Author: Robin Rials Williams

Robin Rials Williams http://thatjust.com Important to me: Celebrating the community for which a person lives, Encouraging dialogues about racial diversity and inclusion, Promoting social justice initiatives, and Choosing happiness even when it's difficult. Specialties: Communications, Event Planning, Graphic Design, Social Media, Web Design, Marketing, Training, ChatGPT AI Prompts I'm overcoming shyness, listen to this podcast about my story: http://bit.ly/allyallRW

The Complex World of Communication: Finding my Voice in a World of Words

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In the realm of communications, the expectation is often that we are masters of all forms of expression. However, the reality is more complex and distinctly human. For me, the challenge of speaking my thoughts out loud has always been significant. While my role demands seamless and effective communication, there’s a personal hurdle that is quite frustrating: my brain’s reluctance to cooperate with my mouth in real-time conversations.

I believe that this difficulty partly stems from growing up in an environment where my opinions were often stifled, and my voice felt disregarded. In a setting where articulating one’s thoughts was not welcome, my brain learned to hesitate before syncing with my mouth during real-time conversations.

This disconnect isn’t about knowledge or capability; given some time, I can compose a written piece that accurately reflects my thoughts and intentions. Writing allows me the luxury of time to organize my thoughts, choose my words carefully, and revise until the message is just right. Writing gives me the space to structure my ideas, select the right words, and refine my message until it’s just right. With the introduction of ChatGPT, I now have a new resource to even further improve and convey my written communication pieces more clearly. But when it comes to the immediacy required in verbal exchanges, that’s where my struggle lies. My mind, buzzing with ideas and responses, somehow hits a roadblock when asked to articulate those thoughts on the spot. 

There’s an added layer to my communication: the tendency to shut down in conversations. At times, rather than attempting to engage in dialogue, I find myself withdrawing, leading others to mistakenly assume I’m upset or distant. This reaction isn’t borne out of frustration or a lack of interest but is a manifestation of my brain’s struggle to cooperate in the moment. It’s a defense mechanism, one that I’ve been working to understand and address.

It’s a peculiar position to be in, especially when your profession centers around communication. The irony isn’t lost on me. In a world that increasingly values quick, off-the-cuff responses, this challenge can feel like a significant obstacle. Yet, it’s also been a profound learning journey, teaching me the value of patience, preparation, and understanding my own communication style.

Recognizing this challenge—and its roots in my upbringing—has pushed me to develop strategies to bridge the gap between my rapid-fire thoughts and their verbal expression. I’ve learned to lean into the strengths of my written communication, using it as a foundation to build confidence in my spoken words. Preparing key points ahead of time, practicing out loud, and allowing myself to pause and think during conversations have all been invaluable tools.

This journey has also led me to appreciate the diversity of communication styles within the corporate world. We often celebrate the quick thinkers and smooth talkers, but there’s immense value in those who take their time, crafting thoughtful, well-considered responses. It’s a reminder that effective communication isn’t about speed but about connection and understanding.

For those who might share this struggle, know that you’re not alone. Embracing your unique communication style, recognizing your strengths, and working patiently on your challenges can turn perceived weaknesses into unexpected strengths. It’s about finding your voice, even if that voice prefers to express itself in writing before speaking.

In embracing this personal challenge—and understanding its roots—I’ve not only become a better communicator but also a more empathetic colleague. Understanding my own struggles with communication has deepened my appreciation for the diverse ways people express themselves and connect. It’s a journey that continues to teach me about resilience, adaptability, and the power of finding one’s voice, in whatever form that may be.

 This article was originally posted on LinkedIn on February 22, 2024

Embracing the Joys and Challenges of Getting Older in the Workplace

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Bridging the Gap: Age, Relevance, and the Ever-Evolving Workplace

I want to dive into a topic that’s been on my mind lately: getting old! In my private life I always try to stay young at heart. Getting older in the workplace is a different story. I’ve always prided myself on being a high achiever—the one who could always be counted on to deliver exceptional results. As an internal communications person, I’ve witnessed the ups and downs of navigating a workplace where age can sometimes make you feel less contributory. I’ve noticed the dynamics around me shifting and the occasional awkwardness of trying to stay “cool.”

The Changing Tides of Contribution

You know, it’s funny how time flies. It feels like just yesterday I was the go-to person, blazing trails and achieving remarkable results. But as the years go by, I find myself facing a new reality. I’m still the same passionate individual, but my role is evolving, and so are my feelings of relevance. It’s not always easy to come to terms with the fact that I might not be the youngest or the trendiest person in the room anymore. It’s a transition from being the person who always had the answers to being the person who asks a lot of questions. And you know what? There’s beauty in that evolution. It’s about finding new ways to contribute, to inspire, and to ignite the potential in others.

