BRNDD: Conversations with Creatives

By Donte Cotton & Ronald James

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Episodes: 34

Description

Branded by dictionary definition in the commerce world means carrying the brand or trademark of a manufacture. In today’s world, the definition of a brand has opened up to much more. Brand’s can be the label names we wear, the companies we support, down to our own individual selves. This podcast will focus particularly on Brands in the streetwear world. As a part of Debonair Material, BRNDD will interview not just people behind the brands but also some of the influencers on these brands. Musicians, artists, athletes and store owners have created their own brand and we want to examine how these worlds collide. So tune in as host, Donte’ Cotton, Owner of Debonair Material takes you inside the streetwear culture.

Episode Date
Episode 33: Cheresse Thornhill-Goldson and Liz Connelly
01:03:02

Donte and Ronald are joined by Cheresse Thornhill-Goldson (Design Director of Adidas S.E.E.D. and No Shoes Creative) and Liz Connelly (Co-founder and program manager of Adidas S.E.E.D.). The BRNDD duo get to chop it up with Liz and Cheresse about their history in design, forming the S.E.E.D. program and more!

 

Highlights:

5:50 - Introductions

17:29 - What is Adidas S.E.E.D.?

20:15 - Taking a Leap of Faith

25:58 - Creating a Comfortable Space

31:39 - The moment of Clarity

33:56 - Getting into Adidas S.E.E.D.

38:00 - Age Ain't Nothing but a Number

42:34 - Working at the Brooklyn Farm

50:05 - The Favorites

55:33 - The BRNDD 10

Check out Cheresse and Liz's BRNDD 10 Playlist on Spotify:

Cheresse:
 
Liz:

Visit http://brnddpodcast.com/ to subscribe to the podcast, listen to past episodes, and find out about future projects!

Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast https://www.instagram.com/brnddpodcast https://twitter.com/brnddpodcast

Feb 27, 2022
Episode 32: Dexton Deboree
01:13:23

Dexton Deboree is a filmmaker and branded content creator who has worked with the likes of Nike and Jordan Brand. He's also the founder of Falkon, a creative production agency. Ronald and Donte sit down with Dexton to talk about his journey into becoming a director, working with Will Smith, his Unbanned: The Legend of the AJ1 documentary and more. Time Stamps:

6:21 - Finding Sports

12:03 - Moving from Athlete to Artist

17:41 - From Cigar Talk to Commercial Work for Jordan Brand

32:20 - Unbanned: The Legend of the AJ1

38:24 - The Importance of Minority Storytelling

48:45 - Will Smith's "Best Shape of My Life"

58:19 - Favorites

1:01:43 - The BRNDD 10

 

Check out Dexton's BRNDD 10 Playlist on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/46gdlUkr9xXSIcSfQ2ONje

Visit http://brnddpodcast.com/ to subscribe to the podcast, listen to past episodes, and find out about future projects!

Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast https://www.instagram.com/brnddpodcast https://twitter.com/brnddpodcast

Feb 13, 2022
Episode 31: Numa Perrier
01:56:36

Numa Perrier is a creative whose artistry extends to curation, acting, producing, directing and beyond. Her devotion to authenticity and quality has insured that she is a staple in the entertainment industry. Her movie Jezebel , distributed by Ava Duvernay's Array, is now streaming on Netflix.

Highlights:

  • 0:00 Intro / Catch Up
  • 22:06 Numa Perrier Introduction
  • 28:15 BLACK + SEXY TV
  • 41:42 Smilf and Frankie Shaw
  • 48:09 When did you first start creating?
  • 52:30 Jezebel, Sex Work, and its relevance
  • 1:17:48 Queen Sugar
  • 1:18:52 Black People are Light
  • 1:24:17 Jordan Peele A.K.A. "Boyfriend Jordan"
  • 1:28:03 The Perfect Find, Blood Mother and Toxic
  • 1:35:19 Which artists are on Numa's radar?
  • 1:41:53 House of Numa
  • 1:43:03 The Favorites
  • 1:47:15 BRNDD 10 Playlist
  • 1:50:22 Closing / Parting Words To Creatives

Check out Numa's Toxic Edition BRNDD 10 Playlist on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/46gdlUkr9xXSIcSfQ2ONje

Visit http://brnddpodcast.com/ to subscribe to the podcast, listen to past episodes, and find out about future projects!

Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast https://www.instagram.com/brnddpodcast https://twitter.com/brnddpodcast

Feb 07, 2021
Episode 30: Jazerai Allen-Lord
01:48:44

Jazerai is a Sneaker Strategist, Designer and writer from California living in New York. She's worked with the likes of Reebok to put out her own shoe and is featured on Lena Waithe's Sneaker docu-series "You Ain't Got These" now streaming on Quibi. 

