In this episode of Klyph Notes, DJ Klyph sits down with Bay Area artist, educator, and activist UnLearn The World—a voice at the intersection of hip-hop culture, education, and social impact.

As an MC with deep roots in New York's underground scene and current Executive Director of Hip Hop For Change, UnLearn has dedicated his life to using hip-hop as a tool for empowerment, critical thinking, and community transformation.

We build on a conversation that began years ago, diving deeper into his journey from artist to educator, and how those two paths have become one.

Together, we explore:

• The meaning behind "unlearning" and reclaiming identity
• Hip-hop as curriculum and cultural preservation
• The work of Hip Hop For Change and its impact on youth
• Navigating the balance between artistry and purpose
• The responsibility of artists in today's cultural landscape

This conversation is thoughtful, grounded, and necessary—highlighting hip-hop not just as music, but as a vehicle for growth, healing, and truth.

Tap in and take notes.

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Recorded live on location at Fly Chai, this episode of Klyph Notes taps in with rising artist and community builder K-Wain for a grounded, in-the-moment conversation about music, purpose, and showing up for your city.

We build on K-Wain's journey—from finding his voice as a recording artist to carving out space in the local scene—and dive into the intention behind the open mic series at 503 Records. What started as a platform has grown into a true community hub, giving artists a place to connect, sharpen their craft, and be heard.

We also get into his new EP, Concrete & Roses—a reflection of growth, resilience, and navigating the balance between struggle and beauty. K-Wain shares the inspiration behind the project and how it represents where he is right now, both as an artist and as a voice in the community.

Plus, we talk about what's next: his upcoming residency at Fly Chai, and how he's continuing to bridge music, culture, and community in real time.

This one is for the creatives putting in the work, building something bigger than themselves, and staying rooted in the process.

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IG - @k_wainpdx

For Episode 188 of Klyph Notes, DJ Klyph sits down with producer, DJ, and longtime collaborator Peace 586 for a special conversation recorded live at the legendary Aloha Got Soul Record Store in Honolulu, Hawai'i.

Known for his deep roots in underground hip hop production, Peace 586 has spent decades shaping soulful, sample-driven hip hop that bridges generations.

Recorded inside one of Honolulu's most respected record stores, the conversation reflects the culture, community, and vinyl-centric spirit that has always been at the heart of hip hop.

It's a conversation about craft, longevity, and staying true to the music.

Mahalo to Aloha Got Soul for hosting this special on-location interview.

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On this episode of Klyph Notes, I sit down with community builder and organizer Christopher Lambert to talk about the work he's doing to create access, connection, and opportunity across Portland.

We dig into his work with Rose City Jam and Night Sports, building safe and welcoming spaces through movement and sport, as well as his involvement with the Oregon Justice Network and the importance of advocacy and support for people navigating the justice system. We also talk about Trap Kitchen and how food, culture, and entrepreneurship can be powerful tools for community impact.

A real conversation about showing up, doing the work, and building something meaningful.

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In this episode of Klyph Notes, DJ Klyph sits down with Portland artist and creative Rappy Dooski for a deep dive into independence, creativity, and building your own lane. Known for his distinctive voice and unapologetically original approach, Rappy talks about his journey as an artist and what keeps him pushing his sound forward.

They also get into the creation of PDX Radio (Pretty Dope Experience), the community-driven platform Rappy built to spotlight artists, DJs, and creatives, and why owning your own platform and infrastructure is just as important as making the art itself.

The conversation touches on creative process, staying true to yourself, balancing art and real life, and the mindset it takes to keep building on your own terms. Honest, thoughtful, and inspiring—this is a great listen with one of Portland's most original voices.

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Klyph Notes Ep. 185: Braille – Handcrafted Raps & Gospel Banquet

On this episode of Klyph Notes, I'm joined by an artist whose work has deeply impacted me—not only as a fan, but as someone who's watched his journey unfold across decades. Braille is back with Handcrafted Raps, his first solo project in over 14 years, and we dive into what inspired his return to the mic.

We talk about my personal connection to his music—through his solo career, his work with Lightheaded, and other collaborations that helped shape the sound of Northwest underground hip-hop. Braille shares why this new release was the right moment to re-enter the booth, and what Handcrafted Raps represents in this chapter of his life.

But we also explore his evolution beyond the music industry. Braille opens up about his transition from artist to ministry, and how that path led to the founding of Gospel Banquet, a label and platform focused on spiritually grounded creative work.

This one is layered with gratitude, reflection, and inspiration. Whether you've followed Braille since Lifefirst or are just tuning in, this conversation shines light on what it means to grow in purpose and still stay rooted in the rhythm.

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Toronto emcee D'NME joins Klyph Notes fresh off his performance at "From PDX & Beyond" during PDX Hip Hop Week. In town alongside Dough From Da Go, D'NME shares what it means to bring his brand of high-level lyricism from Canada to the Northwest, how collaboration and consistency have helped shape his independent grind, and the importance of building bridges between hip hop communities across borders.

From international stages to underground respect, D'NME opens up about his journey, influences, and staying authentic in a game that often rewards trends over talent.

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On this episode of Klyph Notes, I sit down with entrepreneur and community leader David Jefferson, the force behind the Stackin Kickz brand and retail space. But our conversation goes well beyond sneakers and streetwear.

David opens up about his journey as a mentor, his focus on uplifting youth in the community, and how his spiritual and mental clarity shapes both his business and personal mission. From the challenges of entrepreneurship to the importance of being a steady presence in people's lives, this episode is a reminder that leadership starts within.

Tap in to hear how Stackin Kickz is just the surface of a deeper movement rooted in purpose, mindset, and giving back.

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