Embracing the Awkward, Celebrating the Growth

One particularly amusing challenge is trying to use the latest slang. I mean, who doesn’t want to sprinkle their conversations with some cool lingo? But let’s be honest, attempting to keep up with the ever-evolving slang can sometimes lead to some awkward moments. I’ve had my fair share of younger colleagues laughing or telling me, “You’re trying too hard, don’t use that word!” It’s a gentle reminder that I’m not a teenager anymore, and that’s okay. (But hey, there are times when I want to “Slay!”😂)

But it got me thinking—why do we let age define our ability to connect? Sure, I might not always get the slang right, but it’s the effort to communicate and understand that counts. Let’s not forget, relevance isn’t just about keeping up with the latest terms; it’s about staying connected with each other’s worlds, no matter how different they may seem. Our approach may differ, but that doesn’t diminish our value and wisdom. In fact, embracing our years of experience while remaining open to continued learning from our younger peers can be an incredibly powerful combination. Yes, it can feel awkward when attempts to use current slang fall flat, or when conversations reveal gaps in our generational experiences. But isn’t there something wonderful about that awkwardness? It’s a sign of growth, of stepping out of our comfort zones, and of being open to learning from each other. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where generational fluency helps bridge understanding and fosters collaboration. 

Age Is Just a Number, Right?

Here’s something that’s been on everyone’s mind lately—the discussions about President Biden’s age and questions about competency. It’s a national conversation reflecting our own workplace realities. This isn’t just about politics; it’s about societal perceptions and the value we place on age versus ability. It’s a stark reminder of the need for generational fluency, the ability to appreciate, learn from, and leverage the strengths across different age groups.

Generational Fluency: The Key to Understanding

In a world that’s rapidly changing, how do we stay relevant? It’s not just about adapting to new trends; it’s about embracing a mindset of continuous learning. The wisdom of experience and the fresh perspectives of youth are not mutually exclusive; they are complementary forces that can drive innovation and understanding forward. This is where generational fluency becomes crucial. It’s about building bridges, fostering mutual respect, and recognizing that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

As we navigate these discussions, both within our workplace and in the broader societal context, let’s remember the importance of keeping an open mind. It’s on us to encourage open dialogue, promote cross-generational mentorship, and create platforms where everyone feels heard, regardless of age.

Generational fluency isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for our collective success. Let’s embrace the joys and challenges of getting older in the workplace. Let’s celebrate our expertise while remaining open to new ideas and perspectives. Together, we can create a workplace culture that values generational diversity. We can dismantle age-related biases, pave the way for a brighter future and build stronger, more cohesive teams.

Remember, age is just a number, and our experiences and knowledge are invaluable assets. Let’s continue to learn, grow, and inspire each other. And hey, if we stumble upon some new slang along the way, let’s not be afraid to give it a shot—it’s all part of the fun of staying relevant in an ever-changing world! 

Here’s to slaying in every sense of the word, no matter what year you were born in.

 This article was originally posted on LinkedIn on February 12, 2024

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Overwhelming majority of Americans think Biden is too old for another term

Download – Intergenerational Fluency 101: A toolkit for leading across generations

Finding Your Balance: The Art of Work / Life Management

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We all know the struggle of juggling various responsibilities, whether it’s work, family, or the demands of everyday life. Even our beloved furry pet companions can be quite insistent when it comes to our attention! (My cat never lets up) Taking just a single day off can sometimes lead to a mountain of tasks, especially when it comes to those never-ending emails. So, here’s the burning question: How do you effectively manage your workload and balance your life?

I’d like to say I have the answers, but I asked my old pal ChatGPT to suggest some strategies that could help me regain control and achieve a healthy work-life balance. I had to do some tweaking on it’s results, and here are a few of those strategies:

Prioritize with Purpose:

Start by identifying your most critical tasks and rank them based on urgency and importance. This way, you can tackle them head-on and ensure that vital assignments receive the attention they deserve. This is my favorite! Every morning I knock out all of the small tasks like deleting emails I don’t need, move to responding to emails that are response need only, and then I move to small do-able tasks like updating intranet site.

