It All Begins Here

Last night on The Pop-Up!, Converge producer Juma Blaq from Portland, Oregon paid a visit to the Black Media Matters Studio where he touched on something deeply impactful: Black men’s mental health. His message was clear: normalize going to therapy and discussing trauma in the name of healing.

Juma Blaq is a dedicated visionary and producer whose unwavering commitment to community stewardship has provided a home base for Black culture and representation in the Rose City. We applaud him for his impact and dedication to telling better stories.

When it comes to protecting Black people, therapist and author Ashley McGirt-Adair keeps it real. Last night on The Pop-Up! with host The Big O, McGirt-Adair discussed the recent controversy around reality star Cheyenne Bryant’s academic credentials, saying that by falsely claiming to be a therapist on Black platforms, Bryant is harming Black people.

Learn more about Ashley McGirt-Adair at ashleymcgirt.com

India Irons, Executive Director of Fearless Dance Studio joined guest host Elisha Michelle on The Pop-Up! to share her journey of overcoming domestic violence and depression, and her studio's mission to empower youth through dance.

Beyond India's dedication to teaching dance to the next generation, Fearless Dance Studio focuses on helping kids discover their purpose and value, providing support to overcome challenges like suicide and depression, and building confidence and a fearless spirit in every student.

You can keep up with Fearless Dance Studio at livefearlessdancestudio.com