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Today, Shelley reaches back into his archive to an interview with Mariam McClendon. They discuss colorism, that is, the differences in perception between light- and dark-complected blacks and the challenges darker-complected blacks encounter – even from members of their own race. Even though the interview is from 1991, the problem of colorism still exists today, hindering relationships and opportunities among blacks. Season Two: Episode 08 The Persistent Problem of Colorism Today, Shelley reaches back into his archive to an interview with Mariam McClendon. They discuss colorism, that is, the differences in perception between light- and dark-complected blacks and the challenges darker-complected blacks encounter – even from members of their own race. Even though the interview is from 1991, the problem of colorism still exists today, hindering relationships and opportunities among blacks. Click An Icon Below To Listen To Shelley's Plumbline Podcast Follow us and continue the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . The death of George Floyd last year has shone a spotlight on what it means to be Black, and especially, to be dark-skinned in America. Special correspondent Fred de Sam Lazaro has our report from Minnesota, home to a growing population of African and other immigrants. It is part of our continuing series "Race Matters", and Fred’s series, "Agents for Change." Watch Now In this extended interview from Roots, Race & Culture, Danor and Lonzo continue their conversation about colorism with University of Utah professor Edmund Fong and current student Darienne Debrule. The group explores how colorism differs among varying ethnic groups, and how you can help combat colorism in your own community. Watch Now CNN's Anderson Cooper highlights a project that reveals how children view racial beliefs, attitudes and preferences . Study shows black and white children are biased toward lighter skin. Test aimed to re-create landmark Doll Test from 1940s. Watch Now When Chika Okoro read the casting call for one of her favorite films, she noticed that actresses with darker skin were assigned lesser roles —prompting her to address a phenomenon she'd experienced all her life: colorism. In this eye-opening talk, Okoro shares coping strategies along with steps that could help eliminate this insidious and destructive mindset of discrimination. Watch Now When I began teaching in Boston, I was struck by how often students of color referred to each other as “light-skinned” or “dark-skinned.” Almost daily, I witnessed high school students identify, categorize and stereotype their peers based on skin tone. Having grown up African American in Louisiana, I was used to white people’s ideas of white superiority and even those “colorstruck” black people who preferred lighter skin. But I did not expect that so many young people of diverse ethnicities—including Dominicans, Puerto Ricans and Cape Verdeans—would actively engage in everyday forms of skin-color bias Read more Coloism Toolik Colorism is an insidious, globally prevalent bias that deeply impacts the lives and livelihoods of darker-skinned women. The term refers not only to the preference for lighter skin between different racial and ethnic communities, but also within those communities. Colorism is an enduring vestige of colonialism and white dominance around the globe and disproportionately harms women of color. Inclusive leaders must work to prevent women of color from experiencing colorism at work — and make sure they don’t leave. The author presents three ways to disrupt colorism in the workplace. Read More Every year, Hollywood inevitably comes under criticism for its lack of racial diversity. But another lesser-known yet still pervasive problem also resurfaces: the lack of diversity in skin tone. It happened again with “In the Heights,” a big-budget film based on the musical created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, which was called out this week for its dearth of dark-skinned, Black Latinos in leading roles. Colorism — or discrimination against darker-skinned people within their same ethnic group — lurks deep among pretty much all communities with varying levels of melanin. But it doesn’t get talked about, and that could be a setback for the racial justice efforts that intensified after the police killing of George Floyd last year. Read more Upload

