, and how Utah measures in this spectrum. How can we help to tip the scales and help more Blacks and Latinos to enter these fields?

]]> 00:48:38 <![CDATA[Ogden's Black History]]> Fri, 10 Feb 2023 02:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1405908 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/ogden39s-black-history In the early to mid 1900's, Ogden, Utah had a bustling Black community and a vibrant art scene. We speak with Sarah McClellan and Betty Sawyer about Ogden's rich history from the influx of African Americans seeking work on the railroad, and hear from Camille Washington, co-owner of the Good Company Theatre.

]]> full 2 2 false In the early to mid 1900's, Ogden, Utah had a bustling Black community and a vibrant art scene. We speak with Sarah McClellan and Betty Sawyer about Ogden's rich history from the influx of African Americans seeking work on the railroad, and hear from Camille Washington, co-owner of the Good Company Theatre.

]]> 00:43:28 <![CDATA[Black Social Media]]> Fri, 03 Feb 2023 02:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/40698/episode/1400419 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/black-social-media Black culture has developed a unique relationship with social media. How are Utahns using social media to generate awareness and express culture, beliefs and values that have historically been filtered by mainstream media through the lens of white gatekeepers?

]]> full 1 2 false Black culture has developed a unique relationship with social media. How are Utahns using social media to generate awareness and express culture, beliefs and values that have historically been filtered by mainstream media through the lens of white gatekeepers?

]]> 00:53:00 <![CDATA[Colorism]]> Fri, 17 Jun 2022 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/podcasts/40698/episodes/colorism-2 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/colorism-2 Colorism, known as the prejudice or discrimination against those with lighter or darker skin tones, even among people belonging to a shared racial or ethnic group, has been the subject of ongoing debate among communities of color. We’ll explore the history of colorism in America and its lasting implications with University of Utah professor Edmund Fong and current student Darienne Debrule.

]]> full 6 1 false Colorism, known as the prejudice or discrimination against those with lighter or darker skin tones, even among people belonging to a shared racial or ethnic group, has been the subject of ongoing debate among communities of color. We’ll explore the history of colorism in America and its lasting implications with University of Utah professor Edmund Fong and current student Darienne Debrule.

]]> 00:36:48 <![CDATA[Buffalo Soldiers]]> Fri, 10 Jun 2022 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/podcasts/40698/episodes/buffalo-soldiers https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/buffalo-soldiers Long before Bob Marley, Buffalo Soldiers — Black Americans who served on the Western frontier during the Civil War — were changing the face of the American West. We explore the uplifting, courageous, and inspiring story of Utah’s Buffalo Soldiers. Historians Fiona Robinson and Robert Burch shed light on this misunderstood group of men who helped transform the state of Utah into what it is today.

]]> full 5 1 false Long before Bob Marley, Buffalo Soldiers — Black Americans who served on the Western frontier during the Civil War — were changing the face of the American West. We explore the uplifting, courageous, and inspiring story of Utah’s Buffalo Soldiers. Historians Fiona Robinson and Robert Burch shed light on this misunderstood group of men who helped transform the state of Utah into what it is today.

]]> 00:34:13 <![CDATA[Black Conservatives]]> Fri, 03 Jun 2022 01:41:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/podcasts/40698/episodes/black-conservatives https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/black-conservatives Black conservatives are often considered an enigma by those on either side of the political spectrum. But pundits expect a record number of Black Republican candidates this year. We speak with prominent Utah Black conservatives Cari Bartholomew and James Evans about their political beliefs, their experiences in the Utah GOP, and their vision for a new Black America.

]]> full 4 1 false Black conservatives are often considered an enigma by those on either side of the political spectrum. But pundits expect a record number of Black Republican candidates this year. We speak with prominent Utah Black conservatives Cari Bartholomew and James Evans about their political beliefs, their experiences in the Utah GOP, and their vision for a new Black America.

]]> 00:44:46 <![CDATA[Diversity in Religious Art]]> Fri, 27 May 2022 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/podcasts/40698/episodes/diversity-in-religious-art https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/diversity-in-religious-art Can depictions of religious icons in art & architecture have an impact on the deepness of one’s connection to their faith? We speak with Laura Hurtado, Director of the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art, about the history of Eurocentric images in Christian art, and Black artist Melissa Tshikamba, whose works diversify religious images, about growing up feeling unrepresented in her own faith.

]]> full 3 1 false Can depictions of religious icons in art & architecture have an impact on the deepness of one’s connection to their faith? We speak with Laura Hurtado, Director of the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art, about the history of Eurocentric images in Christian art, and Black artist Melissa Tshikamba, whose works diversify religious images, about growing up feeling unrepresented in her own faith.

]]> 00:22:20 <![CDATA[Cultural Appropriation]]> Fri, 20 May 2022 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/podcasts/40698/episodes/cultural-appropriation-1 https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/cultural-appropriation-1 Is there a “right” or “wrong” way to borrow from other cultures? What does cultural appropriation mean, anyway? We break down the terminology — and the differences between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation — with guests Paisley Rekdal, Utah Poet Laureate and author of the book “Appropriation,” and Erika George, the first African American law professor at the University of Utah.

]]> full 2 1 false Is there a “right” or “wrong” way to borrow from other cultures? What does cultural appropriation mean, anyway? We break down the terminology — and the differences between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation — with guests Paisley Rekdal, Utah Poet Laureate and author of the book “Appropriation,” and Erika George, the first African American law professor at the University of Utah.

]]> 00:46:09 <![CDATA[Transracial Adoption]]> Fri, 13 May 2022 01:00:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/podcasts/40698/episodes/transracial-adoption https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/transracial-adoption What is it like being an adopted child with parents of another race? What should parents know before adopting a child of another race? Guests Jennica Galloway, an Indian adoptee raised in Utah, and Jeff Mann, a Black adoptee from Boise, share their stories of growing up, connecting to their cultural heritage, and finding a sense of belonging in a community where very few people look like them.

]]> full 1 1 false What is it like being an adopted child with parents of another race? What should parents know before adopting a child of another race? Guests Jennica Galloway, an Indian adoptee raised in Utah, and Jeff Mann, a Black adoptee from Boise, share their stories of growing up, connecting to their cultural heritage, and finding a sense of belonging in a community where very few people look like them.

]]> 00:49:59 <![CDATA[Introducing Roots, Race & Culture]]> Tue, 03 May 2022 19:48:00 +0000 PBS Utah https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/podcasts/40698/episodes/introducing-roots-race-culture https://roots-race-culture.castos.com/episodes/introducing-roots-race-culture Roots, Race & Culture invites viewers into bold and honest conversations on identity and culture, centered around the experiences of Black and POC communities in Utah. Hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald are joined by newsmakers, change makers, experts, and entrepreneurs from Utah’s communities of color to discuss shared experiences with a healthy dose of humor, empathy, and candor.

]]> trailer false Roots, Race & Culture invites viewers into bold and honest conversations on identity and culture, centered around the experiences of Black and POC communities in Utah. Hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald are joined by newsmakers, change makers, experts, and entrepreneurs from Utah’s communities of color to discuss shared experiences with a healthy dose of humor, empathy, and candor.

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