<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" version="2.0"><channel><title>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast With Nikki Williams Producer/Host</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-with-nikki-williams-producer-host--6875672</link><description><![CDATA[Welcome Beloved, to <b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b> Podcast, where we share Theatrical and Literary Performances, Music and Art, News, and Interviews, celebrating the Mocha-Middle, Melanin-Rich Creative Spirit of Artists of Color.]]></description><atom:link href="https://www.spreaker.com/show/6875672/episodes/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><language>en</language><category>Arts</category><copyright>Copyright Nikki Williams</copyright><image><url>https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg</url><title>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast With Nikki Williams Producer/Host</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-with-nikki-williams-producer-host--6875672</link></image><lastBuildDate>Sun, 23 Aug 2026 07:23:59 +0000</lastBuildDate><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Nikki Williams</itunes:name><itunes:email>nikkiwilliams@yahoo.com</itunes:email></itunes:owner><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:subtitle>Welcome Beloved, to “The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast, where we share Theatrical and Literary Performances, Music and Art, News, and Interviews, celebrating the Mocha-Middle, Melanin-Rich Creative Spirit of Artists of Color.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Welcome Beloved, to <b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b> Podcast, where we share Theatrical and Literary Performances, Music and Art, News, and Interviews, celebrating the Mocha-Middle, Melanin-Rich Creative Spirit of Artists of Color.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:category text="Arts"/><itunes:category text="Arts"/><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><podcast:guid>ab13ef3f-4a18-5acc-9e2f-91a03ed6f9f5</podcast:guid><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><item><title>"The Man in the Mirror Wakes Up in a Cold Sweat" Promo Short by Nikki Williams August 23, 2026</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-man-in-the-mirror-wakes-up-in-a-cold-sweat-promo-short-by-nikki-williams-august-23-2026--74566294</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>"The Man in the Mirror Wakes Up in a Cold Sweat"</i></b> is a<b><i> “BROTHER-A-THON”</i></b>TM - MARATHON PERFORMANCE OF <b>POEMS</b>, <b>SONGS</b>, <b>DANCE</b> <b>MOVEMENTS,</b> <b>MONOLOGUES,</b> <b>PRAYERS/AFFIRMATIONS</b> PRESENTED BY <b>BLACK MEN IN THE CREATIVE COMMUNITY AND COMMUNITY OF COLOR </b>CELEBRATING THE <b>BRILLIANCE AND, RESILIENCE OF BLACK MANHOOD INSPIRED BY THE SONG TITLES OF <i>“THE GODFATHER OF SOUL,”</i> JAMES BROWN AND <i>“THE KING OF POP,” </i>MICHAEL JACKSON </b>Conceived and Directed by Nikki WilliamsThe event will take place on Sunday, September 13, 2026 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the Outdoor Stage of Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park located 679 Riverside Drive @ 145th Street in Harlem. New York  10031For More Information CALL Spirit in Sunset Productions: (917) 675-7255 Landline/No Texting or Email nikkiwilliams711@yahoo.com. Facebook and Instagram  as well as visit their website: <a href="http://nikkiwilliamspreadinjamjoyandjive.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nikkiwilliamspreadinjamjoyandjive.com</a>Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park (212) 694-3633/34 and Facebook<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">b0f28ced-61f3-41e1-a071-193350853f47</guid><pubDate>Sun, 23 Aug 2026 07:08:34 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74566294/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioijimgyyognlzc02mwyzltqxztetyta3ms0xotmznta4ntnmndcilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="1050897" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/b0f28ced-61f3-41e1-a071-193350853f47/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"The Man in the Mirror Wakes Up in a Cold Sweat" is a “BROTHER-A-THON”TM - MARATHON PERFORMANCE OF POEMS, SONGS, DANCE MOVEMENTS, MONOLOGUES, PRAYERS/AFFIRMATIONS PRESENTED BY BLACK MEN IN THE CREATIVE COMMUNITY AND COMMUNITY OF COLOR CELEBRATING THE...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>"The Man in the Mirror Wakes Up in a Cold Sweat"</i></b> is a<b><i> “BROTHER-A-THON”</i></b>TM - MARATHON PERFORMANCE OF <b>POEMS</b>, <b>SONGS</b>, <b>DANCE</b> <b>MOVEMENTS,</b> <b>MONOLOGUES,</b> <b>PRAYERS/AFFIRMATIONS</b> PRESENTED BY <b>BLACK MEN IN THE CREATIVE COMMUNITY AND COMMUNITY OF COLOR </b>CELEBRATING THE <b>BRILLIANCE AND, RESILIENCE OF BLACK MANHOOD INSPIRED BY THE SONG TITLES OF <i>“THE GODFATHER OF SOUL,”</i> JAMES BROWN AND <i>“THE KING OF POP,” </i>MICHAEL JACKSON </b>Conceived and Directed by Nikki WilliamsThe event will take place on Sunday, September 13, 2026 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the Outdoor Stage of Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park located 679 Riverside Drive @ 145th Street in Harlem. New York  10031For More Information CALL Spirit in Sunset Productions: (917) 675-7255 Landline/No Texting or Email nikkiwilliams711@yahoo.com. Facebook and Instagram  as well as visit their website: <a href="http://nikkiwilliamspreadinjamjoyandjive.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nikkiwilliamspreadinjamjoyandjive.com</a>Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park (212) 694-3633/34 and Facebook<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>33</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/88cf7447d88a5d658dc5b0cda22d31fe.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Podcast #17: SistahSpeak on a Soul’s Solstice Summer Day Beth Turner Founder of Black Mask Magazine</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/podcast-17-sistahspeak-on-a-soul-s-solstice-summer-day-beth-turner-founder-of-black-mask-magazine--72665366</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b> Podcast #17<i> “SistahSpeak on a Soul’s Solstice Summer Day” – </i>Beth Turner, Founder of Black Mask Magazine Speaks with Nikki Williams, Producer/Host of "The Chocolate Scoop" about the Dream and the Journey Recorded June 21, 2026 The song was not made famous until the super group “Boyz II Men” made it into a hit song back in 1991. <i>“It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday,”</i> originally heard in the now classic 1975 “coming of age” movie, “Cooley High,” would be the perfect backdrop song for episode #17 of the “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast.  After all, what better time to have a conversation about beginnings and endings then on the Summer Solstice - the first day of Summer? In a revealing and riveting, and often time moving conversation, Nikki Williams, producer/Host of “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast sits down with Creator and Innovator, Beth Turner, the Publisher, and Founder of the trail-blazing publication “Black Mask” magazine. The brainchild of Beth Turner, 41 years ago, “Black Mask” magazine has gained iconic status and is a must-read for all involved in theater, and Black Theater in particular.  Starting as a “kitchen table” newsletter with the late, great Producer and Director Mr. Woody King, of New Federal Theater fame, as its cover photo and feature article, the “Black Mask” blossomed and expanded into a successful subscription based enterprise with cover stories featuring such theater notables as Ruby Dee, Ossie Davis, Ntozake Shange, August Wilson, Larry Leon Hamlin, Mary Alice, James Earl Jones, and the Celebrity list of “Who’s Who” in Black Theater goes on and on. Beth Turner is being honored at this year’s International Black Theater Festival held every year in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  Covers from “Black Mask” magazine are part of an exhibition at FAMU, Florida A&amp;M University running until the end of August 2026.  And Beth Turner has been commissioned to write a book on the history of contemporary Black Theater by the book publisher Routledge Publications.    Not bad for someone who 41 years ago, only had a “dollar and a dream!” So, what does this have to do with the hit song, “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday”? According to what Nikki Williams believes, “The Dream is only as Sweet as the Journey.”  From kitchen table, to relying on a technical tool called a T-Square, the “precisioned pain” of cutting and pasting, the drudgery of xeroxing, long, long hours, deadlines, and the reality of having to scrape together nickels and dimes, there was miraculously, an underlying sweetness and innocence in the process-filled Journey.  A satisfaction in the belief that “Black Mask” was worth every bit of the sacrifice that Beth Turner made when she started the newsletter in 1984.  For some, saying goodbye to the sweetness of the Journey can be as hard as the challenges faced along the way.  With the last issue already published and put to bed, Playwright, Theater Director, and Educator Beth Turner, Founder and Publisher of “Black Mask” Magazine shares with honesty and humor, her Journey through Triumph and Challenge.   Whether it was, or whether it was not, podcast #17, will let us know from Beth Turner’s Dreamed Journey, if it was indeed, “…. so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.” Nikki WilliamsProducer/Host“The Chocolate Scoop”June 21, 2026<a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a> <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">6d24486b-bdd8-43e4-891d-c6202a4fe951</guid><pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:47:25 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/72665366/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii2zdi0ndg2yi1izgq4ltqzztqtodkxzc1jnjiwmme0zmu5nteilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="43016795" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/6d24486b-bdd8-43e4-891d-c6202a4fe951/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #17 “SistahSpeak on a Soul’s Solstice Summer Day” – Beth Turner, Founder of Black Mask Magazine Speaks with Nikki Williams, Producer/Host of "The Chocolate Scoop" about the Dream and the Journey Recorded June 21, 2026 The...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b> Podcast #17<i> “SistahSpeak on a Soul’s Solstice Summer Day” – </i>Beth Turner, Founder of Black Mask Magazine Speaks with Nikki Williams, Producer/Host of "The Chocolate Scoop" about the Dream and the Journey Recorded June 21, 2026 The song was not made famous until the super group “Boyz II Men” made it into a hit song back in 1991. <i>“It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday,”</i> originally heard in the now classic 1975 “coming of age” movie, “Cooley High,” would be the perfect backdrop song for episode #17 of the “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast.  