Your Next Keynote Speaker Meet Dr. Shelley Stewart Book Dr. Shelley Stewart For Your Next Event INSPIRE. EMPOWER. TRANSFORM Why Book Biography Speaking Topics Past Engagements Why Book Dr. Shelley Stewart Decades of Leadership in business, broadcasting, and philanthropy. Trailblazer in Human Rights , honored for advancing equity and justice. Captivating Speaker known for delivering heart-driven, impactful messages. Trusted Voice featured in documentaries, news programs, and cultural archives. Dr. Shelley Stewart is a celebrated speaker, humanitarian, and visionary leader whose story of resilience, leadership, and commitment to unity has moved audiences across generations. From humble beginnings to national influence, Shelley's life work bridges business, education, human rights, and cultural change, Whether you're hosting a corporate event, educational forum, community gathering, or leadership conference, Dr. Stewart brings timeless wisdom, powerful storytelling, and an unwavering message of hope and transformation. Click "About Shelley" for a more comprehensive biography. Past Engagements Decades of Leadership in business, broadcasting, and philanthropy.Trailblazer in Human Rights, honored for advancing equity and justice.Captivating Speaker known for delivering heart-driven, impactful messages.Trusted Voice featured in documentaries, news programs, and cultural archives. Speaking Topics Include: Resilience and Redemption: Overcoming adversity to lead with purpose. The Power of Unity: Bridging generations, communities, and cultures. Leadership with Integrity: Building organizations that uplift humanity. Voice of Change: Human rights, media, education, the Academy of Common Sense, and the power of storytelling. Business for Good: From entrepreneurship to corporate citizenship. Click An Icon Below To Listen To Podcast

In this episode, Shelley reflects on an interview from 1991 that covers the topic of racial identity. Which is the correct terminology? Black? African-American, People of Color? The interview also discusses class differences among Blacks. Be advised that this episode contains frank discussions about race and uses the n-word. Listener discretion is advised. Season Two: Episode 06 Life After Life In Prison Today’s episode features a 1993 interview with Julius Davis, a man who had just spent 19 years in prison. At 21 years of age, he had been handed two life sentences for his involvement in two separate murders. Julius discusses how prior to his crimes, he was involved as a positive influence in his community and how two bad decisions led him to prison. While in prison, however, Julius did not fall victim to negative influences. He created a circle of constructive people who kept their spirits in a positive place and made the best of the prison experience. Listen and hear how he continued his positive influence on the community after his release. Click An Icon Below To Listen To Shelley's Plumbline Podcast Follow us and continue the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . InsideOut In 2007, Dr. Shelley Stewart produced InsideOut, a powerful 26-minute film that presents a clear message to young people, inspiring students to see graduation as the doorway to the rest of their lives. In the film, inmates from two maximum-security prisons deliver their compelling stories directly to students ... from the InsideOut.InsideOut is a powerful 26-minute film that presents a clear message to young people, inspiring students to see graduation as the doorway to the rest of their lives. In the film, inmates from two maximum-security prisons deliver their compelling stories directly to students ... from the InsideOut. To date, InsideOut has touched the lives of more than 15 million parents, teachers, students and communities throughout the United States and Canada. Shelley Stewart_InsideOut Clip Play Video InsideOut Watch Now Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Share Channel Info Close Order A Copy Of InsideOut Today! Shop Now Prisoners Have A Message To Our Youth Play Video All Videos Articles Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Upload

Recognizing the strengths and limitations of HBCUs is crucial in promoting access and success for Black students in higher education while addressing the challenges to ensure equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of their race or background. In this episode, Dr. Shelley Stewart replays an interview with Carol Watkins and Leslie Prawl from October of 1991. Episode #5: Is There A Need For HBCUs? Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have advantages such as fostering a sense of community and pride, providing a supportive environment, and offering diverse faculty and notable alumni. However, HBCUs may also face challenges such as limited resources, stigma, potential limitations in academic programs, and persistent inequalities. Recognizing the strengths and limitations of HBCUs is crucial in promoting access and success for Black students in higher education while addressing the challenges to ensure equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of their race or background. In this episode, Shelley replays an interview with Carol Watkins and Leslie Prawl from October of 1991. He covers the pros and cons of HBCUs and shares insights and opinions on their value. Click An Icon Below To Listen To Podcast Dive Deeper Travis Albritton Educating Our Own: The Historical Legacy of HBCUs and Their Relevance for Educating a New Generation of Leaders Providing a brief history of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs)--including how and why they were founded, funding sources and needs over time, and an examination of mission statements--the author considers the relevance of HBCUs in the current twenty-first century context. He makes an argument that the educational opportunities