noseyAF: Conversations about Art, Activism, and Social Change

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Episode Credits:

Produced and Hosted by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Edited by: Risha Brown

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Cover Art: Emma McGoldrick

Your Calm Calendar: Rest, Burnout Recovery, and Resisting Hustle Culture with Nicole Havelka

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Ep # 108: Your Calm Calendar: Rest, Burnout Recovery, and Resisting Hustle Culture with Nicole Havelka

Welcome back to another episode of noseyAF on Lumpen Radio!! We have Nicole Havelka joing us, a burnout recovery coach, mindfulness teacher, former pastor, and host of the podcast Just Rest: Burnout Tips for Everyday Radicals — to talk about what it actually takes to stop running on empty. Nicole gets into how she went from a self-described "recovering grind culture addict" to building a whole business around helping high-achievers and everyday radicals reclaim their time and energy. She introduces her Calm Calendar Club, a program built around planning your life in a way that actually honors your energy — not just squeezes more out of it. If you've ever felt like you're dropping the ball, this conversation will remind you: you're not dropping balls, you're just carrying too many.

What We Talk About

Okay, so pull up a chair — this one goes places.

How Nicole went from overachiever to burnout recovery coach (and what growing up in Omaha, Nebraska had to do with it)
Why hustle culture is literally designed for you to fail — and why that's not your fault
Burnout in ministry and why being "on call 24/7" is just not human
What COVID quietly taught us about the power of saying no
The seven types of rest from Sacred Rest by Sandra Dalton-Smith — sleep is just ONE of them
How planning your calendar with your values first changes everything
Why ADHD and neurodivergent folks need planning systems that actually work for their brains
The Calm Calendar Club: what it is, how it works, and who it's for
Why "you're not failing the system — you're just trying to do too much"
The radical act of rest as resistance, especially for Black women (shoutout to Tricia Hersey's Rest Is Resistance)
Doing your part in activism and community work — without burning yourself all the way down

Things We Mentioned

Calm Calendar Club — Nicole's program for planning your life around your energy and values → defythetrend.com/calm-calendar

Just Rest: Burnout Tips for Everyday Radicals — Nicole's podcast

Rest Is Resistance by Tricia Hersey (affiliate link)

Sacred Rest by Sandra Dalton-Smith (the seven types of rest: physical, mental, sensory, creative, social, emotional, and spiritual) (affiliate link)

Artist Admin Hour — Stephanie's weekly co-working session for artists tackling the admin work that makes the work work → artistadminhour.com

Chapters:

• 00:33 - Introduction to noseyAF Conversations

• 04:36 - The Pressure of Hustle Culture

• 13:21 - The Challenge of Self-Care in Ministry

• 16:54 - Navigating Burnout and Community Engagement

• 23:50 - The Culture of Exhaustion

• 29:50 - The Importance of Rest and Reflection

• 37:30 - Addressing Time Management Challenges

• 44:55 - Planning for Success: Reflecting on Your Values

• 47:03 - Exploring Priorities and Planning Strategies

• 54:45 - Exploring the Importance of Rest

• 01:01:21 - Finding Balance: The Importance of Rest and Hobbies

All About... Nicole Havelka

You're gonna love Nicole — she's a burnout recovery coach and certified mindfulness teacher who spent years in ministry before turning her hard-won lessons into a whole business helping people resist hustle culture and build sustainable lives. Her whole thing is that rest isn't lazy — it's the foundation for everything.

More about Nicole: Nicole Havelka is a burnout recovery coach, mindfulness teacher, clergy person, and recovering grind-culture addict who helps people and organizations resist hustle and reclaim rest. A clergy person turned entrepreneur, she brings bold honesty and a healthy dose of play to help changemakers prevent burnout and build sustainable lives and workplaces. Nicole hosts the podcast Just Rest: Burnout Tips for Everyday Radicals and leads a community of Rest Rebels on Substack. → defythetrend.com | defythetrend.substack.com

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by Artist Admin Hour The admin work that makes the work work. Every Wednesday, 7–9pm Central, artists show up on Zoom to tackle residency apps, grant applications, budgets, invoices — whatever you've been avoiding. Body doubling, no shame, real community. 25–45/month, but email Stephanie if that's not doable. → artistadminhour.com

