Black College Achievers
Education & Explainer
About
Metro State: Black College Achievers Podcast See My Book: www.weusoursluckybooks.com We don’t beg for money, we don’t ask for validation , and we do not need consent to be honorable Black Student Achievers. This creed stands in the tradition of Black self‑determination, community leadership, and the refusal to let external systems define our worth or our future. The Metro State Black Student Achievers Podcast was created to reach Black youth in charter schools, churches, recreation centers, barbershops, hair salons, and community spaces where many have been led to believe higher education is not for them. The mission is to bring real stories of Metro State students and graduates directly into these environments so young people hear voices that reflect their identities, experiences, and potential. The podcast also functions as an instructional tool, with select episodes paired with lesson plans highlighting Black innovators including the Black nurse who invented the home security system, the Freedom House Ambulance Service—the first modern EMS—and the Black nurses who served in every major American war. These materials help students collaborate with peers, complete activities at home, and allow educators to integrate the content into their courses. The mission also models self‑determination by showing this podcast was created without begging for money, without seeking validation, and by embracing the mindset of asking “What can I do?” instead of “What can’t I do?” The vision is to cultivate a generation of Black youth who see themselves as scholars, innovators, and leaders, transforming community spaces into learning spaces, elevating overlooked Black excellence, and building a culture where young people pursue goals with confidence, dignity, and purpose. Black students do not need permission to achieve—they need opportunity, representation, and courage. The podcast stands as an example of what is possible when students lead with purpose and institutions support authentic student voice. It advances the university’s commitments to student leadership, equity, culturally responsive engagement, community partnership, academic access, and the amplification of historically marginalized voices. Your host, Lucky, is an award‑winning educator and community leader with 15+ years of experience in secondary education, juvenile justice, and public service. He has developed culturally responsive curricula, mentored educators, and taught Leadership, Race in America, and Community Organizing. His work has increased student achievement, reduced disciplinary incidents, and supported legislative efforts that secured over $355,000 for student programs. His leadership has earned recognition across Minnesota and beyond, including induction into the National Society of Leadership and Success, the Pillsbury United Communities Service Award, and commendations from Ramsey County Corrections, the U.S. Army, and state civic institutions. He chaired the Governor’s Legacy Committee, overseeing $240,000 in arts grants with a perfect audit. His background includes roles as Juvenile Probation Officer, Paralegal, Veterans Case Manager, Urban Elder Teacher Coach, Park Police and Military Police Officer. He has authored four books and released a gospel album produced by Numero Records. He holds advanced degrees in Advocacy, Leadership, Social Sciences, Counseling Psychology, Paralegal Studies, and Law Enforcement, and is completing a second master’s in education. “When people talk behind your back, remember—they’re behind you for a reason.” “During struggles, always ask what I can do—never what can’t I do.” This podcast is student‑run and operates under the First Amendment.” blackfreedomofspeech@gmail.com 773-809-8594
Episodes
- Nonprofit Students and Fraud
This episode focuses on fraud prevention for nonprofit majors, outlining common fraud indicators, strategies for employees to avoid participation, and ethical responses to workplace pressure. It includes learning objectives and outcomes fo…
- College Students: Affordable Marriage Officiant
This episode discusses affordable marriage officiants for college students. Listeners are encouraged to order and read the book available at www.weusoursluckybooks.com before getting married.
- Leadership: Virginia “Ginny” Arthur, JD/See Lesson Plan in Description
This episode of Black College Achievers discusses leadership principles, using Virginia "Ginny" Arthur, JD, as a case study. It outlines a lesson plan to explore how her leadership promotes equity, social mobility, and student-centered dec…
- LIES MY TEACHERS TOLD ME-Blacks American Revolution
This episode explores the hidden history of Black patriots in the American Revolution, including figures like Wentworth Cheswell and James Armistead Lafayette. It also examines how historical narratives were manipulated to erase these cont…
- LIES MY TEACHERS TOLD ME
This episode discusses how avoiding historical truths about Black massacres and promoting "colorblindness" on college campuses can prevent genuine unity and justice. It explores the concepts of fragility and historical accountability in co…
- Ms. Graham: A Student That Keeps Going
This episode of Black College Achievers features Ms. Graham, highlighting her journey as a student who continues to persevere.
- Honorable: Student Justin
This episode of Black College Achievers features Student Justin. The episode description also provides an email address for those interested in being a guest on the podcast.
- Ms. Kanisah: Alcohol and Drug Counseling Studies
Ms. Kanisah is featured on the Black College Achievers podcast, where she discusses alcohol and drug counseling studies.
