The Institute of Black Imagination.

E101: Answering The Call with Rev. Dr. Norvel Goff, Sr.
In this episode of The Institute of Black Imagination, host Dario Calmese sits down with Rev. Dr. Norvel Goff, Sr., pastor, civic leader, and former interim pastor of Mother Emanuel AME Church following the tragic massacre of the Emanuel Nine.
From his upbringing in Georgetown, South Carolina, during the Jim Crow era to his leadership within the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Rev. Goff reflects on a life devoted to faith, service, justice, and community building. He shares lessons from his journey through ministry, civil rights advocacy, and public leadership, offering a powerful meditation on what it means to serve others, create meaningful change, and imagine a more just future.
Together, Dario and Rev. Goff explores leadership, the role of the Black church, intergenerational wisdom, community organizing, healing after tragedy, and the importance of creating a table where everyone has a seat.
Key Takeaways
Service Is the Highest Form of Leadership
Rev. Goff believes leadership begins with serving others. Throughout the conversation, he returns to the idea that greatness is measured not by status, but by a willingness to meet needs, uplift communities, and pour into others.
Community Change Requires Participation
From growing churches to organizing with the NAACP, Rev. Goff emphasizes that transformation happens when people engage directly with their communities, build relationships, and work collectively toward solutions.
We Are Stronger Together
One of the defining themes of the conversation is unity. Whether discussing Charleston, church leadership, or civic engagement, Rev. Goff reminds us that meaningful progress requires collaboration across generations, backgrounds, and institutions.
Leadership Begins with Listening
Rev. Goff offers a simple framework for leadership: listen, learn, and then lead. Before we can guide others, we must be willing to hear their stories, understand their realities, and remain open to new ideas.
Vision Creates Possibility
"Without a vision, the people perish." Rev. Goff reflects on the importance of imagination, strategic thinking, and shared purpose in creating better futures for communities and future generations.
What We Discussed
Growing up in Georgetown, South Carolina, during segregation
Family, faith, and community as foundations for leadership
Answering the call to ministry
Building congregations and community institutions
The role of the Black church in civic life
Leadership during the aftermath of the Mother Emanuel tragedy
Faith, justice, and public service
Intergenerational wisdom and mentorship
The importance of listening, learning, and leading
Black imagination, vision, and the future of community

A Playlist Inspired by the Conversation
1. "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" – Mahalia Jackson - A timeless hymn of faith, perseverance, and spiritual guidance that reflects the heart of Rev. Goff's ministry.
2. "Optimistic" – Sounds of Blackness - A reminder that hope remains possible even during difficult times.
3. "I Need You to Survive" – Hezekiah Walker - An anthem of collective responsibility and community support.
4. "A Change Is Gonna Come" – Sam Cooke - A civil rights era classic that echoes the themes of justice, faith, and perseverance woven throughout this conversation.
5. "Total Praise" – Richard Smallwood - A song of gratitude and surrender that embodies Rev. Goff's unwavering faith.
6. "We Shall Overcome" – The Freedom Singers - A reminder that collective action and hope have always been at the heart of social transformation.
Books to Complement This Conversation
1. The Strength to Love — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - A collection of sermons exploring faith, justice, and moral leadership.
2. The Cross and the Lynching Tree — James H. Cone - A profound examination of Christianity, race, suffering, and liberation.
3. Walking with the Wind — John Lewis - A powerful memoir of faith, courage, and the Civil Rights Movement.
4. Moral Leadership for a Divided Age — David P. Gushee - An exploration of ethical leadership in times of social division.
5. My Soul Looks Back — Jessica B. Harris - Reflections on culture, memory, ancestry, and community.
Memorable Quotes by Rev. Dr. Goff, Sr.
"We must create a table where everyone has a seat."
"If you want to be great in the kingdom, be a servant."
"We are stronger together."
"Listen. Learn. Lead."
Dispatches from the Archive
Ep. 26 Sister Elaine Brown — A Revolutionary Life - Former Chairwoman of the Black Panther Party, Elaine Brown reflects on power, justice, political organizing, and what it means to lead during periods of profound social change. Like Rev. Dr. Goff, she challenges listeners to consider the responsibilities that come with leadership and community stewardship.
Ep. 23 Dr. Heather McGhee — The Hidden Cost of Racism - Economic policy expert and author of The Sum of Us, Dr. McGhee explores the connections between racial justice, collective prosperity, and civic responsibility. Her vision of shared flourishing resonates deeply with Rev. Dr. Goff's belief that we are stronger together.
Ep. 29 Jacqueline Woodson — Scripting Your Life - National Book Award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson examines how family, history, and place influence who we become. This conversation complements Rev. Dr. Goff's reflections on upbringing, mentorship, and the power of intergenerational wisdom.
Ep. 99 Gina Paige — Blood Memories - Gina Paige's exploration of ancestry, belonging, and identity offers a powerful companion to Rev. Dr. Goff's discussion of roots, heritage, and the importance of understanding where we come from in order to imagine where we're...