Connect with Nicole Havelka

Website: defythetrend.com

Calm Calendar Club: defythetrend.com/calm-calendar

Podcast: Just Rest: Burnout Tips for Everyday Radicals

Substack: https://defythetrend.substack.com/

More ways to connect:

Follow me on Instagram @stephaniegraham

Support & Feedback

Community Impact Collective

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

The Introvert’s Guide to Speaking Up with Mahlena-Rae Johnson

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:30:00 -0500

Ep #:107 The Introvert’s Guide to Speaking Up with Mahlena-Rae Johnson

Summary of the episode

Public speaking can be intimidating—especially for introverts. In this episode of nosey AF: conversations about art, activism, and social change, Stephanie talks with speaker, comedian, and author Mahlena-Rae Johnson, who calls herself the Professor X for introverted edtech CEOs with stage fright.

For more than two decades, Mahlena has helped leaders learn how to communicate clearly and confidently, whether they’re pitching ideas, presenting on stage, or navigating everyday professional conversations. In this conversation, we explore what it means to be an introvert in leadership, why public speaking is so challenging for so many people, and how preparation, self-awareness, and practice can transform presenting into something much more enjoyable.

Mahlena also shares insights from her book Speak Anyway, which encourages people to use their voices—even when fear or self-doubt shows up.

If you’ve ever felt nervous about speaking in front of people, this conversation will remind you that finding your voice is a skill you can learn.

What we talk about

What introverted leadership looks like in practice
Why public speaking anxiety is so common
How preparation and self-awareness improve communication
Cultural identity, citizenship, and how they shape how we show up
Personal branding and navigating competitive job markets
Rethinking genius, education, and how people learn

Chapters

00:28 – Understanding Introverted Leadership
09:12 – The Art of Speaking: Overcoming Fear and Finding Your Voice
19:22 – Navigating Cultural Identity and Citizenship
32:56 – Navigating Personal Branding in a Competitive Job Market
46:09 – Exploring Genius and Education

Things We Mentioned

Speak Anyway by Mahlena-Rae Johnson
https://mahlenaspeaks.blogspot.com/2023/11/speak-an.html

All about… Mahlena-Rae Johnson

Speaker, comedian, and six-time author Mahlena-Rae Johnson describes herself as the Professor X for introverted edtech CEOs with stage fright. For more than two decades, she has helped leaders hone the superpower of public speaking and communicate their ideas with clarity and confidence.

Her work focuses on helping founders and professionals—especially in the education technology space—develop communication skills that make pitching, presenting, and everyday leadership conversations easier and more authentic.

Mahlena has been featured on CBC Kids, The Great Canadian Woman Podcast, BusinessBecause, and more.

Connect with Mahlena-Rae Johnson

Instagram: @mahlenasguidetolife

Website: https://mahlenaspeaks.blogspot.com/

Book: Speak Anyway

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Hosted by: Stephanie Graham

Edited By Risha Brown

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Cover Art: Emma McGoldrick

Consistency Over Perfection: Briana Clearly on Making 12 Films in a Year

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Ep # 106: Consistency Over Perfection: Briana Clearly on Making 12 Films in a Year

This episode was recorded live on Saturday February 28th, 2026 at Lumpen Radio.

Summary of the episode

In this live, unedited episode recorded at Lumpen Radio 105.5 FM in Chicago, I sit down with Chicago filmmaker Briana Clearly to talk about what it really means to choose consistency over perfection.

Briana took on the ambitious challenge of making 12 films in 12 months — and then turned that experiment into a community-driven initiative called Filmmakers Mixtape. In this conversation, we unpack how committing to one film a month transforms not just your craft, but your mindset.

We talk about creative blocks, releasing work before it feels “ready,” building artistic community without ego, and why making good films is actually a side effect — not the point.

If you’re an artist stuck in perfectionism, a filmmaker craving momentum, or someone who needs a reminder to just make the thing anyway, this episode is for you.

What we talk about (you know… casually)

Making 12 films in 12 months (and why you don’t need money to do it)
Why consistency beats perfection every time
Building Filmmakers Mixtape from a personal challenge into a cohort
How community makes better art (and better artists)
Briana’s journey from the Navy to film school
Mentorship, vulnerability, and learning to take feedback
The dream of friendship-centered dramedies
Releasing work publicly — even when it feels scary

Things We Mentioned

All about... Briana Clearly

You’re gonna love Briana Clearly — she’s a collaborative director, community builder, and the creative force behind Filmmakers Mixtape, a 12-month filmmaking challenge designed to help artists prioritize process over perfection.