After all, what better time to have a conversation about beginnings and endings then on the Summer Solstice - the first day of Summer? In a revealing and riveting, and often time moving conversation, Nikki Williams, producer/Host of “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast sits down with Creator and Innovator, Beth Turner, the Publisher, and Founder of the trail-blazing publication “Black Mask” magazine. The brainchild of Beth Turner, 41 years ago, “Black Mask” magazine has gained iconic status and is a must-read for all involved in theater, and Black Theater in particular.  Starting as a “kitchen table” newsletter with the late, great Producer and Director Mr. Woody King, of New Federal Theater fame, as its cover photo and feature article, the “Black Mask” blossomed and expanded into a successful subscription based enterprise with cover stories featuring such theater notables as Ruby Dee, Ossie Davis, Ntozake Shange, August Wilson, Larry Leon Hamlin, Mary Alice, James Earl Jones, and the Celebrity list of “Who’s Who” in Black Theater goes on and on. Beth Turner is being honored at this year’s International Black Theater Festival held every year in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  Covers from “Black Mask” magazine are part of an exhibition at FAMU, Florida A&amp;M University running until the end of August 2026.  And Beth Turner has been commissioned to write a book on the history of contemporary Black Theater by the book publisher Routledge Publications.    Not bad for someone who 41 years ago, only had a “dollar and a dream!” So, what does this have to do with the hit song, “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday”? According to what Nikki Williams believes, “The Dream is only as Sweet as the Journey.”  From kitchen table, to relying on a technical tool called a T-Square, the “precisioned pain” of cutting and pasting, the drudgery of xeroxing, long, long hours, deadlines, and the reality of having to scrape together nickels and dimes, there was miraculously, an underlying sweetness and innocence in the process-filled Journey.  A satisfaction in the belief that “Black Mask” was worth every bit of the sacrifice that Beth Turner made when she started the newsletter in 1984.  For some, saying goodbye to the sweetness of the Journey can be as hard as the challenges faced along the way.  With the last issue already published and put to bed, Playwright, Theater Director, and Educator Beth Turner, Founder and Publisher of “Black Mask” Magazine shares with honesty and humor, her Journey through Triumph and Challenge.   Whether it was, or whether it was not, podcast #17, will let us know from Beth Turner’s Dreamed Journey, if it was indeed, “…. so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.” Nikki WilliamsProducer/Host“The Chocolate Scoop”June 21, 2026<a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a> <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists,...]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5378</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/cb48dfc60a7fcd3b009bf28172e978f3.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>17</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>The Chocolate Scoop #16 "Rockin With the Role &amp; Rollin with the Rock" Black Theater Veterans 6/7/26</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-16-rockin-with-the-role-rollin-with-the-rock-black-theater-veterans-6-7-26--72545957</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b>TM<b><i> Podcast </i>#16 <i>“Rockin' with the Role and Rollin' with the Rock” </i></b>Two Black Theater Veterans speak About Their Reversed Migration Creative Journey from New York to North Carolina Recorded June 7, 2026 Copyright 2026  All Rights Reserved Tennessee Native, Byron Saunders and Philadelphia Native, Elizabeth Flax Branch made names for themselves as top notch Theater Artists in New York City well-over three decades ago.  As Director, Actor, Dramaturg, Producer, Instructor, roles that they have both excelled in one will find that their resumes are New York City fattened.  So one would ask both Byron Saunders, Actor, Director, Producer, Playwright, Stage Manager, Civil Rights Activist, and Radio Host, and Elizabeth Flax Branch Producer, Director, Actor (Stage, Television, and Film), Voice Artist, Educator, Visual and Graphic Design Artist, why they left the bright lights in New York for the Arts Scene in North Carolina?  Hmm?  What gives?  Why the Reversed Migration? In this the 16th episode of “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast, Producer/Host Nikki Williams is not going to give away the answers in this podcast description.  You will have to listen to the podcast to hear about their passionate, exciting, successful, and yes, challenging lives as Veteran Members of Black Theater.  When things are going great, you happily and joyfully take that script and <i>“Rock with the Role,”</i> but when you face the inevitable rocky challenges that are part and parcel of the up and down business of Film and Theater, especially if you are a Black Artists working on set and stage, you just gonna haveta <i>“Rock with the Roll.”</i>Either way, in high water or drought, Elizabeth Flax Branch and Byron C. Saunders’ Passion for the Theater Arts have never run dry.  As they did in New York, both have found blooming seasons spilling over, and sweet success in North Carolina.  Neither being a Native New York, they are doing what a lot of what those who were part of the Great Migration have done – leaving New York to go back Down South.  Doing what most Black Folk are known to do and that is to “Keep it Movin’ “ Without giving too much away, this episode of “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast promises that he listen will find this to be a captivating conversation that is sure to uplift, inspire, and motivate.  New York and Winston Salem North Carolina, as well as Greensboro North Carolina, have green grass. Both Byron C. Saunders and Elizabeth Flax Branch have learned to roll back the Rock and blossom where they stand! - Nikki WilliamsProducer/HostCopyright 2026  All Rights Reserved“The Chocolate Scoop” TM podcast<a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">50346397-6eb1-4eab-84ff-c4ebc74d045b</guid><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 06:55:39 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/72545957/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii1mdm0njm5ny02zwixltrlywitodrmzi1jngviyzc0zda0nwiilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="54261569" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/50346397-6eb1-4eab-84ff-c4ebc74d045b/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“The Chocolate Scoop”TM Podcast #16 “Rockin' with the Role and Rollin' with the Rock” Two Black Theater Veterans speak About Their Reversed Migration Creative Journey from New York to North Carolina Recorded June 7, 2026 Copyright 2026  All Rights...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b>TM<b><i> Podcast </i>#16 <i>“Rockin' with the Role and Rollin' with the Rock” </i></b>Two Black Theater Veterans speak About Their Reversed Migration Creative Journey from New York to North Carolina Recorded June 7, 2026 Copyright 2026  All Rights Reserved Tennessee Native, Byron Saunders and Philadelphia Native, Elizabeth Flax Branch made names for themselves as top notch Theater Artists in New York City well-over three decades ago.  As Director, Actor, Dramaturg, Producer, Instructor, roles that they have both excelled in one will find that their resumes are New York City fattened.  So one would ask both Byron Saunders, Actor, Director, Producer, Playwright, Stage Manager, Civil Rights Activist, and Radio Host, and Elizabeth Flax Branch Producer, Director, Actor (Stage, Television, and Film), Voice Artist, Educator, Visual and Graphic Design Artist, why they left the bright lights in New York for the Arts Scene in North Carolina?  Hmm?  What gives?  Why the Reversed Migration? In this the 16th episode of “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast, Producer/Host Nikki Williams is not going to give away the answers in this podcast description.  You will have to listen to the podcast to hear about their passionate, exciting, successful, and yes, challenging lives as Veteran Members of Black Theater.  When things are going great, you happily and joyfully take that script and <i>“Rock with the Role,”</i> but when you face the inevitable rocky challenges that are part and parcel of the up and down business of Film and Theater, especially if you are a Black Artists working on set and stage, you just gonna haveta <i>“Rock with the Roll.”</i>Either way, in high water or drought, Elizabeth Flax Branch and Byron C. Saunders’ Passion for the Theater Arts have never run dry.  As they did in New York, both have found blooming seasons spilling over, and sweet success in North Carolina.  Neither being a Native New York, they are doing what a lot of what those who were part of the Great Migration have done – leaving New York to go back Down South.  Doing what most Black Folk are known to do and that is to “Keep it Movin’ “ Without giving too much away, this episode of “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast promises that he listen will find this to be a captivating conversation that is sure to uplift, inspire, and motivate.  New York and Winston Salem North Carolina, as well as Greensboro North Carolina, have green grass. Both Byron C. Saunders and Elizabeth Flax Branch have learned to roll back the Rock and blossom where they stand! - Nikki WilliamsProducer/HostCopyright 2026  All Rights Reserved“The Chocolate Scoop” TM podcast<a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br...]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>6783</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/cb48dfc60a7fcd3b009bf28172e978f3.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>The Chocolate Scoop #15 "Jazz Vespers and Jazz Consortiums and Jazz Musicians in Brooklyn, Oh My!”</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-15-jazz-vespers-and-jazz-consortiums-and-jazz-musicians-in-brooklyn-oh-my--72455796</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast </i>#15 <i>“Jazz Vespers, and Jazz Consortiums, and Jazz Musicians, in Brooklyn, Oh My!”</i></b><i> </i> Nikki Williams in Conversation with Ms. Bonda Cunningham Celebrating Brooklyn as a Wonderland of Jazz during June, Black Music Month Recorded June 4, 2026 Had Dorothy been given<b><i> </i></b>the choice of going to Jazz Vespers at Emanual Baptist Church or an event at the Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium, maybe she would have chosen to do so instead of going to Oz.  