Most people see reinvention as a detour—Blake Martin shows us it’s the MASTER plan. From dancing behind stars to planting his flag as a Vogue cover artist, he’s proof that your background doesn’t define your ceiling. It’s your FIRE, your authenticity, your willingness to break every box they try to put around you.

In this electrifying conversation, Blake shares raw truths about childhood trauma, breaking free from arrested development, and the unstoppable power of authenticity. You’ll discover how his journey through pain, addiction, and abandonment fueled his fearless pursuit of creativity—and how you can do the same.

We break down the unfiltered power of storytelling rooted in realness, why marketing with no apologies wins big, and how to turn failure into mastery. Blake’s story is a blueprint for anyone tired of waiting for permission, tired of playing small, or feeling like it’s too late to start over.

This isn’t just about success—it’s about legacy, the kind that lives long after the stage is gone. It’s about shedding the baggage and unleashing the real you. Perfect for creators, dreamers, and rebels ready to rewrite their story—because your next chapter starts NOW.

Ready to embrace your authentic power? Hit play and remember: boxes are just illusions. Walk out, claim your spot, and never look back.

On this episode of The Kolby Kulture Show, host Derrick Jakolby Washington, known as Kolby, sits down with author and multidisciplinary artist Antonio Michael Downing for an honest, soul-level conversation about what it truly costs to tell your story.

Antonio reflects on growing up in Trinidad, the influence of his grandmother, and the emotional journey behind writing his memoir Saga Boy. Together, we explore themes of migration, identity, and the intersection of Black and Indigenous histories, including how those experiences shape his work in Black Cherokee.

This episode goes beyond writing as a craft and into storytelling as an act of courage. We talk about memory, healing, music, and the idea that home isn’t always a physical place but something we carry within us. If you’ve ever wrestled with telling your truth, honoring your roots, or understanding the emotional weight behind creative work, this conversation will resonate deeply.

Tune in for a powerful reminder that our stories matter, even when telling them comes at a cost.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Frederick Smith discusses his journey as a Black queer author and educator, exploring the influence of his Detroit upbringing on his writing. He emphasizes the importance of tenderness in Black queer love stories and the political nature of love. Dr. Smith shares insights on balancing his dual identities, the impact of higher education on his fiction, and the need for more diverse voices in romance literature. He also highlights the significance of listening to Black women and the legacy he hopes to leave through his work.

Join us on The Kolby Kulture Show as we sit down with Monrae Tuggle, the dynamic force behind "The Ghetto CEO's Marketing Playbook." From her roots in Memphis to leading a marketing empire, Monrae reveals the secrets to her success. Discover how she transformed challenges into opportunities and crafted strategies that resonate with authenticity and impact. This episode is packed with insights on building a brand, executing with precision, and staying true to your vision. Tune in for a masterclass in marketing and entrepreneurship that promises to inspire and empower. #KolbyKulture #GhettoCEO

Welcome to the highly anticipated Season 2 of "The Kolby Kulture Show," where Black stories breathe and thrive. In our premiere episode, host Derrick Jakolby Washington (Kolby) invites you into an intimate conversation with LaDarrion Williams, a groundbreaking playwright whose work redefines the landscape of Black fantasy.

LaDarrion's narratives are a tapestry of cultural heritage and imaginative worlds, offering a bold reimagining of Black identity. This episode is more than a dialogue; it's a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the power of storytelling to transform and uplift.

Join us as we explore the magic of Black voices and the stories that challenge, inspire, and connect us all. This is for the culture, for the dreamers, and for those who believe in the power of narrative to shape our world. #BlackFantasy #KolbyKulture #ForTheCulture

Watch the Show: https://www.youtube.com/@kolbykultureshow

In this episode of The Kolby Kulture Show, Uncle Kolby interviews Karon Joseph Riley, a former NFL player who transformed into a Hollywood actor and author. They discuss Karon’s inspiring journey from the football field to the big screen and his new book, Keep Peddling: Things I Learned on My Bike. Karon shares how cycling serves as a powerful metaphor for resilience, personal growth, and navigating life’s challenges. He provides practical advice on staying mindful, motivated, and overcoming setbacks. Throughout the conversation, Karon opens up about finding peace in the present and the importance of “peddling” through life's ups and downs. This episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and greatness.

Connect with us!

Follow the Host on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/djakolby/

Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolbykultureshow/

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Karon Joseph Riley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karonjosephriley/?hl=en

00:00 - Introduction: Heaven and Hell Within

00:44 - Welcome to the Kolby Kulture Show

01:05 - Literary Drop: Shonda Rhimes' Year of Yes

01:48 - Guest Introduction: Karon Joseph Riley

02:03 - Karon's Journey: From NFL to Hollywood

02:51 - The Inspiration Behind Keep Peddling

06:58 - Cycling as a Metaphor for Life

15:08 - Mindfulness and Living in the Moment

24:01 - Planting Seeds for Future Generations

24:51 - Introducing Karon Joseph Riley and His New Book

25:09 - Culture Quick Fire: Rapid-Fire Questions

33:57 - Audience Interaction: Staying Motivated and Inspired

39:22 - Kolby Kulture Word Wave: Success, Fear, and More

42:25 - Final Thoughts and How to Stay Updated

This show is produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Malcolm Perry as Associate Producer, Alex White as Editor, and Mohamed Naser as Graphic Designer. To learn how to make a podcast for you or your business visit them at https://www.rainbowcreative.co/

In this episode of The Kolby Kulture Show, Uncle Kolby explores the transformative power of representation in church leadership. Featuring special guest Dr. Larry D. Reid, author of Church Critic, this episode delves into the state of the Black church, the evolution of spiritual practices, and Dr. Reid’s journey as a founder, artist, spiritual leader, and media personality. Discover Dr. Reid’s insights on faith, community, and personal transformation in this engaging and thought-provoking conversation.

00:00 The Importance of Representation in Church Leadership

00:47 Welcome to the Kolby Kulture Show

01:57 Introducing Dr. Larry D. Reid

02:54 Balancing Multiple Roles and Passions

04:50 The State of the Black Church Today

06:47 Decolonizing Christianity

09:08 Discussing 'Church Critic'

14:10 Balancing Humor and Serious Issues

18:48 The Journey to Personal Freedom

23:17 Creative Spaces and Processes

25:50 Kolby Kulture Quickfire

28:04 Q&A with Dr. Reid: Advice for Aspiring Media Personalities

30:06 Staying Grounded Amidst Public Attention

31:04 Surprising Feedback and Inspirations

32:17 The Kolby Kulture Challenge Word Wave

42:06 Upcoming Events and Personal Updates

45:34 Meet the Host: Derrick Jakolby Washington

49:02 Closing Remarks and Farewell

Links

Follow the Show: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD3QZPeAZm9366WjDCYEuFjR2FA8ySqBN

Host:

https://www.instagram.com/djakolby/

https://www.instagram.com/kolbykultureshow/

Larry Reid: https://www.instagram.com/larryreidlive/?hl=en

This show is produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Malcolm Perry as Associate Producer and Alex White as Editor. To learn how to make a podcast for you or your business visit them at rainbowcreative.co

Join Uncle Kolby in this must-watch episode of The Kolby Kulture Show as he interviews the phenomenal Alawna Ozoka. Discover insights from her latest book, 'Awareness Put Me On,' and hear about her journey as a professional life coach. Alawna shares valuable advice on living purposefully and staying present. Don't miss the Literary Drop segment, highlighting the thrilling novel 'One of Us Knows' by Alyssa Cole. Tune in for engaging conversations, practical tips, and inspiring stories that will leave you motivated and ready to take on the world.

00:00 Introduction to the Kolby Kulture Show

00:22 This Week's Literary Drop: One of Us Knows

01:00 Welcoming Alawna Ozoka

03:30 Alawna’s Journey and New Book

07:01 The Creative Process and Inspiration

15:18 The NOD Approach: Notice, Observe, Decide

21:54 The Joy of Seeing Readers Engage

22:58 Creating a Positive Creative Space

24:48 Balancing Motherhood and Creativity

28:13 Kolby Kulture Quick Fire Round

30:16 Audience Q&A: Overcoming Challenges

35:10 Kolby Kulture Word Wave

38:14 Parting Words and Staying Connected

Links

Follow the Show: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD3QZPeAZm9366WjDCYEuFjR2FA8ySqBN

Host: https://www.instagram.com/kolbykultureshow/

Alawna Ozoka: https://www.instagram.com/alawnaoz/

This show is produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Malcolm Perry as Associate Producer and Alex White as Editor. To learn how to make a podcast for you or your business visit them at rainbowcreative.co