A former Navy sailor turned Chicago-based filmmaker, Briana is deeply committed to telling stories centered on Black women, friendship, and lived experience — always inviting audiences into conversation rather than spectacle.

She believes filmmaking is a practice, not a performance. And honestly? That energy is contagious.

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to noseyAF

• 09:02 - Exploring Filmmaking and Personal Storytelling

• 20:54 - Exploring the Dynamics of Friendship in Storytelling

• 31:56 - The Birth of Filmmakers Mixtape

• 41:32 - The Importance of Vulnerability in Filmmaking

• 50:41 - Exploring New Art Practices

• 59:01 - The Art of Filmmaking

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by Artist Admin Hour.

Every Wednesday from 7–9pm CT, artists gather on Zoom to tackle the admin we’ve all been avoiding — grant applications, budgets, residency forms, invoices, all of it.

Because behind every exhibition is a clear budget.

Admin is the flex.

Join us at: artistadminhour.com

Connect with Briana Clearly

Instagram: @brianaclearly
Filmmakers Mixtape: @filmmakersmixtape
Website: https://www.brianaclearly.com/

More ways to connect:

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Why Welcoming Everyone Gets Complicated with Garland Fuller

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Episode 106: Why Welcoming Everyone Gets Complicated with Garland Fuller

What this episode is about:

What does it actually take to build a space where people feel like they belong? Garland Fuller — culture consultant and founder of Third Space Academy — has made it her life's work to answer that question. We get into the gap between what organizations say they value and how they actually operate, why "I want everyone to come" is a lot trickier than it sounds, and what intentional community building really looks like in practice.

This one hit close to home — I share what I've been learning building my pop-up cinema project on Chicago's south side through the Change Collective fellowship, and Garland brings the strategic clarity to help it all click.

Let's get into it:

What is a culture consultant, actually? Garland breaks down the "people, place, program" framework and why culture is often the unseen force shaping how organizations actually operate — not just what's on the mission statement

Values: aspiration vs. reality — Why integrity and service are on everyone's list, what it actually means to walk the talk, and when it might be time to update values that no longer fit who your org has become

Third spaces are disappearing (or getting expensive) — From libraries to record shops to country clubs, Garland explains the spectrum of third spaces and who's really being invited in

The "I want everyone to come" trap — Why all-ages, all-inclusive spaces are aspirational but tricky, with real examples from Stephanie's micro cinema project (Poetic Justice vs. Disney night, anyone?)

Building the Community Impact Collective — Garland's digital sanctuary for femmes who are done fitting into boxes, why she built it for community over solo learning, and the Show and Tell Mondays that keep it real

Adapt or die: organizations that are going stale — A real talk about churches, legacy orgs, and what happens when your next generation isn't in your current membership

Practical strategies: surveying, focus groups, and why anonymous matters

Leadership advice that hits: People are watching you in the small moments more than the big keynotes

Chapters:

• 00:08 - Introducing the Guest

• 07:20 - Understanding Culture and Values in Organizations

• 16:55 - Creating All-Age Spaces: Building Community Connections

• 19:00 - Exploring Community Engagement

• 31:27 - Building Community and Support in Creative Spaces

• 36:14 - Facilitation and Empathy in Group Dynamics

• 44:21 - Facilitation and Engagement in Education

• 48:21 - Creating Third Spaces: Starting from Your Why

Things We Mentioned

Third Space Academy — Garland's coaching program for leaders building intentional community spaces

Community Impact Collective — Garland's digital community for femmes and changemakers

The Change Collective Fellowship — the civic leadership fellowship Stephanie participated in that sparked her pop-up cinema project

Soho House — referenced as an example of an exclusive, membership-based third space

Ray Oldenburg's concept of "third spaces" — the sociological framework underlying this whole convo (optional — confirm if mentioned explicitly)

All about... Garland

You're gonna love Garland — she's an award-winning People Strategist with over 15 years of expertise in HR, talent acquisition, employee engagement, and training. She's also an adjunct professor at the USC Price School and Principal Consultant at Fuller Circle Consulting, where she helps organizations build optimal, inclusive workplaces. Oh, and she founded Third Space Academy — so yeah, she's been busy.

Connect with Garland

Instagram

Website

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Risha Brown

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Joe Schupbach: Care Is the Curriculum

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Thank you for listening to noseyAF! So happy to have your ears!

