The Global Soul-Jah Podcast

Sandi K. Shelby is an American SAG-AFTRA actress, filmmaker, director, producer, and documentary storyteller based in Albuquerque, New Mexico.  In this part 1 she touches on her ancestry, her upbringing, and the journey that continues to define.  

In this riveting part 2 of Tony's interview, we delve into the discipline and habits each of us can practice -- that can lead to real peace.  The goal is freedom, but to get there sacrifices will be necessary.  Tony discusses how serving and helping others win is the path to these rewards.    Through faith, mindfulness, meditation, and service, regardless of the challenges -- Everyone Can Be Great!

In Part 1 of The Global Soul-Jah Podcast, Tony Ferguson takes us beyond the headlines, the famous names, and his years working in music and entertainment to reveal a deeper measure of success: what you do with the access you've earned.

Tony has worked alongside some of the biggest names in music, but his story isn't simply about getting into influential rooms. It's about leveraging that access, experience, and network for good — through community service, mentorship, nonprofit work, coaching Special Olympics, and service on community boards including Just Us 4 Youth.

And beneath the career, accomplishments, and relationships is something even more personal: how much Tony loves being a dad. Fatherhood is part of the perspective he brings to success, responsibility, giving back, and helping the next generation find its own path.

His story is ultimately about perseverance, service, family, and purpose — understanding that greatness isn't measured only by recognition, but by the people you help, the lives you touch, and what you choose to give back.

At the center of it all is a simple message:

“Not everyone can be famous, but everyone can be great!”

This is a conversation about greatness beyond fame — and about using whatever platform, relationships, or opportunities you have to make a meaningful difference.

Stories that inspire. Truth that transforms.

00:00 – Introduction & Life Context

04:03 – Broadway show Don't get God Started

07:00 – Meeting NWA in Germany (Dr. Dre & Eazy E) 

08:41 – Costume design EFX Las Vegas biggest show

14:12 – Beginning of Corporate Clients like Lowes

22:39 – Raised by Grandma Honey or Nanny

34:52 – Pregnant at 16 Summer of 1968

35:00 – The Day My Life Changed

53:03 – The Nuns Foster or Adoption

59:15 – Hallelujah! Adoptive Parents for biracial son

01:03:13 – Falling in Love with Los Angeles Visiting Mom

01:06:25 – God's Plan, A Soul-Jah in God's Army

01:07:53 – Gaining Confidence, Hard Decisions as Foundation

01:13:48 – Accepted at Fashion Design School in Milan, Italy

01:15:18 – Attending San Francisco School of Fashion Design

01:17:17 – The Energy Living in Berkeley in Early '70's

01:19:44 – Recognized As A Prodigy and Early Graduation

01:23:48 – Working with Muhammad Ali (G.O.A.T)

01:26:39 – Early Career in Fashion & First Big Opportunities

01:27:54 – Personal Struggles & Motherhood Reflections

01:29:45 – Childhood Love & Relationship Reconnection

01:36:36 – Marriage Journey & Emotional Conflict

01:43:08 – Separation & Life Turning Point

01:49:27 – Career Growth in Entertainment Industry

01:54:42 – Reconnecting with my son (44 years Later)

01:55:02 – Working with Major Artists & Tupac Era Experience

01:56:18 – Family Emergency & Emotional Shock

02:01:27 – Discovery of Long-Lost Son

02:07:10 – Emotional Reunion & First Connection

02:16:18 – Faith, Reflection & Life Meaning

02:21:09 – Final Message: Trust, Faith & Purpose