Juice: Fresh Talk
Are you ready? Politicians have us running in so many directions it’s hard to know what to believe. This podcast, hosted by community activists Cindy Banyai and Chantel Rhodes, dives into the tough conversations. We’ll break down what is really going and how people are affected. Come and get the juice!
Episodes

Friday Feb 21, 2025
Navigating Immigration Challenges - Juice: Fresh Talk
Friday Feb 21, 2025
Friday Feb 21, 2025
In this episode, host Chantel Rhodes brings together a distinguished panel featuring Mayor Kevin Anderson of Fort Myers, Dr. Phil Phillips, Senior Pastor of Agape Christian Fellowship, alongside regular hosts Dr. Cindy Banyai and Sarah Wilson. The discussion explores critical issues around immigration, public safety, and community impact under the current political climate. With robust conversations on compassion, economic contributions of undocumented immigrants, and practical solutions for local governance, this episode emphasizes the importance of dialogue and community unity in challenging times.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:05 Setting the Stage: Current Political Climate
03:41 Mayor Anderson's Controversial Post
06:26 Community Reactions and Concerns
10:28 Balancing Law and Compassion
19:18 Political Implications and Future Directions
25:43 The Essence of Partnership
26:15 Political Engagement and Community Involvement
27:19 Addressing Immigration Policies
29:01 Economic Impact of Deportations
32:07 Pathways to Legalization
35:26 Local Government's Role and Challenges
38:46 Community Conversations and Symposiums
46:09 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Monday Mar 04, 2024
Exploring Eco-activism and Current Global Issues - Juice:Fresh Talk
Monday Mar 04, 2024
Monday Mar 04, 2024
Co-hosts Dr. Cindy Banyai and Sarah Wilson discuss a range of topics from environmental activism in Florida, to issues surrounding community engagement and youth participation. They also delve into international subjects concerning the conflict in Palestine, the controversial Florida law about abortion, United Nations reform, and the potential effects on U.S. politics. The episode is marked by a relaxed and open atmosphere, with discussions on personal experiences, the importance of respecting others' beliefs, and future outlooks.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Background03:35 The Importance of Environmental Activism05:53 The Role of Legislation in Environmental Protection06:45 The Intersection of Environmental and Social Justice09:28 The Challenges of Environmental Advocacy13:55 Engaging Youth in Environmental Activism21:24 The Power of Music and Social Justice22:12 Engaging in Politics through Creative Methods22:58 Experiences at Pride Cape Coral24:30 Standing Up Against Hate and Bullying24:57 The Power of Activism and Empowerment26:22 Respecting Beliefs and Fighting for Equal Rights35:06 The Complexity of the Israel-Palestine Conflict38:27 The Role of the United States in Global Conflicts45:19 Closing Remarks and Future Discussions

Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Social Justice and Politics - Juice:Fresh Talk
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Co-hosts Dr. Cindy Banyai and Sarah Wilson discuss the glorification of police state, struggles of low-income families, and the looming threat of legislation that could marginalize certain groups. They highlight Florida's legislative and social circumstances, discussing potential bills and the socio-political implications behind them. Notable topics include the bill on confederate statues and the potential naming of a bridge after Ron DeSantis. They also update the audience about an ongoing police shooting of Christopher Jordan, and discuss the effects and consequences of pervasive stereotypes about those living in poverty.
00:00 Introduction and Missing Co-Host00:53 Highlighting Black Voices Podcasts02:19 Update on Christopher Jordan's Case05:38 The Importance of Transparency in Law Enforcement10:31 The Role of Media in Shaping Public Perception16:25 The Criminalization of Mental Health and Poverty17:47 The Glorification of Police State23:03 The Struggles of the Homeless30:37 Understanding the Housing Crisis32:07 The Impact of Fiscal Conservatism35:55 The Struggles of Applying for Assistance37:30 The Reality of Living on Food Stamps39:40 The Politics of Book Bans and Confederate Statues44:35 The Importance of Community Engagement50:56 Upcoming Community Events52:20 The Role of Independent Media

Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Unraveling Police Violence in Fort Myers - Juice:Fresh Talk
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
In this episode of the Juice, hosts Sarah Wilson and Dr. Cindy Banyai discuss the recent police-related shooting involving Christopher Jordan in Fort Myers. The discussion also sheds light on two controversial Florida bills – House Bill 601 and Senate Bill 1092 – that could significantly impact police oversight and penalties related to law enforcement respectively. The hosts confront the inconsistencies in the justification for these bills and invite their audience to stay informed and get involved in holding local authorities accountable.
00:24 Introduction and Technical Difficulties01:00 Hosts Introduction and Farm Life01:58 Juice Live Show Format and Social Justice Discussion02:19 NAACP Work and Police Involved Shooting Case03:49 Details of the Christopher Jordan Case08:42 The Fight for Justice and Community Involvement10:41 The Role of Police in Mental Health Crises13:58 The Baker Act and Mental Health Services in Florida15:44 Police Training and Accountability18:49 The Need for Robust Mental Health Programs20:45 Police Culture and Community Relations21:49 Chantel's Legislative To-Do List24:07 Discussion on HB 601 and SB 109225:59 The Impact of Confederate Monuments28:48 The Importance of Civic Engagement29:42 The Real History of the United States34:32 Upcoming City Council and School Board Meetings36:08 Conclusion and Call to Action

Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
The Juice Starts 2024: Discussing Politics, Social Justice, and More!
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
In this animated episode, hosts Cindy Banyai, Chantel Rhodes, and Sarah Wilson kick off the second season of The Juice. Conversations centered around the changing political landscape, including the impact of new voting laws, recent developments with the 2024 election, and the controversial abortion ban. They also celebrate the Detroit Lions in the NFL playoffs for the first time in 30 years and discuss their involvement with various campaigns and community events. Featuring special furry guests Louie and Nipsey, the hosts underscored their devotion to continued dialogue on pressing social justice issues, reminding viewers that there is always a community here to engage in these crucial discussions.
00:24 Introduction and Welcoming01:15 Introducing Special Guests01:30 Benefits of Coconut Oil for Pets02:21 Discussion on Detroit Lions03:27 Celebrating Founders Day06:11 Cindy's Involvement in Florida Boxing Hall of Fame07:15 Importance of Preserving Stories08:25 Preparation for Dr. King Day08:36 Cindy's Political Consulting Firm21:19 Discussion on Abortion Ban29:00 Importance of Voting Rights34:21 Reflecting on Current Events34:31 Discussing Russian Influence35:10 The Impact of Mike Flynn and Election Fraud Claims36:47 Recalling Personal Encounters with January 6th Protesters37:17 The Unexpected Patriotism at a Christian Bus Tour40:43 The Consequences of January 6th for the Protesters43:36 The Double Standards in Law Enforcement52:38 The Legal Challenges Facing Donald Trump54:34 The Importance of Community Engagement58:30 Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Weekend01:00:44 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward

Friday Dec 15, 2023
The Juice Special Year End 2023 Episode
Friday Dec 15, 2023
Friday Dec 15, 2023
In this special year-end episode of 'The Juice,' co-hosts Dr. Cindy Banyeai, Chantal Rhodes, and Sarah Wilson share insightful commentary on a range of social and political topics. They discuss how the tension in the Middle East is viewed and responded to by different groups, the role of Christianity in American society, and the differences they've noticed between Black and White fraternities and sororities. The hosts also delve into issues surrounding the Red Cloak protest movement, race politics, freedom of speech, and censorship. Furthermore, they discuss the influence of religion in shaping people's behavior and societies, and the implications of a world without religion. They conclude by discussing the future of the podcast and their aspirations for the next episodes.
00:24 Introduction and Welcome00:49 Reconnecting and Reflecting on the Break01:02 Introducing the Hosts01:59 Discussing Current Global Issues02:26 Addressing the Middle East Conflict04:06 Personal Experiences and Perspectives on War05:42 Local Activism and Demonstrations10:14 Celebrating Sororities and Fraternities13:08 Comparing White and Black Sororities and Fraternities28:48 Exploring the Role of Religion in Society37:04 Ethics and Philanthropy in Different Cultures37:30 Concept of Karma and its Impact on Philanthropy38:08 Religious Influence on Philanthropy38:28 Cultural Differences and their Impact on Ethics39:12 Religious Influence on Personal Beliefs and Worldview40:11 Exploring the Unitarian Faith41:36 Questioning Religious Teachings and Beliefs43:59 The Intersection of Religion and LGBTQ+ Rights46:03 The Impact of Consumer Choices on Social Issues49:36 The Complexity of Supporting Different Causes52:38 The Role of Religion in Politics and Society01:06:39 The Struggle for Freedom of Speech and Thought on College Campuses01:12:16 Closing Remarks and Future Discussions

Tuesday May 23, 2023
Millennial economics and the case to get political - Juice: Fresh Talk
Tuesday May 23, 2023
Tuesday May 23, 2023
Listen in as hosts Sarah Wilson and Cindy Banyai talk about the changing tides for Millennials and how politics affect everything in our lives. We may hate partisans, but getting political and even running for office is necessary to avoid others making decisions that can negatively affect you.

Monday May 15, 2023
Immigration is not like you think - Juice: Fresh Talk
Monday May 15, 2023
Monday May 15, 2023
Time to get real about immigration. Hosts Sarah Wilson and Cindy Banyai talk about what's going on at the US southern border and how our own fears are being used against use. Cindy shares her own story as an "illegal alien" to change the narrative about what you think you know about migrants. The hosts also discuss the recent Florida legislative session and ballot initiative to support abortion care. Learn more here https://floridiansprotectingfreedom.com/.

Monday May 08, 2023
Race, identity, and politics in Florida - Juice: Fresh Talk
Monday May 08, 2023
Monday May 08, 2023
Hosts Chantel Rhodes and Cindy Banyai sit down for their weekly chat at Seed and Bean Market in Fort Myers on May 4, 2023. This week they discuss the debt ceiling and the excitement from the Trump visit to Fort Myers. They dive into what it means to take a picture with your Congressman, especially when you are both Black, but perhaps not political allies. Tune in for this fascinating exploration of race and politics.

Monday Apr 24, 2023
Racism in modern America - Juice: Fresh Talk
Monday Apr 24, 2023
Monday Apr 24, 2023
Hosts Chantel Rhodes, Sarah Wilson, and Cindy Banyai sit down for a coffee and their weekly chat on April 21, 2023. The discuss the Trump visit to Fort Myers, how race affects the experiences of people in policing, politics, and community. Listen in for this real and raw conversation.