Edward “DJ Juztdream” Andy, 39, is proving that dreams deferred are not dreams denied. An enrolled member of the Yakama Nation and a Yakima, Washington native, Andy now calls Portland, Oregon home—where he hosts his own hip-hop radio show, Dreamworld, every Sunday night at 11 p.m. PST on kmhd2.org through Mount Hood Community College. His show spins a vibrant mix of Native hip-hop, underground rap, R&B, Northern and Southern California rap, and Christian rap, reflecting his deep love for diverse sounds and authentic storytelling.
For Andy, stepping behind the turntables fulfills a lifelong ambition. “I recall sharing my hopes and dreams at Medicine Wheel Recovery Services in Saint Helens, Oregon. When I expressed my desire to become a Portland-based radio DJ, some of my peers laughed. However, their skepticism only fueled my determination,” he shared. Inspired by Yakima’s own DJ Blaze and DJ Wezzy from Hot 99.7, Andy grew up constantly calling the station—requesting songs and even dedicating tracks to his “boo thang.” DJ Blaze once told him to get his life in order and perhaps join their team someday. “Although it seemed like a distant dream at the time, it’s never too late,” Andy reflected, still holding those words close to heart.
Today, Andy credits much of his journey to the support of Nara Northwest and J.D. Kiggins from Mount Hood’s Integrated Media Program. As someone in recovery, Andy says surrendering his struggles to a higher power gave him a renewed sense of direction. He offers hope to others battling addiction: “If I can overcome my challenges, you can too. Once you commit to a higher power, anything is possible. Don’t let addiction dictate your life. I was once trapped, but after making a commitment, I was able to turn my life around. I had to relinquish everything for a better life, and the results have been remarkable. I am filled with gratitude and appreciation for my current circumstances.”
Listeners can catch Dreamworld every Sunday night at 11 p.m., following DJ Spit’s punk rock show at 10 p.m. PST—an inspiring reminder that dreams can bloom even after life’s hardest seasons.
