
The purpose of our show is to bring information and solutions to issues that impact the day-to-day lives of minorities.We can bring this value add by leveraging the knowledge of our host, Walter Latham, Sr. , co-host, Michelle Swiney, and our Panel, consisting of experts in various disciplines and life experiences.
Episodes

4 hours ago
Hotchkiss Alum: Deputy Mayor Tony Harrington
4 hours ago
4 hours ago
Keywords
GO Greater Opportunity program , education, confidence, Tony Harrington, Hotchkiss School, first-generation college students, social work, educational leadership, community programs, mentorship, Summer Bridge
Summary
In this episode of the Walt Weekly Podcast, host Walter Latham speaks with Tony Harrington, a graduate of the GO program, celebrating its 60th anniversary. They discuss the transformative impact of the program on Harrington's life, his educational journey, and the importance of confidence in achieving success. Harrington also shares his ongoing commitment to helping first-generation college students through summer programs, reflecting on the legacy of mentorship and support that shaped his career.
Takeaways
The GO program provided opportunities for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
Tony Harrington's experience in the program helped him gain confidence.
Education can be a transformative tool for personal growth.
Harrington emphasizes the importance of mentorship in education.
The evolution of the Hotchkiss School reflects broader societal changes.
First-generation college students face unique challenges that require support.
Community programs can play a crucial role in preparing students for college.
Harrington's journey illustrates the power of perseverance and hard work.
The legacy of the GO program continues through initiatives like Summer.
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating 60 Years of the GOAL Program
04:33 The Impact of Mentorship and Community
08:53 Reflections on Podcasting and Learning

Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Hotchkiss School Alum Dr. Timothy Thompson
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
This is Black History that we did not know about!
This is the second of our onsite interviews at the Hotchkiss School celebration of the GO (Greater Opportunity) program. This time we have Dr. Timothy Thompson.
- The Greater Opportunity Program has an 86% college graduation rate.
- Critical thinking is essential for making informed decisions.
- Emotional maturity is crucial for effective relationships.
- Understanding one's biases can improve decision-making.
- People often act based on feelings rather than thoughts.
- Young people should confront discomfort to grow.
- Continuous learning is vital at any age.
- Choosing a career based on passion leads to fulfillment.
- Focus on your circle of influence, not just concerns.
- Self-awareness is key to personal development.
- "86% of us graduated college!"
- "Focus on your circle of influence."
- "Pick a major that you love!"

Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
TWW Goes To School At Hotchkiss ( Recorded Live)
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Join us as we kick off a special series celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Greater Opportunity (GO) Program at The Hotchkiss School, a renowned independent boarding and day school in Lakeville, Connecticut. Founded in 1891, Hotchkiss is recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to diversity, serving students from across the U.S. and around the world.
The GO Program, launched in 1965, was a groundbreaking summer initiative that provided academic and cultural enrichment to disadvantaged boys from urban areas, opening doors to higher education and new opportunities. Over its nine-year run, the program served about 250 students, with 82% going on to college—a testament to its lasting impact on educational access and inclusion.
In this episode, we speak with Leonard Birdsall, a Bronx native and proud GO Program graduate (1965–1967). Elected student body president for two years, Leonard went on to serve in the U.S. Army, attend several New York colleges, and enjoy a distinguished career as an NYPD officer and nurse. Now retired, he dedicates his time to family and community. Tune in to hear Leonard’s inspiring story and reflections on the legacy of the GO Program.
Guest Bio:
Leonard Birdsall is a Manhattan resident, originally from the Bronx. After attending DeWitt Clinton High School and the Hotchkiss GO Program, he served in the U.S. Army, studied at NYU, Mercy College, and John Jay, worked as an NYPD officer, and became a certified nurse. He organized blood drives across New York and now enjoys retirement as a full-time grandfather.
Contact: Leonardbirdsall@gmail.com

Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
News Bulletin: South African Refugees Have Been Seen At Zoos
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Yep they are eating lions, monkeys, and cockadoos

