

Hip Hop Can Save America
Manny Faces Media
"Hip Hop Can Save America!" explores the innovative, inspiring, and often surprising ways Hip Hop music, culture, and sensibilities are improving society in areas such as education, science/technology, health/wellness and more. Hosted by award-winning journalist Manny Faces, HHCSA is a 2025 Gold recipient of the Signal Award for Best Music Podcast, and has been adapted into the Cornel West-endorsed book, "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation"
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 31, 2024 • 44min
"We Have The Tools To Heal Within Our Community" - Hip Hop AS mental health therapy with Dr. James Norris
In this eye-opening interview, Manny Faces sits down with Dr. James Norris, the "other Dr. J," to explore the groundbreaking Rhythms of Healing initiative. Learn how this innovative program is:- Using Hip Hop as a powerful tool for adult mental health- Bridging the gap between traditional therapy and cultural relevance- Empowering communities with self-healing tools rooted in Hip Hop cultureHighlights include:✓ The difference between using Hip Hop for connection vs. healing✓ How Hip Hop can rewire neural pathways and promote healing✓ The importance of culturally relevant therapy for adults✓ Exciting new Hip Hop counseling certificate program for professionals---Please support this show: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces---Whether you're a mental health professional, educator, or Hip Hop enthusiast, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the transformative power of Hip Hop in therapy and community healing.Dr. Norris breaks down complex concepts like neuroplasticity and explains why Hip Hop is uniquely positioned to address trauma and promote wellness in underserved communities.Join us as we explore how Rhythms of Healing is creating a new paradigm in mental health, bridging generational gaps, and proving that Hip Hop isn't just music – it's a powerful tool for personal and community transformation.Subscribe for more conversations on Hip Hop's influence in education, mental health, and social change. Hip Hop can save America – and heal it too!Dr. Norris's Hip Hop Counseling Certificate Program: https://james-norris.mykajabi.com/offers/QzK3V8HC/checkout----Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Oct 1, 2024 • 43min
EXCLUSIVE: DatPiff Hip Hop Mixtape Archive DISAPPEARS Overnight! Is It Gone Forever?
DatPiff.com was the premier online home for Hip Hop mixtapes, hosting upwards of 600,000+ uploaded rap compilations from DJs, superstars, and bedroom artists.In late 2023, however, the site was failing, leaving the future of its enormous musical and cultural collection in doubt.The site made headlines in early 2024, linking up with The Internet Archive, a home for vast amounts of digital properties, in a move that was seen as a way to keep its vast array of musical compilations safe for the future.A few days ago, with no warning or explanation from DatPiff OR The Internet Archive, all 366,420 rap mixtapes being housed on the latter site, disappeared.We spoke exclusively with radio host Richard, aka u/AyoRet on Reddit, who discovered the rap mixtape archive pruning and brought it to the attention of the Hip Hop world.---Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Sep 28, 2024 • 50min
Youth Empowerment with Ozay Moore of All Of The Above Hip Hop Academy
In this insightful interview, Manny Faces talks with Ozay Moore, founder of the All of the Above Hip Hop Academy in Lansing, Michigan. Learn how this innovative nonprofit is:Using Hip Hop to mentor youth and support artistic expressionBridging generational gaps through music and cultureCreating a Hip Hop cultural resource for the entire communityBalancing nonprofit work with authentic Hip Hop rootsHighlights include:The journey from transient programs to a permanent brick-and-mortar spaceHow Hip Hop practices naturally incorporate social-emotional learningThe importance of evolving from "old head" to "OG" mentalityExciting plans for adult classes and multigenerational engagementWhether you're an educator, parent, nonprofit administrator, or Hip Hop enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable insights into using Hip Hop music and Hip Hop culture for positive change.Ozay shares inspiring stories of impact, discusses the challenges of running a Hip Hop nonprofit, and explains why "Hip Hop is best served locally."Learn how All of the Above Hip Hop Academy is creating unexpected connections and fostering critical thinking skills through beats, rhymes, and community spirit.https://www.alloftheabovehiphop.org/---Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Sep 19, 2024 • 37min
