Archives: Episode

MARK SMITH – Building a legacy at Nike and revolutionizing footwear as one of the greatest sneaker designers ever

If you’ve been a fan of Nike or Jordan Brand during the last 30 years, there’s a chance you’ve encountered a Mark Smith design. The legendary creative has his fingerprints across many of Nike’s most coveted sneakers, such as the infamous “Entourage” Air Force 1. His most recent work is the heralded Michael Jordan MVP…

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LAZ ALONSO – The evolution of Black influence in America, and the power of manifesting

Laz Alonso is an accomplished actor in Hollywood who has a bigger vision for what he, and his community, can accomplish in America. Laz is the embodiment of manifesting your outcome that sets the bar, and reality, that we can achieve anything against all odds. Hear his story, and it might just change yours.

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JASON MAYDEN – Protecting Black creativity through ownership, & how AI can enhance product innovation

Culture of evolution. Above Jason’s pedigree for creativity is his ability to lead with love and compassion. Built on a foundation of spiritual integrity, Jason chooses to leave his mark with pure intentions and kindness, reminding us to self-examine how we operate in our own lives. On this episode of Culture Raises Us, Jason gives…

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JASON MAYDEN – Protecting Black creativity through ownership, & how AI can enhance product innovation

Culture of evolution. Above Jason’s pedigree for creativity is his ability to lead with love and compassion. Built on a foundation of spiritual integrity, Jason chooses to leave his mark with pure intentions and kindness, reminding us to self-examine how we operate in our own lives. On this episode of Culture Raises Us, Jason gives…

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LIBRA FORDE – Exploration of self, empowering our youth, and raising a culture of awareness

How do we as a society heal and strive towards meaningful progress? Libra Forde, Executive Director for Women’s Foundation of Oregon, has devoted her life to bringing healing and empowerment to marginalized voices. On this episode of Culture Raises Us, Libra shares her story, her perspectives, and her goals to help shed light on what…

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DJ CLARK KENT – Reflecting on hip-hop, cultivating taste, and empowering your authentic self

Clark Kent knows himself. You might know him as “God’s Favorite DJ”, or through his iconic production during rap’s golden era, or through his landmark brand collaborations with Nike. We recognize him as a cultivator of taste across all industries and eras he has left his stamp on. Join as Astor and Clark take a…

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AMANDA WILLIAMS – Creativity, impact through art, & responding to your calling

Chicago born Amanda Williams embodies the culture of craft. After a successful career as an architect, Amanda took a leap of faith into making art her full time focus. This appetite for risk and self-belief would eventually land her work, Color Theory, in the MoMA. What’s most remarkable about Amanda is her tireless desire to…

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AMANDA WILLIAMS – Creativity, impact through art, & responding to your calling

Chicago born Amanda Williams embodies the culture of craft. After a successful career as an architect, Amanda took a leap of faith into making art her full time focus. This appetite for risk and self-belief would eventually land her work, Color Theory, in the MoMA. What’s most remarkable about Amanda is her tireless desire to…

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CHRIS HICKS – Black influence, ownership, & Atlanta’s impact in Culture

How do we build culture with integrity? Look no further than Chris Hicks. Former manager for Usher and Executive Vice President of Island Def Jam, Chris Hicks now serves as the Chief Innovation Officer of Quality Control Holdings. On this episode of Culture Raises US, Chris takes us on a deep dive through his journey…

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CHRIS HICKS – Black influence, ownership, & Atlanta’s impact in Culture

How do we build culture with integrity? Look no further than Chris Hicks. Former manager for Usher and Executive Vice President of Island Def Jam, Chris Hicks now serves as the Chief Innovation Officer of Quality Control Holdings. On this episode of Culture Raises US, Chris takes us on a deep dive through his journey…

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