HBCUs offer continue to be strongly needed in the contemporary U.S. economic and sociopolitical climate. Finally, he offers HBCU faculty and administrators some suggestions for consideration as they face significant challenges ahead... Read More Arthur Clement & Arthur Lidsky The danger of history slipping away: The heritage campus and HBCUs The heritage of the United States is now recognized as including a diverse group of ethnic and racial minorities who have left "a rich and varied legacy of accomplishments and historic places that cannot be ignored" (Savage 1994, p. 67). Because of the NHPA, many structures and historic districts on HBCU campuses were recognized as significant and placed on the National Register of Historic Places... Read More Diverse Issues In Higher Education Preserving the Visual History of HBCUs Read More Fast Company Rich in Black history but long underfunded, these HBCU campuses will finally be preserved A new pilot grant program is designed to help Historically Black Colleges and Universities preserve significant buildings and sites on their campuses—an initiative that is long overdue... Read More Nancy G. Christie & Sarah M. Dinham Institutional and External Influences on Social Integration in the Freshman Year Read More National Endowment For The Humanities Preserving the Legacies of the Nation’s HBCUs Across 21 states and jurisdictions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) educate thousands of students each year and preserve the stories of the generations that came before them. For nearly 200 years, HBCUs have championed education equality and cultivated influential scholars, artists, scientists, and activists, serving as landmarks in their communities and centers of national historic and cultural significance. In 2020, the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation to strengthen the infrastructural capacity of these important institutions, launching the HBCU Cultural Heritage Stewardship Initiative to protect their enduring legacies and ensure their ability to educate generations to come... Read More Judy Rashid Unearthing Promise and Potential: Our Nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (review) Unearthing Promise and Potential: Our Nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities is an ambitious attempt to examine the historical inception of HBCUs in the United States, their present role in higher education, and their potential future. These institutions-very diverse despite being grouped under the homogenous HBCU definition and label-have remained a vital part of the American higher education landscape for more than 125 years. As Marybeth Gasman, Valerie Lundy-Wagner, Tafaya Ransom, and Nelson Bowman III set forth, these institutions indeed offer great promise and potential for the continued and higher education of the nation... Read More Allen Walter Black Colleges Vs. White Colleges, Change: The Magazine of Higher Learning Read More

Plumbline News Room 01 New York Times By April 2023 02 At Age 88, Birmingham Radio Legend Shelley Stewart: ‘I Ain’t Tired Yet Birmingham Times By Jamaica Harris Bowser February 1, 2023 03 City of Birmingham hosts annual AWAKEN celebration honoring Dr. Shelley Stewart WVTM13 By Mattie Davis October 2022 04 Winnowed by the Hardships of His Youth, This Top Ad Executive is Now an Advocate for Keeping Kids in School American Essence By Karim Shamsi-Basha July 2022 05 Unsung Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement The Group Travel Leader By Brian Jewell March 4, 2022 06 A Black Radio Pioneer: One-On-One with Shelley ‘The Playboy’ Stewart CBS 42 By Art Franklin February 28, 2022 07 How Shelley Stewart Subverted the System to Become an Advertising Success Ad Week By Doug Zanger February 22, 2021 08 Groundbreaking partnership quietly defied the days of segregation Southern Jewish Life By Richard Friedman January 9, 2022

Your Next Keynote Speaker Meet Dr. Shelley Stewart Book Dr. Shelley Stewart For Your Next Event INSPIRE. EMPOWER. TRANSFORM Why Book Biography Speaking Topics Past Engagements Why Book Dr. Shelley Stewart Decades of Leadership in business, broadcasting, and philanthropy. Trailblazer in Human Rights , honored for advancing equity and justice. Captivating Speaker known for delivering heart-driven, impactful messages. Trusted Voice featured in documentaries, news programs, and cultural archives. Dr. Shelley Stewart is a celebrated speaker, humanitarian, and visionary leader whose story of resilience, leadership, and commitment to unity has moved audiences across generations. From humble beginnings to national influence, Shelley's life work bridges business, education, human rights, and cultural change, Whether you're hosting a corporate event, educational forum, community gathering, or leadership conference, Dr. Stewart brings timeless wisdom, powerful storytelling, and an unwavering message of hope and transformation. Click "About Shelley" for a more comprehensive biography. Past Engagements Decades of Leadership in business, broadcasting, and philanthropy. Trailblazer in Human Rights, honored for advancing equity and justice. Captivating