Episode Overview:
In this milestone 100th episode of the Institute of Black Imagination podcast, we sit down with the incomparable Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson—marine biologist, policy expert, writer, and visionary climate futurist. Co-founder of Urban Ocean Lab, The All We Can Save Project, and co-creator of the podcast How to Save a Planet, Dr. Johnson is at the forefront of reimagining a climate future rooted in justice, imagination, and care.
In this expansive conversation, we explore how the ocean is central to climate solutions, how storytelling intersects with science, and what’s possible when we lead with joy. From co-authoring the Blue New Deal to her most recent book, What If We Get It Right?, Dr. Johnson invites us to reframe our climate fears into courageous vision.
What We Discussed
Imagination is a political tool for climate justice
Hope is strategy in What If We Get It Right?
Urban Ocean Lab is rethinking coastal cities
Women’s leadership drives climate solutions
Black imagination reshapes the ocean’s narrative

Dispatches from the Archive
E93. Imagining Diasporic Retrofutures with Olalekan Jeyifous Explore speculative architecture and Afro-futurism as artist Olalekan Jeyifous reimagines urban landscapes, challenging conventional notions of beauty and success in architecture.
E38. Toni L. Griffin: The Just City Urban planner Toni L. Griffin discusses the concept of "The Just City," focusing on designing urban spaces that are equitable, inclusive, and reflective of diverse communities.
E48. Sara Zewde: Parks and Liberation Landscape architect Sara Zewde delves into the intersection of public spaces and cultural narratives, emphasizing how parks and landscapes can serve as platforms for liberation and community identity.
E55. Sekou Cooke: Creation of Hip-Hop Architecture Architect Sekou Cooke introduces the concept of Hip-Hop Architecture, exploring how the ethos of hip-hop culture can inform and transform architectural practices and urban design.
E61. Justin Garrett Moore: Imagining Black Space Urban designer Justin Garrett Moore discusses the importance of imagining and creating Black spaces that honor cultural heritage, foster community, and challenge systemic inequalities.
A Playlist Inspired by the Conversation
Optimistic – Sounds of Blackness – Because joy and action can coexist.
Everything Is Everything – Lauryn Hill – A nod to interconnectedness and time.
Swim Good – Frank Ocean – A deep and symbolic dive into the currents of escape, healing, and emotional truth.
Alright – Kendrick Lamar – The rally cry that keeps communities moving.
Freedom – Beyoncé ft. Kendrick Lamar – For the fierce spirit of climate justice.

Books to Complement This Conversation
What If We Get It Right? – Ayana Elizabeth Johnson A visionary call to imagine and build the world we want to live in, rather than focusing solely on preventing disaster.
All We Can Save – Edited by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson & Katharine Wilkinson A powerful anthology of essays, poetry, and art by women climate leaders offering climate solutions with heart.
The Climate Book – Edited by Greta Thunberg (featuring Johnson’s essay) An essential compendium of climate insights from global experts, including a compelling essay by Dr. Johnson.
Emergent Strategy – adrienne maree brown – On adaptation as revolution A guide to building movements and futures through adaptability, decentralization, and relational work.
The Intersectional Environmentalist – Leah Thomas – For deeper equity in ecology A foundational text on climate justice that centers marginalized voices and offers inclusive strategies for ecological action.