DJ Notation / Turntablist Transcription Methodology with DJ Raedawn
Dive deep into the world of turntablism and Hip Hop education with DJ Raedawn, as he describes the Turntablist Transcription Methodology (TTM). In this exclusive interview, discover:The groundbreaking TTM system for notating DJ techniquesHow TTM is revolutionizing Hip Hop education globallyThe intersection of turntablism with physics, geometry, and mathematicsThe importance of DJ literacy in modern music educationInsights into the Lyrical Transcription Methodology for rapDJ Raedawn shares his journey from designing TTM to its widespread adoption in schools and among world-class DJs. Learn about the challenges and triumphs in bringing academic rigor to turntablism and Hip Hop culture.Perfect for DJs, music educators, Hip Hop enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the science behind the art of turntablism. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on the past, present, and future of DJ notation and hip-hop education.#Turntablism #HipHopEducation #DJNotation #MusicTheory #TTMFor more on DJ Raedawn: https://www.ttm.ninja---Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Aug 19, 2024 • 13min
Breaking in the Olympics: An Important Thing to Remember Now That It's Over
After Paris, breaking needs to be remembered (and not just for THAT). No matter how you feel about its Olympics debut, the breaking community and the culture need support -- not just ridicule -- and not just now.---Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Jul 31, 2024 • 56min
Hip Hop Meets STEM: Dr. Raphael Travis Recaps 2024 STEM-BEATS CAMP at Texas State University
In this episode of "Hip Hop Can Save America," Manny Faces talked with Dr. Raphael Travis from the Texas State University School of Social work about the transformative potential of Hip Hop in STEM education and youth development. Dr. Travis shared details about the federally funded STEM-BEATS summer camp program he facilitated, explaining how Hip Hop culture encourages students to explore and innovate in fields like science and technology. The program introduced activities such as using AI and haptic vests for music, podcasting, and creating beats, aiming to make STEM education more engaging and accessible.The conversation addressed the broader applications of Hip Hop in education, therapy, and conflict resolution. Travis mentioned, "Hip Hop culture is an enormous, rich archive that can help individuals and communities heal, thrive, and innovate." Both Manny Faces and Raphael Travis emphasized the importance of Hip Hop in fostering life skills and bridging generational gaps, while also discussing Travis's upcoming book on youth violence prevention. This episode offered a deep dive into the potential of Hip Hop to inspire and educate the younger generation.If you value this work, please support at www.patreon.com/mannyfacesSHOW LINKShttps://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/the-future-of-youth-violence-prevention/9781978833777/https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/healing-power-of-hip-hop-9781440831300/https://www.mixcloud.com/raphael-travis/

Jul 24, 2024 • 1h
Hip Hop Pedagogy with Dr. Lauren Kelly & Dr. Daren Graves
If you find value in this work, please show love at https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces 🙏The LIVESTREAM SHOW airs Mondays, 9pm ET on YouTube - Watch/Subscribe at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch---In this enlightening episode of "Hip Hop Can Save America," host Manny Faces dives deep into the transformative power of Hip Hop in education with distinguished guests Dr. Lauren Kelly and Dr. Daren Graves. Both scholars are co-editors of the groundbreaking "Bloomsbury Handbook of Hip Hop Pedagogy," aiming to establish authentic guidelines for the implementation of hip hop education in classrooms.Key talking points include the importance of engaging young people through Hip Hop culture and the role of Hip Hop sensibilities in innovative research methodologies. As Dr. Graves explains, “Using Hip Hop sensibilities like rap, rupture, and mixing as a way to approach research can truly revolutionize academic methodologies.” Dr. Kelly adds, “We need to validate the work of doctoral students authentically entrenched in Hip Hop culture; it’s about questioning institutional indoctrination and creating spaces for authentic learning.” For those eager to rethink educational frameworks and make their classrooms more inclusive and connected to the culture, this episode is a must-watch!The Bloomsbury Handbook of Hip Hop Pedagogy: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/bloomsbury-handbook-of-hip-hop-pedagogy-9781350331815/Teaching With Hip Hop in the 7-12 Grade Classroom: https://www.routledge.com/Teaching-with-Hip-Hop-in-the-7-12-Grade-Classroom-A-Guide-to-Supporting-Students-Critical-Development-Through-Popular-Texts/Kelly/p/book/9781032258010HHYRA Conference: https://sites.google.com/view/hhyraconference/home---Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Jun 23, 2024 • 22min
