Apple Podcasts
Spotify
iHeartRadio
Amazon Music
Audible
Castro
TuneIn
RSS Feed
Edited Version
In this episode of Dripping in Black, special guest host Dominic Lawson interviews Toni Kennedy, a dynamic children's entertainer and educator. They discuss Toni’s journey from her childhood in St. Petersburg, Florida, to her experiences in Hawaii, her career as a makeup artist for Whitney Houston, and her passion for early childhood education. Toni shares valuable lessons learned from her life experiences, including the importance of humility and self-affirmation. The conversation culminates in a discussion about her podcast, What's Poppin' Penny?, which aims to provide engaging and educational content for children. In this engaging conversation, Toni Kennedy discusses her journey in podcasting, the creation of her show What's Poppin' Penny? and the importance of storytelling for children. She emphasizes the need for representation and the significance of addressing tough subjects in a way that resonates with kids. Toni shares her passion for nurturing children's self-worth and the legacy she hopes to leave behind, which includes plans for animation and a book series based on her podcast.
Toni Kenndy Social Media
Website: whatspoppinpenny.com
Website: www.misstonisings.com
Instagram: @heywhatspoppinpenny
Facebook: @HeyWhatsPoppinPenny
LinkedIn: Toni Kennedy
TicTok: @heywhatspoppinpenny
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Toni-Kennedy/dp/0692168877
Dominic Lawson Social Media
Website: www.blackisamericapodcast.com/
X (Twitter): @blackisamerica
Instagram: @BlackIsAmericaPodcast/
Linkedin: Dominic Lawson
Dripping in Black Social Media
Website: www.drippinginblack.com
YouTube: @DrippinginBlack
Facebook: @dibk20
Instagram: @dibk20
X: @dibk20
DiBk Drip Shop. www.dibkdripshop.com
Toni Kennedy
Children's Educational Entertainer
Toni Kennedy, a multifaceted creative force, was born in St. Petersburg, FL, in the city’s oldest public housing project, just three doors down from Academy Award-nominated actress Angela Bassett. Toni’s early years were shaped by her passion for music, which led her to perform alongside Larry Brown of Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes. Her career has taken her around the globe, living in vibrant places such as Hawaii, Aruba, New York, and the Maryland/DC area.
Toni’s artistic talents extend beyond music. She worked as the makeup artist on the set of the iconic film *The Best Man* and went on to serve as Whitney Houston’s personal makeup artist during the international *My Love is Your Love* world tour (1999–2000). From the entertainment industry to healthcare, Toni has worn many hats. She has worked as an Alzheimer’s nurse, OBGYN nurse, and Hospice nurse, providing compassionate care to patients. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Toni brought joy to children as the bingo lady at John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg.
In 2022, Toni ventured into the world of podcasting, inspired by her granddaughter, Penelope. Her children’s podcast, *What’s Poppin’ Penny?*, earned her a finalist spot in Spotify’s prestigious SoundUp Family and Kids podcast accelerator program. Guided by Sr. Manager Jane Zumwalt and award-winning podcast producer Rebecca Cunningham, Toni continues to develop *What’s Poppin’ Penny?* into a top-tier podcast that blends education and entertainment for young listeners.
When she’s not producing episodes for her podcast, To… Read More