Resources & Links:
🔗 Urban Ocean Lab
🔗 All We Can Save Project
🔗 Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s Website
🔗 What If We Get It Right Podcast www.getitright.earth/podcast
🔗 Instagram @ayanaeliza
🔗 X @ayanaeliza

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If this dialogue resonated with you, sparked inspiration, or offered a new perspective, we’d love your support! Here’s how you can help us keep these powerful stories alive:
🎧 Subscribe & Review – Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your words help more people discover these conversations. Subscribe to our newsletter.
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💜 Support the Work – Love what we’re creating? Help us sustain and grow by making a contribution! Whether it’s a one-time donation or becoming a patron, every bit fuels our mission. Click here to support us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice, your presence, and your support make all the difference! ✨
Until next time, stay curious, and keep dreaming.

Episode Overview:
In this episode of The Institute of Black Imagination, host Dario Calmese sits down with Gina Paige, the co-founder of African Ancestry, to explore the transformative power of knowing your roots. For over two decades, Gina has pioneered DNA ancestry tracing for people of African descent, helping countless individuals reclaim their lineage and reshape their identities.
Gina shares her personal journey—what sparked her passion for genealogy, how her work is changing lives, and why ancestry is more than just science—it’s a cultural and spiritual homecoming. If you’ve ever wondered where you come from or how your history shapes your future, this conversation is for you.
What We Discussed
Knowing Your Roots Shapes Your Identity
DNA Can Reconnect Us to Lost Histories
Ancestry is More Than Just Genetics—It’s Culture
Representation in Genealogy Matters
Knowing Your Past Helps Shape Your Future

A Playlist Inspired by the Conversation
1. “I Am Light” – India.Arie- A soulful meditation on self-worth and inner identity, this song beautifully echoes the idea that we are more than just our history—we are light, love, and legacy.
2. “Black Man” – Stevie Wonder- A powerful anthem celebrating the global contributions of Black people throughout history, reinforcing the importance of knowing where we come from.
3. “My People” – Angie Stone - This song is a love letter to the African diaspora, reminding us of our strength, resilience, and connection to one another.
4. “Back to Africa” – Dennis Brown - A reggae classic that speaks directly to the desire to reconnect with one’s ancestral homeland, much like what African Ancestry makes possible.
5. “I’m Coming Home” – The Staple Singers - A gospel-infused track that captures the spiritual and emotional essence of returning to one’s roots and embracing one’s heritage.
6. “I Gotta Find Peace of Mind - LIVE" – Ms. Lauryn Hill - A haunting echo of Gina Paige’s journey—where reclaiming ancestry becomes a path to inner peace, and remembering becomes a form of healing.
Books to Complement This Conversation
1. The Healing Wisdom of Africa – Malidoma Patrice Somé
This book explores African spiritual traditions and the importance of reconnecting with ancestral wisdom to find purpose and healing in the modern world.
2. Roots: The Saga of an American Family – Alex Haley
A groundbreaking classic that traces a family’s lineage from Africa to America, demonstrating the power of ancestral storytelling and reclaiming lost histories.
3. Barracoon: The Story of the Last "Black Cargo" – Zora Neale Hurston
Based on interviews with the last known survivor of the transatlantic slave trade, this book offers a firsthand account of the forced displacement of African people and the longing for ancestral connection.
4. Finding Your Roots: The Official Companion to the PBS Series – Henry Louis Gates Jr.
Inspired by the TV series, this book provides a compelling guide to genealogy research and the cultural significance of tracing one’s ancestry.
5. The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration – Isabel Wilkerson
Though focused on migration within the U.S., this book powerfully illustrates the deep impact of displacement, identity, and reclaiming one’s place in history.
Resources & Links:
🔗 Learn more about African Ancestry: www.africanancestry.com (use code black imagination for 10% off your kit)
📖 Follow Gina Paige on social media: @AfricanAncestry
Support the Work:
If this conversation inspired you, visit AfricanAncestry.com to begin your own journey of self-discovery. Take a DNA test to uncover your African roots and connect with your heritage.(use code black imagination for 10% off your kit)
Join & Support Our Community
If this dialogue resonated with you, sparked inspiration, or offered a new perspective, we’d love your support! Here’s how you can help us keep these powerful stories alive:
🎧 Subscribe & Review – Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your words help more people discover these conversations. Subscribe to our newsletter.
📢 Spread the Word – Share this episode with your friends, family, and community. Let’s keep the dialogue going!
💬 Engage With Us – Follow us on social media and join the conversation @blackimagination on Instagram & Twitter. We’d love to hear your thoughts, takeaways, and what topics you want to explore next.
💜 Support the Work – Love what we’re creating? Help us sustain and grow by making a contribution! Whether it’s a one-time donation or becoming a patron, every bit fuels our mission. Click here to support us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice, your presence, and your support make all the difference! ✨
Until next time, stay curious, and keep dreaming.