Delegate and Collaborate:

Don’t be afraid to seek support from your team or colleagues. Delegating tasks can lighten your workload and foster a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility. This is one that took me way too long to understand and figure out. When I was young, I thought that if I wanted something done right, I had to do it my self. However, I’ve come to realize the selflessness in involving others. When you handle tasks alone, you deprive others of the chance to assist you. Allowing someone to contribute can empower them and potentially enable them to acquire new skills and responsibilities, fostering a more dynamic and engaged team.

Set Realistic Expectations:

Avoid overcommitting yourself by setting realistic deadlines and expectations. Communicate openly with stakeholders and manage their expectations effectively to avoid unnecessary stress. I overcommit every single day. How about you? My standard answer “sure!” is usually my response when asked if I can meet a deadline and I don’t really know how I will get it done, but I’m going to do it anyway.

Efficient Time Management:

Explore techniques like time blocking, where you allocate specific time slots for different tasks. This approach helps you stay focused, minimizes distractions, and enhances productivity. I haven’t done much of this yet, but I’m working toward it.

Learn to Say “No”:

While it’s important to be helpful, remember that you have limitations. Learn to say “no” when necessary, especially when additional tasks would overwhelm your schedule or hinder your ability to deliver quality work. This is one that I will never achieve. It is not in my nature to say “no”. I love helping people and I love learning new things. Saying “yes” for me is sometimes an opportunity to learn about someone else’s processes and job. I like to know a little bit about a lot of things.

Embrace Technology:

Leverage productivity tools and automation to streamline repetitive tasks and optimize your workflow. From email filters and scheduling software to project management platforms, technology can be your ally in managing your workload efficiently. If you’ve followed me for any time, you know I love technology and automation. I’m going to find ways to make things easier!

Take Breaks and Recharge:

A photo of a gray and white cat with green eyes
There are no breaks with Ziggy – he never waits for breakfast

Remember to prioritize self-care and well-being. Taking regular breaks, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities you enjoy can help you recharge and maintain focus during busy periods. Nope, I haven’t even come close to mastering this one. My typical routine involves waking up, tending to my cat, getting ready, brushing my teeth, and heading straight to my desk, where I remain all day. I even have lunch at my desk and rarely take breaks. It’s a less than ideal habit, and I acknowledge that. Lately, caring for my parents’ medical needs has been my only respite from work, although it’s not quite a break. I’m committed to improving this aspect of my routine in the upcoming year.

⚡️ Now it’s your turn! How do you approach managing your workload amidst the chaos of work, family, and life? Share your strategies and experiences in the comments below. Let’s learn from each other and conquer the challenges together! 👇💪

This article was originally posted on LinkedIn on Jan 30, 2024

Daylight Savings to Standard Time: Maintaining Work-Life Balance!

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A digital image splittert screen. Half is a Fall scene and half is a Spring scene

Ah, the sneaky time change from Daylight Savings to Standard Time! It can throw off our internal clocks and leave us feeling a bit disoriented. Suddenly, we find ourselves waking up and starting our day in daylight instead of darkness, or feeling like the day has slipped away faster than usual. Do you ever catch yourself getting to your desk earlier or working later simply because of this time change?

I know firsthand the feeling. Just yesterday, I found myself in a similar situation. I sat down at 6:30 am, fully intending to start my workday, and before I knew it, it was already 5:30 pm. Throughout the day, I had only taken a couple of quick breaks to use the restroom and grab a bowl of gumbo from the fridge for lunch. The time seemed to slip away unnoticed as I remained engrossed in my tasks. I really love my job, but it’s remarkable how easily the combination of a disoriented schedule and a dedicated work mindset can lead me to lose track of time.

While it’s natural to experience some adjustments during this transition, it’s important to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the Daylight Savings to Standard Time switch without sacrificing your well-being:

Gradual Adjustment:

Instead of abruptly changing your sleep routine, try gradually shifting your bedtime and wake-up time by 15 minutes over a few days before the time change. This can help your body and mind adjust more smoothly.

  • Personally, I find this a challenge because alarm clocks have never been my friend, but I keep trying anyway.

Optimize Natural Light:

  • Take advantage of the available daylight during your workday. If possible, position your workspace near a window or go for a brief walk outside during breaks to soak up some sunlight. Natural light can help regulate your body’s internal clock and boost mood and productivity.

I’m fortunate that I work remotely and can put my desk anywhere. I know not everyone has this situation. That’s where the brief walks can be helpful.

Establish Consistent Routines:

Stick to your regular daily routines, including meal times, exercise, and relaxation. Maintaining consistency can provide a sense of stability and help your body adjust to the time change more effectively.

