I am looking to raise $5,000 (or more) to support the continued development of my little zine and turn some really cool ideas into reality.

About the Zine

Culture Jock Established in 2019 as an online blog and revived in 2023 as a social commentary zine, Culture Jock is 100% independent and woman-owned. Originally founded in Cleveland, OH, Culture Jock has since expanded its reach, with active contributors based in New York City, Chicago, Seattle, and Los Angeles.

Inspired by the culture drivers and impact players around the world. Its mission is to act as an independent incubator active in the landscape of art, culture, fashion, politics and sports. Owner operated curated events, in addition to the zines offers a unique perspective on the ever-changing world around us and how we interact with it. Through our quarterly zines, citizen journalism, and collaborative ventures, we aim to curate + celebrate the ebb + flow of culture in America. Our mission is to empower readers to think for themselves, embrace the beauty of ever-changing cultural dynamics, and to become active contributors to the story of our time.

Culture Jock is more than just a publication; it’s a platform dedicated to uplifting marginalized voices, showcasing untold stories, and empowering creators. Through vibrant storytelling, bold design, and impactful content, we aim to shine a light on individuals, brands, and stories often overlooked by mainstream media.

Our Mission

Culture Jock was created to celebrate and amplify cultural diversity. We highlight the resilience, creativity, and achievements of our community, while identifying connections that inspire growth and progress. Whether it’s showcasing emerging brands, sharing personal stories, or providing actionable insights, every issue is a testament to the power of reflection and representation.

What We Cover

Our content spans a wide range of topics designed to inform, inspire, and connect:

• Features on Businesses: Highlighting entrepreneurs and their journeys, showcasing products and services that make a difference.

• Personal Narratives: Sharing authentic stories of triumph, challenges, and self-discovery.

• Community Resources: Providing tools, tips, and guides to support mental health, business growth, and creative endeavors.

• Advocacy & Awareness: Tackling issues that matter to the overall community, from economic equity to cultural preservation.

• Impact Players: Identifying the game-changers and movements that have transformed the way we see the world.

Why Print Media?

In a world dominated by social media, print media offers a tangible, lasting connection. Our zine isn’t just about sharing information—it’s about creating an experience. Each issue is thoughtfully designed to be a collectible piece that readers can hold onto, share, and revisit.

Our Vision

We envision Culture Jock as a cornerstone of Black-owned media, growing into a sustainable platform that not only tells stories but also creates opportunities. Within the next two years, we aim to establish our own printing press to further expand our reach and provide resources for other independent publications.

Who We Serve

Our audience includes citizen journalists, readers who value thoughtful storytelling, businesses seeking meaningful connections, and creatives looking for a platform to showcase their work. By focusing on community-first content, we ensure that every page reflects the heart and soul of the people we represent. 

Why This Matters

Media plays an essential role in shaping our community—and it's slowly fading away. It’s more than just a source of information; it’s a catalyst for change, a voice for advocacy, and a means to empower our people. By funding this project, you're not just supporting our platform—you’re contributing to a movement that prioritizes representation, citizen journalism, and economic growth for indie media.

What Your Support Means

By contributing to this campaign, you’re helping us address the challenges we face head-on. Your support will:

• Ensure the timely production of upcoming issues.

• Provide opportunities for creatives to showcase their work and earn income.

• Enable us to build a sustainable structure for this platform, ensuring its growth and long-term impact in the years to come.

Together, we can create a publication that uplifts voices, supports creators, and fosters a community where stories truly matter. Thank you for believing in this vision and helping us bring it to life.

Risks and Challenges

About the Founder: Alexis Moten

My name is Alexis Moten, and I’m the founder of Culture Jock. As a seasoned freelancer with a background in graphic design, marketing, and storytelling, I’ve dedicated my career to creating spaces where underrepresented voices can shine. Balancing my professional work and passions has taught me the value of resiliency, time management, and community. This zine is the culmination of my passion for storytelling and my commitment to uplifting voices in print media.

Challenges in Production

Creating this zine is both a rewarding and demanding endeavor. As a freelancer, much of my time is spent scouting stories, designing layouts, editing, and overseeing production—all while managing my freelance projects. The financial and time commitments are significant, which is why this campaign is crucial.

With your support, I’ll be able to:

• Bring on an additional team member to assist with story curation, design, and production, ensuring the quality and consistency of each issue.

• Dedicate more time to the zine by supplementing my freelance income, giving me the freedom to focus on growing this platform and further expanding our impact.