This Conversation was recorded live for Lumpen Radio

Ep #104: Joe Schupbach: Care Is the Curriculum

SUMMARY

What does care really look like — beyond Valentine's Day chocolates and heart-shaped cards? In this episode of noseyAF, Stephanie Graham sits down with Joe Schupbach, a mission-driven educator, theater maker, and instructional coach with over two decades of experience in public education, nonprofits, and community-centered theater. Together they explore care as a daily practice: in classrooms, in collaborative creative spaces, in our neighborhoods, and in ourselves.

Joe shares how he stumbled into creative leadership, what trauma-informed teaching really means in practice, and why experiential learning matters more than ever in today's schools. The conversation moves through faith and identity, the joys of cooking as connection, and ends with a rallying call to get nosy about your local schools — and to support live, in-person art.

WHAT WE GET INTO 💬

You know when a conversation just goes everywhere in the best way? That's this one. Here's a taste of what Joe and Steph cover:

00:26 — Introduction to noseyAF

01:15 — Care as a daily ritual: not just something you perform on Valentine's Day, but how it shows up in classrooms, rehearsal rooms, and community spaces every single day

08:35 — How Joe accidentally fell into creative leadership — starting as a teaching artist right out of college and slowly becoming the person leading the room

18:06 — What trauma-informed teaching actually looks like on the ground, and why instructional coaches like Joe are changing the game in Chicago high schools

27:02 — Art-making during and after COVID-19 — how the pandemic forced a reckoning with what live, communal performance means and why it still matters

32:29 — Faith, identity, and how the personal bleeds into the professional for educators and artists alike

41:43 — Cooking as a love language: a genuinely delightful tangent about how preparing food for people is one of the most caring acts you can do

53:11 — How non-parents and non-teachers can meaningfully support local educators — including the surprisingly powerful role of Local School Councils (LSCs)

THINGS WE MENTIONED 🔗

Embarc Chicago — Joe's organization, working with 17 high schools in the Chicago area → embarcchicago.org

josephschupbach.com— Joe's personal site for artistic work, directing, and collaborations

Change Collective Fellowship — the leadership program Joe and Stephanie both participated in

Looking Glass Theatre — one of Joe's longtime artistic collaborators

PlayMakers Laboratory, The Neo-Futurists, The Ruffians, Salonathon, The Paper Machete — Chicago theater orgs Joe has worked with

DonorsChoose — mentioned as a way to directly support classroom supply needs

Local School Councils (LSCs) — the elected, community-based governing bodies of every Chicago Public School (and yes, you can be on one even if you don't have kids in the school!)

ALL ABOUT JOE SCHUPBACH 🎭

You're gonna love Joe — he's a two-MFA-having, theater-making, trauma-informed teaching wizard who genuinely believes care is the foundation of everything.

Joe Schupbach is an educator, writer, and director with 22 years of experience in public education, experimental community-based theatre, and nonprofit administration. He is a facilitator and instructional coach and currently serves as Head of Experiential Coaching at Embarc. Joe has been a frequent artistic collaborator with The Midwives, The Neo-Futurists, The Paper Machete, PlayMakers Laboratory, Pocket Guide To Hell, The Ruffians, and Salonathon. Joe holds two MFAs and is a proud Chicago Public Schools graduate. He was a 2024 fellow with Change Collective and is currently leading the Chicago Cohort of Change Collective fellows.

SPONSOR SHOUTOUT 💖

Come work with us at Artist Admin Hour , and get your work done.

CONNECT WITH JOE

Website: josephschupbach.com

Instagram: @joeschupbach

More ways to connect:

Follow me on Instagram @stephaniegraham

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Mental Health for Expats — Building Community Abroad with Moved With Peace

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #103: Mental Health for Expats — Building Community Abroad with Moved With Peace

Summary of the Episode

What really happens after you move abroad and the honeymoon phase wears off?

In this episode of noseyAF, host Stephanie Graham sits down with writer and community-builder Stephanie Rubinato to talk honestly about mental health for expats, postpartum depression, and the emotional realities of building a life far from home. Living abroad is often portrayed as dreamy and effortless—but this conversation pulls back the curtain on what’s usually left out.

Stephanie shares her personal experience navigating postpartum depression after moving to Italy, the isolation many immigrants and expats feel, and why community care is just as important as cultural immersion. Together, they unpack slow living, creative burnout, friendship shifts, and what it really takes to build meaningful support systems abroad.