And if Dorothy did decide to brave the Wicked Witch of Funding Cuts, and go on to Oz as intended, most likely, she would find most of the Cats swinging and performing in Oz anyway! <i>“Jazz Vespers, and Jazz Consortiums, and Jazz Musicians, in Brooklyn, Oh My! </i>speaks to Brooklyn’s lasting dedication and love of Jazz Music.  Whether its Jazz Vespers at churches like Emanuel Baptist Church in Brooklyn, or the Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium, Ms. Bonda Cunningham works to keep the history and artform of Jazz, as well as her husband, the late great Jazz Bassist, Bob Cunningham’s legacy and music contributions, vibrant and thriving. According to Bonda Cunningham, “Vespers” is a small, short religious service and Jazz is “… exquisite, something that comes from God.”  So it’s no wonder that being a member of Emanuel Baptist Church in Brooklyn, and a person who is also a member of the Jazz Vespers Committee as well as a member of the Central Jazz Consortium in Brooklyn, sees both memberships as a natural expression of devotion and love to her late husband, Bob Cunningham’s musical memory. In this 90-minute discussion and on this 15th episode of “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast, producer/host Nikki Williams celebrates June as Black Music Month by speaking with her guest about Bob, Brilliance, and Jazz.  Bonda Cunningham shares information about upcoming Jazz music events that will be held in Brooklyn, as well as the people and events that make Brooklyn a wonderland of Cultural Conservation.  Bonda Cunningham, a one-time Harlem Homeowner, is no stranger to working with others to produce quality music programs for this is how she met her brilliant husband Bob Cunningham.  But Bonda has clearly found her place and space in Brooklyn’s Jazz Cultural Capital because it is where her husband Bob, and the brilliant and prolific Jazz Pianist, Mr. Randy Weston made their Musical Homes.  Though you won’t be able to click the heels of your red ruby glass slippers together three times to get to this June’s Jazz Concerts held at Emanuel Baptist Church in Brooklyn or the one being sponsored later in June by the Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium, you can, as Duke Ellington wrote, just “Take the ‘A’ train!” – Nikki Williams    Producer/Host    <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> podcast  thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">207a79e3-ddc7-4651-bc24-b2aaf142d796</guid><pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 08:23:23 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/72455796/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioiiymddhnzllmy1kzgm3ltq2ntetymmync1immfhzje0mmq3otyilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="44180184" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/207a79e3-ddc7-4651-bc24-b2aaf142d796/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #15 “Jazz Vespers, and Jazz Consortiums, and Jazz Musicians, in Brooklyn, Oh My!”  Nikki Williams in Conversation with Ms. Bonda Cunningham Celebrating Brooklyn as a Wonderland of Jazz during June, Black Music Month...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast </i>#15 <i>“Jazz Vespers, and Jazz Consortiums, and Jazz Musicians, in Brooklyn, Oh My!”</i></b><i> </i> Nikki Williams in Conversation with Ms. Bonda Cunningham Celebrating Brooklyn as a Wonderland of Jazz during June, Black Music Month Recorded June 4, 2026 Had Dorothy been given<b><i> </i></b>the choice of going to Jazz Vespers at Emanual Baptist Church or an event at the Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium, maybe she would have chosen to do so instead of going to Oz.  And if Dorothy did decide to brave the Wicked Witch of Funding Cuts, and go on to Oz as intended, most likely, she would find most of the Cats swinging and performing in Oz anyway! <i>“Jazz Vespers, and Jazz Consortiums, and Jazz Musicians, in Brooklyn, Oh My! </i>speaks to Brooklyn’s lasting dedication and love of Jazz Music.  Whether its Jazz Vespers at churches like Emanuel Baptist Church in Brooklyn, or the Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium, Ms. Bonda Cunningham works to keep the history and artform of Jazz, as well as her husband, the late great Jazz Bassist, Bob Cunningham’s legacy and music contributions, vibrant and thriving. According to Bonda Cunningham, “Vespers” is a small, short religious service and Jazz is “… exquisite, something that comes from God.”  So it’s no wonder that being a member of Emanuel Baptist Church in Brooklyn, and a person who is also a member of the Jazz Vespers Committee as well as a member of the Central Jazz Consortium in Brooklyn, sees both memberships as a natural expression of devotion and love to her late husband, Bob Cunningham’s musical memory. In this 90-minute discussion and on this 15th episode of “The Chocolate Scoop” podcast, producer/host Nikki Williams celebrates June as Black Music Month by speaking with her guest about Bob, Brilliance, and Jazz.  Bonda Cunningham shares information about upcoming Jazz music events that will be held in Brooklyn, as well as the people and events that make Brooklyn a wonderland of Cultural Conservation.  Bonda Cunningham, a one-time Harlem Homeowner, is no stranger to working with others to produce quality music programs for this is how she met her brilliant husband Bob Cunningham.  But Bonda has clearly found her place and space in Brooklyn’s Jazz Cultural Capital because it is where her husband Bob, and the brilliant and prolific Jazz Pianist, Mr. Randy Weston made their Musical Homes.  Though you won’t be able to click the heels of your red ruby glass slippers together three times to get to this June’s Jazz Concerts held at Emanuel Baptist Church in Brooklyn or the one being sponsored later in June by the Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium, you can, as Duke Ellington wrote, just “Take the ‘A’ train!” – Nikki Williams    Producer/Host    <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> podcast  thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and...]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5523</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/cb48dfc60a7fcd3b009bf28172e978f3.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>The Chocolate Scoop podcast #12 The PJ's Peanut Butter &amp; Jelly Poetry &amp; Jazz 4/26/26 Nikki Williams</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-12-the-pj-s-peanut-butter-jelly-poetry-jazz-4-26-26-nikki-williams--71932873</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop” </i>Podcast<i> #12 “The PJ's: Peanut Butter &amp; Jelly Poetry &amp; Jazz - A Natural Combination”</i></b> <b>A National Poetry Month and Jazz Appreciation Month Celebration April 26, 2026</b> <i>“Like any good peanut butter on a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, jazz should stick to the resonate roof of your Soul”</i> Two questions about game changing and earth-shaking world events: Whose idea was it to come up with the concept of putting peanut butter on one side of the bread and jelly on the other?  And who was the first person to spread a poem smoothly and sweetly on top of a Jazz riff?  Whatever the origins of peanut butter and jelly and poetry and Jazz – the PJ’s, are now a satisfying and natural combination.          April is National Poetry Month.  It also shares its Spring days with the observance of Jazz Appreciation Month.  In this twelfth episode of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> podcast, Producer/Host Nikki Williams celebrates the sweet magical merging of both melodic muse and poetic music.  As its been proven both Jazz and Poetry in combination, create a stick to the Soul, roof raising Artform.           Poetry and Jazz are complement each other for both thrive when tapped into the Gift of Improvisation.  To discuss this, Williams brings together practitioners of both Jazz and Poetry in an inspired conversation.  Hailing from Los Angeles, MsTmusze (Misty Muse) is an Honorary New Orleanian, Spoken Word and Performance Artist.  She is also a Multi-disciplined Artist who is the Inaugural Honoree of the Pan African Film Festival.  Born in Harlem and raised in the Bronx, Mr. Clifton Anderson is a Jazz Musician, Trombonist, Composer, Educator and Producer.  Anderson comes from Musical Royality: his uncle is Mr. Sonny Rollins, the ground-breaking, innovative Jazz Saxophonist.     This 90-minute episode circling around the concept of what Williams calls the natural concept and combination of the “PJ’s” as it pertains to Creatives in Business.   Some of the “PJ’s” discussed are the importance of: Perseverance and Joy, distinguishing between Peace and Jive, honoring both Place and Journey, and Determining and discerning Price and Judgement.  Giving Praise and Jubilation to the Ancestors for the privilege of being receivers as well as Messengers of God’s Gift and Grace is a threaded refrain resounding throughout the conversation.      Many people agree that “<i>The PJ’s: Peanut Butter &amp; Jelly and Poetry &amp; Jazz</i> are a Natural Combination. Performance Poet MsTmusze and Jazz Composer and Trombonist Clifton Anderson are a natural creative pairing who more than capable of taking on this informative and timely conversation.thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">354b5e5f-14dd-486d-abec-06bdda33122a</guid><pubDate>Sat, 09 May 2026 01:43:59 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/71932873/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioiizntrinwu1zi0xngrkltq4nmqtywjlyy0wnmjkzgezmzeymmeilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="49730264" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/354b5e5f-14dd-486d-abec-06bdda33122a/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #12 “The PJ's: Peanut Butter &amp;amp; Jelly Poetry &amp;amp; Jazz - A Natural Combination” A National Poetry Month and Jazz Appreciation Month Celebration April 26, 2026 “Like any good peanut butter on a peanut butter and jelly...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop” </i>Podcast<i> #12 “The PJ's: Peanut Butter &amp; Jelly Poetry &amp; Jazz - A Natural Combination”</i></b> <b>A National Poetry Month and Jazz Appreciation Month Celebration April 26, 2026</b> <i>“Like any good peanut butter on a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, jazz should stick to the resonate roof of your Soul”</i> Two questions about game changing and earth-shaking world events: Whose idea was it to come up with the concept of putting peanut butter on one side of the bread and jelly on the other?  And who was the first person to spread a poem smoothly and sweetly on top of a Jazz riff?  Whatever the origins of peanut butter and jelly and poetry and Jazz – the PJ’s, are now a satisfying and natural combination.          April is National Poetry Month.  It also shares its Spring days with the observance of Jazz Appreciation Month.  