Paul Island Interview

What happens when a kid from New York joins the Army, gets sent overseas, and discovers a life he never imagined? In this episode, Al B sits down with Paul, a retired 20-year Army field artillery and public affairs officer who now calls Paris home. Paul shares how assignments in Korea and Germany sparked his love of travel, the cultural encounters that changed how he viewed the world, and why seven years in Germany made returning to the United States harder than expected. They get real about navigating Europe as Black American men, experiencing both blatant racism and unexpected acceptance, building friendships with locals, dating abroad, and finding a greater sense of safety and comfort outside the United States. Paul also discusses visiting 54 countries, co-hosting the Rhythm and Roam podcast, writing his memoir, and why he believes leaving your comfort zone can completely change how you understand yourself, America, and the rest of the world. Plus, the conversation ends where all serious discussions should: searching for legitimate soul food in Paris.