Tavis Smiley Season 7 Episode 29 Van Jones

Van Jones is the guest on the 29th episode of the 7th season of Tavis Smiley. Jones is a political commentator, author, and activist who was the founder of the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights and worked as a special advisor to President Barack Obama.

The episode starts with Tavis Smiley introducing Van Jones, and the two of them discussing Jones' upbringing in rural Tennessee. Jones talks about his experience as a young black man in the South, and how it shaped his worldview and his activism.

Jones also talks about his work with the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, which focuses on issues such as criminal justice reform, green jobs, and civic engagement. He discusses the challenges of working within the political system to effect change, as well as the importance of grassroots organizing and activism.

The conversation then turns to Jones' time working in the Obama administration. Jones was appointed as the Special Advisor for Green Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, and he discusses his efforts to promote a green economy and address issues such as climate change and income inequality.

Jones also talks about the controversy that surrounded his time in the administration. In 2009, he became the target of a right-wing media campaign that accused him of being a "radical communist" and a 9/11 truther. Jones ultimately resigned from his position in the administration, and he discusses the impact that this experience had on him personally and professionally.

Throughout the episode, Jones and Smiley discuss a range of issues related to politics, race, and activism. They touch on topics such as the Black Lives Matter movement, the role of media in shaping public opinion, and the importance of building coalitions across different communities and demographics.

Overall, the episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of Van Jones, as well as the broader issues that he cares about and is working to address. It is a thoughtful and engaging conversation that will leave viewers with much to consider and reflect on.