For this too-short conversation, I sat down with Romeo Regalli, chef and co-owner of Ras Plant Based, located in Brooklyn and New York's West Village. We discussed his upbringing in Ethiopia, embedded in family and community. He described his sense of purpose to make the world healthier and happier one meal at a time, the core of his work, and we dished about his restaurant's original Brooklyn location and its new location in the West Village. From menu to decor, his approach to plant-based Ethiopian cuisine is unique and creative. Romeo's partner in Ras is his wife, Milka Regalli.

https://www.rasplantbased.com

In this inspiring episode, I talk with South African rebel singer Thandiswa Mazwai, discussing her upbringing in Soweto, South Africa, during the Apartheid era. Her memories of the violence that took place are vivid.
She recalls experiencing a great sense of freedom upon Nelson Mandela's release from prison and describes meeting South African legends Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela, who would become her close friends and mentors. Mazwai's musical influences include Fela Kuti, Grace Jones, and UK punk band Skunk Anansie. Her parents, who were activists, had made her read books like Frantz Fanon's Wretched of the Earth. Her latest album is Sankofa, co-produced by Meshell Ndegeocello and fellow South African musician Nduduzo Makhathini; we talk about the experience of working with them. Our conversation wraps with the recollection of her 2005 performance at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem.

https://thandiswa.com

https://www.patreon.com/c/ALONGWAYFROMTHEBLOCKPODCAST

Derrick Banks is the owner and operator of Freshly Faded Barber + Shop in North Park, San Diego. Coming up, he was mentored by local barbers such as those at Gentry’s, part of the San Diego scene for over sixty years. In this conversation we start by discussing his upbringing and the standards his parents set for him. Black history and culture were always important. Banks studied with the Earth Center, an organization focused on reconnecting people with their ancient African traditions. Dedicated to creating something more than a mere barbershop, he hosts after-hours poetry readings and discussions as well as monthly men’s meetings. Our conversation wraps with a discussion of his role as artist and how he reflects that in his attire.

https://www.freshlyfaded.com