KicksAddict Sneakerhead Profiles: Candi Hussle on Ambition, Sneakers & Podcasting
At the intersection of sneaker culture, ambition, and empowerment, you’ll find Candi Hussle—a media personality, entrepreneur, and the voice behind Dope Chick With Ambition! podcast. With a background in blogging, a deep passion for storytelling, and a love for sneakers, Candi has built a platform that not only inspires but also connects like-minded individuals.
In this exclusive interview, Candi shares the journey behind her podcast, her biggest influences, her favorite kicks, and what keeps her motivated. From the Air Jordan 11 "Bred" to her vision of launching her own sneaker, she gives us an inside look at how ambition fuels both sneaker culture and personal branding.
What inspired you to start the Dope Chick With Ambition! Podcast, and how has the journey been so far?
Dope Chick With Ambition was created in 2017. It was originally a message put on clothing,when I had a clothing brand called “ The Addicted Life.” It was such a confident message that I had so many ideas come to mind. So I started to brainstorm and came up with starting a podcast! Dope Chick Ambition is my second podcast. I am a deactivated blogger.
As a blogger, it was my goal to get on the radio as a radio personality. My first podcast was called “ Addicted 2 Candi Live.” It didn’t have much direction so the content wasn’t there. So I canceled it and focused on The Addicted Life. On my journey towards success, I learned when you’re passionate about something it doesn’t go away. In 2019 the podcasting bug bit me again. That’s when I started to plan my launch. I knew with Dope Chick With Ambition, I’d have tons of content. I always knew it was my calling. I love to motivate and clap for others. On my 2018 vision board, I have the word “ connect” on there. My goal was to connect with like-minded individuals. Especially women of color. There are so many dope women in Atlanta. Launching this podcast with this content was a no brainer. Connection is a powerful tool. So with D.C.W.A Podcast. I can do just that. Connect with Dope + Ambitious women. So not only do I connect with women from different industries. I also make sure I am pouring into my listeners and dropping motivational dopeness. D.C.W.A Podcast is a space where gems are dropped, relatable topics are discussed and conversations with Dope Chicks With Ambition take place.
With that said the Journey has been amazing and I’ve been podcasting consistently since 2019. I can’t see what’s in store for D.C.W.A Podcast in the next year. I feel like it’s going to be something special. Because you know I’ve been on this quest for over 10 plus years when it comes to media & entertainment. The time is now. Hello world! lol!
Where are you originally from, and how has your background shaped who you are today?
I am originally from Rochester, NY. I guess, being raised by a teen mom who didn’t allow her decision limit her reach in life. So it shaped me to become an ambitious woman & go after what I wanted in life.
Who has been your biggest influence personally and professionally?
I’ve had many people that have influenced me on my journey from my mom, girl cousins, to women and men I’ve met along the way. It’s too many to name. But they know who they are. So S/o to them.
What advice would you give to aspiring podcasters who want to create meaningful and empowering content?
Be authentic when it comes to your content. That’s the easiest to produce. When something isn’t IN you. It will be hard to create more of it, because you can’t relate since you are faking it. Don’t let social media rush you. Do everything at your own pace. This isn’t me saying drag your feet or procrastinate. But if you are audio based and everyone is doing video, don’t feel pressured in to doing whatever everyone else is doing. I am saying this from a personal situation too. It can become too overwhelming. Just do you. Your listeners will still rock either way , however you are presenting the content as long as you are showing up consistently. Lastly, remain consistent. Don’t start podcasting if you aren’t bout it for real or because you see everyone else is doing it. I’m serious about podcasting, it’s my passion so I show up every month to record my shows and I’ve been locked in for 5 years plus.
What role do you think ambition plays in sneaker culture and personal branding?
Ambition is defined as “ drive “ so to me your drive to look fly, or the “ drive” to cop the latest sneaker design plays a huge part in the sneaker culture.
Can you share your top 5 sneakers of all time?
Air Jordan 11s “ bred “ 1996 release. Before they were called Bred. My mother stood on line for those for me. Those were special. But wild…I remember in 8th grade this girl name Karenda Harris and I swapped sneakers. She asked me to wear my 11s…I can’t remember which ones I wore of hers. But she violated and let her boyfriend wear my kicks smh…dude was all on the block with my kicks. Taking pics smh…lmao!
Air Jordan 11 (Bred)
Air Jordan 1 (not all colorways but I love sleek sneakers)
Airmax 95
Airmax 97
Air Jordan 12
Who are your top 5 dope chicks of all time?