- Ms. Talia: BBA
Ms. Talia discusses her BBA on the Black College Achievers podcast. The episode is available for listeners.
- Ms. Stephnie: Talks About Haute Dish-Campus Events
Ms. Stephnie talks about Haute Dish-Campus Events on the Black College Achievers podcast. The episode also provides an email for those interested in being a guest on the podcast.
- Ms. Yasmin: Business Major
Ms. Yasmin, a business major, is featured on the Black College Achievers podcast. The episode highlights her story and achievements.
- Student: Venessa
This episode of Black College Achievers features a student named Venessa. The podcast encourages listeners to email if they want to be a guest.
- BLACK SOCIAL WORKERS: Legacy Built Through Service
This episode of Black College Achievers discusses the contributions of Black social workers between 2000 and 2026. It explores their influence on child welfare, mental health, and justice systems through culturally grounded and equity-cent…
- Black Biologists: Excellence Against Every Barrier
This episode of Black College Achievers, titled "Black Biologists: Excellence Against Every Barrier," explores the contributions of Black biologists to American science. It highlights their achievements from cell biology to ecology, emphas…
- Black Massacres: Untold American History-Why?
This episode examines how avoiding the topic of Black massacres affects campus environments and discussions, emphasizing the importance of confronting historical events for unity and justice. It also explores concepts such as "colorblindne…
- Breaking News: 6,328 Downloads
This episode of Black College Achievers announces 6,328 downloads and provides codes for viewers to redeem the book "Relationships: The Power of Illusion" from iuniverse.com.
- Practice College Excellence
This episode of Black College Achievers focuses on practicing Black Scholarly Excellence. It explores disciplined habits that enhance identity, agency, and academic power, and provides examples of how students can apply these directives an…
- Thanking: High Schools, Youth Centers, Churches and Other Entities
This episode acknowledges the support of high schools, youth centers, and churches. It presents a lesson plan designed to help students in grades 7-12 develop agency and resilience by focusing on what they can do during challenges.
- Race Based Trauma: Acting Inferior
This episode discusses race-based trauma and its impact on self-perception, exploring how linguistic racism and societal constructs reinforce ideas of superiority and inferiority. It provides examples of how individuals can identify and ch…
- Not Begging the College for $$ or Anything
This episode of Black College Achievers discusses the "no-handout mindset" for students, emphasizing self-sufficiency, discipline, and personal responsibility. It explores how rejecting dependency and embracing independent effort can stren…
- BREAKING NEWS WIN $100
This episode of Black College Achievers discusses an opportunity to win $100. The description includes contact information and a website for a book.
- Minnesota’s First Black Lawyer and First Black Female Realtor
This episode of Black College Achievers highlights Minnesota's first Black lawyer and first Black female realtor. It includes a lesson plan on Black excellence across multiple academic and diverse fields, including business, STEM, arts, la…
- Ms. Yasmin-Starting Strong to Finishing Strong
This episode of Black College Achievers features Ms. Yasmin, a business student. The discussion focuses on her journey and determination as she works towards her degree.
- Challenging Instructors’ Bias with King’s Street Sweeper Speech
This episode of Black College Achievers discusses Dr. King's street sweeper message, emphasizing that dignity comes from excellence and self-respect, not status. It explores how students can honor their work and challenge societal biases b…
- Ms. Kanisha: Major-Alcohol and Drug Counseling
Ms. Kanisha is a mother of three pursuing a degree in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. Her journey demonstrates her commitment to education and family, aiming to inspire her sons through her dedication.
- Listeners: Win My Book and $50
This episode of Black College Achievers offers listeners a chance to win a book, "Relationships: The Power of Illusion," and $50. Listeners can redeem a free copy of the book using specific codes on iuniverse.com.
- Trailblazers in Black Psychology
This episode explores the lives and contributions of Francis Cecil Sumner, Inez Beverly Prosser, and Solomon Carter Fuller, pioneers in Black psychology. Their work challenged racial barriers, advanced the field, and influenced civil right…
- When Black Men Pray
This episode explores the impact of prayer when Black men pray for their families, communities, and to overcome challenges. It highlights how prayer provides direction, protection, and strengthens a man's focus and resolve.
- Max Graves-End Slavery Minnesota
Max Graves discusses the End Slavery in Minnesota movement. This initiative seeks to amend Minnesota’s Constitution by removing the slavery clause and reforming prison labor to ensure fair wages and rehabilitation.
