Welcome to The Institute of Black Imagination hosted by artist, writer, and designer Dario Calmese. Each week we bring you conversations from The Pool of Black Genius: a collection of iconoclasts at the leading edge of cultural thought and innovation. We are here to inspire, engage, and to help you unleash your own imagination.
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Données mises à jour le 04/07/2026
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E101. Answering The Call with Rev. Dr. Norvell Goff, Sr.
Épisode 101
dimanche 21 juin 2026 • Durée 01:22:34
E101: Answering The Call with Rev. Dr. Norvel Goff, Sr.
In this episode of The Institute of Black Imagination, host Dario Calmese sits down with Rev. Dr. Norvel Goff, Sr., pastor, civic leader, and former interim pastor of Mother Emanuel AME Church following the tragic massacre of the Emanuel Nine.
From his upbringing in Georgetown, South Carolina, during the Jim Crow era to his leadership within the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Rev. Goff reflects on a life devoted to faith, service, justice, and community building. He shares lessons from his journey through ministry, civil rights advocacy, and public leadership, offering a powerful meditation on what it means to serve others, create meaningful change, and imagine a more just future.
Together, Dario and Rev. Goff explores leadership, the role of the Black church, intergenerational wisdom, community organizing, healing after tragedy, and the importance of creating a table where everyone has a seat.
Key Takeaways
Service Is the Highest Form of Leadership
Rev. Goff believes leadership begins with serving others. Throughout the conversation, he returns to the idea that greatness is measured not by status, but by a willingness to meet needs, uplift communities, and pour into others.
Community Change Requires Participation
From growing churches to organizing with the NAACP, Rev. Goff emphasizes that transformation happens when people engage directly with their communities, build relationships, and work collectively toward solutions.
We Are Stronger Together
One of the defining themes of the conversation is unity. Whether discussing Charleston, church leadership, or civic engagement, Rev. Goff reminds us that meaningful progress requires collaboration across generations, backgrounds, and institutions.
Leadership Begins with Listening
Rev. Goff offers a simple framework for leadership: listen, learn, and then lead. Before we can guide others, we must be willing to hear their stories, understand their realities, and remain open to new ideas.
Vision Creates Possibility
"Without a vision, the people perish." Rev. Goff reflects on the importance of imagination, strategic thinking, and shared purpose in creating better futures for communities and future generations.
What We Discussed
Growing up in Georgetown, South Carolina, during segregation
Family, faith, and community as foundations for leadership
Answering the call to ministry
Building congregations and community institutions
The role of the Black church in civic life
Leadership during the aftermath of the Mother Emanuel tragedy
Faith, justice, and public service
Intergenerational wisdom and mentorship
The importance of listening, learning, and leading
Black imagination, vision, and the future of community
4. "A Change Is Gonna Come" – Sam Cooke - A civil rights era classic that echoes the themes of justice, faith, and perseverance woven throughout this conversation.
"We must create a table where everyone has a seat."
"If you want to be great in the kingdom, be a servant."
"We are stronger together."
"Listen. Learn. Lead."
Dispatches from the Archive
Ep. 26 Sister Elaine Brown — A Revolutionary Life - Former Chairwoman of the Black Panther Party, Elaine Brown reflects on power, justice, political organizing, and what it means to lead during periods of profound social change. Like Rev. Dr. Goff, she challenges listeners to consider the responsibilities that come with leadership and community stewardship.
Ep. 23 Dr. Heather McGhee — The Hidden Cost of Racism - Economic policy expert and author of The Sum of Us, Dr. McGhee explores the connections between racial justice, collective prosperity, and civic responsibility. Her vision of shared flourishing resonates deeply with Rev. Dr. Goff's belief that we are stronger together.
Ep. 29 Jacqueline Woodson — Scripting Your Life - National Book Award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson examines how family, history, and place influence who we become. This conversation complements Rev. Dr. Goff's reflections on upbringing, mentorship, and the power of intergenerational wisdom.
Ep. 99 Gina Paige — Blood Memories - Gina Paige's exploration of ancestry, belonging, and identity offers a powerful companion to Rev. Dr. Goff's discussion of roots, heritage, and the importance of understanding where we come from in order to imagine where we're...
E100. What If We Get It Right? with Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson
Épisode 100
dimanche 1 juin 2025 • Durée 01:37:12
Episode Overview:
In this milestone 100th episode of the Institute of Black Imagination podcast, we sit down with the incomparable Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson—marine biologist, policy expert, writer, and visionary climate futurist. Co-founder of Urban Ocean Lab, The All We Can Save Project, and co-creator of the podcast How to Save a Planet, Dr. Johnson is at the forefront of reimagining a climate future rooted in justice, imagination, and care.
