Author: changingtrendsandtimesblog

Charles Z. King: A Visionary Leader and Advocate Charles Z. King is a multifaceted entrepreneur, military veteran, and passionate advocate committed to driving positive change in underserved communities. His remarkable journey weaves together various roles, each contributing to a legacy of empowerment and progress. 1. Military Service: Charles’s journey began in the military, where he honed discipline, leadership, and resilience. His service instilled a sense of duty and purpose that would shape his future endeavors. 2. Corporate Entrepreneurship: As the founder and owner of several successful corporations—SYTM Accounting and Consulting Inc, RoyaltyZ Transportation Inc, and Act 1 Technology Solutions Inc—Charles combines business acumen with a commitment to excellence. His companies provide essential services, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth. 3. Podcast Pioneer: Charles is the visionary behind the acclaimed podcast “America in Black and White.” Through candid conversations, he amplifies voices from marginalized communities, fostering understanding and promoting unity. His dedication to authentic dialogue has made the podcast a powerful platform for change. 4. Author and Blogger: Beyond the mic, Charles expresses his insights through the written word. His blog, “Changing Trends and Times,” tackles pressing issues, challenges stereotypes, and offers fresh perspectives. His upcoming book promises to inspire and inform readers. 5. Education and Advocacy: Charles holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix, a testament to his commitment to lifelong learning. He leverages his education to advocate for underserved African American communities and LGBTQ+ rights. His goal is to create equitable opportunities and dismantle systemic barriers. 6. Transportation and IT Transformation: Charles’s impact extends to the corporate world. He envisions a future where transportation companies prioritize sustainability, accessibility, and innovation. Simultaneously, he advocates for diversity and inclusion within IT companies, recognizing that diverse perspectives drive progress. Charles Z. King’s legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination. His work transcends boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the world. As he continues to build bridges and challenge norms, Charles exemplifies the spirit of positive change.

The Adrian N. Havelock Empire: Elevating Communication, Sales & Leadership Across Borders

September 18, 2025

When it comes to transforming businesses and empowering individuals, few names carry the weight and impact of Adrian N. Havelock. A master sales trainer, best-selling author, and dynamic speaker, Adrian has built a multi-corporation legacy that spans industries and continents, all rooted in his signature philosophy: “Selling – It’s Simple Communication.”

His Corporations: A Multi-Faceted Powerhouse

Adrian N. Havelock leads several impactful ventures, each designed to serve a unique purpose in the world of training, media, and personal development:

Corporation NameFocus AreaLocation(s)
Present to LeadCorporate sales training, public speaking, leadership developmentTrinidad & Tobago, Canada
Adrian N. Havelock ConsultingBusiness consulting, branding, marketing, and strategic growthGlobal (virtual & in-person)

These entities work in harmony to deliver high-impact services across industries such as:

  • Finance
  • Energy & Oil
  • Manufacturing
  • Fast Food & Retail
  • Automotive
  • Labels & Packaging
  • Gambling & Entertainment
  • Out-of-Home Advertising

Books That Inspire Action

Adrian’s best-selling book, “You Can Do This! How to Succeed in Sales and in Life”, is a powerful guide for anyone looking to master the art of influence. It teaches:

  • How to sell through authentic communication
  • How to build lasting relationships
  • How to align with the right people to grow your business

This book earned Adrian a Quilly Award and a place in the National Academy of Best-Selling Authors (Hollywood, LA).

Services That Deliver Results

Whether you’re a startup or a Fortune 500 company, Adrian’s services are designed to elevate your team and your brand:

  • Corporate Sales Training
  • Public Speaking Coaching
  • Keynote Speaking Engagements
  • Train-the-Trainer Workshops
  • Online Sales Courses
  • Brand Strategy & Marketing Consulting

Connect & Collaborate

Locations:

  • Trinidad and Tobago 🇹🇹
  • Canada 🇨🇦
  • Global (Virtual)

Contact:

  • M: +1-868-744-9731 (Trinidad and Tobago)
  • M: +1-647-521-9731 (Canada)
  • E: author.adrianhavelock@gmail.com
  • W: adrianhavelock.com

Social Media:

  • Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube
  • Search: Adrian N. Havelock

What Clients Say

“Adrian’s training transformed our sales team. His energy, insight, and authenticity made a lasting impact.”
— Corporate Client, Energy Sector

“His book changed how I approach both business and life. It’s a must-read for anyone serious about growth.”
— Entrepreneur, Canada

Ready to Elevate Your Brand?