Episode Summary:
In this deeply moving and insightful episode, we sit down with activist, organizer, and founder of the Marsha P. Johnson Institute, Elle Moxley. Elle takes us on a journey through the heart of activism, the lessons learned from movement-building, and the power of Black trans leadership. She shares her experiences with Black Lives Matter, the founding of her own organization, and her reflections on love, resilience, and desire. This conversation is one of power, truth, and transformation.
What We Discussed
Finding Community in Black Love
Navigating Activism and Identity
The Birth of Black Lives Matter & Elle’s Role
Reflections on Organizing & Movement Building
The Creation of the Marsha P. Johnson Institute
Desire, Politics, and the Hidden Truths
Lessons from Love & the Future We Imagine

A Playlist Inspired by the Conversation
"Brown Skin Girl" by Beyoncé, SAINt JHN, WizKid, and Blue Ivy Carter – An empowering anthem celebrating Black beauty and heritage.
"Peng Black Girls Remix" by ENNY featuring Jorja Smith – A vibrant track highlighting the diversity and strength of Black women.
"Alright" – Kendrick Lamar - A revolutionary anthem of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
"Stand Up" – Cynthia Erivo - A powerful ballad from Harriet that speaks to perseverance and justice.
"Golden" – Jill Scott - A song about embracing joy, self-love, and living life on your terms.

Books to Complement This Conversation
"Sister Outsider" by Audre Lorde – A powerful collection of essays and speeches exploring Black identity, feminism, and the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality.
"The Purpose of Power: How We Come Together When We Fall Apart" by Alicia Garza – A deeply insightful memoir and guide from one of the co-founders of the Black Lives Matter movement, examining the power of collective organizing.
"The Transgender Issue: Trans Justice Is Justice for All" by Shon Faye – A bold and necessary examination of the systemic issues facing trans people and how true justice benefits all of society.
"Black Futures" by Kimberly Drew & Jenna Wortham – A stunning collection of essays, art, and reflections that explore the possibilities of Black culture, activism, and imagination.
"Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson" by Tourmaline (upcoming release) – A forthcoming deep dive into the first definitive biography of the revolutionary activist Marsha P. Johnson, one of the most important and remarkable figures in LGBTQIA+ history, revealing her story, her impact, and her legacy.

Resources & Links:
🔗 Marsha P. Johnson Institute – marshap.org
🔗 Virtual Exhibitions - Ellemnop Art
🔗 Follow Elle Moxley on Social Media
IG: Elle Moxley (@elle_moxley)
FB: Elle Moxley
TikTok: Elle Moxley (@elle_moxley) Official
Support the Work:
If this conversation inspired you, consider supporting MPJI through donations, advocacy, or simply spreading awareness. Every action, big or small, helps carry the movement forward.
Join & Support Our Community
If this dialogue resonated with you, sparked inspiration, or offered a new perspective, we’d love your support! Here’s how you can help us keep these powerful stories alive:
🎧 Subscribe & Review – Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your words help more people discover these conversations. Subscribe to our newsletter.
📢 Spread the Word – Share this episode with your friends, family, and community. Let’s keep the dialogue going!
💬 Engage With Us – Follow us on social media and join the conversation @blackimagination on Instagram & Twitter. We’d love to hear your thoughts, takeaways, and what topics you want to explore next.
💜 Support the Work – Love what we’re creating? Help us sustain and grow by making a contribution! Whether it’s a one-time donation or becoming a patron, every bit fuels our mission. Click here to support us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice, your presence, and your support make all the difference! ✨
Until next time, stay curious, and keep dreaming.