 

Highlights: 

  • 4:07: Blue Chucks
  • 7:19: The Birth of Sneaker Internet
  • 9:30: The Challenges of being a woman in to Sneakers
  • 13:50: The Club C x Jazerai
  • 25:59: Sneaker Mom
  • 28:30: "You Ain't Got These"
  • 32:45: Lena Waithe
  • 34:58: Working with Reebok
  • 44:03: the importance of Women Empowerment
  • 47:40: Kicks on Fire
  • 55:28: Life after KOF
  • 1:04:21: Being "That Bitch"
  • 1:08:00: The Wall of Fame
  • 1:21:06: The Favorites
  • 1:37:00: The BRNDD 10
Aug 02, 2020
Episode 29: Tommie Battle
01:20:16

Tommie Battle is a professional photographer who got his start shooting sneakers for fun and Baltimore Night life in college. Over the years he's progressed to shooting for the MLS in New York, podcasts and more.

Highlights:

  • 3:50: Life in Quarantine
  • 6:25: sneakers and Kodak cameras
  • 13:06: radio is dead
  • 21:17: The Smoking Section and Early Blog Days
  • 24:54: Going off Instinct vs. Technique
  • 27:42: Taking a break from photography
  • 34:54: Nike Talk to Twitter
  • 45:03: picking the Camera back up
  • 57:07: The Favorites
  • 1:10:30: The BRNDD 10
Jul 19, 2020
Episode 28: Jacques "Kustoo" Slade
57:16

Jacques Slade is one of the biggest personalities in Youtube Sneaker media. His video of his tour of Michael Jordan's famous Illinois Mansion recently hit 16 million views. Donte and Ronald talk to Jacques on how he went from a music teacher to where he is today. 

Highlights: 

  • 3:11: Who is Jaques Slade
  • 6:10: Kicks on Fire Days
  • 14:32: Jacques first video
  • 18:24: Quality vs. Content
  • 20:29: Can't smell your own roses
  • 27:24: The Brands are Watching
  • 31:35: The Future of Sneaker Media
  • 34:09: Working Outside of Youtube
  • 39:50: The Last Dance
  • 41:48: Technology in sneakers
  • 44:28The Favorites
  • 47:00: The BRNDD 10
May 27, 2020
Episode 26: Patrick Horvat
01:47:38

Another episode from the BRNDD vault, Ronald brings on his good friend Patrick Horvat. Born in Upstate and working around the world, Patrick has worked with brands from the NHL to the NBA. 

Highlights: 

  • 5:56: The B-More Flea
  • 8:10: Upstate, NY and Graffiti
  • 10:20: I fooled them...
  • 12:05: Syquest and Photoshop
  • 18:03: Post-College Tetris Disorder
  • 21:34: I Fooled them again...
  • 26:41: the NHL Days
  • 30:28: Creating a design language and identity
  • 37:09: the challenge of being creative
  • 43:11: The Nike Years, Hong Kong
  • 50:12: Australian Shark Attacks
  • 55:20: International Sneaker Releases
  • 59:53: The Under Armour years
  • 1:05:10: signing UA athletes(possibly)-
  • 1:10:00: Favorites
May 17, 2020
Episode 25: Arvay Adams
01:22:12

From the unreleased archives; The Co-hosts of the BRNDD podcast caught up with Arvay Adams, Designer and creative behind This Sporting Life. They talk about his days at Phat Farm to having beef with HBO and everything in between!

 

Highlights

  • 2:00 - Ronald and Donte' recap what they've been up to
  • 8:26 - Introduction of Arvay
  • 12:14 - from Woodlawn to New York
  • 14:02 - Skateboards & tees in L.A.
  • 18:34 - the Phat Farm Days
  • 21:25 - The birth of This Sporting Life
  • 23:26 - L.A. Living
  • 26:12 - the Secret Behind Design
  • 31:13 - Bethlehem Steel and the importance of Story telling
  • 35:00 - Coming Back East
  • 38:00 - The Change in Baltimore Streetwear Scene
  • 46:00 - The Business of Being Fresh
  • 52:36 - Working with Russell Simmons
  • 53:54 - Black Ice
  • 59:00 - Chain Stitching
  • 1:01:05 - God is in the Details
  • 1:03:06 - The Favorites
  • 1:12:30 - The BRNDD 10
May 10, 2020
Episode 24: Currency Michaels
01:35:53

Donte' and Ronald catch up with an old friend, Michael Haskins Jr. Better known as Currency Michaels. Michael is the owner and founder of Currency Studios, a staple brand in Baltimore, established back in the late 2000's. They got a chance to talk about the history of Baltimore Streetwear, break down old industry beefs and more!

 

Highlights: 

  • 4:15: The Legend of Garth
  • 12:12: "The Cool"
  • 16:57: Baltimore to Ball Harbor
  • 22:33: Building a Legacy Brand
  • 29:27: Respect Your Wealth
  • 37:15: PedX and Gentai
  • 48:06: The importance of a team
  • 55:23: Helping by not helping
  • 59:57: Ronald vs. the Baltimore Sun
  • 1:03:19: Reconciliation and understanding
  • 1:09:24: Seeding and Celebrities
  • 1:14:36: The stages of being a Creative
  • 1:20:57: Creating Spaces and the future
  • 1:23:51: The Favorites
  • 1:25:57: The BRNDD 10
Apr 26, 2020
Episode 23: Season 2 Wrap-Up
01:04:42

Ronald and Donte' reflect on the podcast up until the last released episode and what happened in life in between. 