  • I find routines helpful and try to do the exact same thing in the morning, if only because my cat decides that being fed is on the top of his agenda.

Practice Sleep Hygiene:

Prioritize quality sleep by creating a conducive sleep environment. Minimize exposure to electronic devices before bed, ensure your bedroom is dark and quiet, and consider relaxation techniques like meditation or reading to help you unwind.

  • This one is easier to preach than practice. My phone is always within arm’s reach, serving as both my alarm clock and a constant source of notifications. I use the focus feature on my phone to set “do not disturb” during specific evening hours. It helps to minimize distractions and silences notifications during crucial sleep times. I no longer feel the incessant urge to pick up my phone every time it dings.

Set Boundaries:

As the days may feel shorter, it’s crucial to establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Avoid the temptation to overcompensate for perceived lost time by working excessively. Instead, set realistic work hours and dedicate time for self-care, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones.

  • If I ever master this one, you will be the first to know.

Remember, adjusting to the switch from Daylight Savings to Standard Time may take a few days or even weeks, but being mindful of your work-life balance can help you navigate through this transition with greater ease and well-being. I’m going to keep trying.

🌟 How do you manage your schedule and maintain a healthy work-life balance during the switch from Daylight Savings to Standard Time? Let’s support each other! ⏰🌞💪

#StandardTime #DaylightSavingsTime #WorkLifeBalance #ProductivityTips #SleepHygiene #TimeManagement #Routine #SelfCare

This article was originally posted on LinkedIn

Chatbots, Blogs, and the Fear of the Unknown: A Communication Specialist’s Personal Journey into AI

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I’ve been wanting to share this for a while now, but I’ve honestly been worried about what my colleagues might think. I’ve been in marketing and communications for a long time. I’ve seen a lot of things change in this field, but I must say that nothing has been as intriguing and, at the same time, unsettling, as the advent of AI-powered tools like the GPT (Generative Pre-Trained Transformer) technology.

My first text to image attempt

In March 2023, I was introduced to Chat GPT during a company-initiated AI generative challenge. The experience was exciting and educational for me. This was a completely new concept to me. I was genuinely captivated by the poetry and various text-to-text generation demonstrations showcased by colleagues that day.

After that event, I started exploring GPT’s capabilities and found that it could be a useful tool for my tasks. Specifically, I found it valuable for aiding in writing blog posts. The interaction with GPT was not only intriguing but also significantly beneficial for my work. Since that time, I’ve been experimenting with Chat GPT and Google Bard to assist in writing content. There, I said it. It’s out there now. I know, I know. You’re probably thinking, “Are you outsourcing your work to a robot?” Believe me, I’ve asked myself the same question, and I’ve grappled with the implication.

There’s an undercurrent of fear, isn’t there? It’s like we’re walking a tightrope between embracing the future and clinging to the familiar. I’m thrilled by the prospect of AI, but also anxious about what it could mean for my job in Communications. I’ve been filled with anxiety worrying about whether I’m paving the way for my own redundancy. As a Gen Xer, I’m already worried about my relevancy in the workplace without being worried about whether my role as a writer will become obsolete.

But here’s the thing. As I’ve been using GPT, I’ve realized that it’s not about replacement, it’s about collaboration. AI doesn’t “take over” the job. It’s not sitting in a dark room somewhere, churning out blogs with a sinister robotic grin. It’s a tool, a helper. It generates ideas, provides suggestions, and helps to streamline the creative process. It’s like having a brainstorming partner who never gets tired or runs out of coffee, or in my case, Diet Dr Pepper!

I’ve been amazed at the speed and efficiency with which I’ve been able to create content. It’s allowed me to focus on the parts of my job that truly require human insight and emotion. I’m still navigating this new terrain, still learning how to best use this tool, and still occasionally worrying about the future. But isn’t that the essence of life? Constantly evolving, constantly learning? As I began this personal journey, I started thinking about reasons why I’m hesitant and why I’m excited about generative AI.

Reasons why I was hesitant to use generative AI for Communication Content Creation:

  • I’m worried what people will think of me. I’m worried people will think I’m a fraud by using the assistance of generative AI. I’ve always had imposter syndrome, and I think this is just going to add to the feeling of not being good enough.
  • I’m worried about the quality of the content. Generative AI models are still under development, and they can sometimes produce inaccurate or misleading information. Many models have knowledge data that is limited to new or events up to 2021. (things are changing daily though. As I waited for approval for this article, GPT-4 was released)
  • I’m worried about the ethical implications of using generative AI to create content. For example, could generative AI be used to create fake news or propaganda? This is a real problem. Remember you are ultimately accountable for the content that you publish.
  • I’m worried about the impact of generative AI on my job. If generative AI can do my job for me, what will happen to my job? I really love and need my job!!

