We welcome back Renée Ọmọladé as she shares a powerful reflection on balancing motherhood, faith, and leadership while raising three Black sons in Boston and advancing educational equity across Massachusetts. Grounded in her Christian faith, Renée describes motherhood as both a gift and a radical act—intentionally affirming her sons’ identities, teaching them to love their brown skin, preparing them for societal realities, and building strong community ties through their schools and family networks. She speaks candidly about the emotional weight Black mothers carry in preparing their sons for a world that can misjudge them, referencing the broader national conversations sparked by tragedies like Trayvon Martin and George Floyd. Through mentorship, asset-mapping, and what she calls a “championship mentality,” Renée encourages Black women to see themselves as powerful leaders within their families and communities. In the spirit of Black History Month, the conversation celebrates resilience, legacy, and the ongoing responsibility to build a stronger, more just future for the next generation.

Our salute to Black History Month continues with Renée Ọmọladé—educator, activist, mother, and board chair—for an inspiring discussion on leadership, identity, and community impact. A South End native and Dorchester resident, Renée shares her journey from navigating educational inequities to organizing major racial justice efforts in Boston, bringing Michelle Obama to Dorchester through her work with Black Girls Rock, and advancing educational equity in her role at United Way of Massachusetts Bay. Grounded in faith and a belief that “when you make an observation, you have an obligation,” Renée reflects on code-switching, mentorship, and what it truly means to lead with courage, authenticity, and purpose.

As we continue our salute to Black History Month, we carry forward a powerful conversation with Dr. Cyntoria Grant on building sustainable movements rooted in leadership, faith, and grace. Dr. Grant reflects on the creation of Parent University in Boston Public Schools, her journey through city government and higher education, and a life-altering accident that led her into a season of stillness, rest, and deep spiritual healing. From learning to sit in God’s quiet to stepping into new leadership at Harvard University, this episode explores how grace, surrender, and faith shape sustainable leadership, empower families, and prepare us for new beginnings.