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Rock the Culture

Rock the Culture

By RockTheCulture

Each week on "Rock the Culture," Little Rock At-Large City Director Antwan Phillips, former state Rep. Charles Blake and others provide perspective on life and culture for people in Little Rock. The team offers trenchant analysis and hilarious banter on local news, events and politics. Plus, they bring that same fun-loving but informed style to interviews with people who are impacting the culture of Little Rock and elsewhere in Arkansas. #RocktheCulture
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Asking All These Questions

Rock the CultureSep 17, 2019

00:00
01:08:26
I'm going to leave here with something.

I'm going to leave here with something.

In this episode, we provided perspective and conversation on Little Rock being named top 3 best drivers in the nation, Russia's strategy in arresting and imprisoning Brittney Griner, and how Arkansas state government should allocate the $1.6 billion dollar surplus.  In addition, we sit down with Keith Tucker, Jr., the founder of Truth Sauce, to discuss his journey to success in creating, developing, and growing the Truth Sauce brand. 

Jul 22, 202254:57
I don't trust the States

I don't trust the States

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the United States Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and the enactment of Arkansas' trigger law. 

Jul 05, 202242:05
You cant win if you are not willing to lose

You cant win if you are not willing to lose

In this episode with provide perspective and conversation on summer concert series in Little Rock and the May 2022 Primary Elections. In addition, we had an extremely enjoyable conversation with Arkansas Black Hall of Member inductee Colette Honorable regarding her career and life journey from Little Rock to Washington D.C., including receiving a call from the Obama White House for her federal appointment to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. 

Jun 19, 202201:01:46
Special Pod - Interview with Jamie Harrison, Chair of Democratic National Committee

Special Pod - Interview with Jamie Harrison, Chair of Democratic National Committee

In this special short episode, we sit down with Jamie Harrison, Chair of DNC, to discuss the future of the democratic party in Arkansas and the DNC's plans to support Arkansas Democrats. 

May 19, 202212:07
Little Rock in D.C.

Little Rock in D.C.

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Little Rock's Juneteenth fiasco that went viral. We also talked with Phyllis Dickerson, Executive Director of the African-American Mayors Association and Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. regarding his inauguration of the President of the African-American Mayors Association and how it will benefit Little Rock.  

May 10, 202245:20
Pushing P

Pushing P

In this episode, Charles Blake and Antwan Phillips provide conversation and perspective on Will Smith's Oscars situation, Arkansas basketball, City of Little Rock's proposed millage election, and Little Rock School District elections. 

Apr 20, 202243:01
Sales Tax Status Update

Sales Tax Status Update

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the Rebuild The Rock Sales Tax, retirement of Pulaski County Prosecutor, and the "now hiring" signs in Little Rock.

May 22, 202143:44
Nostalgia is the Enemy of the Vision

Nostalgia is the Enemy of the Vision

In this week's episode, we provide perspective and conversation about Little Rock's State of the City Address, the Derek Chauvin trial, and Arkansas Business' article about the ongoing challenges for minority-owned businesses to gain access to capital.

Apr 09, 202140:55
State of the City

State of the City

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Arkansas Legislature's review of amending the landlord-tenant laws in Arkansas (Arkansas is the only state without a warranty of habitability for tenants), Andrew Marion Humphrey's civil rights lawsuit against the Arkansas State Police Department, additional amenities for entertainment districts in Little Rock, and the State of the City address. 

Mar 25, 202124:30
Antwan On Antwan

Antwan On Antwan

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the release of Coming 2 America, City of Little Rock's unveiling of the Harriet Tubman statute, and social media backlash to Antwan's letter to Gov. Asa Hutchinson asking for the veto of the Stand Your Ground bill. 

Mar 14, 202141:48
Snowfall

Snowfall

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation regarding the movie Judas and the Black Messiah, the creation of the Common Ground political organization by former republican Jim Hendren, and Little Rock City Board's Resolution supporting the passage of hate crime legislation. 

Feb 25, 202136:10
Targeted Ways, Targeted Communities, Targeted Wards

Targeted Ways, Targeted Communities, Targeted Wards

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Arkansas' Governor's race, the renaming of the Arkansas Arts Center and the coming Ninth Street revitalization, drag racing and caravanning in Little Rock, and Little Rock City Board vote to approve a targeted community development resolution. 