Whether you’re booking a workshop, reading his book, or tuning into his media productions, Adrian N. Havelock is your partner in transformation.

Visit adrianhavelock.com to get started
Call or email to book your session today

Let Adrian help you turn potential into performance.

Troy Long: Champion for CTE, Equity, and Workforce Readiness

September 7, 2025

In a time when education systems are being reimagined to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce, one name stands out as a beacon of innovation, equity, and empowerment: Troy Long.

From his early days as a CTE student to his current role as County Director, Troy Long has lived the journey he now helps others navigate. His story is not just one of personal success—it’s a blueprint for how Career and Technical Education can transform lives, especially in communities that have long been underserved and overlooked.

From Student to System Builder: A Life Rooted in CTE

Troy’s journey began in the very classrooms he now leads. As a CTE student, he discovered the power of hands-on learning and real-world application. That spark ignited a lifelong mission: to ensure every student—regardless of zip code—has access to education that leads to opportunity.

As a teacher, he inspired students to see beyond limitations and build practical skills for the future. As a Department Chairperson and Vice Principal, he aligned programs with workforce needs, secured cutting-edge resources, and fostered collaboration among educators. Today, as a County Director, he mentors emerging leaders, oversees regional initiatives, and drives policy that positions CTE as a pathway to equity.

Impact in Underserved Communities

Troy’s work is especially vital in marginalized communities where traditional academic pathways often fall short. His approach to CTE is not just about job readiness—it’s about dignity, access, and transformation.

  • Empowering Students of Color: Troy’s programs center cultural relevance and representation, helping students see themselves in future careers.
  • Breaking Cycles of Poverty: By connecting students to high-demand industries, Troy opens doors to generational wealth and stability.
  • Restoring Hope: In communities where education has felt like a dead end, CTE becomes the hook—engaging students who’ve been written off and giving them a reason to believe again.

Spotlight: The CTE Experience – The Hook Urban Education Needs

Troy’s book is more than a memoir, it’s a manifesto. The CTE Experience dives deep into the systemic barriers urban students face and offers a bold, actionable framework for change. It’s a must-read for educators, policymakers, and community leaders who want to understand how CTE can be the lever that lifts entire communities.

“Urban education doesn’t need another reform, it needs relevance. CTE is the hook. It’s how we catch students before they fall through the cracks.”  Troy Long

Thought Leadership & Advocacy

Troy’s voice is resonating across the country:

  • Keynote Speaker: DC CTE 4th Annual Professional Development Conference
  • Presenter: ACTE National Conference
  • Podcast Guest: America in Black and White, MaiaLearning Inc., Global CTE Learning
  • Policy Advocate: Secured New Jersey’s Expanding Career Pathways in Artificial Intelligence grant

His message is clear: CTE isn’t just an option, it’s the future of equitable education.

Call to Action: Why Organizations Must Partner Now

Local districts, state agencies, and national nonprofits, this is your moment. Partnering with Troy Long means aligning with a proven leader who understands the classroom, the boardroom, and the community.

Here’s why you should act now:

  •  Design CTE programs that reflect real workforce needs
  •  Engage students through culturally relevant, hands-on learning
  •  Build partnerships that expand access and equity
  •  Train educators to become champions of career readiness

Whether you’re launching a new initiative or scaling an existing program, Troy brings the insight, strategy, and heart to make it succeed.

Connect with Troy Long

Troy Long is delivering the message districts need right now: CTE is not a detour, it’s the main road to equity, opportunity, and future-ready success. Let’s build that road together.

The Government’s Fog: Unmasking a Cold War Experiment on Black Communities in St. Louis

September 1, 2025

In the heart of St. Louis during the 1950s and 1960s, a mysterious fog drifted through the streets of predominantly Black neighborhoods. Children played in it. Families breathed it in. And for decades, no one knew the truth: this was not just fog, it was a government experiment.

What Was Sprayed?

The U.S. Army admitted in 1994 to secretly spraying zinc cadmium sulfide, a compound containing cadmium, a known carcinogen, over areas like the Pruitt-Igoe housing complex. The tests were part of a Cold War program called “Large Area Coverage,” designed to simulate biological warfare dispersal patterns.

