Afleveringen

  • In this powerful season finale hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist sit down with media disruptor and creative multi-hyphenate OJ Williams, founder of The Knockturnal to talk how he built outlet from the ground up; why diversifying revenue streams is essential for media survival; the importance of community, mentorship, and so much more. From starting out at The Source at just 15 years old to launching his own editorial and lifestyle brand, OJ gets candid about his journey through journalism, talent management, casting, A&R, and modeling. He reflects on wins, misses (including underestimating Nicki Minaj and Katy Perry 👀), and what it really means to stand on business—especially as a Black creative.Whether you're an aspiring journalist, entrepreneur, or just someone who values culture and creativity, this episode is filled with gems on perseverance, pivoting, and purpose.Connect with our guest: @OJWilliams4 & The KnockturnalConnect with us: Blk on the Scene Listen now on Revolt Creator Network and all major platforms. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate & share!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • To close out Women’s History Month, Blk on the Scene brings you an inspiring conversation with powerhouse sister duo and co-founders of the award-winning creative agency, MVD Inc.—Massah David and Miatta Johnson.

    Hosts Jon Gist and DeDe Brown dive into how these cultural architects built a legacy rooted in creativity, strategy, and storytelling, working with iconic brands like Netflix, Sony Pictures, The Recording Academy, and more. From bootstrapping the launch of MVD with pure hustle to pioneering experiential marketing for artists like Kanye West and Big Sean, Massah and Miatta share the real behind-the-scenes of entrepreneurship, sisterhood, and trendsetting for the culture.

    Plus, hear how their platform #DopeAfricans is creating space and community for creatives across the diaspora.

    Connect with our guests:  MVD, Inc., Massah David & Miatta Johnson 
    Connect with us: Blk on the Scene 

    Listen now on Revolt Podcast Network and all major platforms. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 
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  • Blk on the Scene hosts Jon Gist and DeDe Brown sit down with Angelina Darrisaw, the dynamic founder and CEO of C-Suite Coach—a game-changing leadership development firm that’s worked with Google, Major League Baseball, Warner Music Group, Pandora, and more. As one of the elite 4.8% of women-owned businesses generating over $1M in revenue, Angelina shares her journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, the power of coaching, and what it takes to scale a business while staying true to your values.

    Follow Angelina Darrisaw, Founder & CEO, C-Suite Coach -  LinkedIn | Instagram
    Follow C-Suite Coach -  www.csuitecoach.com
    Blk on the Scene - @BlkontheScene

    Listen now on Revolt Podcast Network and all major platforms. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 
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  • In this powerful Women’s History Month episode of BLK ON THE SCENE, we’re celebrating trailblazing women making history! Our guest, Kamala Avila-Salmon, has been at the forefront of inclusive storytelling in Hollywood, from leading global campaigns at Google and Facebook to breaking barriers as the first-ever Head of Inclusive Content at Lionsgate. Now, she’s stepping into a new role as a film producer with her own production company, KAS KAS Productions, backed by Lionsgate.

    Join hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist as they dive into Kamala’s inspiring journey—how she pivoted from music to tech to film, the challenges of advocating for underrepresented filmmakers, and how her groundbreaking initiative, Story Spark, is reshaping Hollywood’s approach to inclusive storytelling. She also drops invaluable gems on how underestimated creatives can navigate the industry and get their projects greenlit.

    If you’re a creative, a film lover, or just someone who cares about shifting culture, this episode is a must-listen!

    Listen now on Revolt Podcast Network and all major platforms. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

    Follow Kamala Avila-Salmon via LinkedIn and Instagram
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  • In this episode of BLK ON THE SCENE, hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist sit down with Candis Grace, a trailblazing entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and founder of The Brand Group. A Compton native, Candis made history as Hollywood’s only female promoter, later launching a full-service marketing empire with clients like the NBA Players Association, Adidas, Netflix, BET, and more.

