In Part 2 of Donovan's 1:1 with Jake Levin, they pick up right where they left off at the end of part 2, jumping into whether or not a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine is possible, the complexity of the upcoming elections, and the power of coalition-building. Jake shares his perspective on the essential role of Palestinians leading the conversation and the significance of solidarity among marginalized groups. It's a pretty thought-provoking convo. Remember to try to donate...

In this episode of STRANGER FRUIT, we sit down with Jake Levin, a dedicated community organizer for the Jewish Left. He lets us into the world of Jewish-left activism, exploring the rise of antisemitism and the powerful movements led by anti-Zionist college students. Jake shares his firsthand experiences from the front lines of protests, offering unique insights into the struggles and victories of today’s activists. In this episode, we discuss: • The impact of college students protesting...

Donovan sits down with Queen, one half of the dynamic podcast duo Tea with Queen and J, and the creator of Miss Vixen, for part 2 of their discussion about the relationship between the Black, Jewish and Arab communities. From the rising activism among college students to the powerful role of media in shaping public perception, this conversation sheds light on the importance of cross-cultural coalitions in the fight for justice. Queen shares her unique perspective as a Black Muslim woman,...

In this episode of Stranger Fruit, Donovan sits down with Queen, one half of the dynamic podcast duo Tea with Queen and J, and the creator of Miss Vixen. Join us as we delve deep into the intricate relationships between the Black, Jewish, and Arab communities. Queen shares her unique perspective on anti-Semitism, Zionism, and the often overlooked anti-Black racism within the Arab world. We also discuss the impact of social media in amplifying these issues and the fear of losing career...

In part 2 of our series on the relationship between the Black, Jewish and Arab communities, Donovan continues his conversation with Nina Kharoufeh, Palestinian stand-up comedian and amateur boxer. This episode dives deeper into the dynamics of identity and activism in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Nina shares her unique perspective on the conflation of Judaism and Zionism, the prevalence of racism in the Arab world, and the impact these issues have on the fight for Palestinian...

We kick off Season 2, sitting down with Nina Kharoufeh, a brilliant Palestinian stand-up comedian and amateur boxer whose insights and experiences go far beyond the ring and the stage. In this episode, Donovan dives deep with Nina into the complex and often painful realities of the Israel-Palestine conflict. How do our cross community relationships impact the way we think about this conflict? Should celebrities speak out against the ongoing genocide? Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social...

Modern dating and relationships barely resemble those of prior generations. As we pursue relationships in this era where being a savage is glamorized, we explore how the digital world and money impact the dating landscape for Black and Brown folks! - Humanity 101 - CH 6. Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what you think of the episode! Remember, conflict + compassion = empathy. Feat: Lea Landaverde and Dr. Donna Donovan Thompson: EP, Host Constanza Eliana Chinea:...

Capitalism is how the world goes round, but as the world heats up, tensions rise and the stakes get higher, should it be the standard? With climate change being an unavoidable concern, global inflation and threats of war on the horizon, it may be safe to say that capitalism is behind the world's biggest problems. Join us for a dope conversation about capitalism's impact on our community. - Capitalism 101. Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what you think of the...

Religion and tradition are important to many in the Black and Brown communities. With the recent acknowledgement of the wrong doings of the Catholic church to indigenous Canadians and last week's anti-queer street execution of O'Shae Sibley, in this episode, we examine the role religion has played in our past and current reality. Does religion have a place in our future? - Accountability 101. Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what you think of the episode! Remember,...

Our beloved Keke Palmer divided the internet like the red sea. That sheer dress seen around the world stirred up the ever familiar and ongoing debate about women’s body autonomy and men being unnecessarily vocal about what women should or shouldn't be wearing. Whether brought to you by the manosphere or your fav girl boss, gender wars are profitable but costly. Is it “nature” or is it "toxic"? In this episode, we explore how we got here and if it's killing our community's ability to heal. Tag...

With major issues like low wages, hyper-division and climate change that threaten our actual existence, we seem to be faced with the never ending conundrum of voting for representatives that are more devoted to corporations and partisan politics rather than pushing policies that will ensure our future. Are republicans or democrats interested in working for the Black and Brown vote or do they feel entitled? Join us for Chapter 2 of Summer School as we continue our deep dive into Politics 101....

Welcome to Summer School, our audio-only, 6 episode series tackling some topics that are important to us. Plus, this gives us an excuse to stay in touch while we gear up for season 2. First up, Politics 101! Over the last year, we have seen the reversal of Roe vs Wade, the end of affirmative action and the removal of several anti-discrimination protections. On this episode, Donovan and Eliana are joined by Karl, Paige, Dr. Angel and Sylvester to discuss why some Black folks and POC are being...

We did it!!! We are wrapping Season 1 of STRANGER FRUIT with 20 episodes under our belts! We are so grateful to all of our guests and subscribers for being part of this experiment to combat anti-Blackness and to showcase the diversity, complexity and beauty of the Black and Brown communities. As we gear up for Season 2, tune into STRANGER FRUIT presents Summer School, Wednesdays @ 6:30am for podcast episodes to keep the edutainment going. Timestamps 00:39 The New Face Of LA Politics  01:21...