Not Everything That Hip Hop Glitters is Hip Hop Gold
If you find value in this work, please show love at https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces 🙏The LIVESTREAM SHOW air Mondays, 9pm ET - Subscribe at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch---In this compelling video essay, or "Mannyfesto," Manny Faces unpacks the complexities behind high-profile Hip Hop-related initiatives that seem beneficial on the surface but often reveal deeper, problematic issues upon closer examination. It's a call for viewers to critically evaluate the true impact of these events on the Hip Hop community and society at large. From Jay-Z / Roc Nation's involvement in educational programs to Swizz Beatz and Timbaland's Verzuz partnership with Elon Musk's X platform, Manny breaks down why not everything that glitters is gold in Hip Hop.#HipHop #CriticalThinking #MainstreamMedia #HipHopMedia #Misinformation #Disinformation #RussellSimmons #PDiddy #UniversalHipHopMuseum #Lecrae #LoveAndHipHop #Questlove #JayZ #RocNation #SchoolChoice #VoucherPrograms #EducationalReform #PublicSchools #CharterSchools #ElonMusk #Twitter #XPlatform #SwissBeats #Timberland #VerzuzPlatform #SchoolFunding #LuxuryBranding #DigitalCampaigning #RightWingAgenda #FakeNews #SocialJustice---Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Jun 17, 2024 • 59min
#HipHopEd: The Concept. The Movement. The Conference. - Dr. Chris Emdin & Timothy Jones
Explore the transformative power of Hip Hop in education with Manny Faces, Dr. Chris Emdin and Timothy D. Jones in this compelling episode of "Hip Hop Can Save America." Dive into the vibrant #HipHopEd movement, where Hip Hop culture and values are ingeniously woven into the educational fabric to surpass traditional benchmarks. This dynamic discussion highlights how this approach not only validates the use of Hip Hop elements in classrooms but also fosters deeper connections and academic excellence among students and teachers.The conversation will delve into the core principles of Hip Hop education, which emphasize the intrinsic knowledge and empowerment rooted in Hip Hop culture. The guests reveal how integrating scholarship with culture promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and reimagines the education system. Through firsthand insights, learn about the perseverance and resistance necessary to overcome societal and political challenges, and the undeniable qualitative impact of this movement in sparking change and providing a sense of belonging for students across diverse backgrounds.#hiphopeducation #hiphopculture #educationsystem #teachingwithhiphop #hiphoppedagogy #multiculturaleducation #hiphopevents #hiphoped #hiphop #hiphopcansaveamerica #progressiveeducation #diversity #podcast #interview #education ---Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Jun 6, 2024 • 45min
How Hip Hop Made the World: Dr. Todd Boyd on Cultural Foundations & Global Impact of Hip Hop
In this episode of "Hip Hop Can Save America!," host Manny Faces converses with renowned cultural critic and author Dr. Todd Boyd aka The Notorious Ph.D. about the dynamic history and significant impact of Hip Hop culture. Dr. Boyd, whose latest book "Rapper's Deluxe: How Hip Hop Made the World" sheds light on Hip Hop's 50-year journey, discusses the genre's origins in the urban decay of 1970s New York, influenced by blaxploitation films, Richard Pryor's comedy, and the distinctive styles of returning Vietnam veterans -- and takes us through the next few decades as the genre and culture go on to reach global influence.---Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.Links and resources:SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.comON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watchMANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.comNEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.comSUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfacesManny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.comThe Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.orgSPONSORS / FRIENDS:The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.orgHip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.comHip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces. Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.