Speaker known for delivering heart-driven, impactful messages. Trusted Voice featured in documentaries, news programs, and cultural archives. Speaking Topics Include: Resilience and Redemption: Overcoming adversity to lead with purpose. The Power of Unity: Bridging generations, communities, and cultures. Leadership with Integrity: Building organizations that uplift humanity. Voice of Change: Human rights, media, education, the Academy of Common Sense, and the power of storytelling. Business for Good: From entrepreneurship to corporate citizenship. Click An Icon Below To Listen To Podcast EPISODE 1: Internalized Racism This episode is taken from an interview that took place in 1993 with Brother Ezekwa. Institutionalized racism leads many Blacks to think less of themselves and each other. They come to believe the stereotypes of the messages of oppression that are continually served by not only the media and external sources but also by friends, family, and authority figures. They have been told for so long that they are "less than..." that they eventually begin to believe it. The podcast also touches upon the 4 types of internalized racism: 1. Interpersonal Racism 2. Institutionalized Racism 3. Structural Racism 4. Internalized Racism View Episode 1 Details & Resources EPISODE 2: Did Dr. Martin Luther King's Dream Become a Nightmare? As a member of the King's Inner Circle, Hosea Williams served as the advance man, organizing some of the most important events in the movement. Williams traveled to cities throughout the South, recruiting and organizing volunteers, paving the way for appearances by Dr. King, Jesse Jackson , and Andrew Young .Williams and John Lewis led the "Bloody Sunday" march in Selma, Alabama, in 1965. This episode features an interview from September of 1994 with Dr. Shelley Stewart and Rev . Hosea Williams . Hosea reveals the dire warning Dr. King View Episode 2 Details & Resources EPISODE 3: Homelessness Homelessness affects a diverse range of individuals. It is not limited to a particular demographic, but can impact people of different ages, genders, races, and backgrounds. Among those who are homeless are individuals experiencing mental health issues, addiction, domestic violence survivors, veterans, youth, families with children, and individuals facing economic challenges such as unemployment or poverty. In this episode, Shelley replays an interview from April 6, 1993, where he meets with a former professional football player who has become homeless. The episode also features a harrowing excerpt from his memoir, The Road South, which depicts traumatic events and abuse from his youth (listener discretion is advised). The podcast concludes with a powerful lesson Shelley learned in a bar while working in St. Louis as the disc jockey, "Shelley the Playboy." View Episode 3 Details & Resources EPISODE 4: Hate Crimes Hate crimes have devastating impacts on individuals, communities, and society. Victims often suffer physical and emotional harm, leading to trauma and decreased sense of safety. Hate crimes also fuel fear, division, and mistrust within communities, contributing to social inequalities and damaging social cohesion. They erode trust in law enforcement and the justice system and have negative implications for economic development. Additionally, hate crimes perpetuate harmful stereotypes and attitudes toward targeted groups. Combating hate crimes through education, advocacy, and community engagement is crucial to promote inclusivity, tolerance, and a society that rejects hate and embraces diversity. This episode features an interview from March 1993 with Attorney Rodney Max , a member of the Coalition Against Hate Crimes. They discuss the trial of a hate crime killing of a homeless person in Birmingham. He offers positive solutions to the problem. He says, "Before I prejudge you, let me get to know you. View Episode 4 Details & Resources EPISODE 5: Is There A Need For HBCUs? Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have advantages such as fostering a sense of community and pride, providing a supportive environment, and offering diverse faculty and notable alumni. However, HBCUs may also face challenges such as limited resources, stigma, potential limitations in academic programs, and persistent inequalities. Recognizing the strengths and limitations of HBCUs is crucial in promoting access and success for Black students in higher educatio n while addressing the challenges to ensure equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of their race or background. In this episode, Shelley replays an interview with Carol Watkins and Leslie Prawl from October of 1991. View Episode 5 Details & Resources EPISODE 6: Should We End Black History Month? Black History Month has been celebrated for decades as a time to honor and recognize the contributions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history. However, some argue that relegating Black history to a single month perpetuates segregation and fails to fully integrate it into the mainstream curriculum. Ending Black History Month could be beneficial, as it would emphasize that Black history