Nurah Speaks

A couple weeks ago when out for a walk, I saw several police officers surrounding a young Black man in the park. I disrupted my walk routine so that I could be in somewhat proximity of the activity without causing a nuisance to the officers but near enough that I could be an independent observer while still walking.   I knew that if my son was interfacing with law enforcement and another black woman observed that, I would want her to remain in the vicinity to be able to provide a report should things go horribly wrong.    This got me thinking about other ways we should support each other sons when, as mothers, we are not around to do it ourselves.   I hope this episode will encourage a sense of community to develop for listeners with our neighbors, community members and those who we have actual no relationship with.  If we truly envisioned ourselves as brothers and sisters, we would truly be a better people and have safer, more successful communities.   If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks pod

Last month Charlamagne tha God, apologized to Mo’nique for mocking her and dubbing her ‘Donkey of the Day’ on The Breakfast Club during her legal fight with Netflix over unfair compensation.  There is a lesson in this for us.   When one of our people is fighting for justice or fairness-unless we are lending support-we should stay out of it.   Uttering our own public condemnation or mockery of our people shows our ignorance and disunity.  Not only does our own people see this, but the entities and corporations see our lack of support and backing of our own.  What sense does it make to pile on and cause our folks to have to turn and fight us too? Whether we agree, or disagree on the issue or method, we should not enter into the public discourse with our own castigation of our own people.  The link to his apology is here: https://youtu.be/uriZs1w-ZzQ.  If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also

“There are some efforts to celebrate a so-called ‘Negro History Week,’ and some of my people will participate. The planning of that week to teach the slave a knowledge of his past is not complete, sufficient or comprehensive enough to enable my people to learn the true knowledge of themselves.  It is important that my people learn the true knowledge of self, as it means their salvation….The American Negro is without knowledge of self. You are a so-called Negro because you are "not" a Negro. ” “There is much misunderstanding among us because of our inferior knowledge of self. We have been to the schools where they do not teach us the knowledge of self. We have been to the schools of our slave-master’s children. We have been to their schools and gone as far as they have allowed us to go. That was not far enough for us to learn a knowledge of self.  The lack of knowledge of self is one of our main handicaps. It blocks us throughout the world. If you were the world and you were a part of the world,

PLEASE READ the show notes to this episode. I caution the listener against hearing this episode as an attack on Marc Lamont Hill.  I believe the points wherein I disagree are important and bear sharing. However anyone who has followed Nurah Speaks understands that I do not take shots or make personal attacks on this show.  Nor is it my intention to ‘be in men’s faces,’ so to speak.   I do encourage healthy debate and exchange of ideas and I believe the principles shared in this episode are valid and valuable.  But we do not do messy at Nurah Speaks.   For context:  Marc Lamont Hill posted a video on YouTube titled "Cam'ron Gets Strong CLAP BACK From Marc Lamont Hill For Rejecting African American Identity".  That episode is in response to Cam’ron choosing Black rather than African American as his identity.  While I disagree with Marc Lamont Hill, this episode is not a ‘Clap Back To The Clap Back.’  I do believe it is an important subject as it relates to the linkage of Black people throughout t

One thing the Katt Williams Club Shay Shay interview proved is that our tabloid appetite is strong as ever.   Our penchant for scandal shows our character leanings to rumor and propaganda.  And unfortunately sleaze sells and we are its ever faithful buyers. I challenge us to resist sensationalism and direct our minds towards that which edifies, instructs and nourishes.  Growth demands that we filter and focus on that which gives life and turn from that which corrupts both our virtue and intellect.   If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also learn more about Nurah by visiting her website:  NurahSpeaks.com. Follow Nurah Speaks @NurahSpeaksPodcast on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To bring Nurah as a speaker at your next event, email info@NurahSpeaks.com.

Truth is that which is factual, real.  It need not be convenient to be truth.  It need not be accepted to be truth.  And truth is truth regardless to our opinions or how we feel. While our modern society plays fast and loose with truth, if the mathematics do not add up, it is not the truth.    Failing to speak or acknowledge truth shows ignorance, delusion, fear, deception or a mashup of these.  Regardless, truth is like sunshine and as Shakespeare wrote, “Truth will out!”  And when truth is revealed it may testify for or against us. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to ⁠info@NurahSpeaks.com⁠.  Listeners can also learn more about Nurah by visiting her website:  ⁠NurahSpeaks.com⁠. Follow Nurah Speaks @NurahSpeaksPodcast on ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Twitter⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠. To bring Nurah as a speaker at your next event, email ⁠info@NurahSpeaks.com⁠. Remember, don’t just Join the Movement, Be the Movement!

