Higher Ground Society Podcast

From India, With Hope: Chaitra Gururaj, Pt. 2

In this episode Chaitra shares with Jerald observed similarities and differences between India and Alabama, more interpretation of carnatic music, and her hope for Alabama.

From India, With Love: Chaitra Gururaj, Pt. 1

Jerald sits down with Auburn University Indian Music Ensemble director Chaitra Gururaj to discuss her growing up in south India and the intricacies of south Indian carnatic music.

Go West, Young Man: Jacob de Noailles

For the second installment of the 2021 National Poetry Month series, Jerald sits down with poet and Courtland, Alabama native, Jacob de Noailles, to discuss Jacob's work, his poetic influences, and the dangers of smoking random joints you find in the forest.

Be sure to follow Jacob on Instagram @j.denoailles.

Limitless: Ashley M. Jones, Pt. 2

In the second part of her conversation, Birmingham-based poet Ashley M. Jones talks about why she does the literary work that she does, why she’s flourishing as a Black woman in the south, and why she ate dirt that one time.

We Not Gon' Preach Today: Ashley M. Jones, Pt. 1

In observation of National Poetry Month, Jerald chats with award winning, Birmingham-based poet, educator, and organizer, Ashley M. Jones about artistic inspiration, expression, and examining the United States through a literary lens.

In the Midst of it All: Sheyann Webb Christburg

Jerald sits at the feet of Sheyann Webb Christburg who in 1965 was deemed the Civil Rights Movement's "Smallest Freedom Fighter" by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. himself after participating the Bloody Sunday Selma to Montgomery March. Mrs. Sheyann shares her about the first time she met Dr. King, her Bloody Sunday story, and her hope for Selma and Alabama today.

Black Girl Excellence: Jasmine Garfield

Jerald chats with Birmingham music businesswoman, Jasmine Garfield, about her music writing, producing, and the women who inspire her to continue pushing forward in the music industry.

A Triumph: Dr. Minnie-Bruce Pratt

In observance of Women's History Month 2021, Jerald begins a series of conversations with some of Alabama's prominent women, beginning with Dr. Minnie Bruce Pratt, poet, educator, and women's rights/LGBTQ activist.

Something in the Water: C.A. Jones, Pt. 2

Jerald continues his conversation with Birmingham singer/songwriter C.A. Jones on the topics of humanity and hope for Alabama through Jones' song "Aquarius Moon."

Mystical Encounters: C.A. Jones, Pt. 1

We kick off the new year with a candid interview with folk/indie artist C.A. (Chandler) Jones where he discusses his new album "The Velvet Hour," and the intricacies of life and being.

Music: Spark of Inspiration by Shane Ivers (www.silvermansound.com)