This episode is a grounding, honest reminder that moving overseas doesn’t magically solve everything—and that seeking help, sharing resources, and building community is part of the journey.

What We Talk About

(aka: the real stuff you don’t see on Instagram 🇮🇹)

Mental health challenges for immigrants, expats, and digital nomads
Postpartum depression while living abroad
The gap between “aesthetic expat life” and reality
Building community through Moved With Peace
Slow living, self-trust, and creative rhythms
Friendship shifts, boundaries, and nourishment
Why vulnerability is a form of survival (not weakness)

Chapters

00:08 – Introduction to the Guest

03:07 – Navigating Mental Health Challenges as an Expat

22:32 – Navigating the Creative Chaos

35:51 – Building Community Abroad

39:51 – Navigating Friendships and Family Dynamics

Things We Mentioned

Moved With Peace – Stephanie’s community-centered project for immigrants and expats

Therapy resources & finding culturally aligned mental health support abroad

Slow living, journaling, affirmations, and grounding practices

The upcoming Italian Reset Retreat (launching 2027)

All about… Stephanie Rubinato

You’re gonna love Stephanie Rubinato — she’s a writer, community-builder, and calm-in-the-chaos type of creative.

Stephanie Rubinato is a writer and content strategist living in Italy, creating honest, grounded stories through Moved With Peace and Stephanie Rubinato Media. Her work centers slow living, self-trust, mental health, and building community—especially for immigrants and expats navigating life far from home. Through her writing, video projects, and upcoming retreats, Stephanie reminds us that we don’t have to do it all—we just have to do what’s real.

Connect with Stephanie Rubinato

Instagram: @movedwithpeace

Website: movedwithpeace.com

YouTube: Moved With Peace

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

→ Join artists, curators, and art lovers getting Good Stuff Only

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted by Me, Stephanie

Edited By: Risha Brown

Cover Art + Branding: Emma McGoldrick

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Getting Dressed Is Identity Work How Personal Style Opens Doors with Stylist Kyla

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #102: Getting Dressed Is Identity Work How Personal Style Opens Doors with Stylist Kyla

Summary of the episode

Ever had a full-blown meltdown trying to figure out what to wear? Personal stylist Kyla gets it—and she's here to tell you that your closet struggles go way deeper than just "not having the right clothes." In this episode, we're diving into the psychology of personal style, why taking your image seriously is actually a power move (not vanity), and how getting dressed every single day is identity work in disguise.

Kyla shares her journey from tech career to personal styling, breaks down why smart women absolutely DO care about their appearance, and explains how your closet might be signaling things about you that you didn't even realize. We talk about the "sexy Trinity," why you should only shop four times a year (yes, really), and how showing up ready to be seen has opened doors Kyla never expected. If you've ever felt invisible, stuck in leggings, or like your wardrobe doesn't match who you're becoming, this conversation is for you.

What we're getting into

Why correcting people on your name is actually about claiming your presence (and how Kyla turned it into a whole brand)
The connection between personal style and leadership—and why the "charismatic guy" gets ahead while brilliant women stay in the background
How your closet reveals your mental state (spoiler: if it's cluttered, your mind probably is too)
The three S's of feeling sexy: skin, support, and subject (aka the sexy Trinity)
Why you should NEVER shop more than four times a year
The difference between transactional styling and transformational styling
How to build a mix-and-matchable wardrobe that actually serves you
Why talent isn't enough—and how Kyla's style helped her land opportunities she never saw coming
The real reason you have a closet full of clothes but "nothing to wear"

Chapters:

• 00:18 - Introducing Kyla: A New Perspective on Fashion

• 06:01 - The Journey of Identity and Image

• 19:12 - The Psychology of Personal Style

• 28:27 - Understanding Consumerism and Personal Style

• 45:11 - The Power of Style and Presence

Things We Mentioned

Kyla's Closet Essentials Checklist - $2 resource with styling lesson (available at kylanotkayla.com)
Master Class on Feeling Sexy - Kyla's course on the three S's of sexy style
The Sexy Trinity: Skin, Support, Subject
Capsule Wardrobe concept - Cyclical seasonal approach to your closet
Fashion Psychology - The real psychological impact of what you wear
Tech industry & remote work culture - Kyla's background before styling
The Caribbean - Where Kyla spent two years before returning to the US

All about Kyla

You're gonna love Kyla—she's a personal stylist, former tech professional, and the woman behind "It's Kyla Not Kayla." She's equal parts practical systems guru (Virgo Moon energy) and woo-woo manifestation queen, and she truly believes your style is the biggest manifestation tool you have at any price point. Kyla helps creative women show up ready to be seen through transformational styling that goes way beyond just picking out cute outfits. She's all about identity work, closet psychology, and making sure you're the subject—not the object—in your own life.