Feb 04, 202141:55
Insurrection

Insurrection

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation regarding the Insurrection at the United State Capitol, the celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, and the Target Community Development Initiative to be voted on by the Little Rock City Board of Directors. 

Jan 19, 202125:23
Hate Crime Registration???

Hate Crime Registration???

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on black people's skepticism about the coronavirus vaccine, the civic engagement at the Little Rock City Board meeting, politicians' right to block people on their social media feeds, and Gov. Hutchinson task force on police accountability. 

Dec 26, 202039:43
Ain't no Jalen in the Bible

Ain't no Jalen in the Bible

In this episode, we provide conversation and perspective on Arkansas being ranked 50th of all states in voter turnout during the 2020 election, Lt. Governor Tim Griffin's proposal to eliminate Arkansas' state income tax, election of the Board of Directors for the Little Rock School District , Ashanti and Keyshia Cole's upcoming versuz battle, and the results of the mayoral election in North Little Rock. 

Dec 09, 202048:06
Reality (W)raps

Reality (W)raps

In this episode, we provide conversation and perspective on the Versuztv music battle between Jeezy and Gucci, Little Rock confirming its status as the democractic stronghold of the state, and Antwan's election to the Little Rock City Board of Directors. 

Nov 25, 202031:25
Miscommunication about Masks

Miscommunication about Masks

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation regarding Little Rock's mask wearing ordinance, nationwide removal of confederate statues, and Arkansas' efforts to allow more robust absentee voting in November.

This is episode was also video-recorded. You can watch this episode on RockTheCulture's Facebook Page.

Jul 27, 202035:57
Is Juneteenth greater than 4th of July?

Is Juneteenth greater than 4th of July?

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation regarding Little Rock's response to Protest, Defund the Police, and the importance of Juneteenth.

This is episode was also video-recorded. You can watch this episode on RockTheCulture's Facebook Page. 

Jul 11, 202030:20
Protest, People, and Policy

Protest, People, and Policy

In this episode,  Antwan and Charles provide perspective and conversation on Little Rock's response to Covid-19, the BlackLivesMatter protests related to racial injustices highlighted by the murder of George Floyd, Little Rock's policy initiatives related to police reform, and the upcoming RockTheCulture policy summit. 

Jun 13, 202051:26
Social Distancing

Social Distancing

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the Coronavirus impact on Central Arkansas. 

Mar 24, 202025:37
Coronavirus is serious (recorded March 8, 2020)

Coronavirus is serious (recorded March 8, 2020)

In this episode, we provide our initial perspective and conversation regarding the coronavirus. We also discussed the primary election and the LiftLR sales tax proposal. We also interviewed Maricella Garcia, the multicultural liaison for the City of Little Rock, to discuss Census2020. 

Mar 17, 202001:01:48
City Hall Walls

City Hall Walls

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Little Rock City Board's ordinance to change the at-large positions and the Little Rock School District's Community Advisory Board's recommendation for election zones for the upcoming school board elections. We also interview Asher Smith, the Arkansas organizing director for the Elizabeth Warren Presidential Campaign, to discuss Elizabeth Warren's candidacy. 

Feb 27, 202037:09
What's a caucus?

What's a caucus?

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation regarding the primaries and caucuses of the 2020 Democrat Presidential election, the ongoing election to become Arkansas state representative for District 34, and the Little Rock School District's changes to its disciplinary procedures. 

Feb 27, 202035:39
Antwan Phillips for Little Rock City Director - Believe in Better

Antwan Phillips for Little Rock City Director - Believe in Better

In this episode, we conduct a role reversal. Charles Blake interviewed Antwan Phillips to discuss Antwan Phillips' exploratory campaign to become an at-large member of the Little Rock City Board of Directors. You can learn more about the believe in better campaign at www.antwanphillips.com. 

Feb 22, 202038:54
Wrong with your left, good with your right

Wrong with your left, good with your right

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Kobe Bryant's cultural impact, Little Rock School District's school board elections, NFL and Jay-Z's Impact Change Initiative, and South on Main's owner Matt Bell leaving Little Rock.

Feb 13, 202036:37
Me and you, ya momma, and ya cousins too

Me and you, ya momma, and ya cousins too

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Census 2020 in Little Rock, viral video "My Vote Don't Count" by YelloPain, and we reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King's Legacy. 

