Our Culture, Our Stories
Shifting the narrative
Within our shifting political and social surroundings, the telling of Black stories is more important than ever. Our Culture, Our Stories is new podcast series from the NAACP offering an unfiltered, safe space for celebrities, authors, actors, musicians, and activists to share stories of triumph and unity. It celebrates excellence, but also navigates creative challenges and fosters community strength.
We're amplifying the voices of those who are shaping the future of culture, activism, and representation - inspiring the next generations of storytellers and satisfying the global audiences who crave their craft.
Ep. 8: Our Culture, Our Stories with Mike Jackson
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Ijeoma Oluo
Writer and speaker Ijeoma Oluo breaks down the emotional and systemic weight of white supremacy, and how we reclaim power.
Sonique Saturday
Creative force Sonique Saturday unpacks why representation in media, fashion, and leadership matters — on-screen and behind the scenes — and how authentic storytelling fuels cultural power.
Trymaine Lee
Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Trymaine Lee breaks down the hidden history behind modern gun violence in Black communities and how systemic oppression and generational trauma have shaped this crisis.
Angelica Ross
Award-winning actress and activist Angelica Ross offers an unflinching and deeply layered look at the evolution of Black identity, intersectional healing, and the power (and politics) of true representation.
Joe Morton
Emmy-winning actor Joe Morton talks navigating Hollywood as a Black actor, advocating for your worth, and the importance of community recognition like the NAACP Image Awards.
Dawn Porter
Award-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter shares how documentary film became her language for truth, justice, and connection. With a career rooted in purpose, Dawn reflects on how storytelling can dismantle stereotypes, open hearts, and drive social change.
Brea Baker
Activist, storyteller, and author Brea Baker unpacks what it means to write as an act of resistance. From her Yale days to organizing on the frontlines, Brea shares her unflinching views on Black land ownership, the legacy and future of Black farmers, and why justice must be demanded — regardless of who's in office.
LaDarrion Williams
Playwright, filmmaker, and author LaDarrion Williams opens up about his journey from a small town in Alabama to the heart of Hollywood. He shares the story behind his groundbreaking book, Blood at the Root, and how he's using storytelling as a tool for healing, legacy, and liberation.
Aja Naomi King
Actress and storyteller Aja Naomi King digs deep into art, identity, and carving space as a Black woman in Hollywood. Known for her commanding presence on screen and her unwavering authenticity off of it, Aja opens up about what it really means to stay true to your voice in an industry that often tries to define it for you.
Mike Jackson
Award-winning producer and creative visionary Mike Jackson shares the importance of purpose, persistence, and platforming Black excellence.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett
Rep. Jasmine Crockett emphasizes the significance of multicultural collaboration in driving social progress, illustrating how unity propels us forward.
Kelvin Harrison Jr.
From his rise in Hollywood to the roots that keep him grounded, award-winning actor Kelvin Harrison Jr. opens up about the layers that make up his story.
Tyler Lepley
Actor Tyler Lepley talks about the craft, the culture, and the journey within. Known for his standout performances in film and TV he opens up about the deeper meaning behind his art and the life experiences that continue to shape him
Rep. Maxine Waters
Congresswoman Maxine Waters dives into legacy, leadership, and the fight for justice. From her groundbreaking political career to the deep importance of Black representation in media and the arts, Rep. Waters reflects on the moments that shaped her — and the battles that still lie ahead.
Scott Evans
In Part 2 of our recap of the 56th NAACP Image Awards, Access Hollywood co-anchor Scott Evans shares his firsthand experience of Image Awards week and provides insight to the moving and shaking of Black Hollywood's biggest night.
Angelique Jackson
Angelique Jackson, Senior Entertainment Writer at Variety shares her firsthand experience of the events of Image Awards week and provides insight to the moving and shaking of Black Hollywood's biggest night!
Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michelle Bathe
Actors Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michele Bathe dive into the power of an NAACP Image Award and community, get deep on the craft of acting, and get very real about their faith in God
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Black entertainers serve as proxies on behalf of a 42-million member community that consistently generates brilliant cultural assets ravenously consumed around the world. Their tenacity, resilience, and undeniable talent produce remarkable renderings of Black life that principally shape mainstream culture.
- Kyle Bowser, NAACP Hollywood Bureau Senior Vice President