Connect with Kyla

Website: kylanotkayla.com
Instagram: @itskylanotkayla

Noteworthy Quotes

"You can be wildly successful at something you were never meant to do."

"Smart women don't avoid caring about their appearance—they're strategic about it."

"Every day when you get dressed, it is the daily practice of identity work. Who am I being? Who am I becoming?"

"If your closet is cluttered, your mind is cluttered. If you are hiding in dull or shapeless clothing, you're trying to hide."

"Style is not supposed to be a costume. It's supposed to be something that supports you through your life."

"Your style is the biggest manifestation tool that you have at your disposal at any price point, at any stage in life."

"Stay ready so you don't have to get ready."

"Nobody should be shopping more than four times a year. It's a hill I'm willing to die on."

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced and hosted by me!

Edited by Risha Brown

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Cover Art and Branding: Emma McGoldrick

Freedom, Flexibility, and Filling the Gap: How Melquea Smith Built a Creative Life Through Children's Book Illustration

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #101: Freedom, Flexibility, and Filling the Gap: How Melquea Smith Built a Creative Life Through Children's Book Illustration

Summary

In this episode, I sit down with Melquea Smith, a children's book illustrator, author, and world traveler who's redefining what it means to build a creative life on your own terms. Fresh off five weeks in Belgium (with cats and a chicken!), Melquea shares how losing her nonprofit job became the catalyst for going full-time as an illustrator, why representation in children's books matters deeply, and how she's scaling her art through Brown Sugar Graphics—a clip art membership celebrating Black and Brown kids in all their beautiful diversity.

We get into the nitty-gritty of how picture books actually get made, what authors should look for when hiring an illustrator, and why visual storytelling is so much more than "just drawing." Plus, Melquea drops gems on building a sustainable creative business, navigating perfectionism, and finding alignment between your work, your values, and your joy.

If you've ever wondered what goes into those gorgeous picture books, dreamed of going location-independent as a creative, or just need permission to imagine a different way of living—this one's for you.

Chapters

00:19 - Introducing Melquea Smith: A Visionary in Children's Literature
10:13 - Navigating Change: Embracing Freedom and Creativity
20:00 - Transitioning to Children's Illustration
35:06 - The Importance of Representation in Children's Literature
56:41 - The Journey of Creating Diverse Clip Art
01:02:01 - The Creative Journey of Brown Sugar Graphics

What We Talk About

How Melquea networked like a pro at the American Library Association Conference with custom postcards and a manuscript wish list
Losing a job in the nonprofit world and choosing full-time illustration instead of going back to corporate
Living and working abroad: five weeks in Belgium, falling in love with the Netherlands, and becoming a global citizen
The actual process of illustrating a children's book—from thumbnails to color scripting to final art
Why illustrators aren't just "drawers"—they're visual storytellers, marketers, and business owners
The severe lack of diverse, high-quality clip art featuring Black and Brown kids
How Brown Sugar Graphics is filling that gap with joyful, authentic representations of kids with different skin tones, hair textures, body types, abilities, and more
What authors should know before hiring an illustrator (hint: it's not just about the art)
The power of email lists, the exhaustion of social media, and showing up where it matters most

Things We Mentioned

American Library Association (ALA) Conference – A major event for librarians, publishers, and children's book creators
Manuscript Wish List (MSWL) – A tool agents, editors, and illustrators use to share what kinds of projects they're looking for
Room to Read – An organization fighting illiteracy globally; Melquea illustrated Two Homes in Omar's Heart for them
The Biggest Gift of All – Picture book illustrated by Melquea, written by Luda Goglushko, published by Cluedus Press
The Time Machine – Picture book illustrated by Melquea, written by Pauline David Sachs, published by Cardinal Rule Press
DeviantArt – An early online platform for artists (nostalgic vibes for millennials!)
Dream Machine Course by Chris Oatley – The course that helped Melquea choose her creative path
Liz Wilcox's Email Marketing Membership – The inspiration behind Melquea's membership model
Brown Sugar Graphics – Melquea's clip art membership featuring diverse illustrations of Black and Brown kids ($9/month)
IngramSpark – A self-publishing platform for authors
Teacher Pay Teachers – A marketplace for educational resources
Little Women Atlanta – Reality TV show Stephanie loves (and a great example of representation mattering!)

