Welcome to Semester 6 of the IBI podcast, your Tribe of Mentors, from the Pool of Black Genius. Speaking of Black genius, today’s guest needs no introduction, but we will go ahead and introduce him anyway. Y’all it’s Kirk Franklin. Yes, THAT Kirk Franklin. 19 Grammy Award-winning Kirk Franklin. Contemporary Gospel innovator Kirk Franklin. .. The gifted singing, songwriting, piano-playing, producing, and yes, a rapping, Mr. Kirk Franklin! In case there was any confusion. 

We talk about personal pain and trauma. We dismantle the Black church and the traditions that keep us fractured and apart, we wrestle with the notion that life is composed of both moments of happiness and sorrow, but with the unwavering presence of God, regardless of the circumstances, anything is possible.

Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And now, without further ado, the musical luminary, Kirk Franklin.

Key Links

Thomas A. Dorsey- Widely regarded as the father of gospel music

Good Words with Kirk Franklin- Kirk Franklin Podcast welcomes people, from all walks of life, seeking inspiration and empowerment.

The Dead Sea Scrolls - ancient, mostly Hebrew, manuscripts (of leather, papyrus, and copper) first found in 1947 on the northwestern shore of the Dead Sea.

Southern Baptists Apologize For Slavery Stance - NPR, August 28, 2009 

2 Corinthians 12:6-10 (NIV) - Biblical Scripture reference

Dr. Charles Stanley - American Southern Baptist pastor and writer

Father's Day: A Kirk Franklin Story - YouTube · Kirk Franklin Sep 15, 2023

What to Read

The Blueprint: A Plan for Living Above Life's Storms - Kirk Franklin 

The Evolution of African-American Worship: From the Thomas Dorsey to Kirk Franklin Era  - Dr. Antonia Arnold-McFarland

Church Boy - Kirk Franklin

What to listen to

Precious Lord, Take My Hand - Thomas Dorsey