 

Highlights

  • 2:50: The Pensole/Portland Experience
  • 9:20: What's next for BRNDD?
  • 12:03: Kaepernick vs. Trump
  • 13:49: Because the Internet
  • 13:35: Goals for BRNDD
  • 19:20: Behind the process
  • 24:54: Keys to Building for the Future
  • 36:00: room for improvement
  • 40:56: the Social Media Matrix
  • 44:51: Cops and Drops
  • 54:26: Favorite Podcast moments
  • 56:45: Future Guest wishlist
  • 59:53: The Favorites
Mar 22, 2020
Episode 22: D'wayne Edwards
58:29

D'Wayne Edwards is the founder of Pensole Footwear Design Academy, located in Portland, OR. He's spent over 30 years in the industry, from working with Tupac and Biggie at Karl Kani to working with the GOAT, Michael Jordan. After spending 10 years working at Jordan, D'Wayne decided to start a school for footwear designers to help the next generation and has established one of the top schools in the world for Footwear Design. Donte' not only got to learn under him but interview him for the podcast. Listen as Donte' and D'Wayne talk about the journey that led D'Wayne to Portland. 

 

Highlights: 

  • 0:30: The Beginnings
  • 3:58: Baseball Cards to Sneakers
  • 5:10: the Reebok Design Competition
  • 7:30: Fast food to Footwear
  • 12:05: Footwear meets Hip-Hop
  • 15:33: The Advent of Sity and Skechers
  • 16:58: The Transition to Nike/Jordan
  • 20:41: Meeting Jordan
  • 23:33: The Nu Retro II
  • 24:21: Melo and the .5 Series
  • 29:33: Designing Signature Jordans
  • 31:29: Innovation and “The Experience”
  • 37:11: Founding Pensole
  • 45:28: How to Attend Pensole
  • 47:30: The Future of Pensole
  • 51:53: Bringing Industry Technology to Pensole
  • 54:07: The Favorites

 

Pensole's 

Website: http://www.pensole.com/

Instagram: pensole_academy

Twitter: @pensole_academy

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pensole.footwear.design.academy/

 

 BRNDD Podcast:

Website: debonairmaterial.com

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@BRNDDPodcast

Instagram:

@brnddpodcast

facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast/

 

Ronald James'

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

Aug 20, 2017
Episode 21: Blake Thomas
01:14:46

Blake Thomas is one of the best freelance photographers on the wrestling circuit. He has worked with the likes of; Mia Yim, Veda Scott, NXT's Nikki Cross and Baltimore Legend, Ruckus. Over the years, he's also gotten into management and production for different leagues across the nation. Ronald and Donte' catch up with Blake to talk about his story and ultimately striving to work for the WWE.

 Highlights: 

  • 9:21: Power of Friends Motivating Friends 
  • 10:33: Humble Beginnings 
  • 14:20: The Evolution of Love for Wrestling
  • 21:45: What Makes a Good Wrestling Match
  • 31:40: Watching the Growth of Your Friends
  • 35:42: The Importance of Supporting Friends
  • 44:52: Burnout 
  • 47:15: Who's Next in the Game
  • 51:50: Attending Youtube University
  • 55:29: The Favorites 
  • 1:03:02: The BRNDD 10

 

Contact Blake: 

Twitter/Instagram:

@itsbliz

 

BRNDD Podcast:

Website: debonairmaterial.com

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@brnddpodcast

Instagram:

@brnddpodcast

 

 

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

Aug 13, 2017
Episode 20: BRNDD Live: BCMakes Series for BCPL
01:06:21

Baltimore County Public Libraries invited our hosts Donte' Cotton and Ronald James to host one of their Inspire Nights to talk about BRNDD, how they started the podcast, what's it like being a creative and what challenges they faced, and what makes them successful. 

 

Highlights: 

  • 2:22 - What is Podcasting?
  • 5:06 - Inspiration
  • 7:00 - Trials and Tribulations
  • 10:12 - Success Stories
  • 14:20 - What is Debonair Material?
  • 18:47 - What Inspired the Podcast?
  • 24:22 - Streetwear: Mastered
  • 27:01 - Production Challenges
  • 32:01 - Scheduling Issues
  • 34:18 - The Art of Following Up
  • 35:25 - How to Create and Maintain a Strong Circle
  • 37:13 - Fight through the Challenges
  • 43:24 - Use Your Resources
  • 47:04 - Baltimore Comedy Festival
  • 50:40 - Pensole Academy
  • 53:31 - Q & A Segment 

 BRNDD 10 Playlist: 

 

 BRNDD Podcast:

Website: debonairmaterial.com

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Fan Page: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter/Instagram:

@BRNDDPodcast

facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast/

 

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

 

Jul 17, 2017
Episode 19: Pierre and Jamyla Bennu
01:40:43

Pierre and Jamyla Bennu are the owners of Oyin Handmade and Exit the Apple. This New York couple migrated to Baltimore over a decade ago and have been a thriving part of the scene ever since. Jamyla being the brains behind Oyin's natural products and Pierre being an all-around artist, the two have an amazing story. They were fortunate enough to celebrate their 18th anniversary sharing their story with us. 