is an integral part of American history that should be incorporated into educational curricula throughout the year. By integrating Black history into the broader narrative, we can foster a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of our shared past, promoting equality and unity. The podcast features an interview with Dr. Horace Huntley in February 1991 and suggests that by ending Black History Month, we might celebrate Black culture and history throughout the year. View Episode 6 Details & Resources EPISODE 7: Youth Gangs In 1989, two gang members from the Birmingham area approached Shelley and asked to be on his show, "Open Mic." They wanted to share their experiences about the myths and realities of gang life and share their regrets over the youth they lost while acting as members of a gang. Ironically, the mother of one of the gang members heard her son on the show and came in the following morning to share her feelings and warnings with other parents. While the nature of gang life has changed between 1989 and 2023, there are a surprising number of things that are still in common. In fact, you might be surprised to discover the backgrounds of many gang members are not what you think. View Episode 7 Details & Resources EPISODE 8: Part 2 of Youth Gangs & Drug Dealers Series Today’s episode reaches back to 1986 and was part of a series of interviews Shelley did on Open Mic with drug dealers and youth gangs. This individual had a promising career as a backup drummer for the well-known blues musician Bobby “Blue” Bland. Unfortunately, the lure of easy money pulled him into the world of dealing cocaine, Although he didn’t start dealing drugs until he was 44 years old. He shares stories about how, at that time, cocaine was cut with laxatives and even embalming fluid, and how the cutting agents were often more dangerous than the drug itself. He finishes his story by recounting the death of his cousin and fiance at the hands of three drug users. Stay tuned and learn from his life as we continue this series on youth gangs and drug dealers. View Episode 8 Details & Resources EPISODE 9: Part 3 of Youth Gangs & Drug Dealers Series This episode concludes our series on youth gangs and drug dealers with an interview of a young man who began dealing drugs at the age of 16. He was brought into a gang at the age of 10 and exposed to the life of a drug dealer. During that time, he’d seen fellow gang members killed and maimed. He even shares a harrowing description of mutilation that happened to a fellow gang member. Listener discretion is advised. He finally realizes what he missed and what he lost, and he shares a message with other young people. View Episode 9 Details & Resources EPISODE 10: Interview with Jim Porter from the NRA Shelley sat down in 1993 for an interview with Jim Porter, a member of the Board of Directors of the NRA. The arguments have not changed for the past 30 years, yet the problem of gun violence persists and, in fact, continues to grow in 2023. Shelley explores the challenges that existed in 1993 and compares them to today. View Episode 10 Details & Resources

Season 10: SEASON 10: EPISODE 1 Education is Our Greatest Asset. SEASON 10: EPISODE 2 There's a Leak in the Roof. SEASON 10: EPISODE 3 Still Singing the Blues. SEASON 10: EPISODE 4 Discussing Fatherhood with Marlon Keller. SEASON 10: EPISODE 5 The Unknown Community of Calcis, Alabama. SEASON 10: EPISODE 6 Young, Gifted and Black. A Chat with Artist Erica Chisholm. SEASON 10: EPISODE 7 Sharing Generational Knowledge with Elijah Davis. Click An Icon Below To Listen To Shelley's Plumbline Learn More Book For Speaking Engagements

We've got new content for you every Wednesday. Make sure you subscribe! Follow us and continue the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . Meet Your Host Dr. Shelley Stewart Click An Icon Below To Listen To Podcast EPISODE 1: Internalized Racism This episode is taken from an interview that took place in 1993 with Brother Ezekwa. Institutionalized racism leads many Blacks to think less of themselves and each other. They come to believe the stereotypes of the messages of oppression that are continually served by not only the media and external sources but also by friends, family, and authority figures. They have been told for so long that they are "less than..." that they eventually begin to believe it. The podcast also touches upon the 4 types of internalized racism: 1. Interpersonal Racism 2. Institutionalized Racism 3. Structural Racism 4. Internalized Racism View Episode 1 Details & Resources EPISODE 2: Did Dr. Martin Luther King's Dream Become a Nightmare? As a member of the King's Inner Circle, Hosea Williams served as the advance man, organizing some of the most important events in the movement. Williams traveled to cities throughout the South, recruiting and organizing volunteers, paving the way for appearances by Dr. King, Jesse Jackson , and Andrew Young .Williams and John Lewis led the "Bloody Sunday" march in Selma, Alabama, in 1965. This episode features an interview from September of 1994 with Dr. Shelley Stewart and Rev . Hosea Williams . Hosea reveals the