On this episode How Do We Reach Our Youth, host Skateboard Steez and special guest Testimony Muzic explore the complexities of life’s challenges and triumphs. The discussion navigated the realms of addiction, mental health, music, parenting, and personal growth, and we’re excited to share it with you.

Navigating the Music Industry

The conversation began with a mutual appreciation for the arts, particularly music. As a podcaster, Steez has always been fascinated by the power of music to convey emotions and connect people. Testimony, an accomplished musician, shared his journey through the music industry highlighting delicate balance between pursuing a passion for music and fulfilling the responsibilities of parenting.

Testimony’s Parenting Philosophy

Parenting is a dance that requires both patience and understanding. Testimony emphasized the significance of listening to our children. Both gentlemen shared their belief in the importance of allowing children to make mistakes and learn from them, a philosophy that resonates with Steez deeply as a single father. The challenges he faces in raising his children alone are many, but the conversation with Testimony offered a sense of solidarity and support that was both comforting and empowering.

The Evolution of Christian Hip Hop: Breaking Stereotypes

Testimony and Steez also discussed the evolution of Christian hip hop. They reflected on the stereotypes that once plagued the genre and celebrated its growing recognition and respect within the music industry. Testimony’s insights into the changing perceptions of Christian hip hop were enlightening, revealing a landscape where faith and artistry intersect in new and exciting ways.

The Personal Struggles Behind the Music: Overcoming Addiction and Mental Health Challenges

The dialogue took a more personal turn as the gentlemen opened up about their individual battles with addiction and mental health. Testimony courageously shared his five-year journey to sobriety after a history of heavy alcohol consumption. He spoke candidly about the physical and mental toll it took and the anxiety attacks that accompanied his path to recovery.

Steez shared his struggle with chronic depression and addiction, a battle he says, that has been both harrowing and humbling. Their stories, though unique, are united by a common thread of resilience and the desire to be present for their loved ones, especially their children.

The Power of Honesty in Healing

We emphasized the importance of honesty and vulnerability in our conversation. Being open about our struggles is not just cathartic for us as individuals; it also has the potential to reach and support others, particularly the youth, who may be facing similar challenges. Our experiences have undoubtedly shaped our music, infusing our creative expression with a raw authenticity that resonates with listeners.

Inspiring the Next Generation: Music with a Message

Testimony’s upcoming music projects are a testament to his dedication to his craft. He revealed an ambitious plan to release 24 singles in 24 hours, a feat that underscores his commitment to spreading a message of hope and perseverance through his art.

Advocating for Vulnerable Youth

The gentlemen also touched on the plight of youth in foster care and juvenile jails. Testimony shared his experiences working with these young individuals, emphasizing the dire need for love, understanding, and support. Building trust and providing care for these vulnerable groups is a challenge, but it’s one that both gentlemen believe is worth undertaking.

Conclusion: A Journey of Gratitude and Purpose

As they wrapped up the conversation, a sense of gratitude permeated the discussion. Both Steez and Testimony have come a long way in their journeys toward sobriety and mental wellness. By sharing their stories, they hope to light the way for others who may be navigating their own dark tunnels.

This episode is more than just a conversation; it’s a reflection of life’s complexities and the beauty that can emerge from adversity. We hope that this episode inspires you as much as it’s inspired us.

Holy Culture Radio is operated by The Corelink Solution, a non-profit organization that aims to create a safe space for healing, foster unity in our communities and empower the next generation of creatives and leaders through spreading the gospel.

If you’d like to support our work, please make a donation. No amount is too small. You can also shop our online store to help spread awareness of our mission. Again, thank you and remember to be encouraged and be blessed.

TIMECODE REFERENCES:

How long have you been doing music? (00:00:00) Discussion about Testimony’s history in music, including his early years in secular rap and his decision to quit music when becoming a parent.

Advice on parenting and interacting with kids (00:02:08) Testimony shares advice on parenting, emphasizing the importance of listening to children, having patience, understanding, and grace.

Balancing music and personal life (00:09:34) Testimony discusses the need to balance music with family life, sharing how he incorporates writing music into his daily activities.

Transition to Christian rap and its impact (00:12:53) Testimony talks about his transition to Christian rap, influenced by his desire to worship in a way that felt comfortable and authentic.

Perception of Christian hip hop (00:13:45) The conversation touches on the changing perception of Christian hip hop and the increased attention it is receiving.

Lucifer’s Role in Heaven (00:15:14) Discussion on the role of Lucifer in heaven and his influence on music.

Secular Artists and Saving Souls (00:15:43) Conversation about secular artists, their quick rise to fame, and the importance of focusing on saving souls.

Overcoming Addiction (00:19:06) Personal accounts of overcoming alcoholism, including withdrawal symptoms and anxiety attacks.

Dealing with Anxiety (00:20:13) Discussion on coping with anxiety attacks and the struggles of living with anxiety.

Honesty and Imperfection in Music (00:22:00) The importance of honesty and imperfection in music, and the struggles artists face offstage.

Youth and Addiction (00:25:09) The challenges faced by youth dealing with addiction and the importance of showing them love and understanding.

Future Music Projects (00:27:59) Announcement of upcoming music releases and plans for dropping 24 singles in 24 hours.

Appreciation and Blessings (00:29:19) Expressions of gratitude and blessings exchanged between the speakers.

Podcast appreciation (00:29:33) Speakers express gratitude for the impact of the podcast on their lives and the support received.

Discussion on affiliations (00:30:29) The speakers briefly mention affiliations and associations with certain groups.

Appreciation for an interview (00:31:29) The speakers appreciate an interview and praise the artist’s talent.

Conversation about travel (00:32:22) The speakers discuss travel plans and experiences, including comments about an airport.

Closing remarks and blessings (00:33:33) The speakers exchange closing remarks, express blessings, and discuss future communication.

Message for the youth (00:34:29) A segment featuring a message for the youth, emphasizing positive choices and the importance of faith.

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