Sticky Note Conversations

In this episode of 'Sticky Note Conversations with Erika Washington,' host Erika engages in a compelling discussion with Kwami Abdul-Bey, a civic leader, historian, and advocate. Kwami, a recently divorced single father, disabled Air Force veteran, published author, and radio talk show host, shares his extensive experiences in public service, elections coordination, and grassroots organizing. The conversation delves into his challenging run for office, the systemic issues in Arkansas politics, and the importance of year-round civic engagement. Kwami also highlights his work with two nonprofits dedicated to youth media literacy and social justice. Tune in to learn more about his inspiring journey and efforts to make a positive impact in his community.
  • (00:00) - Introduction and Initial Contact
  • (00:39) - Welcome to Sticky Note Conversations
  • (02:02) - Meet Kwami Abdul-Bey
  • (05:39) - The Role of an Elections Coordinator
  • (07:03) - Challenges in Voter Engagement
  • (12:28) - Historical Context and Civic Responsibility
  • (26:50) - The Impact of Integration
  • (31:50) - Running for Office: Kwame's Experience
  • (36:44) - The Call to Run for Office
  • (37:32) - Facing Discrimination and Challenges
  • (38:15) - Campaigning in Hostile Territories
  • (39:21) - Smear Campaign and Its Aftermath
  • (41:20) - Lessons from the Campaign Trail
  • (42:36) - Considering Another Run
  • (43:24) - Trump's Impact on Local Politics
  • (45:08) - Family and Personal Struggles
  • (46:16) - The Beauty of Arkansas
  • (51:08) - Nonprofit Work and Community Impact
  • (01:02:05) - Reflections on Democracy and Capitalism
  • (01:10:50) - The American Dream
  • (01:14:14) - Closing Remarks and Credits
Theme song "Way Below Acceptable" by Grov "G.T." Tigue IV feat. Inohs Sivad is available on all of your favorite streaming platforms.
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/grovgttigueiv/quincyphones--the-collaba-nation-notes-from-2020

Creators and Guests

Producer
Erika Washington
SE
Editor
Simone Endress
WB
Composer
Wil Black

What is Sticky Note Conversations?

To keep my thoughts in order and my to-do lists remotely manageable I create arrays of sticky notes on my desk and wall. New idea? Stick note! Someone I want to meet with? Sticky Note! Need to remember to pay a parking ticket? Write it on a sticky note. Over the course of the last year, I have wanted to create a podcast that allowed me to dive deep into conversations with interesting people.. I wanted to have real conversations that were more than sound bites or regurgitated talking points about fluffy topics. My hope is that each episode feels like old friends catching up. Revealing great information but also humanity, struggle, victory, joy, grief, and possibly, a flicker of transcendence.

I hope you will enjoy these as much as I do creating them.
Join me here every Saturday as I pull a new sticky note off my desk.