Willamette Block Party

About Willamette Block Party

Willamette Block Party is where Black culture, business, and community come alive in the Willamette Valley. Hosts Xavier Hudson, Allie Saunders and Ray White center Black voices, highlight local leaders, and spotlight stories and events shaping the future.

Publisher

BlockParty Willamette

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 Sept 2025

Latest episode

30 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   30 Oct 2026

   009 | Put Your Art on Display with Janique Crenshaw

   We interviewed Janique Crenshaw of Janique Crenshaw Illustration (https://janiquecrenshaw.com/). She shares her journey surrounding art, community involvement, creating accessible art workshops, and designing innovative community spaces within the Willamette Valley. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/janiquecrenshaw ______ Connect with Us: Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! @WillametteBlockParty @allie.havenrose @raydevante @xinyafacedotcom We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Please let us know if you’re interested in being a guest on the show. Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ Sponsorship If you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

2. 

   24 Apr 2026

   008 | Unleashing Your True Self with Glitter Gloria

   Glitter Gloria (CEO/Organizational Development Consultant with Exit Bliss Consulting LLC) shares her journey of self-discovery, the importance of authentic identity, and practical insights on legacy building, business readiness, and personal growth. Discover how embracing your true self and strategic planning can lead to a blissful, prosperous life. Website - https://exitbliss.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/exit-bliss/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/exitbliss/ Chapters 00:00 Preparation vs. Flow: Finding the Balance 03:10 Authenticity in Communication: Embracing Identity 05:28 Navigating Professional Standards: The Personal Impact 08:57 Claiming Your Presence: Time and Efficiency 11:21 Home and Identity: Roots and Growth 13:07 Legacy and Purpose: Building for the Future 16:36 The Power of Storytelling: Personal Narratives 21:44 Creating Systems: Knowledge Preservation 30:29 Conclusion: Positioning for Prosperity 31:01 Navigating Change and Personal Growth 33:29 Business Readiness and Client Relationships 35:57 Lessons from Mediation and Conflict Resolution 39:33 The Importance of Accountability in Partnerships 43:28 Building a Legacy and the Impact of Business 46:17 Creating a Positive Business Culture 50:17 The Power of Identity and Persona 55:29 Cultural Influences and Personal Inspiration ______ Connect with Us: Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! @WillametteBlockParty @allie.havenrose @raydevante @xinyafacedotcom We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Please let us know if you’re interested in being a guest on the show. Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ Sponsorship If you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

3. 

   7 Mar 2026

   007 | The Power of Community and Justice with Juli-Ray Joy

   Join us as we explore the impactful work of community organizer Juli-Ray Joy, focusing on criminal justice reform, Black Joy Oregon, and community empowerment through storytelling, policy advocacy, and cultural initiatives. Connect with Us: Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! | @WillametteBlockParty | @allie.havenrose | @raydevante | @xinyafacedotcom We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. ⁠Sign up to be a guest on the show! ⁠ (https://forms.gle/tEQyvj7Vkb9NeZsu7) Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ Sponsorship If you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

4. 

   19 Feb 2026

   [After Party] - Perceptions, Perplexities and Paris

   In this episode of the Willamette Block Party, Allie and Ray explore the evolving landscape of education, note-taking practices, cultural shifts, and how perceptions influence our understanding of history, social interactions, and media. They also reflect on the importance of critical thinking amidst narratives shaped by varying sources. Keywords: note-taking, education, college life, generational differences, communication, textbooks, critical thinking, media analysis, cultural narratives, emotional intelligence Connect with Us:Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! | @WillametteBlockParty | @allie.havenrose | @raydevante | @xinyafacedotcomWe are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. ⁠Sign up to be a guest on the show! ⁠ (https://forms.gle/tEQyvj7Vkb9NeZsu7) Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. • Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ • Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ • Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ SponsorshipIf you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

5. 

   10 Feb 2026

   006 | Happy Black History Month on the Block!

   In this episode of the Willamette Block Party, hosts Raymond White and Allie Saunders celebrate Black History Month by discussing its significance, local events, and the importance of recognizing Black culture and history throughout the year. They highlight community engagement, local pioneers, and the role of art in celebrating Black excellence. The conversation emphasizes the need for ongoing recognition and appreciation of Black contributions to society, beyond just the designated month.Several key events and themes were highlighted:Black History Month Celebrations: We discussed the significance of Black History Month, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Black culture, accomplishments, and leaders both locally in the Willamette Valley and nationally. They encouraged listeners to share events and participate in community activities.Local Events and Exhibits: They mentioned various events happening in the area, such as the Tribute to Black Excellence event, art exhibits by Jeremy Okai Davis, and activities by the Salem Art Association. These events aim to highlight Black history and contributions throughout the year. - https://oregonblackpioneers.org/tours/ - https://www.worldstagetheatre.org/bhfnw - https://portlandartmuseum.org/event/black-history-month-at-the-portland-art-museum/Community Engagement: The hosts talked about the importance of community involvement and the role of local organizations like the NAACP and The BE BLAC Foundation in organizing events. They also discussed the idea of a scavenger hunt or passport model to encourage community participation. (https://beblacfoundation.org/)Historical Figures and Contributions: The episode highlighted notable figures such as Dr. D. Norval Unthank (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GLNJCz9BA/), Senator Jackie Winters, (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DYy9aqjS1/), and Willie Richardson (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1B2HuXtQKy/), discussing their contributions to the community and the importance of recognizing their legacies. Cultural Reflections: We reflected on cultural connections, such as movies and music that are significant in the Black community, and the idea of a "Black History Season" extending from MLK Day to April 4th. - https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/10/opinions/black-history-more-than-a-month-tisby?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email_______Connect with Us:Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! @WillametteBlockParty @allie.havenrose @raydevante @xinyafacedotcomWe are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Please let us know if you’re interested in being a guest on the show. Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ SponsorshipIf you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

