The Second Draft Project

The Marathon Lives Through Us

Nipsey Hussle wasn’t just a rapper; he was a symbol of hope, resilience, and empowerment for a community. In this episode, we explore how his legacy lives on through the voices of those closest to him, his family, friends, and fans, who continue to carry his vision forward. Through interviews with his collaborators, family, and fans, we hear how they’re continuing Nipsey’s work and vision through projects like Marathon Burger, Marathon Rooftop, dispensaries led by his brother Blacc Sam, and Lauren London’s Puma collection. We also reflect on the tragic day of his murder and the outpouring of love and tributes that followed before breaking down key criticisms of how the media reported on his death. Join us as we dive into Nipsey’s lasting, both on and off the stage, and reflect on the life of a man whose influence continues to ripple through the world today. Key Points From This Episode: * Nipsey Hussle’s impact as an artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. * Reactions to Nipsey’s death, his funeral, and how he was grieved. * How his legacy is being honored and preserved in Los Angeles. * Nipsey’s spirit of entrepreneurship and how it has inspired others. * How his family, fans, and friends have kept his vision alive. * Reflections on the documentary Behind the Crime: The Nipsey Hussle Murder. * Key criticism of how the media reported on Nipsey’s death. * Testimonials of Nipsey’s profound commitment to community empowerment. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: The Marathon Clothing [https://www.themarathonclothing.com/] Marathon Burger [https://www.instagram.com/marathonburger/] Marathon Rooftop Bookings [https://calendly.com/d/y32-dz8-v7y/30min-private-shopping?month=2024-12] Marathon Rooftop on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/themarathonrooftop/] Lauren London's Puma collection [https://us.puma.com/us/en/collaborations/partnerships/lauren-london] Behind the Crime: The Nipsey Hussle Murder [https://tubitv.com/movies/100009545/behind-the-crime-the-nipsey-hussle-murder] Vector 90 on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vector.90/] Second Draft Project [https://basslab.usc.edu/second-draft-project] Annie Bang on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-bang-831388211/] J’nai Knox on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jnaiknox/]

Neighborhood Nip

What does it mean to leave a legacy? In this episode, we explore the profound impact Nipsey Hussle had on South Los Angeles and beyond. A rapper, entrepreneur, and community leader, Nipsey shattered stereotypes, uniting his neighborhood through education, empowerment, and cultural celebration. Our conversation dives into his Eritrean roots and the pride he instilled in the diaspora, with moving insights from those who felt his influence, from South Los Angeles to Aurora, Colorado. We discuss Nipsey’s upliftment initiatives, like Vector90 for youth development and entrepreneurship, and how his unwavering commitment to his community inspired others to give back. After his tragic death, his legacy catalyzed unprecedented peace talks among LA gangs, underscoring the depth of his influence. From murals in LA to values carried forward by young advocates, Nipsey’s story is a testament to resilience and community-first leadership. Join us as we uncover how "Neighborhood Nip" continues to inspire people worldwide, proving the marathon truly does continue. Key Points From This Episode: * Visual tributes to Nipsey’s activism for his South Los Angeles community. * The impact he had on immigrant communities in Aurora, Colorado * Nipsey’s significant influence as a prominent Eritrean artist. * How he invested in youth development through programs like Vector90. * Ways that he invested in his city, including Destination Crenshaw. * Reactions to Nipsey’s death, from his South LA community to Aurora, Colorado. * Key misconceptions people have about the South LA community. * How Nipsey contributed to peacebuilding in his community. * A devastating loss: the impact of losing a male figure, like Nipsey, in the organizing space. * How Nipsey’s dedication to his heritage and community has inspired others. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Vector90 on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vector.90/] Destination Crenshaw [https://destinationcrenshaw.la/] Second Draft Project [https://basslab.usc.edu/second-draft-project] Katelyn Do on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyndo/] Zorah Archie-Winston on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zorah-archie-winston/]

Hustle and Heart: The Life of Ermias Asghedom

This podcast episode delves into the personal life of Ermias Asghedom, the man behind the music. It explores intimate stories about Nipsey’s character, values, and his roles as a son, father, brother, and partner. The episode also celebrates his deep relationship with actress Lauren London, reflecting on how their love story impacted not only their lives but also the communities they inspired and uplifted.

The Marathon Continues: Nipsey Hussle’s Enduring Legacy

This episode offers a deep dive into Nipsey Hussle's Grammy-nominated album, exploring its powerful themes of perseverance, loyalty, and love. It examines how Nipsey redefined success for independent artists and entrepreneurs, setting a blueprint for those who followed. The episode also highlights the broader impact of his work – from the transformative role of The Marathon Clothing brand as a symbol of community empowerment and economic revolution to the global reach of his message of self-determination and entrepreneurship that continues to inspire communities far beyond Los Angeles.

Quest for Truth

Nearly 60 years after Malcolm X was shot and killed while speaking at the Audubon Ballroom in New York City, there are still more questions than answers about the circumstances of the civil rights leader’s death, which has been the subject of controversy, conspiracy theories, and well-founded skepticism alike. In this episode, we explore some of these narratives and uncover the power of visual documentation in revealing truths about injustices. We also examine the parallels between the enduring legacy (and demise) of Malcolm X and widely beloved rapper and community activist, Nipsey Hussle, setting the tone for the next season of the Second Draft Project where we hope to answer some of the questions that cast a long shadow over his death. Be sure to join us on our quest for truth! Key Points From This Episode: * Parallels in the life and death of Malcolm X and Nipsey Hussle. * Questions that still remain nearly 60 years after Malcolm X’s death. * The wrongful death lawsuit his family filed against US government agencies and the NYPD. * Smartphones as instruments of social change: the importance of Black Witnessing. * How Black leaders that inspire self-sustainability in the Black community are seen as a threat. * Insight into the assassination of Nipsey Hussle in 2019. * What to expect from the next season of the Second Draft Project! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Who Killed Malcolm X? [https://www.netflix.com/title/80217478] Ben Crump [https://bencrump.com/] Cultural Moves: African Americans and the Politics of Representation [https://bookshop.org/p/books/cultural-moves-african-americans-and-the-politics-of-representationvolume-15-herman-gray/6559750] The Autobiography of Malcolm X [https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-autobiography-of-malcolm-x-as-told-to-alex-haley-alex-haley/458698] Dr. Allissa V. Richardson [https://www.allissavrichardson.com/] Dr. Allissa V. Richardson on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/drallirich/] Dr. Allissa V. Richardson on X [https://twitter.com/DrAlliRich] Jameela Hammond [https://annenberg.usc.edu/faculty/jameela-hammond] Jameela Hammond on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamham/] Second Draft Project [https://basslab.usc.edu/second-draft-project]