Owning Your Voice... Terms and Conditions May Apply

Welcome to Mama We Made It, DJ and Reg! This week, they dive into the realities of "culture jacking" in corporate America, reflecting on their lived experiences as Black professionals navigating both personal and organizational spaces. They share stories of loss and renewal—starting with poignant tales about old trees in their neighborhoods—before drawing parallels to the ways Black culture is often appropriated and repackaged by brands and media. DJ spotlights data on Black media consumption and its impact on narrative control, while Reg unpacks the intricate relationship between branding, race, and authenticity in advertising. Together, they challenge the ways non-Black creatives co-opt Black art and language, shaping perceptions and erasing origins—using vivid examples like the repurposing of hip-hop tracks in commercials and the rise of the "cool white boy/girl" in marketing circles. The hosts dig into their time at Nike (the "swoosh"), examining how real cultural insight and lived experience matter within corporate walls and weighing what's lost when those voices are sidelined. Through candid reflection, DJ and Reg celebrate the skills, leadership, and resilience forged in those demanding environments, offering listeners both cautionary tales and empowering lessons about self-definition, narrative ownership, and the importance of staying true to one's community. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/T4jqxcw6knE  You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with DJ & Reg on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939     Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f