St. Louis was chosen because its urban layout resembled Moscow, making it a proxy for Soviet cities in case of attack. Army documents described the targeted area as a “densely populated slum district,” with about 75% of residents being Black.

How It Was Done

The chemical was dispersed from:

  • Motorized blowers atop high-rise buildings
  • Station wagons driving slowly through neighborhoods
  • Rooftops and schools, often by men in hazmat suits posing as maintenance workers

Residents recall a thick, sickening fog that clung to their skin and filled the air with a chemical tang. Some children ran through it, thinking it was harmless. Others fell ill immediately.

“It was such a sickening, nauseating, it was horrible. You couldn’t see through it.”, Jacquelyn Russell

Who Was Affected?

The long-term health consequences remain deeply troubling:

  • Doris Spates lost her father three months after her birth in 1955 and later watched four siblings die of cancer
  • Mary Helen Brindell, who lived in a mixed-race neighborhood, battled four types of cancer: breast, thyroid, skin, and uterine
  • Ben Phillips attended 10 funerals, with 7–8 cancer-related deaths among friends and neighbors
  • Dr. Michael Starks had part of his kidney removed due to cancer

Many residents believe their illnesses, including kidney, brain, and eye cancers, stem from exposure to the fog.

When Did Complaints Begin?

The truth began to surface in 1994, when the government declassified documents revealing the tests. Sociologist Lisa Martino-Taylor later published research in 2012 suggesting radioactive particles may have been mixed into the compound, though direct proof remains elusive.

Community leaders like Ben Phillips and Chester Deanes formed PHACTS (Pruitt-Igoe Historical Accounting, Compensation, and Truth Seeking) to demand justice.

What Was the Resolution?

  • In 1997, the National Research Council concluded that the tests did not expose residents to harmful levels—based on limited animal data
  • No follow-up studies were confirmed, and no compensation or formal apology has been issued to affected residents
  • In 2023, Senator Josh Hawley introduced legislation to expand Cold War-era compensation programs. Advocates are pushing to include Pruitt-Igoe victims in this effort

“We were experimented on. That was a plan. And it wasn’t an accident.” Ben Phillips

Why This Matters Today

This story is not just a historical footnote, it’s a call to action. It underscores the systemic disregard for Black lives, the legacy of environmental racism, and the urgent need for accountability. For Charles and others building platforms rooted in justice and legacy, this is a moment to amplify truth, honor resilience, and demand reparative action.

Let’s keep the fog from settling again.

NFL 2025–2026 Season Preview: The Road to Glory Starts Now

August 30, 2025

It’s that time of year again, FOOTBALL. Fans across the nation and around the globe are glued to their screens, ready for the action, the drama, and the chase for the Lombardi Trophy. The energy is electric. The predictions are flying. And every fan is convinced: this is our year.

The defending Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles are the team to beat. They’ve reloaded through the draft, made strategic moves in free agency, and look even stronger than last year’s squad. But the rest of the league isn’t backing down. Let’s break down what’s ahead, division by division, as we prepare for kickoff.

NFC Breakdown

🔹 NFC East: Philly’s Throne to Defend

  • Philadelphia Eagles: Still the kings. With a stacked roster and championship swagger, they’re the clear favorite.
  • Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels may face a sophomore slump, but this team is quietly the second-best in the division.
  • Dallas Cowboys: After trading Micah Parsons to Green Bay, they’re on a downward spiral. A predicted free fall.
  • New York Giants: Rebuilding mode. They’ll fight, but likely finish third.

🔹 NFC West: A Three-Team Race

  • Los Angeles Rams: Strong, balanced, and ready to contend.
  • Seattle Seahawks: Gritty and dangerous.
  • Arizona Cardinals: Rising fast with young talent.
  • San Francisco 49ers: Surprisingly in the cellar this year.

🔹 NFC South: Wide Open Turf

  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Consistent and opportunistic. Last year’s division champs.
  • Atlanta Falcons: Pennix Jr. brings promise, but needs time.
  • Carolina Panthers: Bryce Young is ready to roar. Expect a fight.
  • New Orleans Saints: A few surprises, but clearly the weakest team in the division.