Despite my concerns, I believe that generative AI can be a positive experience for communication professionals.

Reasons Why I think Generative AI for Communication Content Creation Can Be a Positive Experience:

  • It can help me create content quickly and easily. Generative AI can help me generate ideas for content, write content, and even edit content. This can save a lot of time and effort. This can also be a huge benefit for communications teams, which are often understaffed and overworked.
  • Generative AI can help create more engaging content. Generative AI can help create more engaging content that will capture the attention of employees and create content that is tailored to different audiences. This can help reach employees who might not otherwise be interested in content.
  • Generative AI can help create more accurate content. Generative AI can help create more accurate content (identify and correct errors in content) by drawing on a vast amount of data. This is especially beneficial for communications teams, which often need to share accurate and up-to-date information with their employees.

If you’re considering using generative AI to create content, here are a few tips to help you use it effectively:

  • Be clear about your goals. It’s worth considering how you plan to use GPT. Do you want it to take on all your routine tasks, or do you see it more as a tool for specific tasks? What do you want to achieve with your content? Once you know your goals, you can start to think about how generative AI can help you achieve them. I personally only use it to help refine the stories or social media posts that I have already created and want to be fine-tuned. I may change in the future, but for now that’s my plan.
  • Do your research on tools. There are different generative AI tools available. Do some research to find the tool that is right for you. I currently use the paid version, Chat GPT Plus, and Google Bard for blog content creation. I also routinely try out other platforms to get an idea of what they offer.
  • Test different approaches. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches. See what works best for you and your audience.
  • Be prepared to edit. Generative AI can help you create content quickly and easily, but it’s important to be prepared to edit the content. Generative AI is not perfect, and it can sometimes produce errors. It’s important to merge Human Intelligence with Artificial Intelligence. Make sure it captures your personal voice and personality, company’s culture, brand voice, and the nuances that go into effective communication.
  • Watch out for repetition: Generative AI can sometimes get caught in a repetitive loop. Watch for repetition of similar phrases or sentences.
  • Do your research with your content. Many GPT models have knowledge data that is limited to new or events up to 2021, so it is important that you still research your information as you would with any other content. As I mentioned above, GPT-4 was recently released which will greatly improve access to information. However don’t rely on GPT alone.
  • Writing prompts: While AI can generate content from a prompt, we must use our creative agency to maintain control over the final output. I find it works best for me to draft an initial story and have the AI fine tune it for me. I then infuse it with my own tone, style, and personality. It’s all about finding a balance that suits your individual writing style.

While I may have my worries and doubts, I am excited about the potential of this technology. GPT, chatbots, AI – these aren’t threats, they’re opportunities. Opportunities for us to evolve, to grow, and to improve our work.

Remember, every tool is only as good as the person using it. AI is just that – a tool. And as we move forward, it’s up to us to determine how we use it, to ensure that it benefits us, our work, and ultimately, our audience. Learn as much as you can about this technology and use it ethically. AI and human intelligence can work together to create something truly amazing.

Change can be scary, but stagnation is scarier. So, let’s embrace the new, and navigate this brave new world together. After all, we’re in the business of communication, and what’s more communicative than sharing our experiences, fears, and hopes for the future?

This article was originally posted on LinkedIn on May 30, 2023

Changing Who I Will Be

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I grew up in the deep south: Lake Charles, Louisiana (LA) to be exact, which is about a 50 minute drive to the Gulf of Mexico. I never thought much about race or racism, because for no other reason than I was a child. I knew of tension between white and black folks, but I didn’t really concern myself because I wasn’t “racist” . . . because I was nice to everyone. I honestly believed that.

At 18, I moved with my parents to Shreveport, LA which was approximately 3 hours due north and which seemed like a world away. The next year Shreveport became a racially charged hot spot. Between August and December 1988, three black Northwest Louisiana men had been killed by white people. 17 year old Darren Martin was shot in the parking lot of a Shreveport restaurant in August by a 19 year old white man. In September, David McKinney was shot by a 17 year old white girl looking to purchase drugs in Cedar Grove which sparked a riot in the neighborhood for two days. Buildings were burned, rocks were thrown and the police cordoned off the neighborhood. In December, Loyal Garner, Jr (a Florien man) was beaten to death during an arrest for drunk driving in Hemphill, TX. Three law officers were charged, but later found innocent. I tell you about these events because as a 19 year old, I was terrified. I didn’t really follow the stories at the time to understand that white people had been killing black people. All I saw when I watched the news was angry black people burning and looting things in the city that I lived. I didn’t understand or feel compelled to understand. My whiteness allowed that. I was scared of the actions of the black people. I didn’t educate myself to see what was happening. I just thought I had moved to the scariest place in Louisiana, but, I didn’t think I was racist. I locked my car doors if I was alone and a black man walked by. I clutched my purse tighter when a black man was walking towards me. I wasn’t racist, I was just being cautious. UGH, so wrong!

