The Chavis Chronicles

His Excellency Onkokame Kitso Mokaila has served as Ambassador to the Republic of Botswana to the U.S. since 2020. During his political career, Ambassador Mokaila has held a wide range of Cabinet positions. In this episode, Dr. Chavis and Ambassador Mokaila discuss the opportunities and challenges facing Botswana and the evolution of democracy in the country.

Health experts are seeing more people who have had COVID-19 experiencing long-term effects from their infection, known as long COVID. Dr. Yolandra Hancock, a pediatrician and public health expert, weighs in on America’s battle with Covid-19 and how African Americans who suffer from pre-existing conditions such as asthma diabetes and obesity are at particular risk.

Acclaimed producer and filmmaker Alisa Payne discusses navigating her 20-year career as a woman of color in the entertainment industry. She also reflects on producing during the pandemic and working on projects for HBO, Lionsgate, Netflix, and ESPN.

Erica Loewe, a key member of President Biden’s communication team discusses her role as the Director of African American media, and her actions toward increasing the value of diversity and empowering Black media voices.

Thomasina Yearwood, President of the Thurgood Marshall Center Trust, talks with Dr. Chavis about the organization’s mission to educate and empower youth and families. Also, Sandra Lam, VP of the Thurgood Marshall Foundation discusses the college fund for student’s and how the organization is committed to social and economic justice.

After the Flint water crisis, Dr. Patricia Bailey launched a national outreach effort to provide clean water in poor communities. She also leads a group of global volunteers to combat the water crisis in Africa by digging wells in villages without fresh water.

The Recording Academy’s Co-President, Valeisha Butterfield Jones, weighs in on the future of the Grammy’s and on the push for diversity and equal opportunities in music. Butterfield Jones discusses the changes that must happen to ensure the music industry is a place where equal opportunities are available for underrepresented groups.

Senior climate justice advocate and health scientist, Dr. Adrienne Hollis, and Dr. Chavis discuss the health impact of the environment, climate justice and the adverse effects on a person’s health from extreme weather patterns and poor air quality. Dr. Hollis also provides tips on protecting and preserving the environment.

Ken Hecht, President National STEM Honor Society, talks with Dr. Chavis about the growing demand for science, technology, engineering and math and the importance of encouraging more minority students to choose careers in STEM. Also, author and teacher Emmanuel Eppie discusses the need for more Black men to become teachers in the public school system.

World renowned artist Larry “Poncho” Brown has been creating art with a message for more than 30 years. Brown talks with Dr. Chavis about what is at the core of his art and what moves him to create positive imaging of the Black community. In this episode, Brown reveals what inspires his thought provoking pieces and the cultures that influence his work.

Melinda Hightower, head of Multicultural Investors Strategic Client Segment for UBS Global Wealth Management talks about the bank’s new initiative to attract multicultural investors. Hightower, a long-time banking executive in the U.S. discusses with Dr. Chavis the latest programs at UBS Bank to attract African American, Asian, and Hispanic investors.

Lester Munson is a Principal in the International Practice at BGR Group. Munson spent decades on Capitol Hill focusing on legislative affairs and global issues. In this episode, Munson, and Dr. Chavis explore one of the most dangerous weapons in modern time, cyberattacks and ransomware. Munson weighs in on what steps the U.S. should take in order to boost national security.