 

Highlights: 

  • 9:35 18 years, 18 years!
  • 12:52 I make stuff; I do art
  • 15:09 discovering of Fullness of self
  • 21:44 The Creative Process
  • 25:32 What is Oyin Handmade
  • 31:00 Shea Butter Twitter represents
  • 37:03 Ethics and Integrity
  • 42:26 The Dream Hammer
  • 46:30 The Original Netflix
  • 48:28 From New York to Baltimore
  • 53:21 Exit[ing] the Apple
  • 1:02:20 The Culture Ambassador
  • 1:05:14 The birth of Bennu
  • 1:08:23 the Growth of Oyin and Exit the Apple
  • 1:17:25 Hip-Hop is like Buddhism
  • 1:21:46 The BRNDD 10 & Favorites

BRNDD 10 Playlist: 

 

Exit the Apple's: 

Instagram: exittheappleartspace

Twitter: @exittheapple

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exittheapple/

Website: http://exittheapple.com/

 

Oyin Handmade

Website: oyinhandmade.com

Instagram/Twitter: @oyinhandmade

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oyinhandmade/

Jamyla's 

Twitter/Instagram: @heyJamyla

 

 BRNDD Podcast:

Website: debonairmaterial.com

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast/

RSVP for BRNDD Live: July 13th: 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1293084974112947/

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

 

 

Jul 02, 2017
Episode 18: Ivan Martin
01:14:54

Ivan Martin is a Duval, FL transported to Maryland via the Navy. He's a working comic, teacher and Festival founder. He's done shows up and down the sea board and has had some great experiences with other rising comics such as Quincy Jones and Jordan Rock. Ronald and Donte' talk to Ivan about his journey as well as his upcoming Baltimore Comedy Festival!

 

Highlights:

- 4:10: I'm happy...and broke 

- 5:56: What was your 1st hit joke? 

- 10:39: Stepping into new comedy territory

- 16:50: the Hypocrisy of Black Comedy

- 21:01: the importance of a good crowd

- 27:06: The love of the art

- 29:56: Morality in Success

- 34:42: Young Gifted Niggas

- 38:49: Technology and live comedy

- 44:38: Hecklers

- 47:37: Enjoying contemporaries

- 48:46 Baltimore Comedy Festival

- 55:22: How media covers Baltimore Comedy

- 58:10: Meeting Comedian Quincy Jones

- 1:02:59: The BRNDD 10

 

Ivan's 

Website: http://comedianivanmartin.weebly.com/

Baltimore Comedy Fest: http://www.baltimorecomedyfest.com/

 

 BRNDD Podcast:

Website: debonairmaterial.com

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast/

RSVP for BRNDD Live: July 13th: 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1293084974112947/

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

Jun 13, 2017
Episode 17: Dino Hatfield(of Baltimore Sneaker Show)
02:00:13

Dino Hatfield has become a pioneer in the age of sneaker news. He has broken numerous stories, from the Yeezy 650 first ever leaks to the Jordan 8 releasing and informing the world a whole year before it's release. He has taken his social platform and set himself apart from any  other outlet available. With the help of his team, 7 years ago, he also established Baltimore's Premier sneaker event, the Baltimore Sneaker Show. A show with so much buzz, that Under Armour has given the event its own shoe collab. Donte' and Ronald sit down with Dino and break down all this and more. 

Highlights: 

  • 3:45: How'd it Start

  • 8:00: The importance of Safety and Insurance

  • 13:54: First show that almost didn't happen

  • 20:50: The Culture of Collecting

  • 27:42 The Rise of Sneaker Twitter

  • 31:38: The Evolution of Sneaker Copping

  • 34:57: The Art of Storytelling & the Rise and Fall of Nike SBs

  • 39:22: Galaxy Foams and the Peak of Sneaker Hype

  • 40:38: Baltimore Sneaker Show x Under Armour

  • 48:26: Confidence x Research = Success

  • 52:04: The end of the Under Armour beef

  • 55:23: 7 for 7

  • 59:00: The Power of Nike: Fusions vs. Countdowns

  • 1:05:12: Kanye's influence on Sneaker Design 

  • 1:10:42: Supreme and the Era of Collabs

  • 1:19:19: Being First vs Being Right

  • 1:21:30: Dino vs. Adidas

  • 1:38:26: Dino "the Scammer" Saga

  • 1:39:36: Dino Vs. Nike

  • 1:42:55: The Sneaker News to Trump all Sneaker News

 Dino's 

Twitter & Instagram: @BaltsneakerShow

 

 BRNDD Podcast:

Website: debonairmaterial.com

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast/

RSVP for BRNDD Live: July 13th: 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1293084974112947/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

 

May 28, 2017
Episode 16: Ericka Blount Danois
01:38:29

Ericka Blount Danois is an award winning author who has worked as a staff writer, editor, freelancer, and stringer for a number of publications including: Spin, The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, ESPN The Magazine, Sports Illustrated, Vibe, and The Source. She also has written a non-fiction book on the history of Soul Train, entitled, Love, Peace and Soooooouul! The BRNDD hosts caught up with her to talk about her career over the past couple decades; from interviewing Pac to meeting former Cuban President Fidel Castro. 

