The Creative Journey is the podcast for ambitious creators, artists, and professionals who want to go beyond chasing titles and accolades to build a life of true meaning and impact. Hosted by a seasoned creative leader who’s worked at the intersection of fashion, music, and corporate innovation, each episode dives deep into the real stories, mindset shifts, and hard-won lessons behind creative success.

Join us as we explore what it means to shift from seeking personal achievement to making a difference for others, featuring candid conversations about overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing authenticity, and building resilience through rejection. Expect inspiring interviews, behind-the-scenes moments, and practical strategies for thriving in creative industries-plus a few legendary music stories along the way.

Tune in every week and start your journey from success to significance. Follow us on Instagram for exclusive content and join our community of creators redefining what it means to win.

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Go behind the seams with visionary designer Charles Harbison, founder of the
luxury brand Harbison, on this episode of Culture Raises US. Charles reveals
the powerful influences behind his designs-from the enduring elegance of his
mother’s style to the vibrant tapestry of Black culture that shapes his
aesthetic.

Discover how Charles is redefining luxury through boldness, personalization,
and empowering self-expression. He shares how his custom work helps
clients unlock their unique style and confidence, blending modernity with
cultural heritage. Charles also opens up about the central role that faith and
community play in his creative journey and business.

The conversation delves into the future of authentic cultural exchange and
meaningful diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in fashion. Charles
emphasizes the importance of representation, ownership, and pushing for
systemic change within the industry.

For anyone passionate about fashion, culture, and the stories behind the
creators shaping our world, this episode offers inspiring insights and a call to
embrace boldness and authenticity.

Key Takeaways:

• Charles Harbison’s design philosophy is rooted in honoring heritage and
  embracing bold self-expression.
• His luxury brand blends culture, modernity, and sustainability with a
  personalized approach.
• The elegance and confidence inspired by his mother’s style deeply
  influence his work.
• Faith and community are foundational to Charles’s creative and
  business practices.
• Authentic cultural exchange and DEI initiatives are critical for the future
  of fashion.
• Representation must lead to ownership and decision-making power in the industry
• Custom fashion empowers clients to find and express their unique identities.
• Charles’s journey includes overcoming burnout and redefining success on his own terms.
• His designs have dressed icons like Beyoncé, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Ava Duvernay.

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What if joy and activism could start with a simple swap? In this episode of Culture Raises US, Grace Harry introduces 'Swap Me' -a community-driveninitiative designed to foster meaningful relationships, reduce mindless consumption, and ignite personal and collective change. Grace shares her journey of shedding materialism, reflecting on how true fulfillment comes from community support and mindful exchange rather than accumulating possessions.The conversation explores the many faces of activism, from everyday choices to systemic change, and highlights the power of small actions in building a more connected, supportive world. Discover how shifting from consumerism to community engagement can spark a revolution of joy and lasting impact.

Key Takeaways

• Swap Me' fosters community and curbs excessive consumption.
• Personal growth often begins with letting go of materialism.
• Community support is vital in a world that often prioritizes individualism.
• Activism can be both bold and quiet-every action counts.
• Relationships and connections matter more than possessions.
• Consumerism can be addictive; shedding it leads to deeper fulfillment.
• The pandemic underscored the need for strong support systems.
• Inner change is as crucial as outer activism for real progress.
• Small, mindful actions can transform lives and communities

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Are you holding back your best work?

On this episode of Culture Raises US, host Astor sits down with renowned
artist Hebru Brantley to talk about the importance of releasing your creativity
into the world. Hebru shares why you shouldn’t let fear or perfectionism keep
your projects hidden away, and what it truly means to “die empty.”

Tune in for a powerful conversation about the realities of being a creative,
building a legacy, and the cycles of influence that shape our communities.

Whether you’re an artist, a dreamer, or simply looking for inspiration to take
your next step, this episode will challenge you to share your gifts—before it’s
too late.

Listen now on iHeart, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your
podcasts.

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Astor sits down with Terrence Williams who is a co-founder of Inflection Point Entertainment, Culture Raises Us new production partner. They explore the essence of culture, the vision behind Inflection Point Entertainment, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. They discuss the significance of living in the moment and embracing life's unexpected turns, emphasizing that the journey is just as important as the destination. The dialogue highlights personal growth, partnership, and the shared experiences that shape their creative endeavors.

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Welcome to a new season of Culture Raises Us—the show where culture isn’t just observed, it’s lived, challenged, and elevated. We tap in with the creators and trailblazers across music, fashion, sports, tech, and entertainment who are shaping what’s now and what’s next.

This isn’t just conversation—it’s a call to be mindful stewards of influence, and to reimagine what the future of culture can look like when we move with purpose.

Follow Culture Raises Us and press play—because culture doesn’t wait, and neither should you.

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Summary

The conversation between Astor Chambers and Shanti Das explores the concept of culture and its various facets. They discuss the importance of recognizing and preserving Black culture, which encompasses movement, people, vibration, and lifestyle.

JOIN THE NEWSLETTER 📫 Be the first to hear about behind the scenes, new episode drops and live shows near you! Sign up: https://tr.ee/QJ4c7FUWBj LISTEN TO THE SHOW iTunes: http://bit.ly/3XDA3sl Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3D33sCM JOIN OUR COMMUNITY 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/cultureraisesus 🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultureraisesus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cultureraisesus ABOUT US Culture Raises US. It isn’t just something we’re impacted by, it’s also something we can impact. As empowered stewards of Culture, it’s time to get smart on how we can continue influencing society while breaking new grounds. On Culture Raises US, Astor Chambers invites you to join for honest, insightful, and challenging conversations with pioneering cultivators across music, fashion, tech, sports, art, and entertainment.

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Summary

Mark Smith grew up in a creative family and was exposed to various cultures around the world. He initially didn't see his work as culturally relevant, but later realized the impact of his designs on the world.

His journey can be divided into four chapters: his upbringing in a creative family, his focus on art and music in high school and college, his transition from advertising to design, and his career in footwear and innovation.

Watch the full episode here

Mark emphasizes the importance of the hustle and being able to get things done. He reflects on moments when he realized the reach and influence of his work, such as seeing his logo on the streets of Europe.

• Exposure to different cultures can shape one's perspective and creativity.
• The hustle and ability to get things done are crucial in any field.
• Design and branding have a significant impact on culture.
• Personal moments of realization can highlight the influence of one's work.
• Consistency and humility are important qualities in shaping culture.
• Footwear plays a significant role in shaping overall culture.
• Mark Smith's journey can be divided into four chapters: upbringing, focus on art and music, transition to design, and career in footwear and innovation.

JOIN THE NEWSLETTER 📫 Be the first to hear about behind the scenes, new episode drops and live shows near you! Sign up: https://tr.ee/QJ4c7FUWBj LISTEN TO THE SHOW iTunes: http://bit.ly/3XDA3sl Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3D33sCM JOIN OUR COMMUNITY 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/cultureraisesus 🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultureraisesus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cultureraisesus ABOUT US Culture Raises US. It isn’t just something we’re impacted by, it’s also something we can impact. As empowered stewards of Culture, it’s time to get smart on how we can continue influencing society while breaking new grounds. On Culture Raises US, Astor Chambers invites you to join for honest, insightful, and challenging conversations with pioneering cultivators across music, fashion, tech, sports, art, and entertainment.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.