Our Unseen Roots

08/28/2026

Our Unseen Dads - Nic Davis

What does it actually take to show up for kids when the system is built to underfund them?
In this episode, Evanston-born educator, artist, and writer Nic Davis breaks down what modern teaching looks like when you refuse to stay in your lane. Nic opens up about stepping into a surrogate father role for his students, crowdfunding everything from hygiene products to daily snacks, and why real advocacy means fighting dress code policies that steal instructional time.
We dive deep into:
The Legacy: How a family line of pioneering educators and entrepreneurs shaped his view of community.
The Systemic Grind: Navigating underfunded schools, fighting back against broken incentives, and using Local School Councils to protect essential staff.
Radical Connection: Meeting students where they are—through music, straightforward history, and non-judgmental listening.
Rewriting the Narrative: Flipping the script on Black fatherhood and building a self-sustaining "village" that actually protects its own.
Nic isn't just teaching history; he’s actively shaping it. Hit play for a raw, urgent conversation on what happens when empathy meets real action.

What does it actually take to show up for kids when the system is b...

05/20/2026

“We’re all out here fighting silent battles. Our fears are high, our nerves are up, and everyone has their guard up.” 💔 SocialAnxietyRelief SpreadLove WholesomeReels RealTalk Empathy

05/20/2026

We Do 10x the Work. We Deserve 10x the Value. 💯

05/15/2026

You Can’t Pour From An Empty Cup ☕️🍂

“It’s a habit that we all have... I forgot to take care of me because I had to go see about this person.”
From an instinct to nurture to the cultural pressures of being the bedrock of the community, Black women often put themselves last. Let’s talk about changing the narrative and depositing back into ourselves first.
Drop a 🤍 in the comments if you needed to hear this today!
CommunityHealing

05/15/2026

“I am me, and I don’t know how else to describe it.” ✨
In our latest sit-down for Our Unseen Roots, we spent time with the incredible Lloyandra Cooper—educator, advocate, and proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 🔺🐘
Lloyandra’s journey is a masterclass in resilience and the power of seeing the human behind the title. From helping a student pivot from academic dismissal to the Dean’s List, to standing on the shoulders of giants like Dorothy Height, Lloyandra reminds us that we are the “blueprint for everything.”
Key Takeaways from Lloyandra:
L’s are Lessons, Not Losses: Success isn’t about perfection; it’s about what you build from the moments that challenge you. 📚
The Power of Autonomy: For Lloyandra, liberation is “absolute, uncompromising, unburdened autonomy, joy, and safety.”
Pour Into Yourself: We can’t support the community from an empty cup. Mental health and rest are non-negotiable. ☕️💤
Build Your Own Table: “If there isn’t a seat at the table, I’m going to make a table and bring my own seat.” 🪑
“Excellence in your craft means you challenge yourself to grow... whereas perfection is just seeking validation.”
Lloyandra is a reminder that when we honor our roots and lead with empathy, we don’t just move mountains—we create a path for everyone coming after us. 👣
Who are the black women in your life who have been your blueprint? Tag them below! 👇🏾
CommunityFirst BlackExcellence Blueprint

04/28/2026

Beauty is more than skin deep. ✨

Karli Butler was a survivor long before she found her peace. In this moving short, Karli shares her incredible journey of resilience after surviving a brutal acid attack. From the depths of trauma to becoming a beacon of self-love and advocacy, her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

Watch the full story here: April 29th, 4pm(CST) on YouTube.com/