In this twelfth episode of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> podcast, Producer/Host Nikki Williams celebrates the sweet magical merging of both melodic muse and poetic music.  As its been proven both Jazz and Poetry in combination, create a stick to the Soul, roof raising Artform.           Poetry and Jazz are complement each other for both thrive when tapped into the Gift of Improvisation.  To discuss this, Williams brings together practitioners of both Jazz and Poetry in an inspired conversation.  Hailing from Los Angeles, MsTmusze (Misty Muse) is an Honorary New Orleanian, Spoken Word and Performance Artist.  She is also a Multi-disciplined Artist who is the Inaugural Honoree of the Pan African Film Festival.  Born in Harlem and raised in the Bronx, Mr. Clifton Anderson is a Jazz Musician, Trombonist, Composer, Educator and Producer.  Anderson comes from Musical Royality: his uncle is Mr. Sonny Rollins, the ground-breaking, innovative Jazz Saxophonist.     This 90-minute episode circling around the concept of what Williams calls the natural concept and combination of the “PJ’s” as it pertains to Creatives in Business.   Some of the “PJ’s” discussed are the importance of: Perseverance and Joy, distinguishing between Peace and Jive, honoring both Place and Journey, and Determining and discerning Price and Judgement.  Giving Praise and Jubilation to the Ancestors for the privilege of being receivers as well as Messengers of God’s Gift and Grace is a threaded refrain resounding throughout the conversation.      Many people agree that “<i>The PJ’s: Peanut Butter &amp; Jelly and Poetry &amp; Jazz</i> are a Natural Combination. Performance Poet MsTmusze and Jazz Composer and Trombonist Clifton Anderson are a natural creative pairing who more than capable of taking on this informative and timely conversation.thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved...]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>6217</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/cb48dfc60a7fcd3b009bf28172e978f3.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #9 “Holding God in Her Throat” – Black Women in the Clergy 3/22/26</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-9-holding-god-in-her-throat-black-women-in-the-clergy-3-22-26--71309046</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i> “The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b> Podcast #9 <b><i>“Holding God in Her Throat” – Black Women Serving in the Clergy</i></b>March 22, 2026, Nikki Williams Producer/Host Inspired by the deeply moving and reflective poem, <i>“Our Grandmothers”</i> written by Dr. Maya Angelou and her personal remembrances of her own Grandmother Mrs. Irene Ivey, whose deferred dream and life ambition was to serve God as a member of the Clergy, Producer/Host Nikki Williams embarks on a eye opening and highly personal Journey with Reverend Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro as Dr. DeCaro speaks about the Challenges and Triumphs of being a Black Woman Pastor.  <i>“Holding God in Her Throat,”</i> a line from Dr. Maya Angelou’s magnificent poem <i>“Our Grandmothers.”</i> The poem is chorus threaded throughout with the words, <i>“I Shall Not Be Moved.”</i>  And those words are part of a Gospel Song that goes, <i>“Like a tree that stands by the water, I Shall not be Moved.”</i>  As Dr. Maya Angelou gives examples of how the stoic faith of Black Grandmothers are like a tree planted by the water, Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro recounts how she stayed tree stoic as she faced and stared down adversities, as well as how she looked openly into the gentle eyes of Grace. An Award-Winning Professor, Author and Vocalist, Reverend Dr. DeCaro generously shares with <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> listening audience, the importance of her Trust and Faith in the God of her Understanding, her personal Truth of what it means to be a Black Woman in the Clergy, as well as Inspirational Words of Wisdom through Song, Poetry and Personal Narratives. Reverend Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro holds a PhD in Education.  She is an Ordained Minister. and Pastor of the People's Church located in New York.  She is an Award-Winning College Professor. a Billboard charted vocalist and the Author of “Finding Your Pie.”   Dr. DeCaro is also a contributing Author of <i>“Chicken Soup for the Soul,”</i> as well as the Author of the book <i>“Speaking Now.”</i> <a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">85a51c00-357d-4bd0-9074-b3f15a10b2c4</guid><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 05:40:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/71309046/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii4nwe1mwmwmc0zntdkltrizdatota3nc1im2yxnwexmgiyyzqilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="41355616" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.rs-prod.riverside.fm/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/85a51c00-357d-4bd0-9074-b3f15a10b2c4/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle> “The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #9 “Holding God in Her Throat” – Black Women Serving in the ClergyMarch 22, 2026, Nikki Williams Producer/Host Inspired by the deeply moving and reflective poem, “Our Grandmothers” written by Dr. Maya Angelou and her...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i> “The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b> Podcast #9 <b><i>“Holding God in Her Throat” – Black Women Serving in the Clergy</i></b>March 22, 2026, Nikki Williams Producer/Host Inspired by the deeply moving and reflective poem, <i>“Our Grandmothers”</i> written by Dr. Maya Angelou and her personal remembrances of her own Grandmother Mrs. Irene Ivey, whose deferred dream and life ambition was to serve God as a member of the Clergy, Producer/Host Nikki Williams embarks on a eye opening and highly personal Journey with Reverend Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro as Dr. DeCaro speaks about the Challenges and Triumphs of being a Black Woman Pastor.  <i>“Holding God in Her Throat,”</i> a line from Dr. Maya Angelou’s magnificent poem <i>“Our Grandmothers.”</i> The poem is chorus threaded throughout with the words, <i>“I Shall Not Be Moved.”</i>  And those words are part of a Gospel Song that goes, <i>“Like a tree that stands by the water, I Shall not be Moved.”</i>  As Dr. Maya Angelou gives examples of how the stoic faith of Black Grandmothers are like a tree planted by the water, Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro recounts how she stayed tree stoic as she faced and stared down adversities, as well as how she looked openly into the gentle eyes of Grace. An Award-Winning Professor, Author and Vocalist, Reverend Dr. DeCaro generously shares with <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> listening audience, the importance of her Trust and Faith in the God of her Understanding, her personal Truth of what it means to be a Black Woman in the Clergy, as well as Inspirational Words of Wisdom through Song, Poetry and Personal Narratives. Reverend Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro holds a PhD in Education.  She is an Ordained Minister. and Pastor of the People's Church located in New York.  She is an Award-Winning College Professor. a Billboard charted vocalist and the Author of “Finding Your Pie.”   Dr. DeCaro is also a contributing Author of <i>“Chicken Soup for the Soul,”</i> as well as the Author of the book <i>“Speaking Now.”</i> <a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5170</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/87b434bdc528d034b391674db485cea0.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #10 “Heart to Art”  A Divine Dialogue Between Dad &amp; Daughter Creatives</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-10-heart-to-art-a-divine-dialogue-between-dad-daughter-creatives--71279258</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop” </i>Podcast #10 <i>“Heart to Art” - A Divine Dialogue Between Dad and Daughter Creatives</i> </b>March 29, 2026 Sharing more than just genetics.  Sharing more than their last names.  Multi-GRAMMY®-nominated Saxophonist, Composer, Bandleader, Educator and Producer, Bobby Watson and Award-Winning Physical and Digital Artist Developer, Educator, and AR Content Creator, Lafiya Watson, share their laughter, love, and lives with Nikki Williams, Producer/Host of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop.”  </i> From temperaments to tendencies, tastes to talents, testimonies to truths, both Watsons offer the listener a rare and tender glance and glimpse of their special Dad and Daughter relationship. Episode #10 of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> Podcast is a humorous, thoughtful peak into the precious Dad/Daughter memories of two genius creators and innovators as well as their artistic philosophies and experiences. Daughter Lafiya Watson has successfully worked with tech teams to explore AR and immersive technology to working with seniors learning digital literacy, making complex technology feel approachable.  Dad, Bobby Watson, has for more than four decades contributed consistently to intelligent, sensitive, and well thought out music to the modern-day jazz lexicon. While both Watsons are accomplished Artists are very devoted to their craft, it is evidently clear in this conversation that they each place above everything else, the unconditional Love and unbreakable bond that the relationship of Dad and Daughter has Gifted them.  Being a Girl Dad and a Dad’s Girl is a Blessing.  In this first-time recorded <i>“Heart to Art”</i> conversation between Gifted Creatives Bobby Watson and his first-born child and daughter Lafiya Watson, we get to hear an audio Love Letter that reminds each of us that Love and Family is indeed the Greatest Gift of All.  <a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">a4aa7fb3-5b9e-4ce4-9fb3-83e2443fb7de</guid><pubDate>Sun, 12 Apr 2026 21:23:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/71279258/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioijhngfhn2zimy01yjllltrjztqtowzimy04m2uyndqzzmi3zguilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="39600605" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.rs-prod.riverside.fm/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/a4aa7fb3-5b9e-4ce4-9fb3-83e2443fb7de/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #10 “Heart to Art” - A Divine Dialogue Between Dad and Daughter Creatives March 29, 2026 Sharing more than just genetics.  Sharing more than their last names.  Multi-GRAMMY®-nominated Saxophonist, Composer, Bandleader,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop” </i>Podcast #10 <i>“Heart to Art” - A Divine Dialogue Between Dad and Daughter Creatives</i> </b>March 29, 2026 Sharing more than just genetics.  Sharing more than their last names.  