🔹 NFC North: The Power Shift

  • Green Bay Packers: With Micah Parsons added, they’re now the team to beat in the North—and the biggest threat to Philly.
  • Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams needs time, but the Bears will climb.
  • Detroit Lions: Talented but playoff-stalled. Third place.
  • Minnesota Vikings: In the basement.

NFC Championship Prediction: Eagles defeat Packers to return to the Super Bowl.

 AFC Breakdown

🔹 AFC East: A Two-Team War

  • Buffalo Bills: Dominant in the regular season, but playoff ghosts linger.
  • New York Jets: Justin Fields is ready to make noise. A fierce contender.
  • Miami Dolphins & New England Patriots: Fighting for relevance. Not significant this year.

🔹 AFC West: The Crown Under Siege

  • Kansas City Chiefs: Still elite, but the division is no longer theirs alone.
  • Las Vegas Raiders: Hungry and dangerous. Push KC to the wire.
  • Denver Broncos: Strong defense, but youth will cost them.
  • Los Angeles Chargers: In the cellar.

Division Decider: Chiefs edge Raiders on the final day.

🔹 AFC South: Texans Still Reign

  • Houston Texans: Three-time division champs. Still the team to beat.
  • Jacksonville Jaguars: Competitive, but not enough.
  • Tennessee Titans: Making strides, but finish third.
  • Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones brings his struggles. Last place.

🔹 AFC North: Grit and Grind

  • Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Tomlin and Aaron Rodgers finally get their division crown.
  • Baltimore Ravens: Neck-and-neck with Pittsburgh. A playoff lock.
  • Cincinnati Bengals: Spent big on Burrow, Chase, and Higgins, but depth is lacking.
  • Cleveland Browns: In the cellar, but capable of upsets.

AFC Championship Prediction: Chiefs defeat Steelers in a thriller.

Super Bowl Prediction

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Kansas City Chiefs
The rubber match. The revenge game. The legacy-definer.
Result: Eagles dominate and repeat as Super Bowl Champions.

Season Prep Variables

  • Fantasy Football: Watch for breakout stars like Bryce Young, Bo Nix, and Jayden Daniels.
  • Betting Lines: Eagles, Bills, and Chiefs are early favorites. Watch the Packers and Jets for value.
  • Injuries & Trades: Keep an eye on mid-season moves, especially in Dallas and Cincinnati.
  • Coaching Changes: New systems could impact rookies like Caleb Williams and Pennix Jr.

Bayard Rustin: The Architect Behind the Dream

August 29, 2025

Bayard Rustin was a man whose brilliance shaped the Civil Rights Movement from behind the scenes. Though history often whispers his name, his impact roars through every march, every speech, and every act of justice that followed. Rustin was not only a master strategist, he was a Black, gay man whose courage and conviction laid the foundation for one of the most iconic moments in American history: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

Early Life & Identity

Born in 1912 in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Rustin was raised by his grandparents, who instilled in him Quaker values of nonviolence and equality. As a young man, he was deeply influenced by pacifist teachings and the writings of Gandhi, which later shaped his approach to activism.

Rustin’s identity as a gay man was never hidden, but it did make him a target of criticism, even within the movement he helped build. Despite this, he remained unapologetically himself, refusing to let prejudice silence his voice or diminish his contributions.

2nd February 1964: American civil rights activist Bayard Rustin (1912 – 1987), spokesman for the Citywide Committee for Integration, at the organization’s headquarters at Silcam Presbyterian Church, Brooklyn, New York City. (Photo by Patrick A. Burns/New York Times Co./Getty Images)

Becoming an Activist

Rustin’s activism began early. He organized freedom rides in the 1940s, worked with the Fellowship of Reconciliation, and was a key figure in the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). His commitment to nonviolent protest and strategic planning made him indispensable, but also controversial due to his sexuality.

The March on Washington: Rustin’s Masterpiece

In 1963, Rustin orchestrated the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where Dr. King delivered his legendary “I Have a Dream” speech. Rustin handled every logistical detail, from transportation and security to programming and press. Without Rustin, there would be no stage, no crowd, no moment.

He didn’t just plan the march. He engineered history.

LGBTQ+ Legacy

Rustin’s courage as a gay man in a time of deep societal repression paved the way for future generations. In 1986, he said:

“Gays are the new barometer for social change.”

