#291: What does it mean to have true influence, and how can you tap into it?

In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Imani Ellis, the mastermind and founder of CultureCon and The Creative Collective NYC, about how a few small gatherings in her apartment turned into a massive cultural movement.

With years of experience bringing creatives together, Imani opens up about what it really takes to build with intention—without all the noise.

She shares her blueprint for staying true to yourself, building real connections, and creating lasting influence in a world that’s often focused on instant attention.

We also talk about…

Imani’s journey from corporate PR to founding CultureCon and The Creative Collective NYC
The difference between chasing clout and creating a lasting impact
What it takes to cultivate trust and build real influence in today’s digital age
How to stay true to yourself while navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship
Imani’s approach to supporting creatives and fostering a sense of belonging in the industry
The power of community and collaboration in creative spaces

Resources:

Follow Imani on Instagram @imaniimani
Follow CultureCon on Instagram @CultureCon and get details for the CultureCon Conference (October 4-5 in Brooklyn) at theccnyc.com/culturecon
Follow The Creative Collective on Instagram @theccnyc
Check out Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey
Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!

Keep in touch:

Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
Follow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
Visit our website at: balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

Cotton | Learn more about the benefits of cotton products for yourself, your style, and your space at TheFabricOfOurLives.com
Nuuly | Upgrade your wardrobe by subscribing to Nuuly. Nuuly is a great value at $98 for any 6 styles, but right now you can get $28 off your first month when you sign up visit Nuuly.com and use the code BALANCEDLES
Mint Mobile | Ditch overpriced wireless and get 3 months of premium wireless service from Mint Mobile for $15 a month. Shop data plans at mintmobile.com/LUCKY
Dipsea | Dipsea is the female-founded app for spicy audiobooks and more. Go to DipseaStories.com/LUCKY to start your 30-day free trial!
Opill | Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code BALANCEDLES for 25% off your first month at www.opill.com

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Three Biggest Hold-ups in the Writers Strike

The Town with Matthew Belloni

Introduction

The AI-powered Podcast Player