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Welcome to Semester 6 of the IBI podcast, your Tribe of Mentors, from the Pool of Black Genius. Speaking of Black genius, today’s guest needs no introduction, but we will go ahead and introduce him anyway. Y’all it’s Kirk Franklin. Yes, THAT Kirk Franklin. 19 Grammy Award-winning Kirk Franklin. Contemporary Gospel innovator Kirk Franklin. .. The gifted singing, songwriting, piano-playing, producing, and yes, a rapping, Mr. Kirk Franklin! In case there was any confusion.  We talk about personal pain and trauma. We dismantle the Black church and the traditions that keep us fractured and apart, we wrestle with the notion that life is composed of both moments of happiness and sorrow, but with the unwavering presence of God, regardless of the circumstances, anything is possible. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And now, without further ado, the musical luminary, Kirk Franklin. Key Links Thomas A. Dorsey- Widely regarded as the father of gospel music Good Words with Kirk Franklin- Kirk Franklin Podcast welcomes people, from all walks of life, seeking inspiration and empowerment. The Dead Sea Scrolls - ancient, mostly Hebrew, manuscripts (of leather, papyrus, and copper) first found in 1947 on the northwestern shore of the Dead Sea. Southern Baptists Apologize For Slavery Stance - NPR, August 28, 2009  2 Corinthians 12:6-10 (NIV) - Biblical Scripture reference Dr. Charles Stanley - American Southern Baptist pastor and writer Father's Day: A Kirk Franklin Story - YouTube · Kirk Franklin Sep 15, 2023 What to Read The Blueprint: A Plan for Living Above Life's Storms - Kirk Franklin  The Evolution of African-American Worship: From the Thomas Dorsey to Kirk Franklin Era  - Dr. Antonia Arnold-McFarland Church Boy - Kirk Franklin What to listen to Precious Lord, Take My Hand - Thomas Dorsey a...

Well friends, we made it. 2023 had its share of joys and challenges, individually and collectively, but we are here. Together. In community. This special podcast edition is our final episode of the year, and you’re in for a treat! Not only will you hear from me, but you will also hear from 6 IBI team members, in their own words, as they introduce a snippet from their favorite episode of 2023. We begin with a conversation from Choreographer and Director Camille A. Brown. Followed by Former Minister of Culture, Black Panther Party Emory Douglas Up next will be Chorographer & Producer George Faison Then a chat with Director and writer Milisuthando Bongela Next, we hear from Producer, writer, and actress Lena Waithe Followed by Photographer and artist Andre D. Wagner And conclude with Dancer, Choreographer, and Artistic Director Robert Battle.  Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Featured Episode Links E59. Camille A. Brown: For Colored Girls E86. Sketching A Revolution with Emory Douglas E82. Dancing Through the Archive with the Legendary George Faison E66. Inside Apartheid's Wish with Milisuthando Bongela E85. Mastering Your Story - Lena Waithe E84. Life on the Streets with Andre D Wagner E62. Robert Battle: The Power of Community Host Dario Calmese  Producer:  K.T. Thompson Visual Art Direction and Designs: River Wildmen Director of Digital Content: Vicky Garcia Production Asst:  Noa Lesche Original Music composed by Adam Radice Sound Engineer: a href="https://www.instagram.com/adamradice/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Today’s conversation is with the legendary photographer, Chester Higgins. I’ve admired Chester’s work for years… he’s a master of his craft, and a technician to the Nth degree. But it’s one thing to appreciate the work of an artist, it’s another to delve into their worldview: the work we see simply being an artifact of a greater pursuit. Well, that’s what today’s holds. What appears to be captured images, is actually Chester’s attempts at in all actuality, capturing God.   In today’s episode, Chester reflects on the near-death childhood experience at the age of 9 that opened his eyes to a parallel reality, introducing him to the spirit that shapes existence. He shares his insights on the interconnectedness of life, the continuous cycle of energy, and the pursuit of capturing the elusive spirit in his photographs. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Key Links Haile Selassie I- Emperor of Ethiopia from 1930 to 1974 Tuskegee University- a private, historically black land-grant university in Tuskegee, Alabama. P. H. Polk - American photographer known for his portraits of African Americans. Andrew Young -  American politician, civil rights leader, and served in the U.S. House of Representatives What to Read Sacred Nile - Betsy Kissam, Chester Higgins Jr.  Feeling the Spirit - Chester Higgins Jr. Elder Grace: The Nobility of Aging - Maya Angelou, Chester Higgins  THROUGH THESE EYES: The Photographs of P. H. Polk - Chester Higgins Jr., Deborah Muirhead, Amalia Amaki, Meredith Soles What to listen to Water No Get Enemy - Fela Kuti Grazing In The Grass - Hugh Masekela Mighty God (Remix) - Soweto Gospel Choir a...

