Something Creative with Khary: featuring chef DeVonn Francis

Brandon Blackwood interview – 10 Years of Brand Building from "must-have" bags, to American Airlines kits to owning his manufacturing process, he is just getting started. In this Black & Creative live talk with Khary Simon, Brandon details his path from neuroscience to launching a handbag and accessories label worn by real customers and celebrities alike—without investors. He breaks down organic marketing, naming bags after Jamaican townships & friends, scaling through warehousing and sea freight, navigating tariffs, and landing the American Airlines amenity kit (as the first Black designer to do it). Plus: why he calls his customers “cousins,” and how he defines luxury and legacy.watch the interview herefollow Brandon Blackwood on instagram here and hereview his collection herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simondirected and edited by Jordan Quellmanproduced by Danyell Flowersproduction assistant Jerome Johnson

Jewelry designer and cultural force Martine Ali joins me for a conversation that stretches far beyond chains and accessories. We talk about what beauty really means, why imperfection matters, the late-’90s MTV world that shaped her eye, and the way energy lives inside objects. From childhood obsessions and photocopied culture to licensing battles, collaborations, and her evolving vision for sculpture, Martine opens up about the discipline and chaos of creativity — and what it takes to protect your ideas while still letting them flow.This isn’t just an interview. It’s a meditation on process, obsession, and the act of making. Martine’s story traces how individuality is forged in repetition, how inspiration becomes muscle memory, and how an artist builds a world one link, one sketch, one experiment at a time.watch the interview herefollow Martine Ali on instagram hereview her collection herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman

What does it mean to see joy as a radical act? Photographer and creative force Myles Loftin joins me to talk about reshaping the image of Black masculinity, the power of color, why music fuels his art, and how optimism drives his work — from viral projects to Google campaigns. This is a conversation about art, identity, and living boldly.In this episode, we explore how Myles Loftin uses photography, music, and personal storytelling to challenge stereotypes and celebrate Black joy. From his breakthrough Hooded series to his approach on set and in the classroom, Myles shares how he builds images — and a life — rooted in optimism and authenticity.watch the interview herefollow Myles Loftin on instagram herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman

This episode of Something Creative with Khary, I sit down with Simon Rasmussen — co-founder, editor-in-chief and lead stylist of Office Magazine — to talk about what it takes to create one of the most boundary-pushing fashion and culture publications today.We discuss the power of visual language, building a brand without limits, the stories that don't make the cover, and the creative risks that define Office. From Copenhagen to New York, Simon shares how his outsider’s perspective became his creative strength — and why he believes the best work comes from discomfort.Tune in for an unfiltered conversation about style, subversion, and shaping culture from the edge.watch the interview herefollow Simon Rasmussen on instagram herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman

In this profound and personal episode of Something Creative with Khary, model, writer, and activist Veronica Webb invites us into her world with raw honesty, wisdom, and warmth. From her Detroit roots to global runways, Webb reflects on a life shaped by discipline, beauty, and legacy—unpacking everything from fashion’s golden era to her battles with dyslexia, motherhood, and building a future beyond the spotlight. Together, Khary and Veronica explore nostalgia, identity, survival, and reinvention in a conversation that spans the ephemeral highs of the 1990s to the intentional clarity of now. A masterclass in resilience and reinvention, this episode is a must-watch for anyone navigating the creative life on their own terms.watch the interview herefollow Veronica Webb on instagram herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman

In this insightful interview, we sit down with Yves Mathieu—a model, musician, and passionate activist who’s making waves in the fashion industry and beyond. Known for his striking presence on runways and his dedication to championing LGBTQ+ rights, Yves shares the journey that shaped him into the multifaceted individual he is today. We delve into his life experiences, the inspiration behind his activism, and what it truly means to be Yves. From his upbringing to his work advocating for marginalized communities, this conversation offers an intimate glimpse into the heart and mind of a modern-day trailblazer.watch the interview herefollow Yves on instagram herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman

Join us for an exclusive interview with Kyle Hagler, a trailblazer in the fashion industry known for his commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation. As the founder of No Smoking, a consulting and management firm, Kyle shares his journey from his early days at IMG Models to his current role in shaping the future of fashion across industries.Kyle discusses his path from college to becoming a leading figure in fashion, sharing pivotal moments and the challenges he faced along the way. Discover how Kyle has championed diversity in the industry and his ongoing efforts to promote equity and representation.Learn about his vision for No Smoking, a firm that integrates fashion, film, art, and music to advocate for style arbiters and culture.Get a glimpse into Kyle's personal inspirations, challenges, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.watch the interview herefollow Kyle on instagram herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman

The fabulous Tatianna, known as The Skincare Barbie, has an enlightening conversation about all things skin. From the essential daily use of sunscreen to the nuanced decisions around botox, we delve into the world of skincare with expert insights and candid discussions.But our conversation goes beyond the surface. We explore the concept of black luxury, discussing why it's essential and how we, as a community, deserve it without apology. Tatianna articulates the significance of embracing luxury as a form of self-care and empowerment, shedding light on how black individuals can redefine and claim their space within the luxury sphere.This episode is not just about skincare; it's about celebrating black excellence and luxury unapologetically. We address societal perceptions and break down barriers, encouraging our viewers to appreciate and indulge in the finer things in life as a form of self-respect and acknowledgment of worth.Join us for this engaging and empowering discussion. Whether you're looking to enhance your skincare routine or seeking inspiration to embrace luxury in your life, this episode offers valuable insights and motivational perspectives.watch the interview herefollow Tatianna on instagram herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman

He is from Virginia with roots in Jamaica, but he is very downtown. Chef DeVonn Francis discusses all things food, fashion, the connection between popcorn and pee. Join us for the flavor.watch the interview herefollow DeVonn on instagram herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman

She is from the Bronx and she knows a good beat. She has an open heart, but don't try to play games. Gia Love talks to Khary about  how she shows up for activism, modeling & music. watch the interview here listen to Gia here & follow her on instagram herefollow Khary on instagram -  @khary_simonproduction assistant Jerome Johnsondirected and edited by Jordan Quellman