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This week on Shelley's Plumbline, we look into the true meaning of war, questioning the moral center of American conflicts, and suggesting that the biggest challenge today is simply survival in America.

The discussion exposes America's "masterful lie" of liberty and justice for all, highlighting the historical and ongoing racial injustice faced by Black veterans returning from conflicts.

The speakers assert that white supremacy has created a generation unaware that America is currently losing a race war. Listen as the hosts warn that the failure of leaders to confront these terrifying realities is a danger we can no longer afford to deny, leading to the philosophical question: "If you knew better, would you do better?"

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In this week's podcast, we continue our interview featuring Candis Bonner, a top writer for the major magazine Black Radio Exclusive.

We focus on the history and evolution of the Black radio industry. Bonner explains that Black radio was not homogeneous across the US, and her publication was often ahead of the curve in predicting music trends because it was dedicated to the industry when general trades neglected it.

We discuss the historical power of influential local Black radio personalities, who could previously mobilize thousands of people for community action. However, this local power ultimately diminished because syndicated shows, driven by money, diluted the influence of these strong local voices.

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This week's podcast features guest Candis Bonner, who shares a conversation about lifelong friendship and the evolution of Black media.

Friendship Loss and Reunion
We discuss the pain of losing friends and the rarity of true friendship. Shelley recounts the emotional reunion with his lifelong friend, Jimmy, after 10 years of separation following his homelessness at age 7.

Black Radio Industry History
Candis Bonner, Jimmy’s daughter, shares stories of her career path from Michigan State to a top writer for Black Radio Exclusive in Los Angeles. The episode discusses that syndicated shows, driven by money, ultimately dilute the power of influential local Black radio personalities who could mobilize cities.

Current State of Black Media
Shelley and Candis Bonner agree that effective Black-owned media is virtually nonexistent today because Black-owned media cannot secure financial support or advertising from the business community. Ricky Jones expressed concern that the ongoing struggle is terrifying due to the absolute collapse of Black institutions and shrinking attention spans in younger adults.

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