All About Melquea Smith

You're gonna love Melquea—she's a children's book illustrator, author, full-time creative, and certified world traveler who's all about Black and Brown joy, imagination, and possibility on the page. With over two decades of illustration experience and a background in nonprofit fundraising, she brings storytelling, strategy, and serious skill to every project. She's illustrated multiple picture books, co-founded a local cosplay group, rocks blue box braids and piercings with pride, and is currently plotting her move to the Netherlands. Basically, she's living proof that you can build a creative life that's aligned with your values, your body, and your joy.

Connect with Melquea Smith

Website: prettykittypaintings.com (click the pink "Surprise" button for 3 free illustrations!)
Brown Sugar Graphics: Join the membership for $9/month and get weekly diverse clip art featuring Black and Brown kids
Instagram: Follow Melquea for behind-the-scenes illustration work, travel stories, and creative business insights

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More Ways to Connect

Email: stephanie@missgraham.com
Check out my work: missgraham.com
Follow me on Instagram: @stephaniegraham
Listen to more episodes: noseyAF.com

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced and Hosted by Stephanie

Edited by: Risha Brown

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

noseyAF Cover Art and Branding by: Emma McGoldrick

Chicago Artist Deirdre Fox on Turning Plastic Waste into Environmental Art & Visual Poetry

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

This conversation was recorded live at Lumpen Radio in Chicago on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

Ep # 100: Chicago Artist Deirdre Fox on Turning Plastic Waste into Environmental Art & Visual Poetry

Summary of the episode

Chicago-based artist Deirdre Fox joins noseyAF for a live, unedited conversation from 105.5 FM Lumpen Radio about art, plastic waste, and environmental consciousness. Deirdre’s practice transforms discarded consumer packaging into drawings, fiber works, and installations that challenge how we think about disposability, permanence, and material value.

In this episode, host Stephanie Graham talks with Deirdre about her artistic journey, the idea of visual poetry, and how mindfulness—both in making and consuming—shapes her work. Together, they explore the tension between organic and synthetic materials, the limits of recycling, and the role artists play in addressing environmental responsibility through creative practice.

This conversation invites listeners to slow down, look closer, and reconsider the materials that move through their everyday lives.

What we talk about

Transforming plastic consumer packaging into drawings, fiber works, and installations
Visual poetry and storytelling through material
Mindfulness, consumption, and environmental responsibility
The evolution of Deirdre’s artistic practice from representational to abstract work
Making art that lives in the tension between permanence and disposability

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to noseyAF

• 02:30 - Deirdre's Artistic Journey with Plastic Waste

• 15:20 - Reflecting on Pouch Cove

• 29:36 - Finding One's Voice in Art

• 42:56 - Balancing Time and Creativity

• 52:13 - Exploring Artistic Processes and Sustainability

• 58:43 - Exploring Artistic Collaborations

All about… Deirdre Fox

You’re gonna love Deirdre they’re a Chicago-based artist turning everyday plastic waste into visually refined, quietly radical works of environmental reflection.

Deirdre Fox crochets and weaves plastic consumer packaging into drawings, fiber pieces, and drawing installations. Her work functions as personal gestures of environmental consciousness, rooted in the understanding that plastics made for convenience—like single-use bags—last far longer than intended, and that recycling alone is not an adequate solution.

Her practice questions systems of built-in obsolescence and accumulated waste, while creating visual poems that hold time, care, and material awareness. Deirdre has exhibited at FlexSpace Riverside Art Center, Hyde Park Art Center, Boundary Chicago, Evanston Art Center, the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Koehnline Museum of Art Gallery, and the Swedish American Museum, among others. She has received multiple grants from the City of Chicago and the Illinois Arts Council and maintains her studio at Mana Contemporary Chicago.