Jan 31, 202026:26
Overdub with Senator Joyce Elliott

Overdub with Senator Joyce Elliott

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the City of Little Rock appointing the first ever Citizen Review Board and the first ever Chief Education Officer, and Little Rock being named the next top foodie destination .  We also talk with Senator Joyce Elliott regarding her upcoming election to become the Arkansas' first female and the first black member of the United States Congress. 

Jan 11, 202001:06:13
Special Interview: Heart & Souls Sneaker Ball

Special Interview: Heart & Souls Sneaker Ball

In this special episode, we interview Catrice Wilbon to discuss the mission and purpose of Heart & Souls and its first ever Sneakers Ball on November 29, 2019. 

Nov 26, 201916:59
Asking All These Questions

Asking All These Questions

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Little Rock's own Joe Johnson dominating The Big3, analysis of the town hall meetings concerning the future of LRSD, and top-ten hip-hop albums of all time.  We also discuss the importance of mental health and benefits of therapy/counseling with professional counselor Charmaine Beasley.

Sep 17, 201901:08:26
WWJD?

WWJD?

In this episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Jay-Z's dealings with the NFL. This is by far the most in-depth cultural analysis of Jay-Z and NFL situation. There is also a brief discussion regarding the State Board of Education's forums on the future of the LRSD. We also interview Preston Clegg, Pastor of Second Baptist Church, regarding the relationship between the pulpit and politics. 

Aug 20, 201901:19:25
2019 Filmland Preview

2019 Filmland Preview

In this special interview, we talk with Kathryn Tucker of the Arkansas Cinema Society about the upcoming 2019 Filmland events in Little Rock.
Aug 14, 201923:56
Bonus Pod with ArkanTalk | Memories of The Rock

Bonus Pod with ArkanTalk | Memories of The Rock

In this special video pod, we sit down with Jimmy Warren and Gerald Harris to discuss our experiences of growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas during the 1990s. 

Aug 12, 201942:04
So you chucking, now?

So you chucking, now?

In this week's episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Little Rock's Opportunity Zones and cultural discussion of "code-switching."  In addition, we discussed Pulaski County's effort to go green with installation of solar panels and the creation of the Pettaway Business District with Adam Fogleman. 

Aug 01, 201949:20
Create & Compensate

Create & Compensate

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the creation of Entertainment District in River Market and the results of citizen surveys regarding the revitalization of Hindman Park and War Memorial Park.  We also talk with BK Simmons regarding his involvement in three new projects Venture Noire, Tribe 9, and High Street Equity. 

Jul 25, 201940:17
No Boots

No Boots

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Little Rock being ranked as one of the 12 best cities to live in by Outside Magazine, "Gotcha" ride share bicycles coming to Little Rock, and Little Rock's reinstatement of placing boots on vehicles for unpaid parking tickets .  We also discussed the new short-form digital interview series ArkanTalk with founder and host, Jimmy Warren. 

Jul 18, 201937:59
Meet me...

Meet me...

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the City naming July as Public Safety Month, the City's proposed creation of a Citizen Review Board and Women’s National Team World Cup Victory. In addition, we interview Pulaski County Circuit Clerk Terri Hollingsworth regarding her first 6 months in office and the Clerk’s initiative to register more voters in Pulaski County   

Jul 11, 201946:36
The Aughts

The Aughts

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the Arkansas Business Executive Leadership Academy, #R3LRParks Task Force, the City of Little Rock's Frankly Reading Program, and the commencement of online sales tax in Arkansas.  We also interview former member of the Arkansas State Board of Education, Dr. Jay Barth, regarding his experience and outlook on State Board of Education and the takeover of the Little Rock School District. 

Jul 03, 201952:42
Two and Half Terms

Two and Half Terms

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the accomplishments of nominees of the 2018 Rock The Culture Women to Watch List. We also discuss Rep. Charles Blake’s transition to Chief of Staff for Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., Little Rock’s plan for War Memorial and Hindman Golf Courses, and Little Rock’s Police Department’s revised No-Knock Warrant Policy.  

Jun 28, 201938:59
Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the City’s study to change the form of government, bond issues to improve quality of life, and Rep. Blake’s breakdown on the close of the legislative session. In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on RockTopics. We also speak with Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. to discuss the first 100 days of his administration and his Little Rock 2020 Education Roadmap. 

