Author: DeJuan Cross

In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood holds an intimate conversation with Time100 influential person Sharon Lavigne and her daughter, climate justice advocate Shamyra Lavigne Davey. The series aims to illuminate the environmental and social justice challenges facing Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. In her community of St. James Parish, Sharon Lavigne founded the grassroots organization Rise St. James to fight the expansion of petrochemical industries and mobilize her neighbors. The Lavignes discuss the heartbreaking impacts of pollution on frontline communities while reflecting on the change they hope to see in their lifetimes.

Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer Alley” highlights seven fearless, unapologetic Black women leading the fight for environmental justice in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. This 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is lined with chemical facilities, posing severe health risks to local communities. Each episode uplifts the stories and advocacy of these women, highlighting their resilience and commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, more equitable communities of color.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood heads to New Orleans for a live, in-person conversation with activists and community organizers, Jo and Joy Banner. The Banner sisters are committed to turning plantations into green spaces. Through the Descendents Project, they challenge systems that try to exploit descendants of those enslaved to plantations while ensuring their future and happiness. The twins speak of the importance of land reclamation and how interconnected the environment is to the community.

Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer Alley” highlights seven fearless, unapologetic Black women leading the fight for environmental justice in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. This 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is lined with chemical facilities, posing severe health risks to local communities. Each episode uplifts the stories and advocacy of these women, highlighting their resilience and commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, more equitable communities of color.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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In this episode of The Coolest Show, Rev Yearwood heads to New Orleans for a live, in-person conversation with renowned poet, activist, and cultural worker Sunni Patterson. The series aims to illuminate the environmental and social justice challenges facing Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. Patterson, celebrated for her evocative spoken word performances and steadfast community advocacy, brings a profound and passionate perspective to the discussion. Her deep ties to New Orleans and her commitment to social justice resonate throughout the conversation, as she shares her experiences and the role of art in social movements.

Recorded at the historic Woodland Plantation, the site of the 1811 slave revolt, “Community Over Cancer Alley” highlights seven fearless, unapologetic Black women leading the fight for environmental justice in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. This 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is lined with chemical facilities, posing severe health risks to local communities. Each episode uplifts the stories and advocacy of these women, highlighting their resilience and commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, more equitable communities of color.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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This episode serves as the introduction to a special series titled “Community Over Cancer Alley,” presented by Think 100% and the Hip Hop Caucus. The series aims to shine a light on the environmental and social justice challenges faced by the communities in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley.

Rev Yearwood sets the stage by delving into the historical significance of the 1811 revolt and drawing connections to the contemporary struggles in Cancer Alley. Through compelling narratives and insightful commentary, he highlights the resilience and strength of these communities in the face of systemic injustice. This episode not only educates listeners about the critical issues in Cancer Alley but also underscores the importance of community action and environmental justice. Tune in to this powerful episode to kick off a series dedicated to amplifying the voices of those on the front lines of change.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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In this episode of “The Coolest Show,” we delve into the world of artivism with an inspiring lineup of guests. Hosted by JaRel Clay from the Hip Hop Caucus, the episode features intimate interviews with Tarriona “Tank” Ball from Tank and the Bangas, Singer-Songwriter Durand Bernarr, Cooke Nasty, and Ryan Butler from the Recording Academy. These talented artists and artivists share their journeys and insights on the intersection of art and activism, emphasizing the powerful role art plays in reflecting personal experiences and driving social change.

Tank, Cooke, Durand, and Ryan each bring unique perspectives to the conversation, discussing how their respective communities have influenced their creative expressions. Cooke speaks about the importance of authenticity and representation, while Tank shares stories of blending musical genres to highlight cultural narratives. Durand emphasizes the role of music in healing and unity, and Ryan sheds light on the Recording Academy’s efforts to support artists who use their platforms for advocacy.

Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to a rich discussion on the impact of art in fostering community and promoting education. The guests explore how they balance entertaining their audiences with delivering powerful messages that resonate on a deeper level. By the end of the episode, it’s clear that artivism is not just a concept but a lived experience for these artists, inspiring listeners to embrace their own creative potential for positive change.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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 In this special 10-year anniversary episode of The Coolest Show Podcast, host Rev Yearwood is joined by DeJuan Cross, one of the producers and engineers behind the groundbreaking album “H.O.M.E. Heal Our Mother Earth.” Together, they dive into an in-depth review of the album, reflecting on its creation and enduring impact in the realm of environmental justice. This episode offers listeners a unique opportunity to hear first hand stories from behind the scenes, exploring the artistic and technical processes that brought this powerful project to life.

DeJuan Cross shares his experiences and insights on the collaborative effort that went into producing “H.O.M.E.” He discusses the challenges and inspirations faced by the team, highlighting how they aimed to convey urgent environmental messages through music. The episode previews several tracks from the album, providing a taste of the evocative sounds and lyrics that have inspired many to take action in the fight to protect our planet. Cross’s reflections add a rich layer of context to the album, emphasizing its relevance even a decade later.