dire warning Dr. King View Episode 2 Details & Resources EPISODE 3: Homelessness Homelessness affects a diverse range of individuals. It is not limited to a particular demographic, but can impact people of different ages, genders, races, and backgrounds. Among those who are homeless are individuals experiencing mental health issues, addiction, domestic violence survivors, veterans, youth, families with children, and individuals facing economic challenges such as unemployment or poverty. In this episode, Shelley replays an interview from April 6, 1993, where he meets with a former professional football player who has become homeless. The episode also features a harrowing excerpt from his memoir, The Road South, which depicts traumatic events and abuse from his youth (listener discretion is advised). The podcast concludes with a powerful lesson Shelley learned in a bar while working in St. Louis as the disc jockey, "Shelley the Playboy." View Episode 3 Details & Resources EPISODE 4: Hate Crimes Hate crimes have devastating impacts on individuals, communities, and society. Victims often suffer physical and emotional harm, leading to trauma and decreased sense of safety. Hate crimes also fuel fear, division, and mistrust within communities, contributing to social inequalities and damaging social cohesion. They erode trust in law enforcement and the justice system and have negative implications for economic development. Additionally, hate crimes perpetuate harmful stereotypes and attitudes toward targeted groups. Combating hate crimes through education, advocacy, and community engagement is crucial to promote inclusivity, tolerance, and a society that rejects hate and embraces diversity. This episode features an interview from March 1993 with Attorney Rodney Max , a member of the Coalition Against Hate Crimes. They discuss the trial of a hate crime killing of a homeless person in Birmingham. He offers positive solutions to the problem. He says, "Before I prejudge you, let me get to know you. View Episode 4 Details & Resources EPISODE 5: Is There A Need For HBCUs? Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have advantages such as fostering a sense of community and pride, providing a supportive environment, and offering diverse faculty and notable alumni. However, HBCUs may also face challenges such as limited resources, stigma, potential limitations in academic programs, and persistent inequalities. Recognizing the strengths and limitations of HBCUs is crucial in promoting access and success for Black students in higher educatio n while addressing the challenges to ensure equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of their race or background. In this episode, Shelley replays an interview with Carol Watkins and Leslie Prawl from October of 1991. View Episode 5 Details & Resources EPISODE 6: Should We End Black History Month? Black History Month has been celebrated for decades as a time to honor and recognize the contributions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history. However, some argue that relegating Black history to a single month perpetuates segregation and fails to fully integrate it into the mainstream curriculum. Ending Black History Month could be beneficial, as it would emphasize that Black history is an integral part of American history that should be incorporated into educational curricula throughout the year. By integrating Black history into the broader narrative, we can foster a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of our shared past, promoting equality and unity. The podcast features an interview with Dr. Horace Huntley in February 1991 and suggests that by ending Black History Month, we might celebrate Black culture and history throughout the year. View Episode 6 Details & Resources EPISODE 7: Youth Gangs In 1989, two gang members from the Birmingham area approached Shelley and asked to be on his show, "Open Mic." They wanted to share their experiences about the myths and realities of gang life and share their regrets over the youth they lost while acting as members of a gang. Ironically, the mother of one of the gang members heard her son on the show and came in the following morning to share her feelings and warnings with other parents. While the nature of gang life has changed between 1989 and 2023, there are a surprising number of things that are still in common. In fact, you might be surprised to discover the backgrounds of many gang members are not what you think. View Episode 7 Details & Resources EPISODE 8: Part 2 of Youth Gangs & Drug Dealers Series Today’s episode reaches back to 1986 and was part of a series of interviews Shelley did on Open Mic with drug dealers and youth gangs. This individual had a promising career as a backup drummer for the well-known blues musician Bobby “Blue” Bland. Unfortunately, the lure of easy money pulled him into the world of dealing cocaine, Although he didn’t start dealing drugs until he was 44 years old. He shares stories about how, at that time, cocaine was cut with laxatives and even embalming fluid, and how the cutting agents were often more dangerous than the drug