    As we kick off Women’s History Month, Candis shares her journey of breaking barriers in male-dominated industries, the power of relationships in brand-building, and why giving back to her community is at the core of her success. From providing resources for families in Compton to creating high-impact partnerships, she is a force for cultural and economic empowerment.
    Listen now on Revolt Podcast Network and all major platforms. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!
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  • As we close out Black History Month, BLK ON THE SCENE is spotlighting a true architect of Black storytelling—Gil Robertson IV, co-founder and president of the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA), the world’s largest group of Black film critics. AAFCA has become a driving force in Hollywood, producing the annual AAFCA Awards—an annual major event on the awards season calendar, recently attended by icons like Tyler Perry, Amber Ruffin, Colman Domingo, RaMell Ross, and Danielle Deadwyler.

    With over 50 national magazine covers, multiple NAACP Image Award-nominated books, and a career dedicated to amplifying Black voices, Gil has shaped conversations around media representation for decades. As an author and editor, he has published works including Writing as a Tool of Empowerment and anthologies exploring Black identity, love, and family. A frequent commentator on entertainment and culture, he also serves on the boards of the Geena Davis Instituteand California Humanities.

    Gil really gives hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist the playbook on being a media entrepreneur, spotting opportunities, and when to act on them plus the importance of having the right team beside you.

    Be sure to subscribe, leave a rating and share Blk on the Scene so you don’t miss any conversations with industry leaders shaping culture and business.
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  • In this episode of BLK on the Scene, hosts Jon Gist and DeDe Brown sit down with Myles Worthington, the CEO and founder of Worthi Agency, an award-winning ethnographic marketing and communications agency that’s revolutionizing how brands connect with historically Underestimated Audiences™.

    Myles shares his journey from launching game-changing multicultural campaigns at Netflix, like Strong Black Lead, to building an agency that partners with brands such as Google, Disney, Amazon, Hulu, and Peloton—all while prioritizing authenticity, cultural impact, and long-term business growth.

    They deep dive into the following:

    How Worthi was built from the ground up in just 18 months with no outside funding

    Why Underestimated Audiences™—Black, Latinx, LGBTQ+, and persons with disabilities—are driving Hollywood’s bottom line

    The importance of underestimated audiences and how brands should invest in them beyond heritage months

    Behind-the-scenes insights on The Blackening campaign and how Worthi’s creative risk turned into a theater-wide activation - watch it Google Play Movies & Amazon Prime Video


    The challenges and triumphs of scaling an agency from a one-person consultancy to a 35+ employee firm

    How Myles prioritizes workplace culture, ensuring his team feels valued while navigating the high demands of entertainment marketing

    Lessons in entrepreneurship, from making tough hiring decisions to the must-have tools for running a successful agency


    Whether you’re a marketing professional, creative, or entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with valuable insights on standing on business for the culture and shaping industries that truly reflect our communities.

    To learn more about Myles and the Worth Agency you can check them out on LinkedIn.

    Be sure to subscribe, leave a rating and share BLK on the Scene so you don’t miss any conversations with industry leaders shaping culture and business.
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  • In this episode of Blk on the Scene, hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Guest are back and better than ever for Season 6! The duo reflects on their journey from the podcast’s humble beginnings to becoming a staple in conversations around Black culture, Hollywood, and the entertainment industry. They unveil the theme of the season: "Standing on Business," highlighting the resilience, creativity, and business acumen of Black professionals thriving in Hollywood and beyond.

    They also discuss their emotional experience attending AliciaKeys musical, @HellsKitchenBroadway, a powerful and moving story with reimagined music by the Grammy-winning icon herself. Jon and DeDe share their reactions to the show’s stellar cast, choreography, set design, musical arrangement and more!   