Rev Yearwood and DeJuan Cross also discuss the legacy of “H.O.M.E. Heal Our Mother Earth,” underlining its significance in today’s ongoing environmental movement. This anniversary episode serves as both a celebration of the project’s success and a renewed call to action for listeners. For those eager to revisit the album or experience it for the first time, the episode directs them to listen on the official website: The Coolest Show. Tune in to rediscover the album’s powerful message and its role in advocating for a healthier, more sustainable world.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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In this special episode of The Coolest Show Podcast, JaRel Clay from the Hip Hop Caucus leads a compelling discussion on Movement Music and Artivism. He is joined by the multi-talented Antonique Smith, a Grammy-nominated singer and actress known for her role in “Notorious” and her stirring performances in “Luke Cage.” Alongside her is the soulful singer Choklate, celebrated for her critically acclaimed albums “Choklate” and “To Whom It May Concern.” Together, they delve into the intersection of art, activism, and environmental justice.
The conversation revolves around the impactful album H.O.M.E (Heal Our Mother Earth), a project spearheaded by the Hip Hop Caucus in 2014. Antonique Smith and Choklate share their journeys of how they became involved with the album and the Hip Hop Caucus. They discuss the vital role that artists play in raising awareness about crucial issues like climate change. By leveraging their talents and platforms, artists can inspire and mobilize communities to take action, highlighting the importance of using art as a tool for social change.
Looking both to the past and the future, the guests emphasize the ongoing need to support artists and artivists to ensure their continued impact. They reflect on the evolution of art and culture in the context of environmental activism and express hope for future collaborations that can drive change. The episode underscores the critical nature of art in shaping public perception and influencing policy, advocating for a sustained commitment to supporting those who use their creativity for the greater good.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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In this episode of The Coolest Show, Producer and Guest Host Tamara Toles O’Laughlin sits down with Rev Yearwood to delve into the powerful fusion of movement music and artivism. They explore how the climate movement has historically overlooked the crucial role of art and creativity in driving change. Rev Yearwood, President and CEO of the Hip Hop Caucus, highlights the organization’s pioneering efforts to bridge this gap, empowering artivists to craft pieces that illustrate the intersection of culture and climate. Through their initiatives, Hip Hop Caucus aims to elevate the voices and visions of artists, showcasing how art can be a transformative force in the climate struggle.

A significant focus of the discussion is the album H.O.M.E (Heal Our Mother Earth), produced by the Hip Hop Caucus in 2014. This groundbreaking project blended hip hop with environmental activism, creating a new narrative around climate justice. Rev Yearwood reflects on how this initiative was perceived at the time, noting a mixed reception within the movement. Yet, he emphasizes its enduring impact and relevance, as it paved the way for a broader acceptance of storytelling and artistic expression as vital tools for demonstration and advocacy in the climate space.

Looking both backward and forward, Tamara and Rev Yearwood underscore the necessity of supporting artists and artivists to ensure their continued impact on the climate movement. They discuss the evolution of art and culture in environmental activism, stressing the importance of storytelling as a dynamic form of protest and engagement. As they envision the future, they call for a deeper investment in the creative community, recognizing that artists play an essential role in shaping public perception and inspiring action on climate issues.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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In this special Memorial Day episode of The Coolest Show Podcast, host Rev Yearwood delivers a heartfelt message encouraging listeners to take time to rest, relax, and enjoy their holiday. Acknowledging the importance of reflection and rejuvenation, Rev Yearwood underscores the significance of Memorial Day as a time to honor those who have served while also taking a moment for self-care and connection with loved ones.

Looking ahead, Rev Yearwood offers an exciting preview of upcoming episodes, with June dedicated to celebrating Black Music Month. He teases a lineup of engaging conversations and deep dives into the rich history and cultural impact of Black music. Listeners can look forward to a series of thought-provoking and entertaining episodes that highlight the contributions of Black artists and the enduring legacy of their music in shaping society. This Memorial Day message sets the stage for a vibrant and inspiring month on The Coolest Show.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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In this special episode of The Coolest Show Podcast, host Rev Yearwood steps into a different role as he delivers a heartfelt commencement speech at Paul Smith’s College. The occasion is particularly poignant as Rev’s son, River Yearwood, is among the graduates of the class of 2024. The episode captures the essence of the moment, filled with pride, hope, and the weight of responsibility that comes with stepping into the future.

Rev Yearwood’s speech is a stirring message of hope and inspiration. He emphasizes the critical role the graduates will play in shaping a better world, urging them to embrace their responsibilities with courage and determination. Drawing on his own experiences and the challenges faced by previous generations, Rev imparts wisdom on the importance of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to justice and sustainability.

As the graduates prepare to embark on their new journeys, Rev Yearwood’s words serve as a powerful reminder of their potential to effect change. He highlights the interconnectedness of social, environmental, and political issues, encouraging the class of 2024 to be leaders in their communities and beyond. This episode of The Coolest Show is not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a call to action for the next generation of change-makers.

The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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