How Imani Ellis Turned a Living Room Meetup into a Cultural Empire

#291: What does it mean to have true influence, and how can you tap into it?

In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Imani Ellis, the mastermind and founder of CultureCon and The Creative Collective NYC, about how a few small gatherings in her apartment turned into a massive cultural movement.

With years of experience bringing creatives together, Imani opens up about what it really takes to build with intention—without all the noise.

She shares her blueprint for staying true to yourself, building real connections, and creating lasting influence in a world that’s often focused on instant attention.

We also talk about…

• Imani’s journey from corporate PR to founding CultureCon and The Creative Collective NYC
• The difference between chasing clout and creating a lasting impact
• What it takes to cultivate trust and build real influence in today’s digital age
• How to stay true to yourself while navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship
• Imani’s approach to supporting creatives and fostering a sense of belonging in the industry
• The power of community and collaboration in creative spaces

Resources:

• Follow Imani on Instagram @imaniimani
• Follow CultureCon on Instagram @CultureCon and get details for the CultureCon Conference (October 4-5 in Brooklyn) at theccnyc.com/culturecon
• Follow The Creative Collective on Instagram @theccnyc
• Check out Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Visit our website at: balancedblackgirl.com

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