The Second Draft Project

What does it mean to leave a legacy? In this episode, we explore the profound impact Nipsey Hussle had on South Los Angeles and beyond. A rapper, entrepreneur, and community leader, Nipsey shattered stereotypes, uniting his neighborhood through education, empowerment, and cultural celebration. Our conversation dives into his Eritrean roots and the pride he instilled in the diaspora, with moving in...

Nipsey Hussle wasn’t just a rapper; he was a symbol of hope, resilience, and empowerment for a community. In this episode, we explore how his legacy lives on through the voices of those closest to him, his family, friends, and fans, who continue to carry his vision forward. Through interviews with his collaborators, family, and fans, we hear how they’re continuing Nipsey’s work and vision through...

This podcast episode delves into the personal life of Ermias Asghedom, the man behind the music. It explores intimate stories about Nipsey’s character, values, and his roles as a son, father, brother, and partner. The episode also celebrates his deep relationship with actress Lauren London, reflecting on how their love story impacted not only their lives but also the communities they inspired and...

This episode offers a deep dive into Nipsey Hussle's Grammy-nominated album, exploring its powerful themes of perseverance, loyalty, and love. It examines how Nipsey redefined success for independent artists and entrepreneurs, setting a blueprint for those who followed. The episode also highlights the broader impact of his work – from the transformative role of The Marathon Clothing brand as...

As an outspoken Black man, Muslim faith minister, and human rights activist during the height of legalized segregation in the United States, it’s unsurprising that Malcolm X’s beliefs ruffled many feathers. His advocacy for Black empowerment and community strengthening led to a broader movement and an enlightening period for many Americans, and his highly recognizable image ensures in popular cult...

In March 2019, widely beloved rapper and community activist Nipsey Hussle was gunned down in the parking lot of his store, The Marathon Clothing in South Central Los Angeles. In this episode of the Second Draft Project, Shaniek Brown and Maya Broomfield explore Nipsey’s enduring influence in his community and take a look at how it intersects with Malcolm X's to identify how Malcolm X impacted...

Nearly 60 years after Malcolm X was shot and killed while speaking at the Audubon Ballroom in New York City, there are still more questions than answers about the circumstances of the civil rights leader’s death, which has been the subject of controversy, conspiracy theories, and well-founded skepticism alike. In this episode, we explore some of these narratives and uncover the power of visual doc...

Widely celebrated as a vocal advocate for Black empowerment during the Civil Rights Movement, Malcolm X was also viewed as a controversial figure accused of preaching racism and violence. In this episode of the Second Draft Project, John Quincy Broadway and Sangmin Kim revisit the legacy of Malcolm X: the man, the myth, and his movement. Who was he? Why were people taught to be afraid of him? How...

Everyone dreams about who they want to be when they grow up. As we grow up, however, these desires are increasingly influenced by the realities of life. This is especially true for the children of famous civil rights leaders like Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz, daughter of Malcolm X. In this episode, Dr. Shabazz speaks with the Second Draft Project about her father, birthright, lineage, and the importance of...

Former president and publisher of the Washington Post, Philip L. Graham, once described journalism as the first draft of history. For the most marginalized members of our society, however, history has shown that this first draft is at best incomplete. At worst, it’s inaccurate, and sometimes, it can even be harmful. Enter the Second Draft Project: a chance for those at the center of our nation’s m...