Technically Speaking: Exploring the Intersectionality of Music, Design, Inclusion, and Social Justice

Here's a summary of what's new in today's release with our special guest, Kendall “Boo Boo” Howse, a multi-talented artist who has made significant contributions to the fields of design, illustration, and music. His journey has been shaped by his diverse interests and his commitment to creating inclusive spaces. Today, we will delve into his love for Dungeons & Dragons, his experiences as a musician, and his role as a facilitator and advocate for inclusion. Through our conversation, we hope to gain insights into the power of creativity, the importance of community, and the potential for positive change.

The Magic of Dungeons and Dragons

"I am currently obsessed with Dungeons & Dragons. It's so much more about cooperative storytelling and improvisation and less about head-to-head competition."

- Kendall “Boo Boo” Howse

His passion for Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is evident as he describes the transformative nature of the game. He highlights how the newest version of D&D is more inclusive, emphasizing cooperative storytelling and improvisation over cutthroat competition. As a Dungeon Master, he takes on the role of a facilitator, guiding the players through the game and creating a space for communication, group dynamics, and cooperative goal-setting. He draws parallels between his work as a UX designer and his role as a Dungeon Master, emphasizing the importance of providing successful outcomes while allowing for user choice and improvisation.

The Influence of Comics and Music

"There's something about the magical realism of cartoons and comics and science fiction and fantasy that predated Afrofuturism but really put together this idea of being able to speculate our own futures, our own realities."

- Kendall “Boo Boo” Howse

His love for comics and music has played a significant role in shaping his creative journey. Growing up in Boston in the ‘80s and '90s, he and his brother sought solace in alternative culture, finding inspiration in alternative music, comics, and science fiction. These mediums allowed them to explore their own identities and create new realities. His involvement in music, mainly punk rock, has given him a platform to express his political beliefs and advocate for social change. He describes his current band, Mass Arrest, as a black liberation hardcore band, using music to address systemic injustices and encourage hope and empowerment.

Navigating the Design World and Advocating for Inclusion

"I believe very firmly it's only when we work within community, it's only when we work in fellowship, and it's only when we really are in a system of exchange that we have the opportunity to grow and to succeed."

- Kendall “Boo Boo” Howse

His journey as a designer intertwines with his commitment to inclusion and advocacy. He shares his experiences of being marginalized within the design community and his decision to create more welcoming and inclusive spaces. His involvement in various organizations, such as Bay Area Black Designers and Frame Shift Consulting, has allowed him to connect with like-minded individuals and work toward systemic change. He emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in driving progress and challenges the myth of individual exceptionalism. His work as a facilitator and consultant in the field of inclusion has informed his design practice and vice versa, creating a symbiotic relationship between his creative pursuits and his commitment to social justice.

Implications and Potential Impact

His journey is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of creativity and community. His love for Dungeons & Dragons highlights the importance of cooperative storytelling and improvisation in fostering communication and collaboration. Inclusivity in the game demonstrates the potential for positive change and personal growth. His experiences in music and design further emphasize the need for diverse voices and perspectives in creative industries. His commitment to advocacy and inclusion inspires designers and creatives to use their platforms to challenge systemic injustices and create spaces that empower marginalized communities.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Kendall "Boo Boo" Howse’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and inclusion. Through his love for Dungeons & Dragons, his passion for music, and his commitment to advocacy, he has created spaces that challenge the status quo and empower marginalized communities. His experiences serve as a call to action for designers and creatives to use their platforms to drive positive change and create inclusive spaces. We can create a more equitable and inclusive world by embracing cooperative storytelling, fostering collaboration, and challenging systemic injustices.

As we look to the future, let us draw inspiration from his journey and continue to push the boundaries of creativity, challenge the norms, and advocate for a more inclusive and just society. Together, we can create a world where everyone's voices are heard, valued, and celebrated.

What’s Next:

Listen to today’s new release on Apple Podcasts to learn more about Kendall “Boo Boo” Howse and Explore the Intersectionality of Music, Design, Inclusion, and Social Justice.