A Moment with Erik Fleming

Survival Is Resistance Featuring Dr. Caroline Heldman, Alia Dastagir, Melba Pearson and Dr. Tracy Pearson

Host Erik Fleming sits down with political scientist Dr. Caroline Heldman and journalist Alia Dastagir to explore how survival becomes resistance for women facing harassment, assault, and online abuse. They discuss intersectionality, the limits of Me Too, trans-exclusionary movements, and survivor-led accountability.
The episode also features legal analysis from the Pearson & Pearson team on key upcoming Supreme Court cases involving voting rights, religious liberty in prisons, death penalty appeals, and executive tariff powers.

Unapologetically Uplifting Featuring Chasity Wells-Armstrong and Alysia Cutting

Host Erik Fleming welcomes two dynamic guests — former Mayor Chasity Wells-Armstrong and media activist Alysia Cutting — for a candid conversation about leadership, racial equity, community healing, and supporting women in public life. They discuss lessons from city government and the pandemic, Chasity’s coaching framework for sustainable leadership, Alysia’s "Check One Box" project, and grassroots solutions to health and social inequities.
The episode also includes news highlights and Erik’s reflections on political violence, the responsibility of leaders, and the power of local action to create lasting change.

Wellbeing Economics & The Battle for the Black Mind Featuring Amanda Janoo and Dr. Karida Brown

In this episode host Erik Fleming interviews Amanda Janoo on well‑being economics — redefining success beyond GDP and designing economies that prioritize people and the planet — and Dr. Karida Brown on the history of Black education from emancipation through Brown v. Board and the ongoing fight against privatization and book bans.
The conversation explores alternatives to growth‑focused capitalism, policy lessons from global well‑being initiatives, the legacy of Black educators like Lucy Craft Laney, and why preserving public knowledge systems matters for democracy.

Historical & Cultural Healing Featuring Dr. Karlos K. Hill and Aurora Archer

Erik Fleming hosts historian Dr. Karlos K. Hill and cultural strategist Aurora Archer in a conversation about healing through truthful history and cultural change. They discuss teaching the Tulsa Race Massacre, confronting sanitized narratives, and building compassionate, action-oriented leadership.
The episode centers on narrative change, collective healing, and practical steps for educators, leaders, and listeners to care, resist erasure, and work for justice.

Creative Force & Sly Civility Featuring Keldamuzik, Dr. Donna J. Nicol, and Dontaye Carter

Host Erik Fleming brings together three guests making change in culture and community: Keldamuzik, an artist and entrepreneur using her Tamz Berets to raise awareness and support for cancer patients; Dr. Donna J. Nicol, author of a biography about trustee Dr. Claudia Hampton and the fight to save affirmative action; and Dontaye Carter, a mayoral candidate focused on affordable housing, community centers and inclusive growth.
The episode explores how artists, educators and local leaders navigate politics, power and respectability to build community resources and protect access to opportunity.
Listeners will hear personal stories, practical solutions and calls to civic engagement aimed at strengthening neighborhoods and expanding access to education, healthcare and economic stability.

Persuade, Energize, Transform Featuring Anat Shenker-Osorio and Dr. Stacey Schultz

Host Erik Fleming speaks with messaging expert Anat Shenker-Osorio and educator Dr. Stacey Schultz about effective political communication, the race-class narrative, combating authoritarianism, and transforming education through innovation and restorative practices.

The Great American Games Featuring Wajahat Ali, Rick Roberts and Dave Heller

Welcome to an enlightening episode of A Moment with Erik Fleming, where host Erik Fleming delves into the intricate dynamics of politics, economy, and culture. This episode, aptly titled "The Great American Games," features engaging discussions with three distinguished guests who represent the intersection of money, politics, and sports.
In the first segment, Erik converses with the insightful Wajahat Ali, a renowned political commentator and Daily Beast columnist. They explore the enduring challenges of racism and greed in America, the complexities of Trump's legacy, and the prospects for reformation in the political landscape. Ali shares his journey and perspectives that offer a unique lens on America's current and future trajectory.
In the second segment, Erik welcomes back Rick Roberts, a seasoned economist and former Federal Reserve executive. Rick provides a comprehensive analysis of the current economic climate, addressing concerns about tariffs, interest rates, and the impact of political decisions on economic stability. His insights into the economic challenges faced by today's youth and the evolving job market are particularly enlightening.
Finally, Erik engages with Dave Heller, a top Democratic media consultant and minor league baseball owner, who shares his thoughts on political strategy, the importance of authenticity in campaigns, and the parallels between politics and baseball. Heller's experiences in both arenas offer fascinating insights into leadership and public engagement.
Don't miss this episode packed with wisdom, foresight, and a call for true leadership and reform in America. It's a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the intricate balance of power, policy, and the people's will in shaping a better future.

History & Repetition Featuring Dr. Marlene L. Daut and Samuel Jay Keyser

Join Erik Fleming in this episode filled with insightful conversations on crucial topics shaping our world today. First, delve into a discussion with Dr. Marlene L. Daut, a renowned historian, as she explores the Haitian Revolution's significant impact on global history, particularly its connection to African American identity and struggles. Understand the persistent stereotypes and historical setbacks Haiti endures and the revolutionaries' unwavering fight for freedom.
Next, explore the intriguing world of linguistics and arts with Samuel Jay Keyser, an acclaimed theoretical linguist. Discover how repetition influences our perception and enjoyment of art forms like music, poetry, and painting, and its application in politics. Keyser's insights offer a deeper understanding of how repetition can shape public perception and resonate in political discourse.
The episode also addresses current political maneuvers in Texas, highlighting how redistricting efforts might alter the power dynamics in congressional representations. Listen in as Erik Fleming passionately discusses the challenges faced by young Black politicians in navigating a political landscape fraught with obstacles, urging resilience and strategic action.

Carceral Apartheid Featuring Dr. Brittany Friedman

In this first episode of Season 12, Dr. Brittany Friedman, an American sociologist and author, discusses her book Carceral Apartheid and the fight against institutionalized racism in American prisons.

Perseverance Personified Featuring Shavonda Miles and Shernice Mundell

In this final episode of Season 11, Shavonda Miles, CEO of Vonda Mone' LLC, and former federal employee Shernice Mundell, discuss their personal journeys in this political climate and give their definition of perseverance.