In this expansive conversation, we explore how the ocean is central to climate solutions, how storytelling intersects with science, and what’s possible when we lead with joy. From co-authoring the Blue New Deal to her most recent book, What If We Get It Right?, Dr. Johnson invites us to reframe our climate fears into courageous vision.
What We Discussed
Imagination is a political tool for climate justice
Hope is strategy in What If We Get It Right?
Urban Ocean Lab is rethinking coastal cities
Women’s leadership drives climate solutions
Black imagination reshapes the ocean’s narrative
Dispatches from the Archive
E93. Imagining Diasporic Retrofutures with Olalekan Jeyifous Explore speculative architecture and Afro-futurism as artist Olalekan Jeyifous reimagines urban landscapes, challenging conventional notions of beauty and success in architecture.
E38. Toni L. Griffin: The Just City Urban planner Toni L. Griffin discusses the concept of "The Just City," focusing on designing urban spaces that are equitable, inclusive, and reflective of diverse communities.
Landscape architect Sara Zewde delves into the intersection of public spaces and cultural narratives, emphasizing how parks and landscapes can serve as platforms for liberation and community identity.
Join & Support Our Community
E99. Blood Memories with Gina Paige Co-Founder of AfricanAncestry.com
Épisode 99
dimanche 11 mai 2025 • Durée 01:27:55
Episode Overview:
In this episode of The Institute of Black Imagination, host Dario Calmese sits down with Gina Paige, the co-founder of African Ancestry, to explore the transformative power of knowing your roots. For over two decades, Gina has pioneered DNA ancestry tracing for people of African descent, helping countless individuals reclaim their lineage and reshape their identities.
Gina shares her personal journey—what sparked her passion for genealogy, how her work is changing lives, and why ancestry is more than just science—it’s a cultural and spiritual homecoming. If you’ve ever wondered where you come from or how your history shapes your future, this conversation is for you.
What We Discussed
Knowing Your Roots Shapes Your Identity
DNA Can Reconnect Us to Lost Histories
Ancestry is More Than Just Genetics—It’s Culture
Representation in Genealogy Matters
Knowing Your Past Helps Shape Your Future
A Playlist Inspired by the Conversation
1. “I Am Light” – India.Arie- A soulful meditation on self-worth and inner identity, this song beautifully echoes the idea that we are more than just our history—we are light, love, and legacy.
2. “Black Man” – Stevie Wonder- A powerful anthem celebrating the global contributions of Black people throughout history, reinforcing the importance of knowing where we come from.
3. “My People” – Angie Stone - This song is a love letter to the African diaspora, reminding us of our strength, resilience, and connection to one another.
Books to Complement This ConversationResources & Links:Support the Work:Join & Support Our Community
E98. The Body Politic. A Conversation with Elle Moxley
Épisode 98
dimanche 27 avril 2025 • Durée 01:13:53
Episode Summary:
In this deeply moving and insightful episode, we sit down with activist, organizer, and founder of the Marsha P. Johnson Institute, Elle Moxley. Elle takes us on a journey through the heart of activism, the lessons learned from movement-building, and the power of Black trans leadership. She shares her experiences with Black Lives Matter, the founding of her own organization, and her reflections on love, resilience, and desire. This conversation is one of power, truth, and transformation.
Books to Complement This ConversationResources & Links:Support the Work:Join & Support Our Community
E97. SEAMLESS. with Oscar Winning Costume Designer, Paul Tazewell
Épisode 97
dimanche 13 avril 2025 • Durée 01:15:02
Episode Summary:
In this monumental 97th episode—our first-ever live recording—we welcome legendary costume designer and visual storyteller Paul Tazewell, just one week after his historic win as the first Black man to receive the Academy Award for Best Costume Design for Wicked. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Space 001, the Institute’s newly opened physical space, Paul and host Dario Calmese delve into a deeply moving, expansive conversation about storytelling through clothing, the power of design, Black imagination, and the long road to recognition.
From his early days sewing dashikis and puppets in Akron, Ohio, to crafting iconic looks for Hamilton, The Wiz Live!, Harriet, West Side Story, and now Wicked, Paul shares the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual layers that shape his work. This episode is a masterclass in creative process, artistic evolution, and how style becomes a vessel for history, identity, and transformation.
What We Explore:
A Historic Win: Paul reflects on becoming the first Black man to win an Oscar for costume design.
Roots & Influence: His upbringing in Akron and support from his two moms shaped his creative path.
Finding His Lane: He learned to trust design as his true calling while navigating multiple talents.
