Noble Champions

• The Future is African: Unity, Vision & Collective Liberation

  In this episode of Noble Champions, Santigold explores the potential for deeper collaboration between Africa and its global diaspora. She’s joined by two visionary guests from Nigeria: Seun Kuti, musician, activist, and son of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, who has continued his father’s revolutionary legacy both artistically and politically, and Adesuwa Aighewi, a model-turned-entrepreneur redefining ethical fashion through her company, Legacy World. Together, they examine the structural forces that have historically worked to divide Black people worldwide—colonialism, slavery, and systemic exploitation—and discuss how unity, vision, and cultural reclamation can drive real transformation. Seun shares his sharp and unfiltered take on Nigeria’s political landscape, the challenges of rebuilding broken institutions, and the necessity of grassroots movements in reclaiming power. Adesuwa, having moved between continents, offers a personal perspective on identity, representation, and the struggles of bridging the gap between African talent and the global market. Seun often says, "A nation cannot grow above the consciousness of its people," a truth that resonates far beyond Nigeria. Whether in Africa or here in America, the systems that govern us are a reflection of the awareness, education, and collective vision of the people. This conversation challenges us all to examine how we contribute to that consciousness—through the culture we consume, the histories we uphold, and the futures we dare to imagine. This episode doesn’t shy away from the hard truths—about the commodification of African culture, the economic barriers facing the continent, and the deep-seated impact of historical trauma. But more importantly, it imagines what a liberated and self-sufficient Africa could look like, centering the voices of those actively shaping its future. As Santigold wraps up this season, she reflects on the power of these conversations and the necessity of continuing them. Stay tuned for more, and as always, we are Noble Champions.

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• The Future of Music: Art, Industry, and the Power of Collective Connection

  In this episode, Santi sits down with legendary bassist Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers), visionary solo artist Syd (formerly of The Internet and Odd Future), and Gen Z pioneer Rep. Maxwell Frost, the first member of Congress from his generation. Together, they unpack the shifting landscape of the music industry and the challenges of staying true to one’s creative purpose in an age of constant change. Flea reflects on how music education saved him as a troubled teen, the necessity of creating from a place of truth, and the role of community in sustaining artistic passion. Syd shares her evolution from a teenager producing beats in her bedroom to an artist fiercely protecting her independence in an industry often driven by image over substance. Meanwhile, Maxwell offers a fresh perspective on how music shaped his political ideals, his vision for policies that sustain careers in the arts, and how Flea’s music left an indelible mark on his own journey. This conversation dives deep into the intersections of art, identity, and resilience, shedding light on how authenticity, collaboration, and integrity remain vital—especially in times of cultural and political upheaval.

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• Reckoning with Patriarchy: Nurturing Love, Accountability and Connection in a Broken System

  In this episode, Santi sits down with musician and creator Vince Staples, comedian and actor Wyatt Cenac, and acclaimed writer and academic Kiese Laymon for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about patriarchy—its impact on individuals and society, and what it takes to break free from its grip. Kiese reflects on a pivotal childhood experience at a 2 Live Crew concert, the profound role male touch played in his upbringing and how, for men, the act of receiving touch often demands a kind of vulnerability that patriarchy teaches them to fear and reject. Wyatt unpacks the influence of male figures in pop culture on his early ideas of masculinity, and how patriarchy teaches men to equate strength with silence. He reflects on the emotional toll of this conditioning, describing how the refusal to express vulnerability in relationships can feel isolating. Vince offers a critique of how systems of slavery, capitalism, and religion have worked together to obscure self-awareness, distorting the ability of individuals to imagine themselves outside the constraints of imposed identities and collective ideologies. Together, Santi and her guests explore how patriarchal systems have shaped their identities, relationships, and creative work while sharing the steps they’re taking to move beyond its shadow, and imagine a path toward a more equitable future.

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• Offline Living: Breaking Free from Tech

  In this episode, Santigold sits down with actor and activist Shailene Woodley and Odille Zexter-Kaiser to discuss how stepping away from technology can nurture a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. Shailene shares insights from her years of consciously minimizing her reliance on technology, while Odille reflects on her experience as a member of New York City’s Luddite Club—a group of high school students who chose to limit their tech use in pursuit of a more intentional, grounded lifestyle. Together, they examine the profound impact of technology on our relationships and explore the benefits of embracing a more mindful way of living. Note: The sound quality on this episode is perfectly imperfect. The irony is not lost on us. I guess since it’s an episode about stepping away from technology (one of our guests was even calling in on a flip phone), the tech gods decided to mess with us. Think of it as a lo-fi tribute to living intentionally. Thanks for rolling with it!

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• Afrofuturism: How Human Imagination Shapes Our Future

  Episode 1 with John Jennings and Terence Nance dives into Afrofuturism and the power of human imagination in shaping our future. In a time of global uncertainty, art that envisions a better world is essential. Santi sits down with acclaimed graphic novelist, comic book author, illustrator, and professor John Jennings, alongside artist, filmmaker, and musician Terence Nance (creator of HBO’s Random Acts of Flyness) for a rich discussion. Together, they explore the tools of imagination, the role of rituals, the concept of deindustrializing oneself, nonlinear time, and much more.

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