Multi-GRAMMY®-nominated Saxophonist, Composer, Bandleader, Educator and Producer, Bobby Watson and Award-Winning Physical and Digital Artist Developer, Educator, and AR Content Creator, Lafiya Watson, share their laughter, love, and lives with Nikki Williams, Producer/Host of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop.”  </i> From temperaments to tendencies, tastes to talents, testimonies to truths, both Watsons offer the listener a rare and tender glance and glimpse of their special Dad and Daughter relationship. Episode #10 of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> Podcast is a humorous, thoughtful peak into the precious Dad/Daughter memories of two genius creators and innovators as well as their artistic philosophies and experiences. Daughter Lafiya Watson has successfully worked with tech teams to explore AR and immersive technology to working with seniors learning digital literacy, making complex technology feel approachable.  Dad, Bobby Watson, has for more than four decades contributed consistently to intelligent, sensitive, and well thought out music to the modern-day jazz lexicon. While both Watsons are accomplished Artists are very devoted to their craft, it is evidently clear in this conversation that they each place above everything else, the unconditional Love and unbreakable bond that the relationship of Dad and Daughter has Gifted them.  Being a Girl Dad and a Dad’s Girl is a Blessing.  In this first-time recorded <i>“Heart to Art”</i> conversation between Gifted Creatives Bobby Watson and his first-born child and daughter Lafiya Watson, we get to hear an audio Love Letter that reminds each of us that Love and Family is indeed the Greatest Gift of All.  <a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>4951</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #9 “Holding God in Her Throat” – Black Women in the Clergy 3/22/26</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-9-holding-god-in-her-throat-black-women-in-the-clergy-3-22-26--71033869</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b> Podcast #9 <b><i>“Holding God in Her Throat” – Black Women Serving in the Clergy</i></b>March 22, 2026, Nikki Williams Producer/Host Inspired by the deeply moving and reflective poem, <i>“Our Grandmothers”</i> written by Dr. Maya Angelou and her personal remembrances of her own Grandmother Mrs. Irene Ivey, whose deferred dream and life ambition was to serve God as a member of the Clergy, Producer/Host Nikki Williams embarks on a eye opening and highly personal Journey with Reverend Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro as Dr. DeCaro speaks about the Challenges and Triumphs of being a Black Woman Pastor.  <i>“Holding God in Her Throat,”</i> a line from Dr. Maya Angelou’s magnificent poem <i>“Our Grandmothers.”</i> The poem is chorus threaded throughout with the words, <i>“I Shall Not Be Moved.”</i>  And those words are part of a Gospel Song that goes, <i>“Like a tree that stands by the water, I Shall not be Moved.”</i>  As Dr. Maya Angelou gives examples of how the stoic faith of Black Grandmothers are like a tree planted by the water, Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro recounts how she stayed tree stoic as she faced and stared down adversities, as well as how she looked openly into the gentle eyes of Grace. An Award-Winning Professor, Author and Vocalist, Reverend Dr. DeCaro generously shares with <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> listening audience, the importance of her Trust and Faith in the God of her Understanding, her personal Truth of what it means to be a Black Woman in the Clergy, as well as Inspirational Words of Wisdom through Song, Poetry and Personal Narratives. Reverend Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro holds a PhD in Education.  She is an Ordained Minister. and Pastor of the People's Church located in New York.  She is an Award-Winning College Professor. a Billboard charted vocalist and the Author of “Finding Your Pie.”   Dr. DeCaro is also a contributing Author of <i>“Chicken Soup for the Soul,”</i> as well as the Author of the book <i>“Speaking Now.”</i><a href="https://www.instagram.com/singteachrev/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b>Michele Sweeting-D (@singteachrev</b></a><a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b>www.thechocolatescoop.net</b></a><a href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b>thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<br /><br /></b></a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/singteachrev/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> </a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">54d98a36-6153-4b41-8b72-5ad7c9376a9a</guid><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 01:00:06 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/71033869/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii1ngq5ogezni02mtuzltrindetogi3mi01ywq3yzkznzzhoweilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="42608449" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.rs-prod.riverside.fm/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/54d98a36-6153-4b41-8b72-5ad7c9376a9a/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“The Chocolate Scoop” Podcast #9 “Holding God in Her Throat” – Black Women Serving in the ClergyMarch 22, 2026, Nikki Williams Producer/Host Inspired by the deeply moving and reflective poem, “Our Grandmothers” written by Dr. Maya Angelou and her...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i></b> Podcast #9 <b><i>“Holding God in Her Throat” – Black Women Serving in the Clergy</i></b>March 22, 2026, Nikki Williams Producer/Host Inspired by the deeply moving and reflective poem, <i>“Our Grandmothers”</i> written by Dr. Maya Angelou and her personal remembrances of her own Grandmother Mrs. Irene Ivey, whose deferred dream and life ambition was to serve God as a member of the Clergy, Producer/Host Nikki Williams embarks on a eye opening and highly personal Journey with Reverend Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro as Dr. DeCaro speaks about the Challenges and Triumphs of being a Black Woman Pastor.  <i>“Holding God in Her Throat,”</i> a line from Dr. Maya Angelou’s magnificent poem <i>“Our Grandmothers.”</i> The poem is chorus threaded throughout with the words, <i>“I Shall Not Be Moved.”</i>  And those words are part of a Gospel Song that goes, <i>“Like a tree that stands by the water, I Shall not be Moved.”</i>  As Dr. Maya Angelou gives examples of how the stoic faith of Black Grandmothers are like a tree planted by the water, Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro recounts how she stayed tree stoic as she faced and stared down adversities, as well as how she looked openly into the gentle eyes of Grace. An Award-Winning Professor, Author and Vocalist, Reverend Dr. DeCaro generously shares with <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> listening audience, the importance of her Trust and Faith in the God of her Understanding, her personal Truth of what it means to be a Black Woman in the Clergy, as well as Inspirational Words of Wisdom through Song, Poetry and Personal Narratives. Reverend Dr. Michele Sweeting DeCaro holds a PhD in Education.  She is an Ordained Minister. and Pastor of the People's Church located in New York.  She is an Award-Winning College Professor. a Billboard charted vocalist and the Author of “Finding Your Pie.”   Dr. DeCaro is also a contributing Author of <i>“Chicken Soup for the Soul,”</i> as well as the Author of the book <i>“Speaking Now.”</i><a href="https://www.instagram.com/singteachrev/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b>Michele Sweeting-D (@singteachrev</b></a><a href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b>www.thechocolatescoop.net</b></a><a href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b>thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<br /><br /></b></a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/singteachrev/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> </a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5327</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>“The Chocolate Scoop Podcast Episode #8 – “And So, Yet Shall They Speak”</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-episode-8-and-so-yet-shall-they-speak--71007567</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop </i>Podcast Episode #8 – <i>“And So, Yet Shall They Speak”</i> </b>A Presentation during Women’s History Month<b> </b>Nikki Williams, Producer and Host of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> is joined in an extremely informative and fact-packed conversation with Ms. Cheyney McKnight, Founder and Owner of “Not Your Momma’s History,” a firm that consults and aids museums, historical sites, historical societies, private businesses, etc. in developing specialized programming about slavery and the African experience within 18th and 19th century America.    Ms. McKnight speaks with passionate conviction about the need to preserve, document, and share and chronical the everyday narratives and traditions of enslaved ancestors of African descent.  Ms. McKnight is very intentional in her mission and devotion to letting the voices of every enslaved ancestor that she learns about be given space to be heard and remembered.  The demoralizing and depredating realities of people of African descent who endured chatteled lives are not given the same attention of those who as Williams phrased the term, <i>“Celebrity Ancestors,”</i> – Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and the like. “Not Your Momma’s History,” led by Ms. McKnight is a graduate of Simmons University and holds a bachelor’s degree in political history.  More information about “Not Your Momma’s History,” can be found on its social media pages as well as its YouTube channel which has over 200,000 subscribers and 5 million views. <a href="http://www.notyourmommashistory.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.notyourmommashistory.com</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">02a23477-6f01-4838-9984-dd55f9c585db</guid><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:33:26 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/71007567/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioiiwmmeymzq3ny02zjaxltq4mzgtotk4nc1kzdu1zjljntg1zgiilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="48315890" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.rs-prod.riverside.fm/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/02a23477-6f01-4838-9984-dd55f9c585db/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“The Chocolate Scoop Podcast Episode #8 – “And So, Yet Shall They Speak” A Presentation during Women’s History Month Nikki Williams, Producer and Host of “The Chocolate Scoop” is joined in an extremely informative and fact-packed conversation with Ms....