Tuesday Jun 03, 2025
Trump and the Cowardly Republicans Are Fooling You
Tuesday Jun 03, 2025
Tuesday Jun 03, 2025
The Big Beautiful Bill Is a Scam!!!!
In this conversation, host Walter Latham discusses the implications of a recent partisan bill passed by the House of Representatives, focusing on the significant cuts to social programs such as Medicaid and food stamps. He argues that these cuts disproportionately affect white individuals and highlights the broader socioeconomic issues at play, framing the situation as a transfer of wealth from the poor to the rich. Latham emphasizes the need for awareness and action among listeners as the political landscape shifts towards authoritarianism.
If you look at the Big Beautiful Bill, you will see that there is a massive transfer of funds from the poor to the rich. On top of that, Elon is coming out about the increase in the deficit of between 2-4 trillion.
It dawned on me that Trump, Don Jr, and Eric, are like Saddam Hussein and his sons, Uday and Qusay.

Tuesday May 27, 2025
What Does Trump’s Rollbacks of DEI Mean For Us? Rebroadcast
Tuesday May 27, 2025
Tuesday May 27, 2025
Remember this?
In this episode, the hosts discuss the critical themes surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, their historical context, and the implications of recent rollbacks. They explore the concept of reparations as a necessary response to systemic racism and the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding DEI not just as a corporate initiative but as a fundamental aspect of social justice and equity. This conversation delves into the complexities of political dynamics, particularly focusing on gender representation, the implications of diversity initiatives, and the perceptions surrounding race and opportunity in America. The speakers discuss the historical context of reparations, the ongoing challenges faced by African Americans, and the importance of unity in addressing these issues. They also touch on the role of the military in promoting inclusivity and the potential impacts of current political decisions on marginalized communities.
- DEI stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion, which are interconnected concepts.
- Critics argue that DEI efforts can lead to tokenism and superficial changes.
- Historical executive orders have shaped the current DEI landscape.
- The rollback of DEI initiatives could lead to increased discrimination.
- Reparations are seen as a necessary compensation for historical injustices.
- The conversation highlights the need for ongoing advocacy for DEI.
- Corporate interests often conflict with genuine DEI efforts.
- The term DEI has been weaponized in political discourse.
- Understanding the historical context of DEI is crucial for its future.
- Voting and political engagement are essential for protecting DEI initiatives. Kamala Harris's vice presidential selection was influenced by gender dynamics.
- Tokenism is often conflated with true diversity and inclusion efforts.
- Many voters lack understanding of DEI and affirmative action.
- Perceptions of hard work differ between immigrants and African Americans.
- Reparations proposals have been introduced but lack traction.
- Historical context is crucial in understanding current racial dynamics.
- Generational perspectives shape views on civil rights and opportunities.
- Military service can be a pathway to citizenship for many immigrants.
- Unity among marginalized communities is essential for progress.
- Political changes can significantly impact social support systems.
Sound Bites
- "DEI is not what we want."
- "They owe us deferred wages."
- "Reparations fit like a 42 long."
- "They are clawing back everything."
- "It's the Wild Wild West out there."
- "They can give us land, whatever the equivalency."
- "We are a group of spenders."
- "The word itself has been weaponized."
- "We need diversity, equity, and inclusion."
- "They think that we take things for granted."
- "We haven't gotten anything."
- "We got about 10% of what we need."
- "It's going to be a very tough next four years."
Chapters
00:00Introduction to DEI and Its Importance
07:36Historical Context of DEI Initiatives
12:23The Impact of DEI Rollbacks
19:52Understanding Reparations
25:09The Case for Reparations
30:05The Weaponization of DEI Terms
35:36The Political Landscape and Gender Dynamics
39:32Tokenism vs. True Diversity
41:34Perceptions of Opportunity and Hard Work
44:31The Narrative of African Americans and Immigrants
49:02Reparations: Historical Context and Current Proposals
57:05Civil Rights and Generational Perspectives
01:00:15Military Inclusion and Citizenship Issues
01:03:41Unity and Future Challenges
Cover Art
Mark N. Latham
Latham Photography