    Additionally, the hosts preview upcoming episodes featuring industry leaders like Gil Robertson, Myles Worthington, and Kamala Avila-Salmon, each of whom has left an indelible mark on inclusive content creation and Black entrepreneurship. Get ready for insights, laughs, and inspiration as they celebrate the movers and shakers redefining media, marketing, and creative industries.
    Guest Lineup Sneak Peek:


    Gil Robertson: Co-founder of @AAFCA African American Film Critics Association


    Myles Worthington: Founder of @WorthiAgency



    Lina Darrisaw: Founder of @CSuiteCoach



    Kamala Avila-Salmon: Founder of KAS KAS Productions


    Massah David & Miatta Johnson: Founders of @MVDinc



    Candis Grace: Founder of @TheBrandGroupInc



    OJ Williams: Founder of @TheKnockturnal



    Subscribe to Blk on the Scene on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform!
    Remember to leave a review and share with your friends and follow us on Instagram @BlkontheScene.

    Support the Show: Want to see Black on the Scene live? Help us build a loyal listener base by spreading the word!
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  • In this special Black History Month episode of Blk on the Scene, hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist shine a spotlight on the groundbreaking contributions of Black female filmmakers, producers, writers, and showrunners who have transformed the landscape of film and television. From trailblazing directors to powerhouse storytellers behind the scenes, this episode celebrates the creative visionaries whose work continues to inspire and influence culture worldwide.
    Featured Black Female Filmmakers:

    Gina Prince-Bythewood – Love & Basketball, The Woman King


    Julie Dash – Daughters of the Dust Rent or Purchase 


    Nia DaCosta – Candyman


    AV Rockwell – A Thousand and One Rent or Purchase


    Melina Matsoukas – Queen & Slim


    Dee Rees – Pariah Rent or Purchase



    Kasi Lemmons – Eve’s Bayou Rent or Purchase, Harriet


    Regina King – One Night in Miami


    Stella Meghie – The Weekend Rent or Purchase, The Photograph


    Tina Gordon – Little

    Ava DuVernay – Selma, 13th, A Wrinkle in Time


    Lisa Cortés – Little Richard: I Am Everything Rent or Purchase



    Dawn Porter – Luther: Never Too Much still in theaters at the time of this recording!


    Featured Black Female TV Producers/Writers/Showrunners:

    Ava DuVernay – Queen Sugar

    Shonda Rhimes – Scandal, Bridgerton

    Issa Rae – Insecure, Rap Sht*

    Tasha Smith – P-Valley, Survival of the Thickest, 911, Bel-Air, Mayor of Kingstown