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop </i>Podcast Episode #8 – <i>“And So, Yet Shall They Speak”</i> </b>A Presentation during Women’s History Month<b> </b>Nikki Williams, Producer and Host of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> is joined in an extremely informative and fact-packed conversation with Ms. Cheyney McKnight, Founder and Owner of “Not Your Momma’s History,” a firm that consults and aids museums, historical sites, historical societies, private businesses, etc. in developing specialized programming about slavery and the African experience within 18th and 19th century America.    Ms. McKnight speaks with passionate conviction about the need to preserve, document, and share and chronical the everyday narratives and traditions of enslaved ancestors of African descent.  Ms. McKnight is very intentional in her mission and devotion to letting the voices of every enslaved ancestor that she learns about be given space to be heard and remembered.  The demoralizing and depredating realities of people of African descent who endured chatteled lives are not given the same attention of those who as Williams phrased the term, <i>“Celebrity Ancestors,”</i> – Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and the like. “Not Your Momma’s History,” led by Ms. McKnight is a graduate of Simmons University and holds a bachelor’s degree in political history.  More information about “Not Your Momma’s History,” can be found on its social media pages as well as its YouTube channel which has over 200,000 subscribers and 5 million views. <a href="http://www.notyourmommashistory.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.notyourmommashistory.com</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>6040</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>The Chocolate Scoop Podcast #8 “And So, Yet Shall They Speak” 3/15/2026 Nikki Williams Producer/Host</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-8-and-so-yet-shall-they-speak-3-15-2026-nikki-williams-producer-host--70884322</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop </i>Podcast Episode #8 – <i>“And So, Yet Shall They Speak”</i> </b>A Presentation during Women’s History Month<b> </b>Nikki Williams, Producer and Host of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> is joined in an extremely informative and fact-packed conversation with Ms. Cheyney McKnight, Founder and Owner of “Not Your Momma’s History,” a firm that consults and aids museums, historical sites, historical societies, private businesses, etc. in developing specialized programming about slavery and the African experience within 18th and 19th century America.    Ms. McKnight speaks with passionate conviction about the need to preserve, document, and share and chronical the everyday narratives and traditions of enslaved ancestors of African descent.  Ms. McKnight is very intentional in her mission and devotion to letting the voices of every enslaved ancestor that she learns about be given space to be heard and remembered.  The demoralizing and depredating realities of people of African descent who endured chatteled lives are not given the same attention of those who as Williams phrased the term, <i>“Celebrity Ancestors,”</i> – Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and the like. “Not Your Momma’s History,” led by Ms. McKnight is a graduate of Simmons University and holds a bachelor’s degree in political history.  More information about “Not Your Momma’s History,” can be found on its social media pages as well as its YouTube channel which has over 200,000 subscribers and 5 million views. <a href="http://www.notyourmommashistory.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.notyourmommashistory.com</a><a href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.thechocolatescoop.net</a>thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<a href="https://www.spreadinjamjoyandjive.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.spreadinjamjoyandjive.com</a>https://www.byojbringyourownjoy.com<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">8930116e-e84c-40b2-ad17-7f9f25eb49c3</guid><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 02:06:22 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70884322/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii4otmwmte2zs1lodrjltqwyjitywqxny03zjlmmjvlyjq5yzmilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="47073298" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.rs-prod.riverside.fm/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/8930116e-e84c-40b2-ad17-7f9f25eb49c3/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“The Chocolate Scoop Podcast Episode #8 – “And So, Yet Shall They Speak” A Presentation during Women’s History Month Nikki Williams, Producer and Host of “The Chocolate Scoop” is joined in an extremely informative and fact-packed conversation with Ms....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>“The Chocolate Scoop </i>Podcast Episode #8 – <i>“And So, Yet Shall They Speak”</i> </b>A Presentation during Women’s History Month<b> </b>Nikki Williams, Producer and Host of <i>“The Chocolate Scoop”</i> is joined in an extremely informative and fact-packed conversation with Ms. Cheyney McKnight, Founder and Owner of “Not Your Momma’s History,” a firm that consults and aids museums, historical sites, historical societies, private businesses, etc. in developing specialized programming about slavery and the African experience within 18th and 19th century America.    Ms. McKnight speaks with passionate conviction about the need to preserve, document, and share and chronical the everyday narratives and traditions of enslaved ancestors of African descent.  Ms. McKnight is very intentional in her mission and devotion to letting the voices of every enslaved ancestor that she learns about be given space to be heard and remembered.  The demoralizing and depredating realities of people of African descent who endured chatteled lives are not given the same attention of those who as Williams phrased the term, <i>“Celebrity Ancestors,”</i> – Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and the like. “Not Your Momma’s History,” led by Ms. McKnight is a graduate of Simmons University and holds a bachelor’s degree in political history.  More information about “Not Your Momma’s History,” can be found on its social media pages as well as its YouTube channel which has over 200,000 subscribers and 5 million views. <a href="http://www.notyourmommashistory.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.notyourmommashistory.com</a><a href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.thechocolatescoop.net</a>thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<a href="https://www.spreadinjamjoyandjive.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.spreadinjamjoyandjive.com</a>https://www.byojbringyourownjoy.com<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5885</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/d3c62f302faed073d5c93ec5f5993626.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #7 "The Rhythm and Rhyme Of It All" March 1, 2026</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-7-the-rhythm-and-rhyme-of-it-all-march-1-2026--70586941</link><description><![CDATA[<a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop" </i>Podcast #7 <i>"The Rhythm and Rhyme Of It All" - </i>Music and the Shaping of Black Manhood</b></a><b>Recorded March 1, 2026</b>Join Producer/Host <b>Nikki Williams</b> as she is reunited with former Bronx Writers Corp members <b>Mr. Azekiwe Providence</b> and <b>Mr. Steven Sapp</b>. Mr. Providence is a Photographer, Performance Poet, Documentarian, Educator, and Community Curator. Mr. Sapp is a Writer, Poet, Director, Performance Artist and Co-founder of two organizations: "The Point" and "UniVerses."  In this in-depth and extended discussion, both guests share their thoughts on how music, in particular, Rap and Hip Hop, informed and shaped their understanding of Black Manhood back in the early days of the music genre's inception.  Like Rap and Hip Hop, both Artists were raised in the Bronx with Fathers who heavily influenced their sense and style of Artistry.  In addition to being Educators and Practicing Artists, Mr. Providence and Mr. Sapp, speak about their personal strategies of how they look to reach today's young up and coming Artists.<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">76284876-e422-4ee3-8de8-b87a9f8db68e</guid><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:15:37 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70586941/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii3nji4ndg3ni1lndiyltrlztmtogrloc1ioddhowy4zgi2oguilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="48414529" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.rs-prod.riverside.fm/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/76284876-e422-4ee3-8de8-b87a9f8db68e/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>https://www.thechocolatescoop.netRecorded March 1, 2026Join Producer/Host Nikki Williams as she is reunited with former Bronx Writers Corp members Mr. Azekiwe Providence and Mr. Steven Sapp. Mr. Providence is a Photographer, Performance Poet,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop" </i>Podcast #7 <i>"The Rhythm and Rhyme Of It All" - </i>Music and the Shaping of Black Manhood</b></a><b>Recorded March 1, 2026</b>Join Producer/Host <b>Nikki Williams</b> as she is reunited with former Bronx Writers Corp members <b>Mr. Azekiwe Providence</b> and <b>Mr. Steven Sapp</b>. Mr. Providence is a Photographer, Performance Poet, Documentarian, Educator, and Community Curator. Mr. Sapp is a Writer, Poet, Director, Performance Artist and Co-founder of two organizations: "The Point" and "UniVerses."  In this in-depth and extended discussion, both guests share their thoughts on how music, in particular, Rap and Hip Hop, informed and shaped their understanding of Black Manhood back in the early days of the music genre's inception.  Like Rap and Hip Hop, both Artists were raised in the Bronx with Fathers who heavily influenced their sense and style of Artistry.  In addition to being Educators and Practicing Artists, Mr. Providence and Mr. Sapp, speak about their personal strategies of how they look to reach today's young up and coming Artists.<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>6052</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>THE CHOCOLATE SCOOP Podcast #7 The Rhythm and Rhyme Of It All March 1, 2026 Nikki Williams Producer</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-7-the-rhythm-and-rhyme-of-it-all-march-1-2026-nikki-williams-producer--70543663</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop" </i>Podcast #7 <i>"The Rhythm and Rhyme Of It All" - </i>Music and the Shaping of Black Manhood</b><b>Recorded March 1, 2026</b>Join Producer/Host <b>Nikki Williams</b> as she is reunited with former Bronx Writers Corp members <b>Mr. Azekiwe Providence</b> and <b>Mr. Steven Sapp</b>. Mr. Providence is a Photographer, Performance Poet, Documentarian, Educator, and Community Curator. Mr. Sapp is a Writer, Poet, Director, Performance Artist and Co-founder of two organizations: "The Point" and "UniVerses."  