

CultureCon Uncut
Spotify Studios
CultureCon Uncut is a podcast for creatives, thinkers, and innovators. Host Imani Ellis, founder and CEO of CultureCon and The Creative Collective, interviews Black culture-shifters who have forged their own paths, often against the odds. Imani dives into the highs, lows, and messy middles of their careers. Whether you're starting your own creative journey or looking to connect with new ideas, CultureCon Uncut pulls back the curtain on the creative process of some of today’s biggest visionaries – uncut and unfiltered.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 31min
Abdul Karim Abdullah: Pressure Is a Privilege
Imani and Ike discuss why we should bring back philosophers, how to scale your skills, and why you shouldn’t focus on feeling “behind” in life. Founder of AfroFuture, Abdul Karim Abdullah, joins Imani to talk about building AfroFuture, his views that pressure is a privilege, and why failure isn’t an option. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 26, 2025 • 1h 5min
Kayla Nicole: Leaning in to Your Yes Season
Imani and Ike discuss the smallest hill they’ll die on. Kayla Nicole joins Imani to chat about entering a season of yes. From making dating fun again to the power of creatine, Kayla proves that saying yes can be its own kind of healing.
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Nov 19, 2025 • 1h 8min
Whitney Headen: You Can’t Make Me Feel Imposter Syndrome. I’m Not an Imposter
Whitney Headen, Co-founder and CEO of 19th and Park, shares her journey from a corporate role to creating a thriving eight-figure agency without relying on venture capital. She discusses rejecting the notion of 'Black Girl Magic,' emphasizing hard work over myths. Whitney explores career growth strategies, the importance of feedback, and the balance of empathy in leadership. She outlines her staffing philosophy, lessons learned, and how prioritizing sustainability led to her success, all while embracing a more flexible approach to future goals.

Nov 13, 2025 • 1h 2min
Justin Frett: How To Never Betray Yourself
Imani and Ike reminisce on the first time they met. Imani sits down with creative powerhouse Justin Frett. Known for blending humor, heart, and purpose online. Justin opens up about growth, faith, and the lessons hidden in waiting seasons.
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Nov 5, 2025 • 59min
Toni Chapman: How To Know It’s Time To Leave
Imani and Ike discuss food compatibility and Ike judges Imani for how she likes her steak. Toni Chapman, culinary content producer and author, joins Imani to talk about the courage it takes to walk away from what no longer serves you. Toni also opens up about rediscovering purpose, pivoting with intentions, and the beauty of letting go to make space for her next adventure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 3min
Charlamagne Tha God: Keep That Same Energy
Imani and Ike discuss whether therapy has become too “cosmetic.” Imani sits down with Charlamagne Tha God to discuss why he’s no longer as mean as he used to be, building a business using the ‘Iceberg Effect’, and what he’s learned about life and love.
Content Warning: Please note that this episode includes discussion of suicide and mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, you can call or text 988 and be connected to help.
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Oct 22, 2025 • 60min
Joey Bada$$: I refuse to be one thing
The conversation on zodiac continues as Ike breaks down the basics for Imani while the two discuss their optimal work environment styles. Joey BadA$$ joins Imani to talk conspiracy theories, embodying Virgo energy, why he’s no longer drinking alcohol, and how to overcome overthinking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 15, 2025 • 1h 7min
Kamie Crawford: The Moment I Knew: The Power of Trusting Yourself
TV host and model Kamie Crawford, known for her stint on Catfish and her Miss Teen USA title, dives deep into the nuances of modern relationships. She explores dating non-negotiables, the significance of birth order in compatibility, and the importance of trusting one’s intuition. Kamie shares a chilling premonition from a first date and discusses setting boundaries, distinguishing between red and pink flags, and the impact of a supportive partner. With insights on maintaining privacy in love and the excitement of wedding talks, her wisdom is both relatable and empowering.

Oct 3, 2025 • 25sec
CultureCon Uncut Season 2 Trailer
CultureCon Uncut is back for Season 2! This time Imani is joined by your problematic fave, Ike Slimster, plus an inspiring lineup of creatives and entrepreneurs — including Joey Bada$$, Kamie Crawford, Charlamagne Tha God, and more.
Follow CultureCon Uncut on Spotify to watch new video episodes every week, starting Wednesday, October 15.
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Oct 3, 2024 • 33min
Rickey Thompson: Staying True To You [VIDEO]
[Video Available on Spotify] The glow-up really hits differently when you’ve been working on your craft. In this episode, Imani sits down with Forbes Top 50 Creator Rickey Thompson to discuss self-acceptance and showing up unapologetically as yourself in every space. Rickey also shares his views on dating do’s and don'ts, how his childhood bullies reacted when he ascended to social media fame, the importance of affirmations in his life, and his Real Housewives Mount Rushmore. If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow, rate, and review our show!ResourcesFollow Imani on Instagram: @imaniimaniFollow Rickey on Instagram: @rickeythompsonStay Up to Date with CultureCon Watch on Youtube: www.youtube.com/@CultureConFollow CultureCon on Instagram: www.instagram.com/cultureconVisit our Website: www.theccnyc.com/cultureconProduced by Spotify & CultureCon StudiosCreative Producer: Jade WhaleyTechnical Producers: T Cruz and Gemma WattersLead Producer: Jonathan Ratliff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