    Salli Richardson-Whitfield – The Gilded Age

    Kerry Washington – Insecure, Reasonable Doubt

    Courtney A. Kemp – Power

    Raamla Mohamed – Reasonable Doubt

    Tune in as we discuss how these brilliant creatives have redefined storytelling, brought authentic Black experiences to the forefront, and paved the way for future generations. From iconic films to must-watch TV series, their influence continues to break barriers and set new standards in Hollywood.
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  • In the Season 5 finale of Blk on the Scene, hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist welcome the multifaceted actress, Luna Lauren Vélez! Hailing from New York City, Luna is an OG Afro-Latina actor with a super impressive resume spanning theater, television, and film.
    Luna has graced the big screen in award-winning films like "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" and "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts." Her breakout role in "I Like It Like That" garnered critical acclaim and highlighted the importance of Afro-Latina representation in Hollywood.
    On television, Luna has captivated audiences in "How to Get Away with Murder" and as the unforgettable Captain Maria Laguerta in "Dexter," earning accolades and nominations for her powerful performances.
    Join us as we take a deep dive into Luna's inspiring journey, discussing her career highlights, sources of inspiration, and the significance of authentic representation in the industry.
    BLK on the Scene podcast is more than just a show; it's a celebration of Black entertainment and culture. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a rating! 
    Episode Mentions:
    Luna Lauren Vélez - https://www.instagram.com/lunalaurenvelez?igsh=MWYydmtxNmU0ZjV0Mg==
    I Like It Like That - https://youtu.be/PesH6qe-Qy4?si=7wVx5TUinHaGo3-D
    Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse - https://youtu.be/g4Hbz2jLxvQ?si=XDzYkDopq9AZo38w
    La Lupe - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Lupe
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Krystyn Price, known as "KP," is a force to be reckoned with within the entertainment industry. With a degree from Western Michigan University and a master's degree from Full Sail University, she serves as the General Manager/Vice-President at The Springhill Company, founded by LeBron James and Maverick Carter. Her role involves overseeing content strategy and production for the company among many other duties.
    KP attributes her success to hard work and being "twice as good," plus recognizing synergies in everything she does. We delve into her journey from talent coordinator, Director of Talent for Complex and her current role as the GM / VP at Springhill. Throughout her career Krystyn has worked with top-tier talent, including industry giants like Will Smith, Kevin Hart, Pharrell, Lena Waithe, Billie Eilish, Halle Berry, Charlize Theron, and many more. In this episode she shares with hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist the strategy, mindset and faith that allowed her to pursue her dreams to the fullest. 
    Be sure to subscribe, leave a rating and follow @BlkontheScene across social media. 
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • On today’s episode of Blk on the Scene, we bring you one of the movers and shakers of the entertainment world, our guest journalist, host, producer and fashionista Brande Victorian! Brande Victorian has left an indelible mark on the industry as she's known for her authentic storytelling and viral, human-centered celebrity interviews that fulfill her childhood dream of highlighting Black female stories. From Cardi B, Kerry Washington, Daniel Kaluuya, Oprah Winfrey and more, she's navigated the realms of Hollywood with finesse and a fabulous fit + beat! 
    She takes hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist from the start of her career in medical publishing at Wolters Kluwer Health where she became the first woman and African-American Editor-in-Chief of The Hearing Journal to landing her dream job at ESSENCE Magazine during the pandemic where she oversaw all content related to TV, film, books, music, podcast, sports, and media across print and digital, in addition to playing a pivotal role in booking talent for magazine shoots and marquee events like legendary Black Women In Hollywood issue. Now as a LA based contributor for The Hollywood Reporter and freelance journalist she continues to cover the industry across print, digital and red carpet. Also, Brande is the founder of Be Enough a lifestyle space for women who know believing you’re enough is a never- ending journey. Be sure to subscribe and leave rating + review.
    Episode Mentions:
    Brande Victorian - https://www.instagram.com/be_vic?igsh=cHpxd2gzZ3Q4eGtv
    The Hollywood Reporter - https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/wendy-williams-guardianship-explained-lifetime-doc-1235837099/
    Essence - https://www.essence.com/cardibandoffset/
    Madame Noire - @MadameNoire
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • On this week’s episode of Blk on the Scene, we are thrilled to welcome Jawn Murray, the incredible Executive Producer behind the Sherri Shepherd daytime talk show! Not only is Jawn an EP of the NAACP Image Award winning show, but he is an on-air personality, Producer and Brand Ambassador, that continues to leave an indelible mark on the media landscape.
    Jawn is a Virginia native and proud attendee of Norfolk State University, who shares his remarkable journey from being a latchkey kid to producing one of the most acclaimed talk shows. His media prowess extends from The Tom Joyner Morning Show, TV One, CNN to The View, The Travel Channel and beyond.
    Join hosts DeDe Brown and Jon Gist as they delve into Jawn's childhood, growing up as a latchkey kid, and how iconic talk shows like Jenny Jones, Rolanda Watts and Sally Jessy Raphael inspired his career trajectory. 
    BLK on the Scene is not just a podcast; it's a love letter to black entertainment and representation. Don't miss out on the wisdom and insights Jawn brings to the table.
    Episode Mentions:
    Jawn Murray - https://www.instagram.com/jawnmurray?igsh=bzM1YjR5ZnphcTB4
    Sherri Shepherd Show - https://www.instagram.com/sherrishowtv?igsh=MTNqZmNvZ3JvMGs4NQ==