In this in-depth and extended discussion, both guests share their thoughts on how music, in particular, Rap and Hip Hop, informed and shaped their understanding of Black Manhood back in the early days of the music genre's inception.  Like Rap and Hip Hop, both Artists were raised in the Bronx with Fathers who heavily influenced their sense and style of Artistry.  In addition to being Educators and Practicing Artists, Mr. Providence and Mr. Sapp, speak about their personal strategies of how they look to reach today's young up and coming Artists.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a>  thechocolatescoop#myyahoo.com <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">71b4ec7c-b4d4-43b8-a5b2-4a35c887f7b5</guid><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:26:58 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70543663/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii3mwi0zwm3yy1ingq0ltqzyjgtytvimi00ytm1yzg4n2y3yjuilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="48883479" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.rs-prod.riverside.fm/media/podcasts/7067bf47-4467-47bc-9d82-0322e8bc8527/episodes/71b4ec7c-b4d4-43b8-a5b2-4a35c887f7b5/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #7 "The Rhythm and Rhyme Of It All" - Music and the Shaping of Black ManhoodRecorded March 1, 2026Join Producer/Host Nikki Williams as she is reunited with former Bronx Writers Corp members Mr. Azekiwe Providence and Mr....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop" </i>Podcast #7 <i>"The Rhythm and Rhyme Of It All" - </i>Music and the Shaping of Black Manhood</b><b>Recorded March 1, 2026</b>Join Producer/Host <b>Nikki Williams</b> as she is reunited with former Bronx Writers Corp members <b>Mr. Azekiwe Providence</b> and <b>Mr. Steven Sapp</b>. Mr. Providence is a Photographer, Performance Poet, Documentarian, Educator, and Community Curator. Mr. Sapp is a Writer, Poet, Director, Performance Artist and Co-founder of two organizations: "The Point" and "UniVerses."  In this in-depth and extended discussion, both guests share their thoughts on how music, in particular, Rap and Hip Hop, informed and shaped their understanding of Black Manhood back in the early days of the music genre's inception.  Like Rap and Hip Hop, both Artists were raised in the Bronx with Fathers who heavily influenced their sense and style of Artistry.  In addition to being Educators and Practicing Artists, Mr. Providence and Mr. Sapp, speak about their personal strategies of how they look to reach today's young up and coming Artists.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.thechocolatescoop.net</a>  thechocolatescoop#myyahoo.com <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>6111</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #6 The Dreams Eye See Nikki Williams Producer/Host February 15, 2026</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-6-the-dreams-eye-see-nikki-williams-producer-host-february-15-2026--70186306</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>"The Dreams Eye See"</i> - </b>A vibrant vocalizing of Visions with two veterans working in the visual medium (theater, film, photography). Join Producer/Host Nikki Williams Producer/Host of <b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop,"</i></b> with her guests Ms. Barbara Chirinos, the Inaugural Artistic Director of the Mary Schmidt Campbell Center for Innovation and the Arts (CI&amp;A) and the LaTonya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson Center for the Performing Arts, and Award-Winning Documentary Filmmaker, Photographer, Educator, Author, and Cultural Historian, Mr. Melvin McCray III, as they share Narratives and Knowledge about how their Visual Artforms, shaped their life-long Creative Dreams. <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">4aa714c6-4ab9-453d-a567-3ecd787483b7</guid><pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 05:25:35 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70186306/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii0ywe3mtrjni00ywi5ltq1m2qtytu2ny0zzwnknzg3ndgzyjcilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="47074133" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"The Dreams Eye See" - A vibrant vocalizing of Visions with two veterans working in the visual medium (theater, film, photography). Join Producer/Host Nikki Williams Producer/Host of "The Chocolate Scoop," with her guests Ms. Barbara Chirinos, the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>"The Dreams Eye See"</i> - </b>A vibrant vocalizing of Visions with two veterans working in the visual medium (theater, film, photography). Join Producer/Host Nikki Williams Producer/Host of <b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop,"</i></b> with her guests Ms. Barbara Chirinos, the Inaugural Artistic Director of the Mary Schmidt Campbell Center for Innovation and the Arts (CI&amp;A) and the LaTonya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson Center for the Performing Arts, and Award-Winning Documentary Filmmaker, Photographer, Educator, Author, and Cultural Historian, Mr. Melvin McCray III, as they share Narratives and Knowledge about how their Visual Artforms, shaped their life-long Creative Dreams. <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5885</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #5  Premiere of "Brother's Gonna Work it Out" Podcast Nikki Williams</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-5-premiere-of-brother-s-gonna-work-it-out-podcast-nikki-williams--70033848</link><description><![CDATA[<a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener"><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i><b><i> </i>podcast #5 premiers with the first podcast of<i> "Brother's Gonna Work it Out"</i></b> - Black Men in the Arts Speak about Roles and Responsibilities as Black Male Creators.  </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">The first podcast starts with a conversation with Jamaican born Mr. E. Lloyd Napier, Educator, Actor, Director, Playwright, Visual Artist.  Mr. Napier speaks about his Jamaican roots, his professional career in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and other parts of the United States.  </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mr. Napier also shares reflections on his Artistic Career spanning over a fifty-year period, as well as his reflections on the influence of the late Theater Visionary, Mr. Woodie King, Jr., on Black Theater and the Arts.  Recorded February 8, 2026 </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nikki Williams Producer/Host</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">741ce677-b810-4999-bfdc-a9459bff8a4a</guid><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 09:28:57 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70033848/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii3ndfjzty3ny1iodewltq5otktymzkyy1hotq1owjmzjhhngeilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="29901862" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>https://www.thechocolatescoop.nethttps://www.thechocolatescoop.nethttps://www.thechocolatescoop.nethttps://www.thechocolatescoop.net</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener"><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i><b><i> </i>podcast #5 premiers with the first podcast of<i> "Brother's Gonna Work it Out"</i></b> - Black Men in the Arts Speak about Roles and Responsibilities as Black Male Creators.  </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">The first podcast starts with a conversation with Jamaican born Mr. E. Lloyd Napier, Educator, Actor, Director, Playwright, Visual Artist.  Mr. Napier speaks about his Jamaican roots, his professional career in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and other parts of the United States.  </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mr. Napier also shares reflections on his Artistic Career spanning over a fifty-year period, as well as his reflections on the influence of the late Theater Visionary, Mr. Woodie King, Jr., on Black Theater and the Arts.  Recorded February 8, 2026 </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nikki Williams Producer/Host</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3738</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #1 "The Gift of New Beginnings" January 11, 2026</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-1-the-gift-of-new-beginnings-january-11-2026--69964982</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>The Chocolate Scoop"</i></b><i> </i>Podcast #1:<i> "The Gift of Beginning Again"</i><b> </b> - A Conversation with Innovators and Creators, Dr. Venis Wilder Henry and Attorney Kevin Sylvan. Both Dr. Venis Wilder and Attorney Kevin Sylvan are Artists as well as Professionals with their own Practices.In this inaugural "The Chocolate Scoop" podcast, the audience learns how Dr. Venis Wilder and Attorney Kevin Sylvan balance Practice and Art and how each influences the other in their daily lives.Both guests share family narratives and read a selection of poetry from their original collections.Recorded January 11, 2026. Nikki Williams Producer/Host.<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">08876d04-7389-45ec-873f-3fa80444e3b4</guid><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 08:30:29 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/69964982/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioiiwodg3nmqwnc03mzg5ltq1zwmtodczzi0zzme4mdq0nguzyjqilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="28661151" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #1: "The Gift of Beginning Again"  - A Conversation with Innovators and Creators, Dr. Venis Wilder Henry and Attorney Kevin Sylvan. Both Dr. Venis Wilder and Attorney Kevin Sylvan are Artists as well as Professionals with...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>The Chocolate Scoop"</i></b><i> </i>Podcast #1:<i> "The Gift of Beginning Again"</i><b> </b> - A Conversation with Innovators and Creators, Dr. Venis Wilder Henry and Attorney Kevin Sylvan. Both Dr. Venis Wilder and Attorney Kevin Sylvan are Artists as well as Professionals with their own Practices.In this inaugural "The Chocolate Scoop" podcast, the audience learns how Dr. Venis Wilder and Attorney Kevin Sylvan balance Practice and Art and how each influences the other in their daily lives.Both guests share family narratives and read a selection of poetry from their original collections.Recorded January 11, 2026. Nikki Williams Producer/Host.<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3583</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>The Chocolate Scoop 
