Sankofa Animation Network Podcast

Ever struggle with the blank page for story ideas? You may have a character and even a setting but you don't know what to make happen? This is the episide for you! I'm sharing 5 hacks to get you going with ideas from your own life experiences! No uncomfortable vulnerability or exposure required!

Ever wonder why or even if you need to incorporate secondary characters into your comics, animations or other stories? Here's why you definitely SHOULD include them and why!!!

What does it take to survive—and evolve—in the animation industry for more than 50 years?In this episode of Sankofa Animation Network, we sit down with legendary animator and character designer Dan Haskett for an honest and insightful conversation about animation history, artistic growth, industry challenges, and the legacy of Black artists in animation.Dan reflects on the iconic projects he’s contributed to throughout his career, the characters audiences still ask him about today, and the lessons he wishes more young artists were learning in schools and universities.We also discuss:✨ Longevity in the animation industry✨ Diversity and representation in animation✨ Being overlooked as an artist✨ The importance of artistic fundamentals✨ Advice for the next generation of creativesWhether you’re an animator, illustrator, storyteller, or lifelong animation fan, this conversation offers rare wisdom from someone who has truly helped shape the medium.🎙️ Subscribe to Sankofa Animation Network Podcast and YouTube Channel for interviews, animated storytelling, workshops, and conversations uplifting artists and creative communities.💬 Leave a Comment: What’s one lesson you think every young animator should learn early?

Ever feel like your work is all over the place? There's no cohesiveness between your paintings, drawings, or even practice studies? Here's how to change that TODAY and begin creating cohesive work that SELLS in the Arts Marketplace!

Do you hate competition? I did too before I saw the benefits of HEALTHY competition and learned how to avoid the unhealthy ones! Here's what I've learned...

Find freedom in your work instead of repeated frustration. Here's how!

Insight, tips and insights on simplifying background design for hassle-free props, composition and layout for animation and illustration.

What does it truly mean to answer a calling—and build something that lasts beyond you?In this episode of Sankofa Animation Network, we sit down with Khy Traylor, founder of Khy Traylor Ministries, to explore his journey from the corporate world into full-time ministry and global community-building.Apostle Traylor shares how he navigated that life-changing transition, supported his family through uncertainty, and stepped into a mission that now spans multiple countries. Through church planting, leadership development, and the creation of schools and orphanages, his work focuses on building sustainable systems rooted in faith, dignity, and long-term impact.We also engage in an honest conversation about the complexities of missionary work—addressing its historical ties to colonialism, and how ministry today can honor cultural integrity while serving communities with humility and respect.From his deep commitment to India to his partnerships across Africa, this conversation offers insight into what it takes to lead with purpose, accountability, and vision.✨ Whether you are called to ministry, community leadership, or building something meaningful from the ground up, this episode offers wisdom on faith, legacy, and service.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with artists, leaders, and storytellers shaping culture and community.💬 Join the conversation: What does it mean to build something that lasts beyond you?

Ever feel like your spinning down a drain in the complex world of the animation and illustration industries? Not sure how to deal with set-backs, bad contracts or the rise of AI? This talk is for you!

For over four decades, wildlife watercolor artist and educator Deborah Ross has combined her passion for art, teaching, and travel—working with students both in the United States and across countries in Africa.In this conversation with Sankofa Animation Network hosted by Alicia Dianne, Deborah shares insights from her long career as a professional watercolorist and educator, including her experiences teaching art to children in rural communities in countries such as Kenya and Madagascar, as well as her work as a college professor at the School of Visual Arts in New York.We discuss the power of drawing from observation, the beauty of wildlife as an artistic subject, and what it means to teach art across cultures and environments. Deborah reflects on the differences between teaching in formal institutions and community settings, and the lessons she has learned from decades of working with young artists around the world.This interview is part of Sankofa Animation Network’s artist conversation series, highlighting creative voices, educators, and storytellers who are shaping culture and community through art.✨ Subscribe and share for more interviews with artists, animators, and storytellers from around the world.- Learn more about Deborah Ross: Deborah's website- Learn more about Sidiki Conde: Sidiki's website- Join the Sankofa Animation Network Discord channel

What does unity look like in creative practice?In this episode of Sankofa Animation Network, we sit down with artist and designer Krystian Rutledge to Explore Umoja—his new creative platform centered on unity, collaboration, and intentional design.Krystian shares the inspiration behind umoja.figma.app, his creative process, and the importance of building spaces where Black and Brown artists can grow, connect, and feel supported. We talk about storytelling, community, mental wellness, and how creativity becomes a tool for preservation, liberation, and collective thriving.Sankofa Animation Network exists to uplift Black and Brown communities through animated film, storytelling, education, and faith-centered creativity—and this conversation is a beautiful example of that mission in action.✨ Watch, reflect, and join the movement.- Learn more about Explore Umoja: click here for their facebook page!- Join Sankofa Animation Network on Discord!🔔 Subscribe for artist interviews, animated shorts, workshops, and creative encouragement.💬 What did you think?: Your review & share of this content is truly appreciated!

Ever feel like your being tested in your life? Ever ask God "Why!!??" Here's some insight into the questions we receive in life - our career, art making, and goals - and how to approach and overcome them feeling empowered and ready to take them on! Let's go!

Sankofa Animation Network exists to uplift Black and Brown communities through animated film, faith-centered storytelling, and creative education—building a global community where underrepresented voices are nurtured, empowered, and seen.