Design as Story: Paul reveals how costumes—like those in Wicked—carry emotion, science, and symbolism.
Legacy & Access: He honors Black creative lineage and shares his vision for mentoring future storytellers.
Quotables:
“Clothing is never just about what you wear. It’s about the story you tell.”
— Paul Tazewell
“Being visible, taking up space, allows you access to investigate what’s next.
— Paul Tazewell
“Beauty is the antidote to the ugliness in the world.”— Paul Tazewell
Recommended Reading List: For Further ExplorationJoin & Support Our Community
E96. Towards A New Architecture. with Dr. Lesley Lokko OBE
Épisode 96
dimanche 26 mai 2024 • Durée 01:33:41
About The Guest
Today we're honored to introduce our guest, Professor Lesley Lokko. A distinguished Ghanaian-Scottish architect, educator, and bestselling novelist, Dr. Lokko most recently served as the Curator of the 18th Venice Biennale of Architecture, becoming the first Black-identified person to hold the position. She’s also the founder and Director of the African Futures Institute (AFI) a pioneering postgraduate school of architecture in Accra, Ghana.
Dr. Lokko is also a best-selling novelist with 12 titles under her belt. Her novels have been translated into sixteen languages dealing with themes of love, loyalty, class, race, and cultural identity, transforming the “beach-read” genre into an extension of her architectural, world-building practice. For her contributions to the fields of Architecture and education, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2023 and 2024 won the Gold Medal Award, by the Royal Institute of British Architects, one of the highest honors in the world of architecture.
And in many ways, that’s where today's conversation with Prof. Leslie Lokko begins. The reality of appearing to be at the top, juxtaposed against the sweat and elbow grease required in institution-building and well… being a human being. Prof. Lokko joyfully and deftly takes us on a journey of triumph, career pivots, culture shock, womanhood, and becoming.
Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Now, And now, the indefatigable Professor Lesley Lokko.
Welcome to the Institute of Black Imagination podcast, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of Black genius. I'm your host, Dario, and today, we have the pleasure of chatting with Nifemi Marcus-Bello, a visionary design director and founder of Nmbello Studio. Renowned for his community-centric and ethnographically-conscious design ethos, Nifemi’s practice exemplifies how obstacles are merely opportunities in disguise.
In this conversation, we explore the journey of a designer deeply rooted in his Nigerian upbringing. Nifemi shares how he overcame societal pressures that attempted to sway him from his creative path, how reimagining local materials and processes expanded his own design language, and we even get into blood memory and ancestral wisdom. Yeah, it’s one of those episodes.
Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Now, beaming in from across the Atlantic, design director and industrial designer, Nifemi Marcus-Bello.
Key Links
nmbello Studio - is a design studio currently based in Lagos, Nigeria. Our design ethos is rooted in empathy.
E94. The Black School with Co-Founders Shani Peters And Joseph Cuillier, III
Épisode 94
dimanche 28 avril 2024 • Durée 01:20:36
Welcome to the Institute of Black Imagination, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of black genius. Today, we're thrilled to present Shani Peters and Joseph Cuillier III, the co-founders of The Black School—an innovative art institution dedicated to teaching radical Black politics through experimental approaches to art and design education.
Both artists and organizers in their own right, Founded by Joseph Cuillier and Shani Peters, they're mixing art with talks about Black politics and community projects. Inspired by past community-run schools, like those from the Civil Rights and Black Power movements, they're making a difference today.
The Black School has three parts: the School itself, the Festival where students show off their work, and the Studio, where students learn about design and get job training. It's all about helping students understand their neighborhoods, make art that matters, and get ready for the future.
Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. Join us as we explore how organizations like The Black School are changing the game in education and beyond. Now, let's warmly welcome Shani Peters and Joseph Cuillier, the Co-Founders of The Black School, to our conversation.
Key Links
Joseph A. Cuillier Career Center - We are a school dedicated to providing an education that empowers our students to succeed in the workforce and beyond.
E93. Imagining Diasporic Retrofutures with Olalekan Jeyifous
Épisode 93
dimanche 14 avril 2024 • Durée 01:32:48
Welcome to the Institute of Black Imagination podcast, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of Black genius. I am your host, Dario. Today, we're excited to introduce Olalekan Jeyifous, an innovative artist and architect whose world-building practice reimaginations the relationship between community, urbanity, nature, and time; It’s very much giving Main Character Energy, and citizens of the Black Atlantic take centerstage.
In today's conversation, Olalekan and I discuss how architecture alone is rarely sufficient in solving problems in the urban landscape, we reimagine what the continent of Africa COULD have looked like if colonial powers were expelled post-independence, and Lek challenges conventional notions of beauty and success in architecture and why storefront churches and bodegas deserve a shoutout.
Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And now, take a breath, as we take a ride with artist and architect Olalekan Jeyifous.
Silver Lion - an annual award presented for best directing achievements in a feature film at official competition section of the Venice Film Festival since 1998.
Saul Williams - American singer-songwriter and musician
The Apocryphal Gospel of Oakland- A discussion between artist, Olalekan Jeyifous and UC Berkeley assistant professor of Geography, Dr. Brandi T. Summers on the generative power of collaboration and the potential for speculative architecture as a means to develop comprehensive constructions of urban Utopias/Dystopias that engage with a variety of social, political, and environmental realities.
E92. The People's University with Dr. Carla Hayden
Épisode 92
dimanche 31 mars 2024 • Durée 01:00:14
Hey explorers, it's Dario. Welcome to the IBI podcast, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of Black genius. Today, we browse the mind of Dr. Carla Hayden, the 14th Librarian of Congress, appointed by U.S. President Barack Obama. Dr. Hayden is the first woman and the first African American to hold this position at the National Library. As an actual librarian, Dr. Hayden is known for advocating for the privacy of library users and for her initiatives to promote broad access to public libraries and their resources.
Our dialogue today, much like the Library of Congress itself, is a treasure trove of literary jewels. We discuss how the Library of Congress is not your mother’s library, containing priceless artifacts like the Bayard Rustin papers, and a handwritten letter from Nina Simone to Hazel Scott. We talk American literacy rates, how parents can engage reluctant readers, and we even get personal, as Dr. Hayden and i discuss the health challenges black women face in the workplace, especially in positions of power.
Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. So grab your library card and a snack… It’s time to check into the people’s university, with Dr. Carla Hayden.
Key Links
Library Of Congress - the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office.
Nina Simone - American singer-songwriter, pianist, and activist.
Découvrez des podcasts liées à The Institute of Black Imagination.. Explorez des podcasts avec des thèmes, sujets, et formats similaires. Ces similarités sont calculées grâce à des données tangibles, pas d'extrapolations !
E55. Sekou Cooke: Creation of Hip-Hop Architecture Architect Sekou Cooke introduces the concept of Hip-Hop Architecture, exploring how the ethos of hip-hop culture can inform and transform architectural practices and urban design.
E61. Justin Garrett Moore: Imagining Black Space Urban designer Justin Garrett Moore discusses the importance of imagining and creating Black spaces that honor cultural heritage, foster community, and challenge systemic inequalities.
If this dialogue resonated with you, sparked inspiration, or offered a new perspective, we’d love your support! Here’s how you can help us keep these powerful stories alive:
🎧 Subscribe & Review – Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your words help more people discover these conversations. Subscribe to our newsletter.
📢 Spread the Word – Share this episode with your friends, family, and community. Let’s keep the dialogue going!
💬 Engage With Us – Follow us on social media and join the conversation @blackimagination on Instagram & Twitter. We’d love to hear your thoughts, takeaways, and what topics you want to explore next.
💜 Support the Work – Love what we’re creating? Help us sustain and grow by making a contribution! Whether it’s a one-time donation or becoming a patron, every bit fuels our mission. Click here to support us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice, your presence, and your support make all the difference! ✨
Until next time, stay curious, and keep dreaming.
4. “Back to Africa” – Dennis Brown - A reggae classic that speaks directly to the desire to reconnect with one’s ancestral homeland, much like what African Ancestry makes possible.
5. “I’m Coming Home” – The Staple Singers - A gospel-infused track that captures the spiritual and emotional essence of returning to one’s roots and embracing one’s heritage.
This book explores African spiritual traditions and the importance of reconnecting with ancestral wisdom to find purpose and healing in the modern world.
A groundbreaking classic that traces a family’s lineage from Africa to America, demonstrating the power of ancestral storytelling and reclaiming lost histories.
Based on interviews with the last known survivor of the transatlantic slave trade, this book offers a firsthand account of the forced displacement of African people and the longing for ancestral connection.
Though focused on migration within the U.S., this book powerfully illustrates the deep impact of displacement, identity, and reclaiming one’s place in history.
🔗 Learn more about African Ancestry:www.africanancestry.com(use code black imagination for 10% off your kit)
If this conversation inspired you, visit AfricanAncestry.com to begin your own journey of self-discovery. Take a DNA test to uncover your African roots and connect with your heritage.(use code black imagination for 10% off your kit)
If this dialogue resonated with you, sparked inspiration, or offered a new perspective, we’d love your support! Here’s how you can help us keep these powerful stories alive:
🎧 Subscribe & Review – Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your words help more people discover these conversations. Subscribe to our newsletter.