His advocacy extended beyond race—he believed in justice for all. In 2013, President Barack Obama posthumously awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing both his civil rights work and his trailblazing role in LGBTQ+ history.

Final Reflections

Bayard Rustin’s life reminds us that leadership doesn’t always come from the spotlight. Sometimes, it’s the architect behind the curtain who builds the stage for change. His legacy lives on in every movement that demands justice, dignity, and equality.

“The Fierce Urgency of Now: Reflecting on MLK’s Dream in Today’s America”

August 28, 2025

On August 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and delivered a speech that would echo across generations. His “I Have a Dream” address wasn’t just poetic, it was prophetic. It was a call to conscience, a demand for justice, and a vision of unity that challenged America to live up to its founding creed: that all men are created equal.

The timing of the speech was no accident. It marked the anniversary of Emmett Till’s brutal murder in 1955, a reminder of the violence Black Americans endured. It was also the culmination of the March on Washington, where 250,000 people gathered to demand civil and economic rights. King’s words pierced through the heat of that summer day and into the soul of a nation.

Today, we revisit that dream not as a relic, but as a roadmap. In an era still marked by racial disparities, economic injustice, and political division, King’s message remains urgent. His warning against “the tranquilizing drug of gradualism” speaks directly to our moment. We cannot afford to wait. We must act.

For Black entrepreneurs, legacy builders, and community leaders, King’s dream is a mandate: to build platforms that empower, to tell stories that heal, and to create systems that honor dignity. His speech reminds us that freedom is not a gift, it’s a demand. And justice is not a destination, it’s a journey.

Let freedom ring from every media outlet, every business pitch, every youth-led initiative. Let it ring in our contracts, our content, our community partnerships. Let it ring in our refusal to settle for less than equity.

Dr. King dreamed of a world where character mattered more than color. Let us be the architects of that world, brick by brick, story by story, legacy by legacy.

From Hustle to Humanity: How Black Billionaires Are Reinvesting Wealth into Marginalized Communities

August 25, 2025

In a world where wealth often feels distant and disconnected from everyday struggles, a select group of Black billionaires have rewritten the narrative, not just by amassing fortunes, but by using their platforms to uplift underserved, marginalized, and LGBTQ communities. Their journeys from humble beginnings to global influence are more than success stories; they’re blueprints for legacy-driven impact.

Robert F. Smith: Tech Titan with a Heart for Equity

Raised in a working-class Denver family, Smith’s rise began with degrees in chemical engineering and business, culminating in the founding of Vista Equity Partners. But his legacy isn’t just in software, it’s in soul work.

  • Philanthropic Power Moves:
    • Paid off student loans for the entire 2019 Morehouse College graduating class.
    • Founded the Student Freedom Initiative, easing debt burdens for HBCU students in STEM.
    • Through Fund II Foundation, donated over $250M to causes like Black cultural preservation, environmental access for underserved youth, and inclusive arts education.
    • Advocates for the “2% Solution,” urging corporations to invest 2% of profits into underserved communities.

Smith’s wealth is a tool for systemic change, not just personal gain.

Oprah Winfrey: Media Mogul and LGBTQ Ally

From rural Mississippi poverty to global media dominance, Oprah’s story is steeped in resilience. But her empathy is what truly sets her apart.

  • LGBTQ Advocacy:
    • Hosted groundbreaking episodes on AIDS and LGBTQ issues as early as 1987.
    • Won the GLAAD Vanguard Award for championing LGBTQ stories and visibility.
    • Produced inclusive content through OWN and Harpo Productions, including documentaries like I Am Jazz and Becoming Chaz.

Oprah’s wealth is rooted in authenticity and she’s used it to create safe spaces for marginalized voices.

Jay-Z: From Marcy Projects to Movement Builder

Jay-Z’s empire spans music, fashion, tech, and sports but his philanthropic reach is equally expansive.

  • Community Impact:
    • Founded the Shawn Carter Foundation to support education for at-risk youth.
    • Advocates for criminal justice reform through the Reform Alliance.
    • Produced documentaries on systemic racism, including The Kalief Browder Story and Rest in Power: The Trayvon Martin Story.

Jay-Z’s wealth is a megaphone for justice, amplifying the voices of those often silenced.