Candi
Candi
Candi
Candi
Candi
Lol, just kidding….Maybe… Celebs? Let’s go celeb/public fig
Nicki Minaj,
Teyana Taylor / Rihanna
Oprah
Beyonce
Michelle Obama
What’s your favorite pair of kicks to rock every day?
As of lately ( looks @ front door )
It’s been Nike vomero 5. The comfort level on those things are chefs kiss followed by Nike pegasus 2k5’s.
Do you like Timbs? If so, what’s your favorite style?
Ehhh after high school I phased out of timbs. Growing up, up top that was like a staple to cop a fresh pair of constructs or field boots plus your sneakers when going back to school shopping.
I have one pair of field boots in my closet. Mac & Cheese joints. I feel like constructs are too heavy now. Then the Kardashians are wearing them now….No shade lol…I think.
If you could bring back any sneaker, which one would it be?
I might get a super side eye for these but Grant Hill Fila or the Fila Fx 100 200 with the strap. I had them in either 3 or 4 grade. Such a nostalgic moment. I want them. I can’t even find them on Google. It’s like I made them up in mind. But they had an African color and design.
How do you stay motivated while inspiring others through your platform?
“My desire to succeed is greater than my desire to give up" - Candise Lewis
Do you have a favorite pair of sneakers, and is there a story behind them?
Air Jordan 11s “ bred “ 1996 release. Before they were called Bred. My mother stood on line for those for me. Those were special. My favorite color is red.
What’s your favorite sneaker trend right now?
Dad sneakers. I’m all about comfort at this age. Style still plays a major factor. So seeing the “ dad sneakers “ lifestyle sneakers offer dope colorways and design. Is something I can appreciate instead of the normal white or black colors. Oh and I want another pair Golden Goose. Never thought I would be down with the dirty expensive sneaker trend. I got them as a gift for Christmas and they are super comfortable.
If you could design your own sneaker, what would it look like, and what message would it convey?
That’s on my vision board actually to have my own sneaker collab one day. I’m a Scorpio so you know we move in silence but it would be DOPE and the message would be clear…..sneaker by Candi Hussle coming soon. Lol
What’s been your favorite episode or guest on your podcast, and why?
Oh wow, having the podcast for FIVE years. That’s going to be hard to say bcos all my guest were amazing. I love all my episodes. I can’t pick one….ok, I’d have to say Ep.19 The Vagina Is Queen Ft OB/GYN Dr.Tosha Rogers .
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dope-chick-with-ambition-podcast/id1487757992?i=1000489254378.
This episode was very informative for my ladies and gentlemen listeners! She’s so thorough and a sneakHER lovHER too. Lol that’s was dope she rocked so fly kicks to the studio!
How do you balance sneaker culture with other aspects of your personal style?
It’s easy because it’s who I am. I just incorporate the two. I remember dating a guy who was into heels and not big on sneakers and I compromised my love for kicks for this temporary fella. Like I gave away kicks…*gasp* Never again….So, pretty much, if I feel like rocking my kicks I do but the sex appeal is still there. I’ll have my red lipstick on from Gxrl six beauty ( shameless plug ) and my kicks. I feel like if you are a woman that can do both, that’s dope AF. Having versatility when it comes to style is important.
Who is the best-dressed celebrity, in your opinion?
I kinda already big’d her up already but Teyana Taylor! My girl!! She just gets it! With or without a stylist! I think she’s about to release another sneaker with Jordan too. Teyana send me a pair boo!
What is one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?
Shut up and listen…LOL.
That’s it, that’s all.
What’s next for Dope Chick With Ambition! Podcast? Any exciting projects you’re working on?
Everything major is NEXT for Dope Chick With Ambition Podcast! Looking forward to joining a podcast network.
Gaining more visibility and becoming a household name!! If you are looking for a podcast that doesn’t focus on gender wars, doesn’t give relationship advice bcos I’m dating & still trying to figure it out! But, enjoy motivational content, interviews with ambitious women + men, entertainment & lite tea! Tune into Dope Chick With Ambition Podcast!!
I have my beauty brand launching this year! Red lipstick is my signature, so the red lippie I wear is from GxrlSixBeauty.com ladies be sure to join the hot list to be notified about the launch.
Be sure to check out Dope Chick With Ambition Podcast on all podcast platforms and YouTube! Hit subscribe listen and leave me a review! 5 stars of course!
Follow me on IG: @DopeChickWithAmbition
@CandiHussle