Highlights: 

  • 15:01: Behind the Scenes of All Eyez On Me and Rooming with Benny Boom
  • 23:40 Journalistic fairness and the story behind Little Melvin
  • 29:45 Working for Vibe and Covering Nas before illMatic
  • 38:32 Writing for the Legendary Source
  • 41:38 The world of Freelance Writers
  • 44:29 Writing Love, Peace and Soooooouul!
  • 51:25 the Transition from Traditional Print to Digital and Blogs
  • 54:26 Black Comedy
  • 1:02:15 Unsung Stories and Charlie Murphy
  • 1:08:28 Sports Figures and 30 for 30
  • 1:11:52 Interviewing Fidel Castro
  • 1:17:18 Fake News
  • 1:23:00 Where Were you When Prince Died?
  • 1:30:41 The Impact of Love Peace & Soul
  • 1:32:28 Advice to Upcoming Writers; is it still fun for you?

 Ericka's 

Website: http://www.erickablount.com/

Love, Peace & Soul Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/lovepeaceandsoul/

Purchase Love, Peace & Soul: 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-peace-and-soul-ericka-blount-danois/1114718203?ean=9781480341012

 BRNDD Podcast:

Website: debonairmaterial.com

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

https://www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast/

RSVP for BRNDD Live: July 13th: 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1293084974112947/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

 

May 08, 2017
Episode 15: Sam Smith(Of New Vintage by Sam)
59:29

Sam is is a business owner, mother, wife and creative director, all of which she is successful with. She She owns New Vintage by Sam, an apparel and accessories company, Sam Styled you, a personal styling company as well as her mommy blog, Dressed in Motherhood. Coming from a corporate background, she decided she needed more to feel fulfilled in life. Join Ronald and Donte' as they talk with Sam about being an Entrepreneurial mommy and how to handle it all. 

 

Highlights: 

  • 5:40 - The Psychology of Self Image
  • 8:32 - The Transition into being a business owner and its Difficulties
  • 11:42 - The balance of Motherhood and Business
  • 16:36 - Movies that inspire Fashion 
  • 18:44 - Indie is the Wave of the Future 
  • 21:02 - Music and How is Spurs Daily Inspiration
  • 26:30 - What is Dressed in Motherhood & advice for Entrepreneurial Mommies 
  • 34:30 - The Importance of breaking Societal Norms & Black Love
  • 41:30 - The Favorites
  • 45:11 - Get Out, The Commercialism of Black Culture, & White Mediocrity

 

Sam's

Dressed in Motherhood Blog:

https://dressedinmotherhood.wordpress.com/page/2/

Instagram:

@newvintagebysam/SamStyledYou

Website:

http://www.newvintagebysam.com/ 

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/NewVintagebySam/

https://www.facebook.com/TheStyleStrategist/

 BRNDD 10: Playlist:

 

 BRNDD Podcast:

Website: debonairmaterial.com

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

 

Apr 23, 2017
Episode 14: Kalilah Wright(of Mess in a Bottle)
01:20:21

Kalilah Wright is the founder of mess in a bottle. A company that makes inspirational shirts and packages them in a special bottle. The brand has been going strong a little over a year now and has even been recognized by the likes of Mark Cuban.

Ronald and Donte' kick off the episode talking briefly about Kalief Browder's story, and his music with his cousin, under the crew name Catch the fade. Then Ron gets into how he met Kalilah at Under Armour and she speaks on her architecture background. She also speaks on how she came up with Mess in a Bottle over a year ago, and how she started with designing baby furniture and apparel(7:31). The BRNDD hosts also get her to talk about her New York roots and attending Art and Design High School, and why she chose the architecture route initially over apparel and how she got back into it(11:31). 

Ronald transitions the conversation into how social media helps her business and how she developed her social currency(14:30). Then the three speak on her experience meeting Mark Cuban on The Harry Show and sharing her dream of being interviewed by Oprah(15:41). She also shares her difficulty of running a business by herself and bringing in a staff(19:48). Ron also gets her to speak on how she balances herself and her positive energy with the help of her Therapist friend(24:40). Kailiah gets personal and talks about the importance of her family and how they inspire her as well(33:37). Winding down, Kalilah talks about becoming an author and what others can do to chase her dreams(38:55). 

 

Kalilah's

A Mother's Dream Book Page:

https://www.facebook.com/kwritebooks/

Instagram:

@messinabottle

Website:

https://www.messinabottle.com/

Facebook:

 https://www.facebook.com/amessinabottle/

 BRNDD 10: Playlist:

 

 BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

 

 

Apr 09, 2017
Episode 13: Brian (of Creative Culture Lifestyle)
02:08:44

     Ronald and Donte' are back for Season 2 with a 2-hour premiere! Creative Culture lifestyle is a brand started by Brian in 2016 that focuses on black males' beards with a line of natural care products. They've been featured on news channels from Baltimore to Philly, sold in several beauty supply stores across the state of Maryland and their online presence is ever-growing. This year, Brian be launching his non-profit H.U.S.T.L.E.R. and all that and more is discussed in this episode.

    Before the episode starts, Ron announces he's going to London for a week, the two talk about traveling and announce more information about their first live event(3:30)! The conversation starts off when Brian talking about growing his beard in corporate America and being concerned about it until he saw his white counterparts be able to do so(8:24). Then the conversation leads into Brian explaining why African Americans need his product and why the products cater to them. 