Over the years, I lived in my bubble of unknown/unacknowledged, white privilege. Heck, I didn’t even know the words “white privilege”. I still lived under the assumption that I was a nice person because I was nice to everyone. I couldn’t be racist, because I had black friends. It wasn’t until my late 40’s that I started to acknowledge that things weren’t quite right. I started reading and educating myself about race issues. A book by Catrice Jackson, “Antagonist, Advocates and Allies: The Wake Up Call Guide for White Women Who Want to Become Allies with Black Women”, helped open my eyes to the unintentional racism that I, as a white woman, had been perpetuating. It was a start. In 2016, I was attending the Shreveport Mayor’s Women’s Commission Style Show Luncheon when a friend of mine Krystle Beauchamp started having a conversation about race. I had mentioned that I recently learned that it wasn’t appropriate to ask black people to teach me. Krystle, being Krystle, said I could always ask her anything. I still remember that to this day, but try to respect that I need to educate myself. She then told me about a 6-week Dialogue on Race class given by the YWCA. She thought that I might benefit from attending. I signed up that week to attend. In early 2017 I attended my first Dialogue on Race session and my lie fwas forever changed. I have come to realize unintentionality is no excuse for my actions. I can not change who I was, but I can change who I will be. The silence and inactions of my life are dangerous to people of color and have to change if I am to help stop the continuance of racism. Racism is only going to change if white people take a stand. We must learn to listen, and listen to learn.

This past week, George Floyd was murdered by police officers who ignored his pleas to breathe. I can never unsee and unhear Mr. Floyd plead for his life and call out for his mom. Now more than ever I want to change who I will be when it comes to showing up for people of color. Here are things that I am committed to doing:

  • Be uncomfortable: I will not let discomfort get in the way of having honest discussions/dialogues about race. This is one of the most important things I’ve learned. I have to allow discomfort in order to grow.
  • Be authentic: I can not change who I was, but I can change who I will be. This only works if I am honest and transparent. I will always have more work to do. I have not eliminated all of the bias and prejudice in my life, but I truly want to change that.
  • Educate myself: I will never be done learning. Everyday search for information on ways that I can help. I will challenge myself to to think beyond my current understanding of issues.
  • Understand: I will continue learning to understand the differences between bias, prejudice, discrimination and racism and how they affect our world.
  • Do not invalidate: I will listen to my Friends of Color and will not tell them they are wrong or try to insert my experience.
  • Speak up: When I see or hear an injustice, I will speak up. This is a particularly difficult one for me because my brain doesn’t work very fast when it comes to speaking. I can write all day, but my words don’t come when I’m speaking. No excuses though!
  • Check on my friends: People of color have trauma y’all. Check on your friends. Let them know you are concerned. Ask if they need anything. Help when you can.
  • Be wrong: I will be willing to be wrong. If someone calls me out, I will listen and not give excuses.
  • Don’t be afraid: I will work to eliminate the irrational fear that I have built over the years. I have found that when you reach out and connect with people, fear can be eliminated if you are coming from a place of authenticity.
  • I’m gonna make mistakes: I will make mistakes. I will be embarrassed. I will learn from those mistakes.

I know there is so much more to do and I hope you will join me in making change. We can change who we will be by speaking up and showing up for our friends of color.

That Just Happened!!
Robin Williams

On a side note: The YWCA Dialogue on Race was a sort of jumping point for me. It impacted me on such a deep level. I want to help more people be able to attend. The cost to attend the 6-week session is $25. Paying for one person would be cool, but paying for many people would be great. So, I designed a t-shirt to sell and the entire profits will be donated to assist in paying the attendee fee for participants wishing to attend the Northwest Louisiana YWCA Dialogue on Race. If you would like to wear this shirt as a commitment to end bias, prejudice, discrimination and racism, order one now.

Wear this shirt as a commitment to end bias, prejudice, discrimination and racism.
Video

Super Salads with no cides at Cotton Street Farms!