    Rolanda Watts - https://www.instagram.com/rolondawatts?igsh=eWRpeGJucHI1Nzk=
    Be sure to follow, like and leave a rating!
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  • In this week’s episode, BLK on the Scene welcomes a true industry titan, BJ Coleman! With over two decades of experience, BJ is a communications executive, journalist, blogger, television personality, and world-recognized celebrity Publicist.Dive into BJ's incredible journey as he walks us through his PR career, starting from the award-winning BET series Teen Summit, where he conducted on-air interviews with luminaries like Hillary Clinton, Method Man and LL Cool J. As a seasoned Publicist, BJ has left an indelible mark, working with iconic brands and celebrities including Kimora Lee Simmons' Baby Phat, Kim Kardashian, Rihanna, Vivica A. Fox, and more.But it all began in Washington DC, where friends and family dubbed him "Hollywood" due to his early dreams of being in the entertainment world. Discover the trials, triumphs, and the Hollywood dream that shaped BJ's remarkable journey. A graduate of Boston College, BJ now serves as the Head of Communications and PR at Ebony Magazine.Hosted by DeDe Brown and Jon Gist, BLK on the Scene is more than a podcast; it's a love letter to Black entertainment and representation. 💌 Join us on this electrifying ride through the stories that make our culture shine.Ready to be part of the scene? Listen, subscribe, and rate this episode on your favorite platform. Your support keeps the BLK on the Scene community thriving! Episode mentions:BJ Coleman - https://www.instagram.com/abjcoleman?igsh=NDM3MG12Nm9kMmIxEbony - https://www.instagram.com/ebonymagazine?igsh=MXVtdmkyYzhnb3JvMA==Vivica A. Fox book Every Day I’m Hustling - https://www.amazon.com/Every-Day-Hustling-Vivica-Fox/dp/1250134455?nodl=1&dplnkId=5ceac757-c1ad-4210-9c91-c51939a29f0dNaomi Campbell - https://www.instagram.com/naomi?igsh=cjJ6eWI3dGo3cWJxBaby Phat - https://www.instagram.com/babyphat?igsh=aW9nNGxlZmVxZXJ3Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • This special Black History Month and Fashion Week episode of Blk on the Scene features @SadeMims, the Founder and Creative Director of EDAS, a modern lifestyle brand making waves in the fashion world! Founded in 2015 by the visionary Sade Mims, EDAS is more than just a brand; it's a community-driven movement. Rooted in storytelling, careful craftsmanship, and community building, EDAS is taking the accessories sector by storm. Featured in Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Architectural Digest, and more, EDAS is a testament to innovation and conscious design. Join co-hosts Jon Gist and DeDe Brown as they dive deep into Sade's journey, her inspirations, and the heart behind EDAS including the following key takeaways:Discover Sade's roots as a Philadelphia native and her journey to becoming a creative entrepreneur.Uncover the inspiration behind EDAS and the values that drive its growth and development.Learn about the EDAS customer and what sets the brand apart in the world of accessories.Gain insights into Sade's entrepreneurial journey, from starting her line to navigating the fashion industry.Expert Advice for Aspiring Designers from upfront costs to how to produce your first lookbook. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review and rating!Episode mentions:Sade Mims - https://www.instagram.com/sademims?igsh=NHRoa3pjcmZoNHBpEdas - https://edas.store/collections/bags/products/cynthiabucketbagEdas X Warby Parker -https://edas.store/collections/bags/products/edas-x-warby-parker-sling-bagSade’s Twin, Aesthetician, Samantha Mims https://www.instagram.com/samsaa?igsh=MTYzMGU5Mnc0OWE4bA==Stylist & Entrepreneur Khalilah Beavers - https://www.instagram.com/khalilahbeavers?igsh=MThjYjFiZGlwaHRyOQ==Stylist & Creative Director Mecca James Williams- https://www.instagram.com/meccajw?igsh=MXBueng3OHZlc3RnMA==Dominique Drakeford Sustainability Consultant - https://www.instagram.com/dominiquedrakeford?igsh=OXZrb2Zuc2NhazBhLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • 🎙️ Dive into the electrifying world of Hollywood success with actor Greg Tarzan Davis in the Season Five kick-off episode of BLK on the Scene. From uncovering his origins of growing up in New Orleans, LA and his unique moniker to sharing intimate reflections on the impact of his background on his career, Greg Tarzan Davis is a star on the rise having appeared in the hit TV show Grey’s Anatomy to two back-to-back blockbuster movies TOP GUN: MAVERICK and MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: DEAD RECKONING. He takes listeners on a captivating journey filled with triumphs, challenges and invaluable insights.
    Through candid discussions on how Denzel Washington inspired him to become an actor, his “I don’t get tired - I can’t get tired” work ethic, navigating hidden fees in the industry, and addressing gaps in traditional acting education, Davis offers a wealth of wisdom for aspiring talents. Reflecting on the power of manifesting and beliefs, he emphasizes the importance of resilience, determination, and community support in achieving success.
    Closing with heartfelt words of motivation, Davis leaves listeners inspired to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. Tune in now to BLK on the Scene and join the conversation! Be sure to subscribe, leave a review and rating.🎬✨
    Greg Tarzan Davis - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/gregtarzandavis/?hl=en⁠
    Greg Tarzan Davis on Grey’s Anatomy - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSsGqGvwNFg⁠
    Denzel Washington’s Iconic Training Day monologue - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJ3Ph5nzJUQ⁠
    Abbot Elementary - ⁠https://abc.com/shows/abbott-elementary⁠
    The Equalizer 3 - ⁠https://www.sonypictures.com/movies/theequalizer3
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • On the final episode of season 4 of BLK ON THE SCENE we are ending on a very high note - with the multi-talented, multi-hyphenate Steve Jones! Steve is a former marketing executive turned producer and content creator who has worked with such notables as Oprah Winfrey and Jennifer Lopez. He executive produced OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network Presents: Inside Waco’s Wearable Art Gala Special featuring Tyler Perry, Viola Davis, and three seasons of OWN’s NAACP nominated record-breaking docu-series, BLACK LOVE. 