    Brian also talks about his school days, from selling Lil' Mike Mixtapes in High School(13:15), to selling t-shirts at Morgan St. University. He also talks about how he was always driven to be in sales but never illegally and how "risk-reward" played into it.

    Brian also discusses the importance of reputation for not only yourself, but your business as well(26:08). The conversation leads into Brian explaining the issues of selling a natural product and how he built a support system through his women audience and friends such as Baltimore Political figures Nick and Marylin Mosby(34:50). 

 

Brian's

Instagram:

@creativeculturelifestyle

Website:

https://www.creativeculturelifestyle.com/

Facebook:

 https://www.facebook.com/creativeculturelifestyle/

Twitter: 

@CCLBeardButter

 BRNDD 10: Playlist 

 https://play.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/5yRRyJWnYskOkkaiyI1bHK

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

 

 

Apr 02, 2017
Episode 12: Joey Malinski(of ATB Productions)
47:15

     Joey Malkinski is a Brooklyn Park, MD native. growing up with a love of film, he always pursued his dream of directing and producing visual content. Ronald and Donte' sit down with the creative behind the company, Across the Bridge Productions and break down how he got to this point. 

    The BRNDD hosts go over the beginnings with Joey, from him starting his own class in high school and how he felt the need to move to NY to start his career(6:34). After moving to New York, Joey got the opportunity to be able to work with Justin Timberlake and Ciera, for their "Love, Sex, Magic" video(8:42). From there, he speaks about feeling the need to come back home and bring some of the projects back to Baltimore(9:30).

    The BRNDD hosts also get Joey to expound on working with the great Wally Pfister(cinematographer for The Dark Knight Trilogy and Inception), Def Jam and even working on Future's I'm Just Being Honest documentary (10:53). 

    The show leads into ATB's future and what Joey wants it to stand for. From envisioning Baltimore being the East Coast Portland to and ATB being one of the city's major video content exporters(18:01). He also talks about how they currently do work for Comcast, have some viral PSAs and an upcoming commercial for March Madness(23:42) and gives advise on how to get into production and how you could possibly work for ATB(25:40).

 

Joey Malinski's

 

E-Mail: joey@atbproductions.com

Twitter:

@JoeyMalinski

Instagram:

@atbproductions

 

ATB Productions' 

Website: atbproductions.com

 

 BRNDD 10: Playlist 

 

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram:

@Cotteonsmooth

 

Feb 19, 2017
Episode 11: Jerrill Sankey(of Creative King)
01:18:20

Donte' and Ron are back again. This week they caught up with Jerrill Sankey, the owner of Creative King. Jerrill crafts his hats by hand, from scratch. A unique aspect in an industry where everything is manufactured and mass produced, Creative King exists in a space of its own. In the span of a few years, the head of Creative King went from a Public School Janitor to a recognizable, internationally sold brand. 

Before they get into the interview, Donte' and Ron speak about the art of freelancing(1:05). Then Ron tells the story of seeing Creative King for the first time(7:15) and allows Jerill to tell us how long his journey has been, moving to Maryland and being inspired by 90's hip-hop fashion, like Roc-a-Wear and FUBU (11:00).

The conversation leads into dealing with criticism and how it helps personal and business growth(16:22). He also talks about the transition from janitorial work to working at Sewlab USA(25:15). To rap it up, the three talk about the future of Creative King; from working on being carried in Dover Street Market and Opening Ceremony, expanding the brand to bags and building the team(42:33)

 

Creative King's 

Website: 

http://www.creative-king.com/

 

Twitter:

@creativekingllc

Instagram:

@creativekingllc

 BRNDD 10: Playlist 

https://play.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/7ALKJzJhJtdctoouneP5GR

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram:

@Cotteonsmooth

 

 

Feb 12, 2017
Episode 10: D. Watkins
01:32:39

The BRNDD podcast has reached double digits! To celebrate, they bring on one of their most successful guests to date. Two-time New York Times Best selling Author, Editor-At-Large for Salon.com, and contributor to a hosts of publications; from ESPN, to Rolling Stone, to the New York  Times, D. Watkins. 

Ron sparks off the conversation with asking D to speak on the moment he realized it was important for someone to speak on black culture from the inside, opposed to other outlets controlling the narrative(6:38). D. also speaks on how things like police brutality affected his writing experiences and how he didn't even think reading was for him growing up, being only exposed to white literature. 

Later, D. Speaks on getting into Johns Hopkins for his Masters, being inspired to write and submitting his work to 500 agents before getting his first deal(20:55)! He also speaks on the process of getting his work out through essays such as Too Poor for Pop Culture, which had over one million hits in one day. This lead to a three hour wait for his first book deal(24:34). D. also speaks on planning his future projects, and how hard it is to release a book when he's working on writing for movies such as; Mike Brown's biopic, a possible Netflix series and Jada Pinkett-Smith's directorial Debut(50:45). He ends the podcast by being the first guest to ever give his BRNDD 10 playlist live(1:12:35)! 