6. 

   1 Jan 2026

   005 | Stay Fit and Feeling Festive (Ft. Rod Stanley)

   In this holiday conversation, the Allie and Ray, along with Willamette Wake Up producer, Melanie, and our featured guest Rod Stanley, explore various themes surrounding the holiday season, including favorite holiday songs, navigating food choices during festivities, maintaining fitness goals, and the importance of moderation. They share personal insights on realistic goal setting for the new year, the significance of personal training, and the need for community fitness initiatives. The discussion also touches on cherished family traditions and the joy of creating lasting memories during the holidays. Rod's Business: Ritual Health and Fitness (https://www.facebook.com/p/Ritual-Health-and-Fitness-100082925451676/) - Located in Salem, Oregon Keywords: holiday music, fitness goals, holiday traditions, personal training, nutrition tips, community fitness, goal setting, moderation, family connections, holiday cheer Connect with Us: Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! | @WillametteBlockParty | @allie.havenrose | @raydevante | @xinyafacedotcom We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Sign up to be a guest on the show! (https://forms.gle/tEQyvj7Vkb9NeZsu7) Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ Sponsorship If you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

7. 

   26 Dec 2025

   [After Party] - New Year on the Block!

   In this episode of the Willamette Block Party, hosts Ray and Allie discuss various themes surrounding community engagement, personal growth, and reflections on the holiday season. They share personal anecdotes, explore the importance of setting boundaries, and reflect on the changes happening in Salem. The conversation emphasizes the need for community connections and the potential for future events, such as a block party, to foster engagement and inclusivity. Keywords: Willamette Valley, community engagement, personal growth, holiday reflections, setting boundaries, Salem changes, future aspirations, local businesses, block party, connections Connect with Us: Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! | @WillametteBlockParty | @allie.havenrose | @raydevante | @xinyafacedotcom We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. ⁠Sign up to be a guest on the show! ⁠ (https://forms.gle/tEQyvj7Vkb9NeZsu7) Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ Sponsorship If you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

8. 

   4 Dec 2025

   004 | Clarity and Community (Ft. Arjay Mendiola)

   In this episode, Arjay shares his journey and insights into helping first-time homebuyers through his initiative, Keys & Clarity. He discusses the challenges and misconceptions faced by new buyers, the importance of building a supportive community, and his personal experiences that shaped his approach. Arjay also touches on his marketing ventures and the significance of creating safe spaces for community engagement. Arjay's Business: Real Estate and Keys & Clarity - Located in Salem Oregon (homeempirere@gmail.com) Keywords: first-time homebuyers, Keys to Clarity, community support, real estate education, marketing, safe spaces, generational wealth, home buying process, financial literacy, community engagement Connect with Us: Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP!@WillametteBlockParty @allie.havenrose @raydevante @xinyafacedotcom We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Please let us know if you’re interested in being a guest on the show. Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ Sponsorship If you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

9. 

   12 Nov 2025

   003 | Creating Radical Spaces (Ft. Jasmine Kelly-Field)

   In this conversation, Jasmine Kelly-Field shares her journey of embracing diversity, creativity, and financial literacy while navigating her roles as a community member, entrepreneur, and parent. She discusses the importance of understanding the psychology of money, the need for economic empowerment within the community, and the significance of cultural identity, particularly in relation to hair. Jasmine emphasizes the necessity of creating supportive community spaces and encourages others to pursue their passions without fear. Jasmine's Business: Kelly-Field Lawn Care & More LLC  - Located in Independence OR Keywords: diversity, financial literacy, community engagement, entrepreneurship, cultural identity, parenting, economic empowerment, local business, hair journey, psychology of money Connect with Us: Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP!@WillametteBlockParty @allie.havenrose @raydevante @xinyafacedotcom We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Please let us know if you’re interested in being a guest on the show. Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ Sponsorship If you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

10. 