itself. He finishes his story by recounting the death of his cousin and fiance at the hands of three drug users. Stay tuned and learn from his life as we continue this series on youth gangs and drug dealers. View Episode 8 Details & Resources EPISODE 9: Part 3 of Youth Gangs & Drug Dealers Series This episode concludes our series on youth gangs and drug dealers with an interview of a young man who began dealing drugs at the age of 16. He was brought into a gang at the age of 10 and exposed to the life of a drug dealer. During that time, he’d seen fellow gang members killed and maimed. He even shares a harrowing description of mutilation that happened to a fellow gang member. Listener discretion is advised. He finally realizes what he missed and what he lost, and he shares a message with other young people. View Episode 9 Details & Resources EPISODE 10: Interview with Jim Porter from the NRA Shelley sat down in 1993 for an interview with Jim Porter, a member of the Board of Directors of the NRA. The arguments have not changed for the past 30 years, yet the problem of gun violence persists and, in fact, continues to grow in 2023. Shelley explores the challenges that existed in 1993 and compares them to today. View Episode 10 Details & Resources

Season 7: SEASON 7: EPISODE 1 A Decade at a Time: Shelley's Life in the 1930s. SEASON 7: EPISODE 2 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Shelley leaves the Stables. SEASON 7: EPISODE 3 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: More About the Smith Family. SEASON 7: EPISODE 4 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Shelley Learns About Life from Clyde Smith. SEASON 7: EPISODE 5 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: The Last Words of Mattie C. Stewart. SEASON 7: EPISODE 6 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Shelley Learns About Black and White Cultures in the 1940s SEASON 7: EPISODE 7 Shelley's Life 1947: The Year Everything Changed for Shelley SEASON 7: EPISODE 8 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Back with Aunt Mamie. SEASON 7: EPISODE 9 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Shelley Learns His Name is Shelley. SEASON 7: EPISODE 10 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Shelley Heads to High School. SEASON 7: EPISODE 11 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: A Reunion with Bubba and Some Trouble With A Gun. SEASON 7: EPISODE 12 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Escape from Mississippi. SEASON 7: EPISODE 13 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: The Birth of Shelley "The Playboy." SEASON 7: EPISODE 14 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: The Playboy In His Prime. SEASON 7: EPISODE 15 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: "The Playboy" Fights for Human Rights. SEASON 7: EPISODE 16 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Shelley Builds A Business. SEASON 7: EPISODE 17 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Shelley Gets Arrested in Jackson, Mississippi. SEASON 7: EPISODE 18 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Shelley Stirs the Pot in the 60s. SEASON 7: EPISODE 19 Shelley's Life A Decade at a Time: Bubba's Sacrifice, Georgia Price and Voting Rights. SEASON 7: EPISODE 20 Charles Gray and the Re-Education of Our Children. Click An Icon Below To Listen To Shelley's Plumbline Learn More Book For Speaking Engagements

Plumbline News Room 01 The 2025 Radio Hall of Fame Inductees By the Radio Hall of Fame June 2025 02 New York Times By April 2023 03 At Age 88, Birmingham Radio Legend Shelley Stewart: ‘I Ain’t Tired Yet Birmingham Times By Jamaica Harris Bowser February 1, 2023 04 City of Birmingham hosts annual AWAKEN celebration honoring Dr. Shelley Stewart WVTM13 By Mattie Davis October 2022 05 Winnowed by the Hardships of His Youth, This Top Ad Executive is Now an Advocate for Keeping Kids in School American Essence By Karim Shamsi-Basha July 2022 06 Unsung Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement The Group Travel Leader By Brian Jewell March 4, 2022 07 A Black Radio Pioneer: One-On-One with Shelley ‘The Playboy’ Stewart CBS 42 By Art Franklin February 28, 2022 08 How Shelley Stewart Subverted the System to Become an Advertising Success Ad Week By Doug Zanger February 22, 2021 09 Groundbreaking partnership quietly defied the days of segregation Southern Jewish Life By Richard Friedman January 9, 2022

Season 1: SEASON 1: EPISODE 1 Internalized Racism SEASON 1: EPISODE 2 Should We End Black History Month? SEASON 1: EPISODE 3 Did Dr. M. L. King's Dream Become A Nightmare? SEASON 1: EPISODE 4 Homelessness SEASON 1: EPISODE 5 Hate Crimes SEASON 1: EPISODE 6 Is There A Need For HBCUs? SEASON 1: EPISODE 7 Youth Gangs & Drug Dealers SEASON 1: EPISODE 8 Youth Gangs & Drug Dealers Part 2 SEASON 1: EPISODE 9 Youth Gangs & Drug Dealers Part 3 SEASON 1: EPISODE 10 Interview With Jim Porter, Former NRA President Click An Icon Below To Listen To Shelley's Plumbline Learn More Book For Speaking Engagements EMAIL: CORLETTE@SHELLEYSPLUMBLINE.COM PR & PODCAST ENQUIRIES BUSINESS & SPEAKING ENQUIRIES PRESS EVENTS