- Soweto African Choir/Nelson Mandela
This episode, "Soweto African Choir/Nelson Mandela" from the "Black College Achievers" podcast, explores African gospel music and its historical influences. It discusses how this music fosters hope, resilience, and community strength, with…
- Undoing Racism to Personal Power
This episode of Black College Achievers, "Undoing Racism to Personal Power," discusses the race construct and linguistic racism. It explores how understanding these concepts can help students challenge assigned identities and reclaim perso…
- Attn: CJS and Law Enforcement Students
This episode covers Chief Salim Omari’s appointment as Police Chief in Eagan. It highlights his 21 years of experience, leadership roles, and focus on collaborative and honorable policing, connecting his career to community values of trust…
- Black Nurses: Untold History
This episode of Black College Achievers explores the history and contributions of Black nurses in American wars, highlighting their impact on military medicine and civil rights. It covers their service from the Civil War through modern con…
- BLACK NURSE Invented Home Security System
This episode of Black College Achievers highlights Marie Van Brittan Brown, a Black nurse who invented the first home security system in 1966. It explores how her nursing background and problem-solving skills contributed to this significan…
- BLACKS Started Ambulance EMS
This episode discusses the historical significance of the Freedom House Ambulance Service, highlighting its role in shaping modern emergency medical systems and pioneering paramedic training and prehospital care.
- Brother Justin Shukuru-Foundation of Strength, Discipline
This episode features Brother Justin Shukuru, who discusses his experiences growing up in a refugee camp and how he transformed those challenges into a foundation of strength and purpose. He is currently a college student pursuing dual maj…
- Laila Edwards: BLACK USA HOCKEY PLAYER
This episode features Laila Edwards, a Black American hockey player who made history as the first Black woman to play for the U.S. Women's National Team and win an Olympic gold medal in hockey. The episode details her journey from childhoo…
- White Woman Murdered Herstory Ignored
This episode of Black College Achievers tells the story of Viola Liuzzo, a white woman murdered by the Ku Klux Klan after the Selma to Montgomery march for voting rights. It explores her civil rights activism, the circumstances of her deat…
- White Allies Killed During the Civil Rights Movement
This episode of Black College Achievers focuses on white allies who were killed during the Civil Rights Movement. It covers figures like Rev. James Reeb, Viola Liuzzo, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner, detailing their involvement and…
- The Church and The Civil Rights Movement
This episode discusses the historical role of the Black church as a strategic center for both the Underground Railroad and the Civil Rights Movement. It explores how the church provided spiritual, cultural, and organizational support for B…
- A Rabbit Better Than an “N” Word: Fragile People Avoid Listening
This episode focuses on Vernon Johns, an early civil rights leader, and his "rabbit speech," which challenged communities to confront injustice. It examines his influence on the civil rights movement and the themes of courage, self-respect…
- Black Women Redefined Power-With Lesson Plan/PowerPoint
This episode of Black College Achievers explores how thirteen extraordinary Black women, including Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and Maya Angelou, redefined power through action, advocacy, and vision. Their stories highlight leadership…
- Ms. Graham: Personal Power to Keep Going
Ms. Graham discusses her journey of building connections, graduating from college, and owning her own business. She shares how she overcame struggles and demonstrates her strength and vision.
- Trump: Somali Students Refuse Disrespect
This episode of Black College Achievers focuses on Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, explaining how it protects students from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in schools receiving federal funding. It outlines…
- Latonya: Requested a Motivating Song for All to Hear
This episode of Black College Achievers presents a motivating worship song, requested by Latonya, focusing on themes of God's power, victory, and faithfulness. The song aims to encourage listeners experiencing hardship by emphasizing divin…
- NSLS: Prestige Sold, Truth Told
This episode of Black College Achievers discusses crucial questions students should consider before joining honor societies like NSLS. It addresses concerns raised by students and advisors regarding legitimacy, value, and cost.
- Stepanie Talks About Haute Dish-Campus Events
This episode of Black College Achievers features Stephanie discussing "Haute Dish," Metro State University's official literary anthology. She explains that it showcases student writing and art, publishing creative works like poetry, fictio…
- Permit To Carry Basic Gun Training Workshops
This episode of Black College Achievers discusses basic gun training workshops. It provides contact information for classes and mentions topics such as the Philando Castile police shooting and permit-to-carry regulations for 18-year-olds.
- FREE Book FREE My Book Free
This episode of Black College Achievers, titled "FREE Book FREE My Book Free," informs listeners how to share content on the podcast by calling a provided phone number.
- Virginia “Ginny” Arthur, JD. - Our President and Lesson Plan
This episode presents a leadership lesson plan centered on President Virginia "Ginny" Arthur, JD. It explores her leadership principles, focusing on equity, social mobility, and student-centered decision-making. The plan encourages student…