Michael Jordan: From Court Legend to Community Champion

Jordan’s Air Jordan brand revolutionized sneaker culture, but his off-court philanthropy is equally game-changing.

  • Giving Back:
    • Donated $100M through the Jordan Brand to fight systemic racism and support Black-led nonprofits.
    • Funded clinics, scholarships, and literacy programs in underserved areas.
    • Supports initiatives for economic justice, education, and social reform.

Jordan’s wealth is a slam dunk for equity, health, and opportunity.

Kanye West: Visionary with a Complex Legacy

West’s Yeezy brand redefined fashion, and his real estate and music ventures built a billion-dollar portfolio. While his public persona is polarizing, his early support for LGBTQ rights was notable.

  • LGBTQ Support:
    • Spoke out against homophobia in hip-hop in 2005, inspired by his cousin’s coming out.
    • Advocated for tolerance and inclusion, comparing anti-gay discrimination to racism.

Though his later actions have sparked controversy, West’s early stance challenged cultural norms in hip-hop.

Tyler Perry: Storyteller and Shelter Builder

Perry’s journey from homelessness to owning a 330-acre studio is a testament to perseverance. But his vision extends far beyond entertainment.

  • Direct Support for Marginalized Groups:
    • Plans to build a shelter for displaced LGBTQ youth, homeless women, and trafficking survivors on his studio grounds.
    • Uses his platform to tell authentic stories of Black life, trauma, and triumph.
    • Honored with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award and Emmys Governors Award for his commitment to inclusion.

Perry’s wealth is a sanctuary, both literal and symbolic, for those society often overlooks.

Should We See Them as Role Models?

Absolutely but not just for their financial success. These individuals embody a deeper kind of wealth: one rooted in purpose, empathy, and responsibility. They’ve shown that legacy isn’t just about what you build, it’s about who you lift.

Their stories remind us that wealth, when aligned with justice, can be revolutionary.

America in Black and White Hits 100: A Legacy of Truth-Telling and Transformation

August 24, 2025

On August 28th, America in Black and White will air its landmark 100th episode of Season 3, Episode 100 with none other than Dr. David Banks as its featured guest. This moment isn’t just a milestone. It’s a movement.

From its humble beginnings to its current status as a trusted voice in Black media, America in Black and White has grown into a platform that doesn’t just inform it ignites. Hosted by Charles Zackary King, the show has become a sanctuary for truth-tellers, change-makers, and legacy-builders across the diaspora.

Season 1: Laying the Foundation

Season 1 was raw, urgent, and necessary. It tackled the hard truths of police brutality, systemic racism, economic exclusion, and the erasure of Black narratives. Each episode was a mirror and a megaphone, reflecting lived realities while amplifying voices that too often go unheard. From grassroots organizers to policy experts, the show carved out space for real talk and real solutions.

Highlights included:

  • A gripping roundtable on mass incarceration and restorative justice
  • Interviews with Black entrepreneurs redefining wealth and ownership
  • A tribute to unsung community elders whose wisdom shaped generations

Season 2: Building Bridges

Season 2 expanded the lens. It brought in artists, educators, and spiritual leaders to explore the intersections of culture, healing, and resistance. The show’s production quality leveled up, and so did its reach. With new partnerships and a growing audience, America in Black and White began to feel less like a show and more like a movement.

Key moments included:

  • A powerful episode on Black mental health and generational trauma
  • A spotlight on HBCU innovation and student activism
  • A deep dive into Black media ownership and representation

Season 3: Legacy in Motion

Now in Season 3, the show has hit its stride. With over 99 episodes aired, America in Black and White continues to evolve, bringing sharper commentary, broader perspectives, and deeper spiritual grounding. This season has featured entrepreneurs, scholars, and cultural architects who are shaping the future of Black America.

And now, Episode 100 arrives with a guest who embodies the show’s mission: Dr. David Banks.

About Dr. David Banks

Dr. Banks is a visionary educator, thought leader, and advocate for equity in public education. His work in transforming urban school systems and empowering youth through culturally responsive pedagogy has made him a national figure in education reform. His appearance on America in Black and White promises to be a masterclass in leadership, legacy, and liberation.