Episode Summary:
In this monumental 97th episode—our first-ever live recording—we welcome legendary costume designer and visual storyteller Paul Tazewell, just one week after his historic win as the first Black man to receive the Academy Award for Best Costume Design for Wicked. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Space 001, the Institute’s newly opened physical space, Paul and host Dario Calmese delve into a deeply moving, expansive conversation about storytelling through clothing, the power of design, Black imagination, and the long road to recognition.
From his early days sewing dashikis and puppets in Akron, Ohio, to crafting iconic looks for Hamilton, The Wiz Live!, Harriet, West Side Story, and now Wicked, Paul shares the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual layers that shape his work. This episode is a masterclass in creative process, artistic evolution, and how style becomes a vessel for history, identity, and transformation.
What We Explore:
A Historic Win: Paul reflects on becoming the first Black man to win an Oscar for costume design.
Roots & Influence: His upbringing in Akron and support from his two moms shaped his creative path.
Finding His Lane: He learned to trust design as his true calling while navigating multiple talents.
Design as Story: Paul reveals how costumes—like those in Wicked—carry emotion, science, and symbolism.
Legacy & Access: He honors Black creative lineage and shares his vision for mentoring future storytellers.

Quotables:
“Clothing is never just about what you wear. It’s about the story you tell.”
— Paul Tazewell
“Being visible, taking up space, allows you access to investigate what’s next.
— Paul Tazewell
“Beauty is the antidote to the ugliness in the world.”— Paul Tazewell
About the Guest:
Paul Tazewell is a Tony, Emmy, BAFTA, and now Academy Award-winning costume designer whose breathtaking work has helped shape the visual identity of contemporary theater and film. From Hamilton to Wicked, his designs transcend aesthetics—they are blueprints for character, history, and emotion.
Follow Paul on Instagram: @paultazewell
Resources & Mentions:
Space 001 – A concept store, research lab, and living archive in the Oculus, NYC
Geoffrey Holder – Legendary Black artist and costume designer for The Wiz
Wicked (Film) – Now featuring Oscar-winning costume design
North Carolina School of the Arts, NYU, and Pratt Institute – Key touchstones in Paul’s training
Mellon Foundation – Supporting imagination and justice through the arts

Soundtrack: Inspired by Paul Tazewell’s Journey & Genius
"Home" – Stephanie Mills (from The Wiz) - A soulful ode to identity, memory, and belonging—an emotional anchor for Paul’s early influence and connection to The Wiz.
"Defying Gravity" – Cynthia Erivo (from Wicked) - A triumphant anthem of transformation, resistance, and rising above—mirroring Paul’s groundbreaking win and Elphaba’s journey.
"Back to Life" – Soul II Soul - An Afro-futurist groove echoing Paul’s ability to breathe story into garments—rooted in culture, yet futuristic.
"Optimistic" – Sounds of Blackness - A call to persevere, perfect for honoring Paul’s long and winding path through doubt, brilliance, and breakthrough.
"Mood Indigo" – Nina Simone - A textured, moody classic that reflects the complexity and emotion Paul brings to characters through costume and color.

Recommended Reading List: For Further Exploration
Costume and Fashion: A Concise History by James Laver - A beautifully illustrated guide tracing the evolution of dress—perfect for those curious about how fashion and costume shape culture.
Black Futures by Kimberly Drew & Jenna Wortham - A multi-dimensional exploration of Black creativity, possibility, and presence—mirroring the ethos of this episode and the IBI. (check out our episode with Kimberly Drew)
Mycelium Running: How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World by Paul Stamets - Dive deeper into the mycelium metaphor Paul used for Elphaba’s costume—a poetic and scientific lens on connection and transformation.

Join & Support Our Community
If this dialogue resonated with you, sparked inspiration, or offered a new perspective, we’d love your support! Here’s how you can help us keep these powerful stories alive:
🎧 Subscribe & Review – Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your words help more people discover these conversations. Subscribe to our newsletter.
📢 Spread the Word – Share this episode with your friends, family, and community. Let’s keep the dialogue going!
💬 Engage With Us – Follow us on social media and join the conversation @blackimagination on Instagram & Twitter. We’d love to hear your thoughts, takeaways, and what topics you want to explore next.
💜 Support the Work – Love what we’re creating? Help us sustain and grow by making a contribution! Whether it’s a one-time donation or becoming a patron, every bit fuels our mission. Click here to support us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice, your presence, and your support make all the difference! ✨
Production Credits:
Host & Creator: Dario Calmese
Producer: KT Thompson
Executive Producer: Chrystal Genesis
Engineering & Original Music: Adam Radice
Presented by: The Institute of Black Imagination, with support from The Mellon Foundation

Until next time, stay curious and keep dreaming.