 

D. Watkin's 

Website: 

http://d-watkins.com/

Salon.com Articles 

http://www.salon.com/writer/d_watkins/ 

Twitter:

@dwatkinsworld

Instagram:

@dwatkinsworld

 BRNDD 10: Playlist 

https://play.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/3vyfxlj7LBpQtudLMNx4jb

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram:

@Cotteonsmooth

 

Feb 02, 2017
Episode 9: Brian Bomster-Jabs
01:13:28

Ron and Donte' are back with their first podcast with a guest for the year. They sit down with Brian Bomster-Jabs A.K.A. Bomster-Jabs Studio. They dive right into it and talk about being stereotyped being an adopted Korean raised in Baltimore(4:06). Brain also talks about what inspired his art and how he chose art at a young age by way of a traditional Korean custom(8.10). They also how he went from learning how to paint in high school, transitioning to college and feeling the pressure of being an art student with no job(14:53). 

Bomster speaks on being able to go back to Korea and teach for two years and meet his biological family(28:05). He then talks about returning home, grinding and getting his art on Nicekicks.com(34:04), landing a job painting murals for Baltimore Raven, Eugene Monroe via facebook(37:10) and how being born with a cleft palette inspired him to give back to Operation Smile which changed his life(41:13). 

Bomster's

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BomsterJabsStudio/?fref=tsInstagram:

Instagram:

@bomsterjabs_studio

 BRNDD 10: Playlist 

https://play.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/6edGi2HffLTlgLruJYmxdc

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@whoisronjames

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram:

@Cotteonsmooth

Jan 26, 2017
Episode 8: Best of '16, Welcome to '17
01:39:12

The BRNDD podcast is back for 2017! Ron and Donte' sit down and discuss their absence, how they spent the holidays(1:09) and what they are looking forward to in 2017 along with the official announcement of Debonair Material Media(10:14). Also, the two highlight their favorite moments from 2016. Listen to some of their favorite moments from guests; Jordan C. Jackson(25:15), Beya Likhari(29:27), Harrison Davis of For Rent Shoes(32:01), Sun Zulu(37:39), Reed BMore(42:16), Daniel Biltmore of MSSL CMMND(47:42), and Fraizer of City of Gods(53:18). 

The two wrap up the show by going over their favorites; podcasts(1:13:31), shows(1:24:42), actors(1:29:01) and comedians(1:32:40). You'll finally get to hear the hosts give their BRNDD 10 lists(1:35:33)! BRNDD is ready for the new year and we took some time to get you warmed up for the rest of season 1 of this amazing show! 

 

 

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

BRNDD 10 Playlist: 

 https://open.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/3VWhNjg4p0ZuV2wbTCtgjA

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

Donte Cotton

BRNDD 10 Playlist:

 https://open.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/7i9MbD1tn4tgsPpqt49HnR

Twitter and Instagram:

@Cotteonsmooth

Jan 17, 2017
Episode 7: Fraizer (of City of Gods Shop)
01:51:00

City of Gods has become a pillar in Baltimore. Not only have they created a staple for themselves in the fashion department but also the community aspect. From their Conscious Book Club to feeding the homeless on Thanksgiving. We sat down with part of the creators of the brand to talk about C.O.G. beginnings and how they became such a strong pillar in East Baltimore. 

Donte' and Ronald sit down with Fraizer to talk about their book club, community service, Team City of Gods basketball team and more. The Morgan St. graduate by way of New York started with a booth at Towson mall and turned his dream into a store and brand. Listen as Fraizer breaks down how winning the heart of the community saved the brand during the uprising, race relations in today's time and everything related to fashion. 

Fraizer's

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thegodsneverdie/

Instagram:

@godsneverdie

website:

http://city-of-gods-shop.com/

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram:

@Cotteonsmooth

Dec 08, 2016
Episode 6: Daniel Biltmore(Of MSSL CMMND)
01:36:59

     From working with musical legends to traveling the world. Daniel Biltmore has done a lot in his lifetime. Donte' and Ronald sat down with Daniel to tell his story, the highs and the lows of his DJ Career. 

     Daniel Biltmore is 1/2 of the Duo MSSL CMMND, the other being Chad Hugo of The Neptunes. Daniel talks about how the two became friends, going to Virginia to work with the Neptunes and traveling the globe with Chad DJing amazing sets. From Abu Dhabi to Hip-Hops first Banaroo jam session, Dan's seen a lot and he talks about it all. Listen as Dan goes from a college DJ with now Hot97's Peter Rosenberg to the top of the musical world and back.

 

Daniel Biltmore's

Twitter/Instagram:

@danielbiltmore

 

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

facebook Group: facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram:

@Cotteonsmooth

     

 

Dec 01, 2016
Episode 5: Reed Bmore
01:08:39

Reed BMore is one of Baltimore's most unique street artists. While many of his friends and peers are known for tagging walls, he's mastered a different craft, wire bombing. Known for hanging his works in a busy intersection on traffic lights so everyone that rides by sees his work, Reed Bmore has been featured on the local news, designed pieces for Tyler the Creator, and lead him to meet Chance the Rapper. Listen as Ron and Donte' learn the story of Reed Bmore along with you. 

