Jonathan Moore is building a completely original lane on the cello—one powered by looping, distortion, dance, and raw emotion. If you think you know what a cellist sounds like, this conversation will change your mind fast.
Raised in a deeply musical family and shaped by gospel, funk, hip hop, world music, and even the sounds of everyday life, Jonathan shares how he found his voice by refusing to sound like everybody else. He opens up about the fifth-grade moment that made the cello click, the high school experiments with pedals and loops that helped define his style, and the Yale solo competition where he performed an original piece and made history.
Through our conversation you will learn:

• How Jonathan turned a school instrument test into a 20-year calling
• Why he believes music should be felt, not just admired
• The creative process behind Levels, his live project blending cello and street dance
• How collaboration with dancers like helps create something audiences have never seen before
• Why fishing, rest, and everyday life are part of his artistic process
• What receiving the Creator Fund Award from New Music USA meant for his creative vision

Jonathan also talks about what makes a strong collaborator, how family critique shaped his musicianship, why he refuses to create work that doesn't make sense, and what he wants his legacy to be: an artist who took risks, stayed humble, and made something impossible to imitate.

Jonathan Moore is a cellist, composer, dancer, and visual artist known for his unorthodox approach to the cello, original compositions, and collaborative work that bridges music and movement.

Essential listening if you love artists who create from the spirit, challenge convention, and turn personal experience into something unforgettable.

Black cartoonists are building the future of comics right now, and Jamel Flemister is doing it by hand, one character at a time. In this conversation, he opens up about turning childhood sketches in Cleveland into Flemister Comics, why his characters are rooted in lived experience, and what it really takes to create a world that feels alive.
Jamel shares how his creative process has evolved from simply drawing what was in his head to building storylines with intention, episode by episode. He breaks down the difference between copying influence and creating something original, and explains why his art leans toward an animated feel instead of traditional heavy comic-book rendering.
You'll discover how he built heroes from the people and experiences closest to him, why black women and black families matter in his visual storytelling, and how representation shapes the way young readers see themselves. He also talks candidly about the patience required to keep producing, the discipline behind staying consistent, and why the next generation of black animators and comic creators will have even more room to thrive.
We also get into the realities of independent creation - from investing in your own work before anyone else will, to avoiding bad deals, to learning that belief has to come before opportunity. Jamel's perspective on black creators, indie comics, and the respect they deserve adds an urgent edge to the conversation, especially in a media landscape where visibility still doesn't always equal value.
If you care about comics, black representation, indie artistry, or the mindset it takes to build something from scratch, this episode is essential listening.
Jamel Flemister is a Cleveland-born cartoonist and comic book creator, and the force behind Flemister Comics, where he blends animation-inspired visuals with original superhero storytelling.

The story of how an African American musician from Philadelphia became an international force in choral music and education is truly inspiring — and it starts with a simple curiosity and an unwavering passion. Dr. Jeremy Winston’s journey from church singer to university professor and global performer reveals the power of resilience, cultural pride, and community impact.

In this heartfelt conversation, I speak with Dr. Winston, Associate Professor of Music at Central State University, to explore his incredible journey. Discover how his early roots—growing up in a musical family with influences from gospel, jazz, and classical traditions—shaped his unique perspective on music and education. Dr. Winston shares how experiences like studying at Pine Forge Academy, performing in prestigious international venues, and winning the World Choir Games transformed his outlook on global cultural exchange and black musical excellence.

You'll discover provocative insights: the profound impact of representation in arts leadership, and the necessity of preserving authentic African American musical traditions overseas. Dr. Winston delves into his long-term vision—using international performances, scholarships, and concert experiences to expand opportunities for youth across the country, especially within the African American community. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling through music, incorporating history and social context into his compositions to foster understanding and resilience.

Perfect for educators, performers, students, and anyone passionate about preserving black musical heritage, this episode shows how music can be a tool for empowerment, cultural storytelling, and global bridge-building. Dr. Winston's leadership exemplifies how one person’s dedication can elevate an entire community—creating a legacy that inspires the next generation.