Podcast #4: Sistahs Share the Sacred - A Poetic Love/Song</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-4-sistahs-share-the-sacred-a-poetic-love-song--69964984</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop" </i></b>Podcast #4 In this continuing celebration of the Artistic Spirit, we welcome you, the audience to be part of a personal and revealing Creative Conversation with Authors, Poets, and Performance Artists, Josefina Baez, and Tumani Ra'ine Jordan.  In this inspirational and Heartfelt episode, two dynamic Women Artists of the African Diaspora - one African Dominican, the other African American, share poetry, prose, and insights that cross<i> "so-called"</i> borders and boundaries. Join us in this<i> Sistah Soul</i> Connection of Culture, as we Celebrate the power of Faith and Sacredness of Sistahood. This episode of <b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i></b> was recorded on February 1, 2026. Nikki Williams Producer/Host.<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">71244dbd-3934-4558-927f-ac0f1e8c366a</guid><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 07:03:59 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/69964984/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii3mti0ngrizc0zotm0ltq1ntgtoti3zi1hyzbmmwu4yzm2nmeilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="41076837" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #4 In this continuing celebration of the Artistic Spirit, we welcome you, the audience to be part of a personal and revealing Creative Conversation with Authors, Poets, and Performance Artists, Josefina Baez, and Tumani...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop" </i></b>Podcast #4 In this continuing celebration of the Artistic Spirit, we welcome you, the audience to be part of a personal and revealing Creative Conversation with Authors, Poets, and Performance Artists, Josefina Baez, and Tumani Ra'ine Jordan.  In this inspirational and Heartfelt episode, two dynamic Women Artists of the African Diaspora - one African Dominican, the other African American, share poetry, prose, and insights that cross<i> "so-called"</i> borders and boundaries. Join us in this<i> Sistah Soul</i> Connection of Culture, as we Celebrate the power of Faith and Sacredness of Sistahood. This episode of <b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i></b> was recorded on February 1, 2026. Nikki Williams Producer/Host.<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5135</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #3 "Love &amp; Passion" The New LP January 25, 2026</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-3-love-passion-the-new-lp-january-25-2026--69964985</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>"Love &amp; Passion:</i></b> <i>The New LP"</i> In this third episode of "The Chocolate Scoop" podcast, Nikki Williams' <i>Room for Living</i>, is filled with the Joyful Spirit of three fabulous Jazz Musicians, North Carolinian born and bred, Trombonist Tyrone Jefferson, and born and bred South Carolinian Vocalist and Lyricist Terri Davis. Adding to the sparkling conversation is Tyrone's wife and collaborator, Vocalist and Lyricist Toni Jefferson.With decades of musicianship under each of their brilliant belts, each Musician discusses what it takes to find and keep the Love and Passion needed to create, live and thrive as Artists. Tyrone Jefferson and Terri Davis also speak about their Carolinian roots and the people who inspired their creativity.<b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i></b> is a weekly podcast that offers Theatrical and Literary Performances, Music and Art, News, and Interviews, as it celebrates the Mocha-Middle, Melanin-Rich Creative Spirit of Artists of Color.Nikki Williams is the Producer/Host of <b><i>"The "Chocolate Scoop"</i></b>"The Chocolate Scoop" thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<a target="_blank" href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">http://www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">9130f86f-0c45-4317-ae5d-dc60a5afddc4</guid><pubDate>Sat, 31 Jan 2026 09:58:57 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/69964985/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii5mtmwzjg2zi0wyzq1ltqzmtctywu1zc1kyzywytvhzmrkyzqilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="35024788" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Love &amp;amp; Passion: The New LP" In this third episode of "The Chocolate Scoop" podcast, Nikki Williams' Room for Living, is filled with the Joyful Spirit of three fabulous Jazz Musicians, North Carolinian born and bred, Trombonist Tyrone Jefferson,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>"Love &amp; Passion:</i></b> <i>The New LP"</i> In this third episode of "The Chocolate Scoop" podcast, Nikki Williams' <i>Room for Living</i>, is filled with the Joyful Spirit of three fabulous Jazz Musicians, North Carolinian born and bred, Trombonist Tyrone Jefferson, and born and bred South Carolinian Vocalist and Lyricist Terri Davis. Adding to the sparkling conversation is Tyrone's wife and collaborator, Vocalist and Lyricist Toni Jefferson.With decades of musicianship under each of their brilliant belts, each Musician discusses what it takes to find and keep the Love and Passion needed to create, live and thrive as Artists. Tyrone Jefferson and Terri Davis also speak about their Carolinian roots and the people who inspired their creativity.<b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i></b> is a weekly podcast that offers Theatrical and Literary Performances, Music and Art, News, and Interviews, as it celebrates the Mocha-Middle, Melanin-Rich Creative Spirit of Artists of Color.Nikki Williams is the Producer/Host of <b><i>"The "Chocolate Scoop"</i></b>"The Chocolate Scoop" thechocolatescoop@myyahoo.com<a target="_blank" href="http://www.thechocolatescoop.net" rel="noreferrer noopener">http://www.thechocolatescoop.net</a><br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>4379</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>"The Chocolate Scoop" Podcast #2 "They'll Be Singing Over Me" -In Honor of MLK Jr., Day</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chocolate-scoop-podcast-2-they-ll-be-singing-over-me-in-honor-of-mlk-jr-day--69964986</link><description><![CDATA[<b><i>"They'll Be Singing Over Me"</i></b> - A Melanin Melodic Conversation with Authors: Dr. Kevin McGruder, Associate Professor of History at Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio, Author of <i>Race and Real Estate: Conflict and Cooperation in Harlem, 1890-1920, </i>Ms. Lorraine Currelley, Author, NY USA Lifetime Beat Poet Laureate, Executive Director for the Bronx Book Fair aka The People’s Book Fair and Founder and Executive Director for Poets Network &amp; Exchange. and Dr. Lindamichelle Baron, Poet, Author, Faculty Advisor for the international Honor Society for Teachers, and Associate Professor, York College.  On this second podcast of <b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop,"</i></b> our special guests speak about the Triumphs of Creativity, Education, and Innovation, as it pertains to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026. The podcast is also a Poetic Tribute to the sweet <i>"Laying on of Hands," o</i>f 1950's and 1960's Childhood. Nikki Williams is the Producer and Host of "The Chocolate Scoop."  Copyright 2026   All Rights Reserved.<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">6fa8a1ab-b9d3-4ff1-9bab-cd80fa047ecb</guid><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:13:34 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/69964986/eyjlcglzb2rlswqioii2zme4ytfhyi1iowqzltrmzjetowjhyi1jzdgwzmewnddly2iilcjwb2rjyxn0swqioii3mdy3ymy0ny00ndy3ltq3ymmtowq4mi0wmziyzthiyzg1mjcilcjhy2nvdw50swqioii2otjimzhintdmzgq3nzvlmtuyodhmyweilcjwyxroijoi.mp3" length="30207182" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Nikki Williams</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"They'll Be Singing Over Me" - A Melanin Melodic Conversation with Authors: Dr. Kevin McGruder, Associate Professor of History at Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio, Author of Race and Real Estate: Conflict and Cooperation in Harlem, 1890-1920, Ms....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[<b><i>"They'll Be Singing Over Me"</i></b> - A Melanin Melodic Conversation with Authors: Dr. Kevin McGruder, Associate Professor of History at Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio, Author of <i>Race and Real Estate: Conflict and Cooperation in Harlem, 1890-1920, </i>Ms. Lorraine Currelley, Author, NY USA Lifetime Beat Poet Laureate, Executive Director for the Bronx Book Fair aka The People’s Book Fair and Founder and Executive Director for Poets Network &amp; Exchange. and Dr. Lindamichelle Baron, Poet, Author, Faculty Advisor for the international Honor Society for Teachers, and Associate Professor, York College.  On this second podcast of <b><i>"The Chocolate Scoop,"</i></b> our special guests speak about the Triumphs of Creativity, Education, and Innovation, as it pertains to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026. The podcast is also a Poetic Tribute to the sweet <i>"Laying on of Hands," o</i>f 1950's and 1960's Childhood. Nikki Williams is the Producer and Host of "The Chocolate Scoop."  Copyright 2026   All Rights Reserved.<br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>is a series of programs where through Art, Performances, News, Information, and Interviews, we celebrate the Creative Spirit of Artists and Innovators of Color.   The podcast gives testifying voice to the power of the indomitable Spirit of Creatives, Innovators, and those who think and live<i> “Outside the Box.”</i>   <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop"</i> podcast invites dancers, musicians, writers, poets, visual artists, storytellers, actors, directors, journalists, arts organizations, and thought leaders: Trailblazers of Color, to share their incredible narratives as well as their bodies of works with the listening audience.  <br /><br /><i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>also pays homage to the curated Wisdom of the Creative Journey.   Our guests are asked to remember their authentic core: The center of creativity cradled in the Inner Spirit.  Shared also, is the <b><i>mocha-middle, melanin-rich</i></b> sourced energy, that fuels their child-like curiosity and wonder, and their Dreams and Visions.   And finally, <i>"The Chocolate Scoop” </i>podcast applauds those individuals who have paved roads and still found Joy in their God-given Journey.<br /><br />Submitted by Nikki Williams Producer/Host Copyright 2025/2026<br />]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3776</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b9769e19b49d08410c2e0ac70fba98cf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item></channel></rss>