📢 Spread the Word – Share this episode with your friends, family, and community. Let’s keep the dialogue going!
💬 Engage With Us – Follow us on social media and join the conversation @blackimagination on Instagram & Twitter. We’d love to hear your thoughts, takeaways, and what topics you want to explore next.
💜 Support the Work – Love what we’re creating? Help us sustain and grow by making a contribution! Whether it’s a one-time donation or becoming a patron, every bit fuels our mission. Click here to support us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice, your presence, and your support make all the difference! ✨
Until next time, stay curious, and keep dreaming.
"Golden" – Jill Scott
-
A song about embracing joy, self-love, and living life on your terms.
"Sister Outsider" by Audre Lorde – A powerful collection of essays and speeches exploring Black identity, feminism, and the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality.
"Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson" by Tourmaline (upcoming release) – A forthcoming deep dive into the first definitive biography of the revolutionary activist Marsha P. Johnson, one of the most important and remarkable figures in LGBTQIA+ history, revealing her story, her impact, and her legacy.
If this conversation inspired you, consider supporting MPJI through donations, advocacy, or simply spreading awareness. Every action, big or small, helps carry the movement forward.
If this dialogue resonated with you, sparked inspiration, or offered a new perspective, we’d love your support! Here’s how you can help us keep these powerful stories alive:
🎧 Subscribe & Review – Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your words help more people discover these conversations. Subscribe to our newsletter.
📢 Spread the Word – Share this episode with your friends, family, and community. Let’s keep the dialogue going!
💬 Engage With Us – Follow us on social media and join the conversation @blackimagination on Instagram & Twitter. We’d love to hear your thoughts, takeaways, and what topics you want to explore next.
💜 Support the Work – Love what we’re creating? Help us sustain and grow by making a contribution! Whether it’s a one-time donation or becoming a patron, every bit fuels our mission. Click here to support us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice, your presence, and your support make all the difference! ✨
Until next time, stay curious, and keep dreaming.
About the Guest:
Paul Tazewell is a Tony, Emmy, BAFTA, and now Academy Award-winning costume designer whose breathtaking work has helped shape the visual identity of contemporary theater and film. From Hamilton to Wicked, his designs transcend aesthetics—they are blueprints for character, history, and emotion.
Space 001 – A concept store, research lab, and living archive in the Oculus, NYC
Geoffrey Holder – Legendary Black artist and costume designer for The Wiz
Wicked (Film) – Now featuring Oscar-winning costume design
North Carolina School of the Arts, NYU, and Pratt Institute – Key touchstones in Paul’s training
Mellon Foundation – Supporting imagination and justice through the arts
Soundtrack: Inspired by Paul Tazewell’s Journey & Genius
"Home" – Stephanie Mills(from The Wiz) - A soulful ode to identity, memory, and belonging—an emotional anchor for Paul’s early influence and connection to The Wiz.
"Defying Gravity" – Cynthia Erivo(from Wicked) - A triumphant anthem of transformation, resistance, and rising above—mirroring Paul’s groundbreaking win and Elphaba’s journey.
"Back to Life" – Soul II Soul - An Afro-futurist groove echoing Paul’s ability to breathe story into garments—rooted in culture, yet futuristic.
"Optimistic" – Sounds of Blackness - A call to persevere, perfect for honoring Paul’s long and winding path through doubt, brilliance, and breakthrough.
"Mood Indigo" – Nina Simone - A textured, moody classic that reflects the complexity and emotion Paul brings to characters through costume and color.
Costume and Fashion: A Concise History by James Laver - A beautifully illustrated guide tracing the evolution of dress—perfect for those curious about how fashion and costume shape culture.
If this dialogue resonated with you, sparked inspiration, or offered a new perspective, we’d love your support! Here’s how you can help us keep these powerful stories alive:
🎧 Subscribe & Review – Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your words help more people discover these conversations. Subscribe to our newsletter.
📢 Spread the Word – Share this episode with your friends, family, and community. Let’s keep the dialogue going!
💬 Engage With Us – Follow us on social media and join the conversation @blackimagination on Instagram & Twitter. We’d love to hear your thoughts, takeaways, and what topics you want to explore next.
💜 Support the Work – Love what we’re creating? Help us sustain and grow by making a contribution! Whether it’s a one-time donation or becoming a patron, every bit fuels our mission. Click here to support us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice, your presence, and your support make all the difference! ✨
Rosenwald/Booker T. Washington Schools- Booker T. Washington of the Tuskegee Institute and Julius Rosenwald, philanthropist and president of Sears Roebuck, built state-of-the art schools for African American children across the South.