Is the LGBTQ community being used as a pawn for American votes and church offerings? In this second part of our series on Queer Safety, we explore the cost of homophobia. Does it leave our communities fractured and vulnerable? What role do straight people play? Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what you think of the episode! Remember, conflict + compassion = empathy. Featuring: Charles C. Patton, Juice Pierce, Qween Jean, Isaam Sharef , William Stallings III,...

It seems that more now than ever, the LGBTQ+ community is under attack. With over 500 proposed bills, the banning of queer studies and a rise in hate crimes, Donovan, Constanza Eliana and some special guests come together to discuss the safety of the queer community. Does more visibility prove that things are getting better for the community or has it brought on even more backlash? Is politics to blame for the recent rise in anti-LGBTQ rhetoric? And have things gotten better for the queer...

We are kicking off our new Wednesday release day this week with part 1, "LGBTQ People Under Attack" from our QUEER SAFETY series. Check out this trailer featuring: Charles C. Patton, Juice Pierce, Qween Jean, Isaam Sharef , William Stallings III, Elijahdā Warner and Eric Ford Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what you think of the episode! Remember, conflict + compassion = empathy. Donovan Thompson: EP, Host Constanza Eliana Chinea: Producer, Co-Host Danhy...

How Latino are you if you don't speak Spanish? Constanza Eliana and her guests are back at it in part 3 of our series on being #LATINOENOUGH. "No Sabo Kids" have been the subject of a lot of debate lately. Should Latinos know how to speak Spanish or is perfectly okay to abandon the language of their colonizer? Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what you think of the episode! Remember, conflict + compassion = empathy. Featuring: Jose Richard Aviles, Michelle Morales,...

Social media and dating apps are key tools for modern day hookup culture. In part 2 of our series on SEX, the panelists join Donovan and Constanza Eliana to unpack the impact of the culture. Are we having good sex? Are we experiencing real intimacy? Join us for this juicy conversation! Featuring: Dr. Donna, Nikki Valentine, Elijahda Warner, Kumoyo Wakungum, Isaam Sharef and Charles Patton Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what you think of the episode! Remember,...

With the rise of social media culture, has come the ability to monetize sex and gain influence from it. In this 2 part episode, the panelists discuss the impact of the digital era on sex. Are we oversexed or are we simply evolving past traditional norms? Are young people getting the wrong message about sex with easy access to porn and not enough honest sex-talk? Let's discuss. Featuring: Dr. Donna, Nikki Valentine, Elijahda Warner, Kumoyo Wakungum, Isaam Sharef and Charles Patton Tag...

Join us on this captivating episode as Constanza Eliana and her guests delve deep into the intricate tapestry of Latinidad and explore the ongoing debate surrounding the terms Hispanic, Latino, and Latinx. As the discussion rages on, in this second installment of our series, #LATINOENOUGH, we embark on a thought-provoking journey to untangle the complexities of these identities. Featuring: Jose Richard Aviles, Michelle Morales, and Daisy Romero Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media...

Latines are a diverse group of people, with different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. But Anti-Blackness, hiding in plain sight, continues to affect many members of the diaspora. Despite the fact that Latines come in all shades and skin tones, there is a troubling pattern of discrimination and marginalization against Black Latines. Today, our panelists are tackling this important topic head-on, and discussing the ways in which anti-Blackness impacts their lives and the Latino community...

Donovan & Constanza Eliana are back with part 2 of this thought-provoking conversation exploring the complexities, challenges and preconceptions surrounding biracial identity. In this episode, we dive into the idea of "privilege" and the gatekeeping of Blackness with Shayvawn Webster, Dr. Donna, Alex Copeland, Nikki Valentine, "Juice" Pierce, Tiffanie McKinnon, Florangel Reyes and Isaam Sharef. Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what you think of the episode!...

Join Donovan, Constanza Eliana and some special guests for a thought-provoking conversation exploring the complexities, challenges and preconceptions surrounding biracial identity. In this episode, we delve into the impact of biracial representation on the Black community and unpack the nuances of race and identity with Shayvawn Webster, Dr. Donna, Alex Copeland, Nikki Valentine, "Juice" Pierce, Tiffanie McKinnon, Florangel Reyes and Isaam Sharef. Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media...

At the center of changing immigration policies are humans living their day-to-day-lives uncertain about their status and futures in America. On this episode, Eliana and this week's panelists discuss the realities and myths of DACA and life as an immigrant in America. Spanish Translation Available Here: https://www.dropbox.com/s/j7oc9kyg7gvtc9s/THE%20REALITY%20OF%20DACA%20AND%20IMMIGRATION%20-%20SPANISH%20TRANSLATION.pdf?dl=0 Tag #thestrangerfruit or @ us on social media to let us know what...