Ep. 134 - Free Thoughts with Bowen & Twyman, Ep. 27

The conversation explores the many layers of black identity in America, touching on social distance, cultural nuance, genealogy, and the weight of historical narratives. Wink and Mike discuss attraction, dating, and family influence, sharing personal stories about how skin color, upbringing, and intellectual connection shape relationships. Broader themes include aging, community, cultural heritage, generational change, and the pressure of navigating impressive or damaged people.

Author Louis C. Hook, also known as “the Educated Hood Rat,” joins us to discuss his new book, Black in the Saddle, which traces the legacy of black horsemanship from African cavalry empires to the rise of black cowboys in the American West and the riders carrying that tradition forward today. Louis and host Connie Morgan explore the history that was erased and the powerful resurgence of black equestrian culture in the modern era.Show notes:Black in the Saddle, from African Cavalries to Modern CowboysLouis’s websiteCompton Cowboys

Host Connie Morgan speaks with David Hanna, a software engineer by day and Israeli-Palestinian conflict researcher by night. David discusses his peace plan, which emphasizes education, cultural reconciliation, and the role of the international community in fostering a two-state solution. Show notes:David’s Peace PlanThe Jews of Arab Lands: A History and Source Book by Norman StillmanFrom Haven to Conquest: Zionism and the Palestine Problem Until 1948 by Walid KhalidiThe Birth of the Palestinian Refugee Problem Revisited by Benny MorrisThe Missing Peace: The Inside Story of the Fight for Middle East Peace by Dennis Ross

Winkfield F. Twyman Jr. and Michael DC Bowen explore the complexities of personal turmoil, family dynamics, and the importance of emotional vulnerability. They reflect on the legacy we leave behind, the wisdom of generations, and the burdens of family property, ultimately emphasizing the need for emotional revelation and consensus in navigating life’s challenges.

Adam Szetela, author of That Book Is Dangerous! How Moral Panic, Social Media, and the Culture Wars Are Remaking Publishing, joins the pod to talk about censorship, sensitivity readers, and how wokeness is reshaping literature. A Ph.D. graduate from Cornell and former Harvard fellow, Adam shares his perspective on class, creativity, and the growing pressures facing writers and editors today, and why he believes publishing needs a more balanced, open-minded approach to storytelling.Show notes:That Book Is Dangerous! How Moral Panic, Social Media, and the Culture Wars Are Remaking PublishingAdam’s website

Tamyra Mensah-Stock aka WWE wrestler Tyra Mae Steele joins the podcast to talk about her road to a goal medal, how her faith drives her and why she is proud to be an American.Show notes:Tamyra’s InstagramTamyra on X

Mike and Wink delve into the complexities of American history, identity, and the evolution of black culture. They explore generational perspectives on the past, the impact of Jim Crow laws, and the importance of entrepreneurship and education in shaping the future of black Americans.

Monique Duson, president of the Center for Biblical Unity, talks about growing up in South Central LA, finding faith in Christ, and how shifting from Critical Race Theory to a biblical worldview completely changed how she thinks about race, culture, and unity.NotesThe Center for Biblical UnityMonique’s “Walking in Unity” co-authored by Krista Bontrager

Onome educates host Connie Morgan on the power of sound healing and vocal expression. She discusses the profound impact of sound on consciousness and the spiritual connection of voice. Onome emphasizes the power of singing as a tool for healing and self-discovery. She also touches on the societal challenges of expressing differing opinions and the need for empathy and understanding in today’s polarized environment.Substack: Soul Insights with OnomeOnome’s Website

Thomas Dearie is a biologist, communications architect, and committed pro-humanist. He’s raising a daughter within one of the most unique family structures you’ll ever hear of—mixed-race, mixed sexual orientation, and without holding formal parental rights. This experience has shaped Tom’s worldview and deepened his passion for promoting empathy, inclusivity, and a truly pro-human perspective.