Unlock the Power of Relentless Passion and Purpose—Dr. Tremon Kaiser Reveals His Journey from Kansas Fields to Leading Music Education on a Global Stage

Dr. Tremon Kizer's journey from the rural plains of Kansas to the halls of the University of Central Florida is a masterclass in resilience, curiosity, and unwavering commitment to impact. In this episode, he shares how his childhood experiences, family support, and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped him into a trailblazer, chronicling lessons learned from teaching in remote communities to breaking new ground in researching underrepresented African-American composers like Ulysses S. Kay.
You'll discover: How Dr. Kizer early experiences navigating diverse cultural landscapes fueled his passion for music and education. The groundbreaking research uncovering Ulysses S.Kay’s contributions to band literature and African-American musical history. Practical insights on preparing students for the real-world challenges of music careers, emphasizing the importance of mindset, resilience, and authentic self-expression.
The future of music education, from embracing diversity to leveraging technology and societal engagement. Dr. Kizer's story isn’t just about a career in music — it’s about authenticity, purpose, and creating a legacy that extends beyond notes and rehearsals.
Dr. Tremon Kizer is a distinguished educator and researcher at the University of Central Florida, known for his innovative work on African-American composers and leadership in music education. His insights into mentorship, diversity, and community-building offer invaluable lessons for the next generation.

Don’t miss the stories that will challenge and inspire you — hit play now and get ready to be motivated to make a difference through your craft and your voice.

I enjoyed my conversation with The Hood Picasso as we discuss a deep dive into the journey of a self-taught artist who turned painful past experiences into powerful, message-driven art. From the streets to gallery walls, discover how his past life struggles fuel his creative fire. He shares how art became a lifeline, a form of activism, and a way to preserve history that others would rather forget.

This episode is perfect for aspiring artists, creatives fighting self-doubt, and anyone wanting to turn pain into purpose. If you're feeling stuck in your journey or questioning your own voice, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your quirks, challenges, and unique perspectives.

Gain insight from a man who’s turned a troubled past into a message of hope, resilience, and cultural pride. His journey proves that when you stay authentic and keep creating, your impact can ripple beyond your own life into the wider world. The Hood Picasso’s story is a powerful reminder that true growth begins when you stop hiding and start creating unapologetically.

Deante Howard reveals his extraordinary journey from doodling on sticky notes and family jackets to becoming a self-taught artist making waves nationally and internationally. His story isn't just about art; it's about resilience, faith, strategic hustle, and redefining what it means to live your creative truth.
In this candid conversation, Deante shares how a childhood rooted in Kansas City, a complicated college experience, and navigating family and racial barriers fueled his determination to succeed on his own terms. Discover how he transitioned from self-taught graphic designer to a celebrated artist with a vision—selling artwork during international travel, gaining media attention with live NFL draft paintings, and creating art that inspires hope and perseverance.

Perfect for artists seeking actionable tips, entrepreneurs wanting to understand brand valuation, or anyone inspired by stories of overcoming odds—this episode is your blueprint for turning what you love into what sustains you.
Guests like Deante Howard, a hand-taught artist whose work and resilience challenge stereotypes and redefine possibility, remind us that authentic creativity is more vital than ever. Tune in and get inspired to carve your own path.

Unlock the mesmerizing world of tap dance with Kenji Igus—a world where rhythm, history, and culture collide in inspiring ways. Kenji shares raw, unfiltered insights about navigating the industry’s highs and lows, the importance of authenticity, and how tap is evolving in today’s cultural landscape.
Kenji discusses the importance of staying true while exploring new horizons, pushing the boundaries of what tap dance can be, and inspiring the next generation. Perfect for dancers, artists, and fans craving authenticity, innovation, and deeper cultural awareness—this episode will challenge your perceptions and spark your creative fire.
Join us as Kenji reveals how his unique background—Japanese, Black, and rooted in Los Angeles—fuels his artistry. Hit play and experience the rhythm of resilience, innovation, and cultural storytelling with one of the most vibrant voices in dance today.

Unlock the profound connection between culture, identity, and musical storytelling in my captivating conversation with Dr. Brianna Ware Boggs, a trailblazing contemporary classical composer and pianist. Discover how her Alabama roots, musical family legacy, and personal struggles with mental health fuel her powerful compositions that challenge traditional narratives.

From winning her first composition award in fifth grade, to navigating racial microaggressions as a Black woman in classical music, her resilience and authenticity shine through every note. Brianna also shares her insights on the importance of representation, humility, and staying true to oneself amid societal pressures. Whether you’re a budding composer, seasoned musician, or simply curious about the intersection of culture and music, Brianna’s story offers inspiration, empowerment, and a fresh perspective that will resonate deeply. This is essential listening for anyone who believes in the power of music to transform lives and challenge stereotypes.

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