Please join us live August 28th at 6PM EST by clicking the link above. Please subscribe and get all the notifications for the channel

Why August 28th Matters

The date itself is symbolic. August 28th marks the anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington, a day when Dr. King declared his dream to the world. It’s a day etched into the soul of Black history. And now, it becomes the backdrop for a new kind of declaration: one rooted in media, mentorship, and movement-building.

What’s Next

As America in Black and White steps into its next chapter, the vision remains clear: to uplift, to educate, and to empower. With Changing Trends and Times as its publishing partner, the show continues to be a beacon for those who believe in legacy-driven storytelling and unapologetic truth.

Episode 100 is more than a celebration. It’s a call to action.

Tune in. Share the message. Be part of the movement.

https://www.youtube.com/@americainblackandwhite8299/featured

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Jussie Smollett: From Scandal to Strength A Journey of Resilience, Artistry, and Truth

August 22, 2025

In the ever-evolving narrative of Black celebrity, few stories have been as polarizing and as quietly redemptive as that of Jussie Smollett. Once celebrated for his role as Jamal Lyon on Fox’s Empire, Smollett became the center of a national firestorm in 2019 after reporting a homophobic and racist attack in Chicago. What followed was a legal saga that tested the boundaries of justice, media bias, and public perception.

But today, Smollett stands not just as a survivor of controversy but as a creator, a truth-teller, and a proud voice within the Black LGBTQ+ community.

The Incident That Shook a Nation

In January 2019, Smollett alleged that he was assaulted by two men who hurled racial and homophobic slurs, poured a chemical substance on him, and tied a rope around his neck. The initial outpouring of support quickly turned into skepticism as Chicago police accused Smollett of staging the attack. He was charged with 16 felony counts of disorderly conduct for filing a false police report.

Though the charges were dropped in March 2019 after a plea agreement, Smollett was re-indicted in 2020. In 2021, he was convicted on five counts and sentenced to 150 days in jail, probation, and restitution. But in a dramatic turn, the Illinois Supreme Court reversed the conviction in 2024, ruling that Smollett had fulfilled the terms of his original plea deal.

Reclaiming the Narrative Through Art

Rather than retreat, Smollett returned to the public eye with purpose. He directed and starred in The Lost Holliday (2024), his first film since the controversy, showcasing his continued commitment to storytelling. He also participated in Jussie Smollett: Anatomy of a Hoax (2023), a provocative docuseries that examined the case from multiple angles.

But it was Netflix’s The Truth About Jussie Smollett? (August 2025) that marked his most personal and powerful comeback. In the documentary, Smollett shares his side of the story, unwavering in his claim of innocence and reflecting on the toll of public scrutiny. “My story has never changed,” he says. “Flaws and greatness, whatever you think, the fact is, I didn’t do that. And that’s all that matters”.

A Voice for the Queer Black Community

Throughout his journey, Smollett has remained deeply connected to the communities that shaped him. “It means a great deal to have the love and support of my queer Black community and equally to have the love and support of the Black community as a whole,” he told The Hollywood Reporter in 2024.

His resilience is a reminder that Black LGBTQ+ voices deserve not only visibility but grace, complexity, and space to heal.

Love, Healing, and What’s Next

In June 2025, Smollett announced his engagement to Jabari Redd, a moment of joy and affirmation after years of turmoil. He’s also set to appear in Season 3 of Fox’s Special Forces, continuing to push boundaries in entertainment and representation.

Legacy Beyond the Headlines

Jussie Smollett’s story is not just about scandal, it’s about survival, artistry, and the fight to reclaim one’s truth. It’s about the power of Black queer resilience in a system that often seeks to erase it.

At Changing Trends and Times, we honor stories like Smollett’s because they reflect the complexity of our humanity. They challenge us to look deeper, listen harder, and uplift those who dare to stand in their truth, even when the world turns its back.

Call to Action: Support, Share, Empower

Stream Jussie’s Projects
Watch The Truth About Jussie Smollett? on Netflix and The Lost Holliday on select streaming platforms. These works offer insight, healing, and a bold reclaiming of narrative.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/video/news/the-truth-about-jussie-smollett-official-trailer/vi-AA1Ky9VH?ocid=msedgntp&pc=HCTS&cvid=67a2443c9ef54eccb2aa90f3a3be043b&ei=92

Champion Black LGBTQ+ Creators
Support artists, entrepreneurs, and storytellers who reflect the richness of our community. Your engagement fuels visibility and legacy.

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Norris B. Herndon: A Quiet Force Behind Black Wealth and LGBTQ+ Legacy

August 22, 2025

In the tapestry of Black excellence, some threads shimmer quietly, woven not with fanfare, but with steadfast resilience and visionary leadership. Norris Bumstead Herndon, the second president of Atlanta Life Insurance Company, was one such thread. His story is not only one of business brilliance but also of quiet courage, lived identity, and a legacy that continues to empower generations of Black entrepreneurs and LGBTQ+ trailblazers.

Born Into Legacy, Raised With Expectation

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1897, Norris Herndon was the only child of Adrienne McNeil and Alonzo Herndon, a formerly enslaved man who built Atlanta Life into one of the most successful Black-owned businesses in America. From a young age, Norris was immersed in the world of Black leadership, his father took him to the founding meeting of the Niagara Movement, a precursor to the NAACP, when he was just seven years old.

Educated at Atlanta University and later Harvard Business School (where he was one of only two Black graduates in his class), Herndon was groomed to inherit a legacy but he carried it with a quiet, complex grace.

A Business Titan in the Shadows

After his father’s death in 1927, Norris became president of Atlanta Life at just 28. Under his leadership, the company’s assets grew from $1 million to $84 million by the time he retired in 1973. He was a master of strategic growth, cautious investment, and philanthropic generosity. Yet, despite his towering business success, Herndon remained reclusive rarely seen by employees, seldom speaking publicly, and never marrying.

His silence wasn’t just personal, it was protective. Friends and biographers have noted that Herndon struggled with his sexuality in a time when being openly gay, especially as a Black man in the South, could mean social and professional exile. He lived privately, navigating the expectations of a stern father and a society that demanded conformity.

Quiet Courage, Loud Impact

Though Herndon never publicly identified as gay, his life speaks volumes about the quiet resilience of Black LGBTQ+ pioneers. He built and sustained one of the most powerful Black-owned businesses in the country while living authentically in the margins. His story reminds us that leadership doesn’t always roar, it sometimes whispers, survives, and uplifts from behind the curtain.

Herndon’s philanthropic legacy is vast: he founded the Alonzo F. and Norris B. Herndon Foundation, donated land and funds for Herndon Stadium at Atlanta University, and supported institutions like the NAACP, the National Urban League, and Morris Brown College. His giving was strategic, generous, and deeply rooted in community uplift.

The Herndon Home: A Living Testament

Today, the Herndon Home stands as a museum and monument to the family’s journey from slavery to Black business royalty. It’s also a quiet shrine to Norris’s legacy, a place where Black excellence, queer resilience, and generational wealth intersect.

For Black LGBTQ+ youth, entrepreneurs, and legacy-builders, Herndon’s life offers a blueprint: You don’t have to be loud to be legendary. You don’t have to be seen to be significant. You just have to be committed to your truth, your people, and your purpose.

Honoring the Unspoken Heroes

In celebrating Norris B. Herndon, we honor the countless Black LGBTQ+ leaders whose contributions have shaped our communities from behind the scenes. Their stories, often hidden, sometimes erased, are essential to the full picture of Black history and progress.

Herndon’s legacy lives on in every Black business that dares to dream, every queer leader who chooses authenticity, and every community that rises through collective empowerment.

Keep the Legacy Alive: Support, Visit, Empower

Norris B. Herndon’s life reminds us that legacy is not just inherited, it’s built, protected, and passed on with intention. His quiet strength and visionary leadership laid the foundation for Black wealth, community uplift, and the unspoken resilience of LGBTQ+ pioneers.

Support Black LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs
Invest in businesses that reflect the brilliance and diversity of our community. Whether you’re booking services, sharing platforms, or offering mentorship, your support fuels generational change. Seek out creators, founders, and leaders whose stories deserve to be seen and celebrated.

Visit the Herndon Home Museum
Located in Atlanta, the Herndon Home is more than a historic site, it’s a living monument to Black excellence, entrepreneurship, and quiet resistance. Walk the halls where legacy was shaped, and honor the journey from slavery to success. Learn more and plan your visit through the Herndon Foundation.

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Let Norris B. Herndon’s legacy echo beyond the pages. Share this post, spark conversations, and uplift the narratives that history too often silences. Because when we honor the past, we empower the future.