Tuesday May 20, 2025
Walt and Ernest Had To Speak On Shannon Sharpe
Tuesday May 20, 2025
Tuesday May 20, 2025
There is a clear pattern of racial disparity in the context of sexual complaints in athletics. Black athletes, both male and female, are more likely to face negative outcomes, skepticism, and harsher treatment when involved in sexual complaints compared to their white counterparts, whether as plaintiffs or defendants.
The relationship reportedly deteriorated after an incident in September 2024, when Zuniga claims Sharpe was heard having sex with another woman during an Instagram Live broadcast, which she describes as humiliating.
Gabriella Zuniga was also an Only Fans model. I guess she concluded that Shannon had an exclusive worth 50 million
@waltweekly
#africanamerican #Black #Blackmen #Blackwomen
#Blackresitance
#SwingPhiSwing, #LegacyOfSisterhood, #sigmagammarho, #zeptaphilbeta, #blackgirlmagic, #saintaugustinealumni, #sisterhood, #hbcu, #aka,#deltasigmatheta,#divine, #melanin, #blackexcellence, #blacklove, #blackwomenrock, #92%, #Imwithher #blackqueens

Tuesday May 13, 2025
Trump Has Been in Office 4 months: Doggone! With Briggette Stokes
Tuesday May 13, 2025
Tuesday May 13, 2025
This is important Information for those not informed. Listen until the end. It may help you avoid Student loan and Social Security overpayments and collections.
In this episode of the Walt Weekly Podcast, hosts Walter Latham and Briggette Stokes discuss two pressing financial issues: Social Security overpayments and the challenges surrounding student loan repayments. They explore the implications of overpayments on individuals' finances, the government's approach to collecting these debts, and the impact of student loan policies under different administrations. The conversation highlights the struggles faced by low-income individuals and the importance of financial literacy and community support.
Host:
Walter Latham, Sr
Briggette Stokes
Relevant Links:
Social Security
https://blog.ssa.gov/social-security-to-reinstate-overpayment-recovery-rate/
Student Loan Repayment
#SwingPhiSwing, #LegacyOfSisterhood, #sigmagammarho, #zeptaphilbeta, #blackgirlmagic, #saintaugustinealumni, #sisterhood, #hbcu, #aka,#deltasigmatheta,#divine, #melanin, #blackexcellence, #blacklove, #blackwomenrock, #92%, #Imwithher #blackqueens, #thewaltweekly,

Tuesday May 06, 2025
Can You Wait For Your Social Security Check? Howard Lutnick Thinks You Can
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Summary
In this episode of The Walt Weekly Podcast, hosts Walter Latham and Sergeant Ernest J. Robinson discuss various pressing topics, including Howard Lutnick's political stance, the implications of current economic policies on Social Security, and the challenges faced by senior citizens in today's financial climate. They delve into the insensitivity of government officials regarding Social Security payments and the impact of inflation on fixed incomes. The conversation also touches on the perception of Social Security as a pyramid scheme and the need for better support systems for vulnerable populations.
Host:
Walter Latham, Sr.
Sgt Ernest J. Robinson
Artwork:
Mark N. Latham

Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Here We Go Again! "Saving Saint Augustine University"
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
In this episode of the Walt Weekly podcast, host, Briggette Stokes, and guest Annetta White discuss the significance of Black Women's Month and the vital role of HBCUs, particularly St. Augustine University, in empowering the Black community. They explore the challenges facing St. Augustine, including financial difficulties and community engagement, while emphasizing the importance of education in uplifting future generations. The conversation highlights the need for collective action and support to preserve HBCUs and their cultural heritage.
Host
Briggette Stokes
Guest
Annetta White Doyle
#SwingPhiSwing, #LegacyOfSisterhood, #sigmagammarho, #zeptaphilbeta, #blackgirlmagic, #saintaugustinealumni, #sisterhood, #hbcu, #aka,#deltasigmatheta,#divine, #melanin, #blackexcellence, #blacklove, #blackwomenrock, #92%, #Imwithher #blackqueens
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our host and guest(s) during this podcast are solely their own and do not necessarily represent or reflect the official position, views, or policies of The Walt Weekly Podcast.