    4 Oct 2025

    002 | Dust Yourself Off and Try Again (Ft. Sarah Arbuckle)

    Join hosts Xavier “xInYaFaceDotCom” and Allie Saunders as they welcome their first and best guest (thus far) Sarah Arbuckle, the Chief of Staff to Oregon State Representative, Hòa Nguyễn, serving House District 48. Sarah has been building, sustaining, serving, and advocating for the people of the Willamette Valley since relocating to the area in 2019. In addition to a multitude of experience within state service, Sarah also volunteers with the Salem-Keizer School District, Black Joy Oregon, and Brown Girl Rise. Prepare yourself to laugh, to reflect, and to feel your “feels” while tuning into excerpts from this wide-ranging conversation between Sarah, Allie, and Xavier [with a special appearance from Ray]. Key Discussion Points & Timestamps: [00:00:23]: [Welcome, Shenanigans & Introductions [00:01:29]: [About Sarah: Introduction & Career Path [00:11:28]: [About Sarah: Identity, Culture, & Community] [00:28:33]: [Black Community: Challenges & Opportunities] [00:39:52]: [Willamette Valley: Future Outlook] [00:48:29]: [Hair Stories & Journeys] [00:54:43]: [Community Building: Accountability, Culture, History & Action] [01:10:36]: [Growing Up & Raising Children] [01:21:14]: [Government: Leadership, Wisdom, & Engaging the Youth] [01:28:38]: [Final Words & Sign-off] Shout-outs: Cat Amos - PaintedCurly Salon Lew Frederick, Oregon State Senator Juli Ray Joy - Partnership for Safety and Justice; Black Joy Oregon Jasmine Kelly-Field - Loc Queen, Kelly-Field Lawncare & More Jevon Deese - ISupportIt! Clothing Brand Kasha Marya - Sovereignty Bites Catering Mama Gloria Nikita Vincent - Twig & Bloom Flower Farm, Cultural Harvest Collective, Oregon Agricultural Trust Adrian & Ronnie Wright - XB Community Platform Local Resources: Black Joy Oregon - https://www.instagram.com/blackjoyoregon/ Black Salem Oregon (Facebook Group) - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AwDuJuSKw/ Brown Girl Rise - https://www.browngirlrise.org/ Cultural Harvest Collective - https://www.instagram.com/cultural.harvest.collective/ Kelly-Field Lawncare & More - https://kflawncare.my.canva.site/ KinCultivate - https://www.kincultivate.org/ ISupportIt! Clothing Brand - https://www.isithebrand.com/ Oregon Black Pioneers - https://oregonblackpioneers.org/ Sovereignty Bites Catering - https://www.instagram.com/the_tasteofsovereignty/ XB Community - https://www.xbcommunity.com/ Additional Resources: “A More Beautiful and Terrible History” - Jeanne Theoharis “My Grandmother’s Hands” - Resmaa Menakem Connect with Us: Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! @WillametteBlockParty @allie.havenrose @raydevante @xinyafacedotcom We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Please let us know if you’re interested in being a guest on the show. Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below. Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ SponsorshipIf you’re interested in providing sponsorship or underwriting for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com.

11. 

    27 Sept 2025

    001 | Welcome to the Party!

    Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Willamette Block Party! Join your hosts Ray White, Allie Saunders, and Xavier “xInYaFaceDotCom” Hudson as they kick off their new podcast dedicated to highlighting "ALL THINGS BLACK within the Willamette Valley." From first impressions of Oregon to deep reflections on cultural connection, belonging, and goals for the future, this conversation sets the tone for what the Block Party is all about: joy, honesty, and community-building in the place we call home.Key Discussion Points & Timestamps: ● [00:00]: [Welcome, Shenanigans & Introductions] ● [02:07]: [Came From Other Locales to Become Locals] ● [13:27]: [Creating Black Space in the Valley] ● [22:42]: [“Big Acre Energy” – Black Land Ownership Goals] ● [26:59]: [Final Words & Sign-off] Connect with Us: ● Follow our show page and our hosts on Instagram for more content, and shout us out using the hashtag #WeOutHereWBP! ○ @WillametteBlockParty @allie.havenrose @raydevante @xinyafacedotcom ● We are here to highlight All Things Black in the Willamette Valley. Please let us know if you’re interested in being a guest on the show. Send all topics, community resources, event invites, suggestions, and inquiries to willametteblockparty@gmail.com. ● Allie, Ray, and Xavier each have additional projects that they would love for you to engage with. You can find more information by visiting the links below.○ Allie Saunders - https://havenroserealestate.com/ ○ Ray White - https://raymondwhite.net/ ○ Xavier Hudson - https://www.wholelottaenterprises.com/ Additional Resources: ● Episode Transcript - bit.ly/4gdjsVW ● For the Locals: ○ BIPOCs Living in Salem (BLIS) – https://www.instagram.com/blisalem/ ○ The Sanctuary | Christian Community – https://www.instagram.com/thesanctuarypnw/ ○ Becka Makes Buttons – https://beckamakesbuttons.com/ ○ Radness Ensues – https://www.radnessensues.org/ ○ Janique Crenshaw – https://www.janiquecrenshaw.com/ ○ Hunters of Color – https://huntersofcolor-community.org/ Sponsorship:If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor for this project please reach out to us at willametteblockparty@gmail.com. Original Music: ● Created by Raymond D. White | All Rights Reserved Production: ● Whole Lotta Enterprises, LLC© 2025 | Willamette Block Party | All Rights Reserved

Contact Willamette Block Party

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.