The Culture Podcast

Join Mike and P.Rae in a riveting conversation on the muddy crux of American politics and adapting to an unyielding system. From Chicago's West Side to the White House, P.Rae dives in on the truth behind her experience with systemic injustices and why Democratic leaders failed to look after the people. Tune in for a bold take on breaking free from political norms. Read more @ ourculture.us

Welcome! This episode, the table discusses new election results in Chicago's political landscape,as well as the cultural revival event coming Saturday, March 28th at Austin Town Hall hosted by Barrelhouse Bonni. The festival aims to reclaim the economic value of black music and challenge historical exploitation of the black image. Additionally, community organizer Arewa EKUA talks about the Restor...

Mike and Zoe reflect on the centennial of Black history recognition, tracing how a week-long observance evolved into what is now Black History Month and examining the historical forces, debates, and cultural meaning that shaped its transformation over the last 100 years.

Welcome! Last month, we sat down with art enthusiast and collector Rosie Dawson to talk about the ASPIRE Center for Workforce Innovation’s Black History Month art exhibit, which explored the importance of Black people taking control of their own image in the years after emancipation. Take a listen.

Mike and Zoe reflect on the life and legacy of Jesse Jackson — the Baptist minister, civil rights activist, and two-time presidential candidate whose audacious campaigns reshaped the Democratic Party and expanded Black political power after the civil rights era. Their conversation explores his political legacy, the web’s reaction to his death, and several under-discussed dimensions of Jackson’s ca...

An important moment in our city’s future is approaching: March 17, Primary Election Day. Mike and Zoe discuss the legacy of political figures from Illinois’ 7th congressional district, the candidates hoping to shape its next chapter, and what it takes to stand up to a white supremacist political order.

Mike argues that the Constitution is often overrated — how much can it truly matter when the nation has repeatedly failed to protect its most marginalized citizens and was itself built through the founding violence its authors both justified and struggled to reconcile? He also explores the concept of enclosure , the historical significance of the 7th congressional district, and what it takes to ma...

We have a buzzing conversation with State Rep Ford, along with West-side Health Authority's very own Morris Reed. Stay up to date with our nonpartisan voter guide on our website: https://ourculture.us/ballot-power/

Welcome to the first episode of The Culture Podcast , with your West Side co-hosts Michael Romain and Zoe Nellum. Tune in each week as they explore the people, places, and issues influencing everyday life along Chicago’s Interstate 290 corridor and across nearby west suburbs.