Apr 16, 201955:38
You Want That Testimony

You Want That Testimony

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the Central Arkansas Water’s efforts to secure additional fresh water sources, the Legislature’s attempt to extend the time that the State Board of Education can control the LRSD, and the location of LRPD’s license plate readers and security cameras.  In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on a special edition of RockTopics regarding the life and legacy of Nipsey Hussle. We also discuss the experiences and musical career of LB Crew, contestant on NBC’s “The Voice.” 

Apr 08, 201958:10
Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the cancellation of Riverfest 2019 and the Arkansas Legislature’s new attempt to pass legislation to implement a voucher program.  In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on RockTopics. We also discuss intentionality in diversity, social responsibility, and the growth of Mosaic Church with Mark DeYmaz, author and pastor of Mosaic Church.

Apr 01, 201901:03:50
Back to the Future

Back to the Future

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the LRSD’ hiring of a principal for the SouthWest High School, the City of Little Rock’s “A Bridge to Work” program to provide paid day labor to the homeless population, and Gov. Hutchinson’s support of the voucher program in Pulaski County.  In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on RockTopics. We also discuss the “Tales from the Motherland” with Crystal C. Mercer, executive director at Local First Arkansas.  

Mar 25, 201952:04
#Always______

#Always______

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on all things from the Arkansas legislature, including bills filed to return LRSD to local control, to move primary elections to March 2020, to alter the minimum wage ballot initiative, and to allow cities to designate entertainment districts .  In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on Rock Topics. 

Mar 18, 201939:06
Started at the Bar(re)

Started at the Bar(re)

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the release of the critical incident video regarding the officer involved shooting in Little Rock and Blake’s breakdown about the status of the Flag Bill.  In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on Rock Topics. We also discuss intersectionality and the impact of classical dance for black males in Little Rock in 1990s with 2017 BuzzFeed Emerging Writer Fellow, Frederick McKindra.

Mar 12, 201901:06:01
The Only Stars We Acknowledge

The Only Stars We Acknowledge

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on the bomb threat that occurred during a recent Little Rock City Board of Directors' meeting and the outcome of Rep. Blake's Flag Bill to re-designate the purpose of one of the stars on the Arkansas State Flag .  In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on Rock Topics (Michael Cohen's testimony at Capitol Hill, Ole Miss basketball players taking a knee, and much more). We also discuss the offerings and events at Central Arkansas Library System ("CALS") with Tameka Lee, communications director for CALS. 

Mar 04, 201948:07
Ride the Bus with Us

Ride the Bus with Us

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Arkansas State Board of Education finally releasing criteria for LRSD to exit state control, community forums with the final four candidates to be next police chief of LRPD, and Blake’s breakdown from the Arkansas legislature.  In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on Rock Topics. We also discuss the future of public transit in Central Arkansas with Charles Frazier, Executive Director of Rock Region Metro.   

Feb 26, 201957:15
Can you have hot sauce?

Can you have hot sauce?

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on Memphis’ Beale Street Music Festival in comparison to Riverfest, UA-Little Rock’s relationship with eStem High School, and Blake’s breakdown from the Arkansas legislature.  In addition, we provide rapid fire perspective on Rock Topics. We also discuss the differences between plant-based eating versus veganism with Dr. Tionna Jenkins, Founder of Plate It Healthy.

Feb 18, 201901:00:57
Safe Scootin'

Safe Scootin'

In this week’s episode, we provide perspective and conversation on UA-Little Rock’s feasibility study on football, ICE’s deportation of 21 Savage, and Little Rock’s use of Lime scooters.  In addition, we introduce a new segment in which we provide rapid fire perspective on "Rock Topics." We also discuss fitness training with Kim Leverett, CEO of A Kick Above. 

Feb 11, 201951:53
Juice In Your Own Life

Juice In Your Own Life

In this week’s episode, Charles and Antwan provide perspective and conversation on the Little Rock Mayoral Election and State Board of Education’s consideration of the anticipated request to waive the Fair Teacher Dismissal Act. In addition, Charles and Antwan discuss all things happening in the Little Rock School District with Superintendent Michael Poore.
Dec 11, 201854:37
Promote Yourself

Promote Yourself

In this week’s episode, Charles and Antwan provide perspective and conversation on City Board’s Ordinance to study the form of governance for City of Little Rock. In addition, we discuss brand building with LaKisha M. Johnson, vlogger and podcast host of Coffee & Conversation and RealTalk with LMJ.
Dec 11, 201847:32