    DeDe and Jon talked with Steve about how he got his start, plus his passion for educating aspiring entertainment professionals on the inner workings of the industry through a panel series he created entitled Hollywood Confidential, which has hosted thousands of attendees with over 500 million digital impressions. Most recently, Tyrese Gibson graced the stage with Steve, and past guests include Regina King, Angela Bassett, Tiffany Haddish, Sterling K. Brown, Issa Rae, Snoop Dogg and more. Additionally, Steve openly shared one of the most challenging times in his life both creatively and financially, and how faith, friends AND therapy helped him through it. Trust us, when we say his inspirational story is the perfect end to a season filled with stories of hope, life and career pivots plus twists, turns and triumphs. 

    Thank you for listening to Blk on the Scene. We hope to see you back for Season 5 of the show in Fall 2023. In the interim please check out seasons 1- 3, and be sure to subscribe, leave a review and rating.

    Episode Mentions:

    Steve Jones - https://www.instagram.com/iamstevejones/?hl=en

    Hollywood Confidential - https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodconfidential/?hl=en

    Ohio State University - https://www.osu.edu/

    A Different World - ​​https://youtu.be/JeoYAw26sos

    SWV - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=976b8TPPFJU

    Escape - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_BTEFAVwjU



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  • This week’s episode features one of our hosts' favorite people, Jonathan Kirkland. Kirkland as we like to call him is one of the most creative individuals, his brain works in such a unique way and as he says, he has always been smart. Growing up in Connecticut, he never loved hearing the word and has always been someone who pushes limits. From New York to Los Angeles to now Dallas, Kirkland has been a disruptor in his career and he takes us on a fun journey full of laughs, life lessons and an attempt at a run for Mayor of Los Angeles. From his young 20’s to now being Head of Marketing & Brand at BLK, Kirkland will keep you entertained on this amazing episode of BLK on the Scene. Tap in to learn more about Kirkland and his wonderful journey. 