Today, we embark on a profound journey with the iconic Emory Douglas. As the former Minister of Culture for the Black Panther Party, Emory's art ignited a revolution. Today, we ask you to reorient your ears… this is history. There’s an old African proverb that states when a person transitions, a library burns to the ground. Well, today’s conversation with Emory Douglass is a living archive revealing itself. It’s what we here at the Institute call Archival Intelligence. Take notes. Research the names. Refer back. Today’s conversation is a retelling of artmaking in revolutionary times, and what it means to create new identities within a community.  Join us in this safe space as Emory candidly shares tales of rebellion, societal exchanges, and the intricate web of connections in his formative years. This episode is not just an interview; it's a voyage through the corridors of time, shedding light on the profound interplay of art, activism, and the Black experience. And to hear another side of this story, be sure to check out episode 26 with Elaine Browne, the only woman to serve as Chair of the Black Panther party.  Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. Visit our YouTube channel, 'The Institute of Black Imagination,' and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And now, join us as Emory Douglas navigates through the intersections of art, activism, and the enduring quest for justice.  Key Links The Black Panther Party-  African American revolutionary party Bobby Seale - African American political activist and co-founder and national chairman of the Black Panther Party. Huey P. Newton- African American revolutionary and political activist and co-founder of ‘The Black Panther Party  Zapatista National Liberation Army - A group of mostly indigenous activists from the southern Mexican state of Chiapas The Black Arts Movement (1965-1975)  -  Black nationalism movement that focused on music, literature, drama, and the visual arts made up of Black artists and intellectuals. Eldridge Cleaver- member of The Black Panther Party, he served as the first Minister of Information. Dr. Betty Shabazz - an American educator and civil rights activist, wife of Malcolm X Charles W. White - African American painter, printmaker, and teacher What to Read a...

Today, we're honored to sit down with the incredible Lena Waithe, a trailblazing writer, producer, and actress who's reshaped film and TV. In this enlightening chat, Lena shares her roots, tracing back to her grandmother's brave journey from Arkansas to Chicago. We explore the concept of identity, her take on 'ladylike,' and how she's embraced her individuality. Lena reflects on how societal expectations shape identity and the importance of curiosity and meaningful conversations. We also delve into her creative process and the genesis of 'Queen & Slim,' a film challenging conventions and examining Black identity. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. Visit our YouTube channel, 'The Institute of Black Imagination,' and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Stay tuned as Lena Waithe shares insights on self-transformation, overcoming naysayers, and the power of community in her journey from Chicago to Hollywood. Don't miss this captivating conversation on the Institute of Black Imagination. Key Links Queen & Slim-  2019 American romantic road crime drama film Ready Player One- 2018 American science fiction action film  The CHI - An American drama television series created by Lena Waithe  Michael G. Fry -  Chicago born, Emmy nominated television writer, actor and producer Mara Brock Akil- American screenwriter and television producer  Gina Prince-Bythewood - American film director and screenwriter Ava DuVernay - American filmmaker Yvette Lee Bowser - American television written  What to Read Black Directors in Hollywood- Melvin Donalson Why We Make Movies: Black Filmmakers Talk About the Magic of Cinema  - George Alexander Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years - Sarah L. Delaney & A. Elizabeth Delaney What to listen to a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/4iz9lGMjU1lXS51oPmUmTe?si=cf6711c668c34dbb" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Our guest today is none other than the visionary photographer, Andre D. Wagner. With a lens that tells stories in a way that words cannot, Andre has made a significant mark in the world of photography. He has been commissioned by The New Yorker, The New York Times, Esquire, W Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Time, Vogue, well, YouTube the picture. In addition to his editorial work, he was the creative force behind the promotional imagery for the film "Queen & Slim" in 2019. His first monograph, Here for the Ride, was published by Creative Future in 2017 and he is currently editing a 10-year body of work titled New City, Old Blues. In 2022, he was awarded the Gordon Parks fellowship, and His photographs have appeared in several solo exhibitions and group shows in Los Angeles, New York, and North Carolina. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and like to support the show, click this support link.  Key Links The Gordon Parks Foundation- permanently preserves the work of Gordon Parks Gordon Parks - one of the greatest photographers of the twentieth century, was a humanitarian with a deep commitment to social justice. Andre D. Wagner: New City, Old Blues - Exhibition runs through November 17, 2023 Gordon Parks Fellowship  The Strivers Row- A multi-cultural marketing agency specializing in content development, talent relations, and event production. Queen & Slim - Stylish, provocative, and powerful, Queen & Slim tells a gripping fugitive story steeped in timely, thoughtful subtext. What to Read Voices in the Mirror: An Autobiography (Harlem Moon Classics) - Gordon Parks A Choice of Weapons - Gordon Parks The Camera - Ansel Adams The Negative - Ansel Adams The Print - Ansel Adams What to listen to Livin' For The

Today, we have a truly remarkable guest. Joining us today is the brilliant Dr. Joy Buolamwini, a computer scientist, digital activist and self-described “Poet of Code” whose journey began at that Temple of Technology, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or MIT for short. She's the founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, a place where art and activism intersect to illuminate the social implications of AI. She also has a book dropping on Halloween called, wait for it, Unmasking AI. How fitting is that for Halloween? But her story isn't just about her prestigious academic credentials; it's about the extraordinary transformation her creative journey has taken. In today’s conversation, she reveals how her quest to create a digital filter, one that could change the reflection of herself in a mirror, led to a profound exploration of technology's hidden biases.  Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and would like to support the show, click this support link.  Key Links Kimberlé W. Crenshaw- American activist, intersectionality Single axis analysis Niles Luther - Cellist & Composer Robert Williams- man arrested through skewed AI detection Coded Bias- a film on Netflix Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - a private land-grant research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. What to Read Unmasking AI- Dr. Joy Buolamwini Breaking the Code: Thriving as Black Individuals in the Era of Artificial Intelligence - Rayshaun "Chu" Smith Black in White Space: The Enduring Impact of Color in Everyday...

Today, we have a very special interview with the legendary choreographer and producer, George Faison. In this conversation, George takes us on a journey through his remarkable life, from his early days in Washington, D.C., to his experiences dancing with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and mostly, and his iconic role as the choreographer of the "The Wiz" on Broadway. For which he won a Tony. Becoming the first Black person to do so. George shares stories of his encounters with great artists like Maya Angelou and Stevie Wonder and the incredible impact they had on his life. But perhaps the most captivating part of this interview is George's vivid description of creating the Emerald City sequence in "The Wiz." He also shares the role books play in his creative process. For George, it all begins with the archive. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link.  Things Mentioned Maya Angelou - an American memoirist, poet, and civil rights activist. The Wiz - The musical version of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" Dick Gregory - an American comedian, actor, writer, activist and social critic. Gazelle - George Faison ballet - Dedicated to the Free Spirit in All of Us. 1967 Detroit riot - The 1967 Detroit Riots were among the most violent and destructive riots in U.S. history. Alvin Ailey - American dancer, director, choreographer, and activist.  American Light Opera Company - semi-professional theatre company performing light operas and musicals in Washington, D.C. from 1960 to 1968. Suite Otis - Otis Redding's sassy, sizzling music sets the stage for George Faison's playful battle of the sexes. What to Read All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes - Maya Angelou Giovanni's Room - James Baldwin The Color Purple - Alice Walker The Incredible Lightness of Being - Camie J. Davis a...

In today's episode, we're joined by Tarriona ”Tank” Ball and Norman Spence of the Grammy-nominated Tank & The Bangas, a band hailing from the vibrant, swampy, and swinging coastal town of New Orleans. They've been wowing audiences since 2011 with their eclectic fusion of funk, soul, hip-hop, and spoken word. Today, we explore their dynamic journey from open mic nights to Grammy nominations; diving into the inspiration behind their genre-blurring music. To date, they’ve released three studio albums, Thinktank (2013), Green Balloon (2019), and Red Balloon (2022). With two Grammy nominations under their belt, they are just getting started. Also, a note, the audio quality of this episode gets a little bonkers as Norman’s headphones begin to fail and Tank’s phone dies. But it’s all a part of the journey to becoming, so we left it in.  Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link.  Current members. Tarriona "Tank" Ball – lead vocals (2011–present) Norman Spence II – bass, keyboards, guitar (2011–present) Joshua Johnson – drums, musical director (2011–present) Albert Allenback – alto saxophone, flute (2014–present) Band History: Members of Tank and the Bangas met at a New Orleans open mic show called Liberation Lounge and formed the group in 2011. The band won the 2017 NPR Tiny Desk Contest and in November 2019, they were nominated in the Best New Artist category for the 2020 Grammy Awards. They have released three studio albums, Thinktank (2013), Green Balloon (2019), and Red Balloon (2022). Throughout their career, the group has performed on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” “Austin City Limits” and “The Today Show.” Tank and The Bangas have toured non-stop, selling out venues both stateside and abroad including festival appearances at Coachella, Glastonbury, Bonnaroo and the Newport Jazz Festival. Key Links: Tank and The Bangas - Wiki Tank And The Bangas: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert Tarriona “Tank” Ball | geauxgirlmagazine Tank and the Bangas Unveil 'Black Folk (Remix)' Featuring Kota the Friend, Rapsody & More a...

Today we have a truly inspiring conversation that delves into the power of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformational journey of one extraordinary individual, photographer, entrepreneur, and social activist, Misan Harriman, a name that has become synonymous with the art of storytelling through the lens. The first brother to shoot a cover for British Vogue in its 104-year history. Misan's incredible journey from self-doubt to becoming a global voice of the moment is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. His iconic protest images became a voice for the voiceless, igniting a conversation that asks, "Why is ending racism still a debate?" Hailing from Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State in Nigeria, Misan was raised in England, yet didn’t formally begin his photographic career until the age of 40. Gifted a camera by his wife, who recognized his passion for the image, Misan taught himself the ins and outs of image-making.  A burgeoning portraitist, it was his protest images during the 2020 global reckonings for Black Lives that caught the attention of British Vogue editor-in-chief, Edward Enningful, and the rest, as they say… is history.  Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link.  Things mentioned Gordon Parks- American photographer and activist Eve Arnold- American photojournalist Sally Mann- American photographer David LaChapelle- American photographer and director  George Floyd- American man who was killed through police brutality Mohamed Amin- Kenya photojournalist Web3 - is a possible future version of the internet based on public blockchains, a record-keeping system best known for facilitating cryptocurrency transactions. Tezos Foundation- financial literacy with blockchain and crypto art Sykes-Picot agreement- secret convention made during a...

Today we are diving into the captivating life story of Attorney, Artist & Activist (Reginald) Dwayne Betts, a man whose path took unexpected turns, leading him to discover the boundless potential within himself. As we journey through Dwayne's life, we'll explore the profound impact of literature on his transformation, his encounters with influential poets like Sonia Sanchez, and the survival strategies that poetry offered him during his incarceration. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link.  Things mentioned Freedom Reads- Organization founded by Dwayne Betts that aims to place millions of books into prisons Kiese LeMond- ambassador of Freedom Reads Traci Thomas-  podcast host of the Stacks Sherley Anne Williams - American Poet Lucille Cliffton- American poet Eldridge cleaver- author and activist What to Read Makes me Wanna Holler - Nathan McCall The Black Poets- Dudley Randall Homegirls and Hand Grenades- Sonia Sanchez The Art of War- Sun Tzu Crazy as Hell, (the best book on black history you'll ever read)- Dwayne Betts  coming soon What to listen to We the People - A Tribe Called Quest Living For The City - Stevie Wonder The Message - Grandmaster Flash Who to follow Website: https://www.dwaynebetts.com/ IG: Reginald Betts (@dwaynebetts) TW:  Dwayne Betts (@dwaynebetts) This conversation was recorded on July 13, 2023. Hosta...

Our guest today, Dr. Danielle Wood, is a shining example of how passion and perseverance can lead you to the stars. She defied the odds, shattered expectations, and carved her own path to become a leader in the world of space exploration and technology. So, join us as we embark on this cosmic voyage with Dr. Danielle Wood and discover how she unveiled the universe, one challenge at a time. Be sure to share some of your thoughts on today's episode with us on Instagram at @blackimagination. If you want to stay updated on all our latest news and exclusive content, click on this newsletter link. If you love what we do and want to support the show, click this support link. And without further ado, Dr. Danielle Wood. Things Mentioned India south pole Moon landing- After a failed attempt to land on the moon in 2019, India now joins the United States, the Soviet Union and China as only the fourth country to achieve this milestone. The Outer Space Treaty-  the exploration and use of outer space shall be carried out for the benefit and in the interests of all countries and shall be the province of all mankind;outer space shall be free for exploration and use by all States;outer space is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means;States shall not place nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction in orbit or on celestial bodies or station them in outer space in any other manner;the Moon and other celestial bodies shall be used exclusively for peaceful purposes;astronauts shall be regarded as the envoys of mankind;States shall be responsible for national space activities whether carried out by governmental or non-governmental entities;States shall be liable for damage caused by their space objects; andStates shall avoid harmful contamination of space and celestial bodies. Chandra Xray observatory telescope - NASA's sophisticated telescope is specially designed to detect X-ray emission from very hot regions of the Universe Systems architecture- A system's architecture reflects how it is thought about in terms of its structure, functions, and relationships. TNW Conference - is a website and annual series of conferences focused on new technology and start-up companies in Europe. Phillis Wheatley- American poet and author, the first black woman to publish a book (as an American woman, but the book was published in the UK). Henrietta