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Michael Billings grew up in Shreveport, LA and after high school left to travel the world. He came back to town to be a dad and he wasn’t finding opportunities that fit his interests. His dad suggested that he make his own opportunity. That’s exactly what he did when he founded the hydroponic Cotton Street Farms.

Michael Billings

Michael Billings cutting herbs at Cotton Street Farm

Michael Billings making Salad from Cotton Street Farm

packaging a salad from Cotton Street Farm

Michael Billings making Salad from Cotton Street Farm

Hydroponic plants at Cotton Street Farms

Hydroponic plants at Cotton Street Farms

Michael Billings

Michael Billings making Salad from Cotton Street Farm

Michael’s family was involved in alternative farming for 20 years. His dad taught him how to take something traditional and make it benefit and useful to himself. Mike said that it is not always practical to grow plants indoors commercially. But, he says if you have a business model that caters to your community, and you have interesting quality products, he is showing that you can grow food indoors in the middle of the city, even in a depressed city. You could go to the big chain grocery store or you could go to Cotton Street Farms, spend the same amount of money and leave with a way more tasty product. It’s the best smelling, tasting, cleanest produce that you can find within hundreds of miles. He says his system uses clean water, organic fertilizers, no pesticides, no fungicides, no herbicides . . . no cides! It will blow you mind walking in the door. Cotton Street Farms control the atmosphere, humidity and lighting frequency. Everything done is for the highest benefit of the plant and it just grows big, strong, colorful, and tasty.

Micheal is working to develop a local educational program, that businesses can sponsor, to help bring grow kits to schools and teach children about growing their own food with no cost to the school. In fact, Michael says that if anyone wants to help, there are many volunteer opportunities at the farm. He said he can always use help.

Michael says he has been growing in the current location for about 9 months. The day Ed and I stopped by, there were rows of beautiful green leafy foods. Kale, Swiss Chard, multiple types of Basil, Bok Choy, Dill and Cilantro. Michael said “Let me make you a salad” and we said “heck yeah!”, he then proceeded in putting together an absolutely beautiful array of greens AND flowers to top it off. I’ve never been much for eating flowers, but he gave me a taste of a light purple flower called a borage. It had the most wonderfully light, cucumber-y flavor. I was instantly a fan. Michael said he is working on a new section of a variety of edible flowers. I’m intrigued and am excited to try new (to me) tastes. In addition to leafy greens, Cotton Street Farm has jalapeño peppers, fruits and berries on the way. I encourage you to stop by and pick up your own super salad with no cides.

Cotton Street Farms is located at 406 Cotton Street, in downtown Shreveport, Louisiana. Follow Cotton Street Farms on all their channels:

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That Just Happened!!
Robin Williams

Louisiana State Park Road Trip Planning

Louisiana State Parks: 21 reasons to love the Bayou State

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Louisiana State Park RoadtripI was scrolling through emails one hot and steamy June 2018 afternoon. You know how it is, thumbing through endless email subject lines that you have no idea came to be in your inbox. (Side note: When did I sign up for so many food and animal rescue email subscriptions?) I landed on an email that I actually open and enjoy each time that I receive it. The LouisianaTravel.com Ambassadors: Bayou Krewe Newsletter is fun to read about what’s going on in Louisiana from other people who love the state as much as I do. In this particular email, there was a “June Challenge” which suggested making a quick road trip or an entire weekend camping with friends at any one of the 21 State Parks. “21 State Parks? Hmmm . . . I want to see them all!” was the thought that went through my head that Friday evening. Louisiana State Park Road Trip PlanningSo, I went to my desk and started plotting out my “21 State Park, One-weekend Road-trip” that I thought I was planning to take in a few weeks. 29 hours and 32 minutes were all I needed to cover the 1456 miles. I went to bed thinking that I may wake up in the morning to start my adventure. That’s exactly what I did.