 

 

Reed BMore's

BRNDD 10 Playlist:
open.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcas…mkdSGc1LKgHVKu2a

Instagram:

@reedbmoreart

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ReedBmoreArt/ 

BRNDD Podcast:

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

facebook Group: facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter:

@DebMaterial

Instagram:

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook:

www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram:

@Cotteonsmooth

 

 

Nov 19, 2016
Episode 4: Sun Zulu
01:14:15

     Sun Zulu is a Baltimore born and bred Emcee and Producer. He has traveled the country with great indie acts such as Blu and J*Davey. He's also a youth mentor and supporter of the city. 

     The BRNDD hosts sit down with Sun to talk about growing up in Baltimore, finding music at a young age and his inspirations from anime to Wu-Tang. The trio also discuss today's trend in hip-hop, recording in the same space Chance the Rapper recorded his first projects and more. 

Sun Zulu's

BRNDD 10 Playlist: 

https://exit.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fopen.spotify.com%2Fuser%2Fbrnddpodcast%2Fplaylist%2F6KE3onmkdSGc1LKgHVKu2a

 

 

Twitter:

@Sun_Zulu

Instagram:

@thesunzulu

website: 

http://thesunzulu.com/

 

 

BRNDD Podcast: 

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

facebook Group: facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter: 

@DebMaterial

Instagram: 

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

 

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram: 

@Cotteonsmooth

 

Nov 03, 2016
Episode 3: Harrison Davis
01:01:24

Harrison Davis is the owner of For Rent Shoes Baltimore, a top streetwear boutique in Baltimore established in 2013. Since its opening it has become an integral part of Baltimore's fashion scene. Housing exclusive brands you can't find anywhere else in the city. 

    Ron and Donte' sit with Harrison to discuss how bringing an image boutique to Baltimore was a new, challenging experience; how the riots affected his business, how the store has become a part of Baltimore and the overall good and bad of what it takes to run a fashion spot. 

Harrison Davis'

BRNDD 10 Playlist: 

https://open.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/51HmvZ8fN6Olhr7jUDerjl

Twitter & Instagram:

@LifeinHDD

website: 

http://www.frsbmore.com/

For Rent Shoes Social Media: 

@frsbmore

 

BRNDD Podcast: 

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

facebook Group: facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter: 

@DebMaterial

Instagram: 

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

 

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram: 

@Cotteonsmooth

 

Oct 06, 2016
Episode 2: Beya Likhari
56:00

Ronald brings on his good friend and rising R&B star, Beya Likhari. The BRNDD hosts dig deeper, discussing her influences, what being on Elle UK's Magazine "R&B Artists to Watch" list, and the intricacies of her songs and projects. Listen and learn about Baltimore's next R&B star, Beya Likhari. 

 

Beya Likhari's

BRNDD 10 Playlist: 

https://open.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/25AJrLamRtf694KaNvr2V6

Twitter & Instagram:

@soundsboutwrite

website: 

http://www.beyalikhari.com/

Soundcloud: 

https://soundcloud.com/beya-likhari 

 

BRNDD Podcast: 

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

facebook Group: facebook.com/brnddpodcast

Twitter: 

@DebMaterial

Instagram: 

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

 

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram: 

@Cotteonsmooth

 

 

Sep 29, 2016
Episode 0.5: Welcome Ronald James
10:31

Donte' and Ronald sit down for the 1st time to talk about what to expect from the show, their expectations, what type of guests to look for and set you up for the premiere episode.

 

BRNDD Podcast: 

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Twitter: 

@DebMaterial

Instagram: 

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

 

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram: 

@Cotteonsmooth

Sep 22, 2016
Episode 1: Jordan C. Jackson
01:09:56

     The BRNDD hosts sit down with Apparel Designer Jordan C. Jackson, who has worked for the likes of Giorgio Armani and Under Armour. Jordan tells his story of going from an HBCU in Atlanta to FIT and taking fashion design head on. Listen to Jordan's story as he goes from almost failing out of his fashion program to heading the design of an entire UA collection. 

     Jordan also talks about how Massimo Osti inspires him, checking Highsnobiety for what's trending and how technology is playing a part in the progression of fashion in today's world. Ron and Donte' also discuss Jordan's plan to move to Africa, wanting to get into furniture design and some of his favorite books, movies and more. 

 

Jordan C. Jackson's

BRNDD 10 Playlist: 

https://open.spotify.com/user/brnddpodcast/playlist/1lmcNMN7uO5JEelreqPsk0

Instagram:

@jordancjackson

Portfolio: 

http://jordancjackson.work/

Tumblr:

http://jordancjackson.tumblr.com/ 

 

BRNDD Podcast: 

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Twitter: 

@DebMaterial

Instagram: 

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

 

Ronald James

Twitter and Instagram:

@RonIsUnthawed

 

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram: 

@Cotteonsmooth

Sep 22, 2016
Episode 0: The Introduction
11:20

Host Donte Cotton sits down for a brief introduction of the show. Donte' breaks down what BRNDD is, what Debonair Material is, who and what to expect from the show and prepare you for the ride that is BRNDD

 

BRNDD Podcast: 

E-Mail: brndd@debonairmaterial.com

Twitter: 

@DebMaterial

Instagram: 

@debonairmaterial.com

facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/DebonairMaterial/

 

 

Donte Cotton

Twitter and Instagram: 

@Cotteonsmooth

Sep 22, 2016