Setting goals is important for progress in all areas of life.   It is essential we set goals effectively to produce the best outcomes and give ourselves the greatest chance of success. This episode I share S.M.A.R.T. goals, an effective guide to goal setting.  S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym for:  Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. Listen to this episode to enhance your productivity and achieve personal and professional progress. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also learn more about Nurah by visiting her website:  NurahSpeaks.com. Follow Nurah Speaks @NurahSpeaksPodcast on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To bring Nurah as a speaker at your next event, email info@NurahSpeaks.com. Remember, don’t just Join the Movement, Be the Movement!

This episode shares six areas of focus for achieving or increasing workplace success.  Concentrating in these areas is applicable to any field.   They are: •Preparation •Communication •Professional Courtesy •Honesty •Attitude •Organization Improving one’s skills in each area can enhance workplace relationships, improve one’s own professional image and position one for career advancement. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also learn more about Nurah by visiting her website:  NurahSpeaks.com. Follow Nurah Speaks @NurahSpeaksPodcast on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To bring Nurah as a speaker at your next event, email info@NurahSpeaks.com. Remember, don’t just Join the Movement, Be the Movement!

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a poignant example of a man standing on faith and principles, regardless of the risks, discomfort and persecution. In his work of pressing the United States government for civil rights of the nation’s ex-slaves and in his anti-war stance on Vietnam, he made an enemy of the FBI and the U.S. President and his companions in the Civil Rights Movement deserted him.  He was a man standing on principle, refusing to sit in spite of threats and public disgrace because he believed he had truth and justice on his side.  Questions that his example compel us to ask ourselves: What will we stand for? Will we remain standing in the face of criticism and threat?  What is the cost to our souls, consciousness and freedom if we do not? The excerpts in this episode is from Dr. King’s speech at Ebenezer Baptist Church November 5, 1967 titled, ‘But If Not’. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listener

How possibly does one measure and repair the harm that has been done to a people enslaved and destroyed physically, spiritually, morally?  Our ancestors had their religion stripped, language stripped, cultural customs stripped, pride, ambitions, self love and self worth stripped through the most heinous brutality. We, their descendants, continue carry the burden of this devastation and it is apparent in our habits and behaviors.  Therefore, before reparation is issued, rehabilitation must occur.  What good will it do for a people who are destroyed, lacking love and knowledge of self, a real identity and group ambitions to receive reparations?  What happens to anyone who is irresponsible, aimless and destructive that receives a windfall?  Instead of just being an addict, he is a rich addict.  Instead of just being an immoral woman, she is a rich immoral woman.  And in a few short days, neither will be rich and often in a worse condition. The reparation conversation requires serious insight and we cannot be so

Here I continue the mention of fathers and the significance of fathers in the lives of children.  The Center for Disease Control reports that 90% of all homeless and runaway youth, 71% of high school drop outs and 63% of youth suicides are from fatherless homes.   In part, this episode discusses the way fathers impact the development of identity in boys and the mental health and self esteem in girls.  It should be obvious to us that fathers strongly impact identity and behaviors in our boys and the mental wellness of our girls.  However, since fatherhood is not celebrated and often undervalued, these are facts of which must be discussed in this podcast. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also learn more about Nurah by visiting her website:  NurahSpeaks.com. Follow Nurah Speaks @NurahSpeaksPodcast on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To bring Nurah as a speaker at your next event, email info@Nura

Moderns laws and culture undermine the value of fathers even though research and data demonstrates how invaluable involved fathers are.   The Center for Disease Control reports that 90% of all homeless and runaway youth, 71% of high school drop outs and 63% of youth suicides are from fatherless homes.   Additionally, research shows that the presence of fathers improves childrens’ communication skills, resiliency, emotional and behavioral stability and a child’s overall achievement.   In general, a father’s presence is an enhancement to a child’s development and no less valuable than the presence of the mother. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also learn more about Nurah by visiting her website:  NurahSpeaks.com. Follow Nurah Speaks @NurahSpeaksPodcast on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To bring Nurah as a speaker at your next event, email info@NurahSpeaks.com. Remember, don’t just Join the Mo

There is no biblical commandment directing us to SPEND-SPEND-SPEND to honor the birth of sweet baby Jesus. However, year after year, the season has become less religious and more commercial. Clever advertisers know the perfect strategies to persuade us to buy.  So then what should we do in this season of spending?  This episode I share tips that will benefit your wallet and your community. If you enjoy Nurah Speaks, please share the podcast with friends, family, and colleagues. Every time you share, you help the show’s growth. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also learn more about Nurah by visiting her website:  NurahSpeaks.com. Follow Nurah Speaks @NurahSpeaksPodcast on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To bring Nurah as a speaker at your next event, email info@NurahSpeaks.com. Remember, don’t just Join the Movement, Be the Movement!