    Thank you for listening to Blk on the Scene. We hope that you will tune in for more exciting guests and conversations from this season. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review and rating.



    Episode Mentions:

    Jonathan Kirkland LinkedIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanckirkland/

    North Carolina A&T University - https://www.ncat.edu/

    Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity, Inc. - https://www.kappaalphapsi1911.com/kapsi/s/

    BLK Dating App - https://www.blk-app.com/

    Vax That Thang Up - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pa_gk3X5UEE

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • From a little boy growing up in Chocolate City to a distinguished and influential change agent in Hollywood, John Gibson the first Vice President of the Motion Picture Association’s (MPA) Diversity, Equity & Inclusion program is blazing trails across the entertainment industry. He works across all of the major motion picture studios, TV networks and streamers where he strategizes and cultivates key partnerships with over 50 leading organizations such as the American Black Film Festival, Atlanta Film Society, Georgia Latino Film Festival, New York Latino Film Festival and the Entertainment Industry College Outreach Program, of whose advisory boards he serves on and many other groups working tirelessly to promote gender equality, diversity and inclusion, and ‘authentic’ cultural representation. Additionally, he oversees multicultural initiatives, while also managing the MPA’s partnerships with national civil rights, non-profits, and multicultural groups as part of the association’s outreach to leading third-party organizations. John takes hosts DeDe and Jon on his very circuitous journey from real estate and politics to the entertainment industry where his passion for equity, civil rights and keen sense of diplomacy have prepared him to gracefully navigate the precarious waters of championing DEI in entertainment. 

    Tap in to learn more about John and his mission to help make the industry look like the community it aims to serve. 

    Thank you for listening to Blk on the Scene. We hope that you will tune in for more exciting guests and conversations from this season. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review and rating.



    Episode Mentions:

    John Gibson - https://www.theqgentleman.com/post/2022-06-john-gibson-ten-years-motion-picture-association

    Motion Picture Association - https://www.motionpictures.org/

    American Black Film Festival - https://www.abff.com/miami/

    Urbanworld Film Festival - https://urbanworld.org/

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Right in time for CultureCon LA, we are thrilled to welcome the CEO and Founder of CultureCon and The Creative Collective, Imani Ellis on this week’s episode. 

    If you’ve been under a rock for the past 5 years and don’t know what CultureCon is, please allow us to school you… CultureCon is a community dedicated to facilitating brave spaces for Black and Brown creatives that was born in Imani’s one-bedroom apartment as a means to foster meaningful connection. 

    It is the fastest-growing community and festival for and by creatives of color that has hosted past speakers such as Tracee Ellis Ross, Will Smith, Regina King, John Legend, Spike Lee, Lena Waithe, and so many more. Imani built TheCCNYC while climbing the corporate ladder at NBCUniversal where she started as a page over ten years ago to Vice-President of Communications, Unscripted TV Publicity for Bravo. Imani shares her journey from a young girl growing up as a preacher’s kid who loved ballet but left it behind to pursue track - ultimately winning a track scholarship to Vanderbilt University - to moving to NYC to pursue a career in Public Relations. 

    Her passion for community, inclusion and access has positioned er to be recognized as the "2021 Breakthrough Creative" by Ebony Magazine and a "Diversity Champion" by Adweek. Imani has been recognized by Forbes as a "Visionary" and "One To Watch" by Black Enterprise.

    If you’ve been trying to figure out how to tap into your creative passion and hold down your 9-to-5 this is the episode for you! Thanks for listening to Blk on the Scene. We hope that you will tune in for more exciting guests and conversations from this season. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review and rating.

    Episode Mentions:

    Imani Ellis - https://www.instagram.com/imaniimani/?hl=en

    The Creative Collective NYC - https://www.culturecon.theccnyc.com/

    Culture Con - https://www.instagram.com/culturecon/?hl=en

    Clarie's - https://www.claires.com/us/

    Vanderbilt University - https://www.vanderbilt.edu/

    Bravo - https://www.instagram.com/bravotv/?hl=en

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices