The Sit-Down Podcast with James Hurt-Toni Blackman-From Cultural Ambassador of Hip-Hop to Becoming

Cultural Ambassador of Hip-Hop, author, and creative Toni Blackman stopped by The Sit-Down Podcast with James Hurt to share her origin story in her own words. Toni recounts the earliest instance of experiencing creativity and moves through the memories leading up to her East Coast arrival. Toni and the host engaged one another about their shared cultural backgrounds and experiences growing up in diverse communities across America. They discussed Toni's journey from her hometown to Howard University, where she found self-worth and built a valuable network, while also exploring themes of personal growth, accountability, and the challenges faced by Black Americans in education and career advancement. The conversation concluded with discussions about Toni's work as a Hip-Hop artist and cultural ambassador, including her experiences with Freestyle Union and her efforts to blend hip-hop with education and diplomacy. Background music composed and performed by James Hurt. 

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Chapters

• 1:00 Roots and Music: A Conversation
• 8:08 Cultural Diversity in American Communities
• 14:53 Early Creative Experiences and Support
• 24:33 Lessons from Self-Sabotage Experiences
• 31:34 Personal Growth and Creative Expression
• 39:43 Journey to Self-Discovery at Howard
• 47:05 Overcoming Systemic Barriers for Black Women
• 55:45 Hip-Hop Collective's Rise and Fall
• 1:11:31 Hip-Hop's Cultural and Educational Roots
• 1:20:36 Challenges of a Hip-Hop Diplomat
• 1:27:10 Toni's Journey and Brand Expansion