We are celebrating the Sixth Year Anniversary of the podcast and there has been so much shared and so much learned in this journey.   I am grateful to all who has joined me on this journey, the incredible guests, the faithful listeners and the loyal supporters.   This podcast was borne from a suggestion by a dear Brother who has since passed away but whose legacy continues to inspire, Brother Munir Muhammad.  I received additional encouragement by my own minister, Brother Minister Wasim Muhammad who co-signed the suggestion and established a foundation locally for intelligent and thoughtful conversation.   However, the greatest support I have had is from my own husband who gives me the freedom to be myself and fulfill my own purpose of service. I am forever grateful for the kindness and dedication to all who champion the podcast. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also learn more about Nura

Social Media is a recurrent topic on Nurah Speaks because of the frequent misuse of the medium and the opportunity it provides us to publicize our most private moments or thoughts, regardless if appropriate for public consumption. We see the pictures folks post of themselves in their beds and bedrooms and even their hospital beds.  Folks post information compromising of themselves, their relationships and even their safety.   We post indiscriminately when we should exercise discernment with what we share on these platforms.  We should be encouraging our friends, family, children and anyone we care about to do the same.   Unfortunately, social media became a mechanism that allows us to disclose our low self esteem, attention seeking behavior or worst thoughts and behaviors. It can absolutely be an amazing tool, but it can be a weapon of sure disgrace and degradation in the hands of a fool. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to in

Overcoming negative messages that we are not ‘enough’ is a very necessary thing for our women.  We have long been inundated with messages that challenge our worthiness and esteem as Black Women. However, once we have accepted that we are indeed valuable and worthy, we should also know that we are still accountable to growth, learning, correction and guidance.  Being ‘enough’ is just not enough.  It does not absolve us from receiving correction and critique in areas that we fall short. We are still responsible to be well learned, well trained, well cultured and strong in character and devotion.  Being enough is not ‘enough’.   If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggestions to info@NurahSpeaks.com.  Listeners can also learn more about Nurah by visiting her website:  NurahSpeaks.com. Follow Nurah Speaks @NurahSpeaksPodcast on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To bring Nurah as a speaker at your next event, email info@NurahSpeaks.com. Remember

I do not believe women should dim their light.  I believe women should know how to use their light.   We are in a time wherein the light of our men has been all but snuffed out totally.  This is evidenced in the current state of the Black Community and our men specifically.  The natural leadership, creativity, character and dependability of our men is not present.  They are yet to show us and themselves their potential and many are frustrated. And we are frustrated.  The scriptural representation of ‘kill the male, spare the female’ is manifest today and without understanding the implications, we misunderstand the dynamics at play. But Sister, you do not need to dumb it down.  Just understand their condition and act accordingly.  Use your intelligence, your knowledge to be a help, not hinderance to our Brothers and our society.   Do not dim your light, USE your light.  But first, we must understand. If you would like to engage with the Nurah Speaks podcast, submit your listener questions or topic suggesti

A parent striving to ingrain character, family values, morality and justice in children have a hard job in modern America as cultural norms ebb and flow.  In media, legislation and even education, the parental role is being minimized, challenged and threatened.   Active parenting is needed more now than ever.  That would include having our children in a community with likeminded individuals.  That could be a church or religious community, a friend community, an ethnic or cultural association, etc wherein your children are exposed to others who share your values.  We should also be constantly talking and listening to our children.  Explain what is happening in the world around them, how it impacts them and what your opinions are.  Ask them questions and listen to their perspectives, challenge them, encourage them to be critically aware.  Lastly, gain their trust by showing how much we value their insights and how important they are to the family and community and demonstrate this to them.  If you enjoy Nurah S

Not having a healthy self awareness can frustrate us and others and lead to unproductive interactions and prohibiting our success.   We may have all met someone who has a problem or negative run in in nearly every environment they enter.  We may have experienced being in a board room where that one person or leader blurts something that is offensive to the group, something off topic or of no real value to the issue at hand.   And we can tell that the person in question has no idea how they are being perceived or how their comments impact others.  This is often a result of low EQ (emotional intelligence) and self awareness. To help us increase self awareness it is helpful to try two things.   When we find ourselves missing the mark in communication, getting results or inspiring our team, ask can ourselves ‘what' questions.  The default is often to ask ‘why’ however 'why' questions tend to lead to negative thinking or landing on answers that may feel right but not be right.   'What' question

“Independent Black Woman” I believe this is a phrase, perhaps not coined by us, but one repeated by us as a salve to ease the distress of being unloved, unprotected and unprovided for. Let’s define our term: Independent -not needing another, not reliant on another How is this a healthy means to live?  More to the point, is it even possible to exist without relying on others?  I should say it is not. We take WIC (Women Infants and Children) a federal program giving us food for our babies. We use our state’s Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to obtain healthcare. We use food banks and take advantage of school nutrition programs. We take federal student loans to get educated. We take bank loans for cars and homes. We take subsidized housing to offset rental costs. Where all the independence that we are so proud of? If we are honest, we will admit that we use the term independent pretty much in relation to black men and and relationships.  Because it is too painful to say, “I am lonely” o