Starting out Saturday morning, my plan was to hit every State Park in Louisiana by Sunday evening. It was mid-afternoon on Saturday when I realized that wasn’t going to happen. Oh well, I decided to see what I could and start again the next weekend. Here  are the 21 reasons to love the Bayou State of Louisiana, in the order for which I visited:

Reason #1: North Toledo Bend State Park

Reason #2: South Toledo Bend State Park

Reason #3: Sam Houston Jones State Park

Reason #4: Palmetto Island State Park

Reason #5: Cypermore Point State Park

Reason #6: Lake Fausse Pointe State Park

Reason #7: Grand Isle State Park

Reason #8: Bayou Segnette State Park

Reason #9: St. Bernard State Park

Reason #10: Fountainebleau State Park

Reason #11: Fairview-Riverside State Park

Reason #12: Bogue Chitto State Park

Reason #13: Tickfaw State Park

Tickfaw State Park

Reason #14: Chicot State Park

Reason #15: Lake Bistineau State Park

Reason #16: Jimmie Davis State Park

Reason #17: Lake Bruin State Park

Reason #18: Poverty Point Reservoir State Park

Reason #19: Chemin-A-Haut State Park

Reason #20: Lake D’arbonne State Park

Reason #21: Lake Claiborne State Park

I’ve had many people ask me which was my favorite, and honestly, I can not pick a favorite. I was so stunned by the beauty of each and every park. The care that has been taken to keep our State Parks in good shape was surprising to me. The other reason that I can’t pick a favorite is that two-weekend road trips are not near enough time to find the real gems in the pack. I’m making it a priority to go back and spend more time at each park.

Robin Williams - member of the Bayou KreweIf you are looking for a quick road trip, visiting a Louisiana State Park is an inexpensive way to go. Entry fee is only $3 per person. Camping fees vary in ranges, so make sure you check out the website for each park. When you go, here’s what to remember:

  • Bring fishing gear
  • Pack a Lunch
  • Wear appropriate shoes
  • Sunblock!
  • Create a travel journal to make notes & add photos (paper or electronic)
  • Tag your visits on social media using #OnlyLouisiana and #BayouKrewe (sign up to be a Bayou Krewe Ambassador)

Thank you for visiting Louisiana State Parks

That Just Happened!!
Robin Williams

You like Quesadillas? Head over to Dillas in Shreveport!

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Pete John of Dillas Primo QuesadillasIf you know Pete John, you know he has his finger on the pulse of all that’s cool in the fast-casual food world. Dillas Prima Quesadillas is his latest venture. Pete celebrated with a joint ribbon cutting between the Bossier Chamber of Commerce and the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce on Dec 14, 2018.

Dillas was founded by Kyle Gordon in Dallas, TX, sparked by his love of Quesadillas and a dream to open his own restaurant. Pete John and his wife had been looking for a fun and cool new restaurant to bring to the Shreveport-Bossier area. Dillas fit the bill.

 

Pete has always shown great interest in community involvement and he continues that tradition with Dillas. The goal at Dillas is to be YOUR community restaurant, not just a restaurant in the community. When Dillas becomes part of a community, they look to elevate the community pillars and impact the neighbors in a positive way.

If you like Quesadillas, then you definitely need to head over to Dillas Primo Quesadillas, located 855 Pierremont Rd, Ste 135, Shreveport, LA. Their hours are from 10:30 am – 10:00 pm every day, except holidays. Catering services are available.

That Just Happened!!
Robin Williams

Dillas Primo Quesadillas Ribbon Cutting

Joint Bossier Chamber and Shreveport Chamber Ribbon Cutting

Dillas Quesadillas in Shreveport  Dillas Menu  Fun at the Dillas Ribbon Cutting

Dillas Prima Quesadillas Shreveport, LA Ribbon Cutting

All Y’all is on Spotify

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Chris Jay and Sara Hebert, creators of All Y'all PodcastThe dynamic duo/Louisiana couple that is Sara Hebert and Chris Jay has been perpetuating Southern stories on the All Y’all podcast since 2013, and now they are on Spotify!

The amazing thing about Chris and Sara is that they really have a knack for finding people who have something to say but may have never thought about sharing. The All Y’all podcast begins as a live storytelling event where people are asked to tell their story, without any notes, on stage in front of anywhere from 150-300 people in the audience. If you’ve never been to one of these events in the Shreveport-Bossier, Louisiana area, I highly recommend that you put it on your list of things to do. It’s such an electrifying experience that includes stories, music and great snacks at intermission. (Homemade Tobacco brownies by Judy Williams – ummm, yes please!)

I suggest you listen to every single episode, and while you’re at it, be on alert that I was the storyteller for episode 19 in 2015 (click photo below to link)

These podcasts are great for “on the way to work” or “road tripping” listening. AND 3, 2, 1, Go >>>

Sara and Robin at Highland Mardi Gras

Chris and RobinEpisode 19 of All Y'all Podcast

 

Let me know your favorite episode (It doesn’t have to be mine!) Oh, hey, don’t forget to follow All Y’all on all their channels:

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That Just Happened!!
Robin Williams