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by Artist Admin Hour

Get your work done with structure, with company. Check out Artist Admin Hour at missgraham.com/artistadminhour

Connect with Deirdre Fox

Instagram: @deirdre_fox_art
Website: http://www.artbydado.com/

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Recorded Live at Lumpen Radio

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Cover Art + Branding: Emma McGoldrick

The Rise of Women’s Sports, NIL Money, and the Power of the Everyday Athlete

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

EP# 99 The Rise of Women’s Sports, NIL Money, and the Power of the Everyday Athlete with Angela Hollowell

✨ Episode Summary

Women’s sports are having a moment — and it’s about time.

In this episode of noseyAF, Stephanie Graham sits down with filmmaker, writer, and Melanin MVP founder Angela Hollowell to talk about the rise of women’s sports, the impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) money, and why the idea of the “everyday athlete” might change how we think about movement altogether.

We get into how women athletes, especially women of color, are finally getting visibility, how branding and social media have reshaped college and pro sports, and why athleticism doesn’t have to look one specific way. From glam on the court to cycling for joy, this conversation explores how creativity, confidence, and culture show up in sports — and in life.

If you’ve ever thought “sports aren’t really for me,” this episode might change your mind.

🗣️ What We Get Into

Why women’s sports are finally getting real attention
How NIL money changed the game for college athletes
What an “everyday athlete” actually is — and why it matters
Glam, femininity, and breaking outdated ideas of athleticism
The pressure young athletes face in the age of social media
Filmmaking, creativity, and finding balance without burning out

⏱️ Chapters

00:11 — Welcome & setting the scene
00:35 — The rise of women’s sports + NIL money
11:22 — How Melanin MVP came to be
17:06 — Everyday athletes & redefining movement
23:19 — Reality TV, Alabama, and cultural detours
27:30 — Documentary filmmaking & creative process
37:14 — Balance, focus, and doing less better
46:03 — Sports relationships & team dynamics
48:24 — Melanin MVP Awards brainstorm 👀
55:54 — The yearbook idea & what’s next

🔗 Things We Mentioned

Melanin MVP – Newsletter + podcast spotlighting women athletes of color
The Melanin MVP Cross-Training Quiz (not for the weak, apparently 😭)
NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) legislation

🌟 All About Angela Hollowell

You’re gonna love Angela — she’s thoughtful, hilarious, deeply intentional, and casually changing how we think about sports and storytelling.

Angela Hollowell is the founder of Rootful Media, a creative documentary film production company based in Durham, North Carolina. She’s also the host of the video podcasts Honey & Hustle and Melanin MVP.

Her work centers Southern voices and explores the outdoors, health equity, environmental justice, and social impact — all through a thoughtful, culture-forward lens. Beyond filmmaking, Angela helps visual storytellers and creative entrepreneurs grow their audience and build meaningful creative businesses.

When she’s not working, you can find her outside, on a bike, or enjoying a fruity beer or margarita with friends 🍹.

🔌 Connect with Angela

Instagram: @honeyhustlepod
Website: https://www.angelahollowell.com/
Newsletter / Podcast: Melanin MVP

👋🏾 Connect with Stephanie

🫶🏾 Support the Show

🎬 Episode Credits

Produced, hosted, by me, Stephanie

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Episode Edited by: Risha Brown

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Print Your Legacy: Lawrence Nalls on Multi-Generational Photography and Pride

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #98: Print Your Legacy: Lawrence Nalls on Multi-Generational Photography and Pride

Summary of the episode

Lawrence Nalls, managing photographer of Forty Photography, shares the profound journey of building a multi-generational Chicago photography studio rooted in legacy, storytelling, and community service. In this conversation, Lawrence reveals how his father's Vietnam War documentation sparked a family tradition that's now entering its third generation. We explore the emotional weight of photography as both art form and responsibility, the importance of print over digital, and why Lawrence believes every photograph should make you feel something. From learning to "figure it out" with his first camera to teaching his sons the business, Lawrence offers candid insights on building trust with clients, the hard lessons of running a creative business (yes, take deposits!), and how to help people see past their insecurities to capture pride. This episode is a masterclass in intentional photography, sustainable creative practice, and the power of printed images to preserve family legacy.

What we're getting into

You know how some conversations just feel like sitting down with someone who's lived it and learned it? That's this whole episode.

The origin story of Forty Photography - from Vietnam War footage to a thriving multi-generational studio
Why prints matter more than digital files - and how Lawrence shifted his entire practice around this philosophy
The business side of photography - storage systems, deposits, redundancy, and the stuff nobody talks about
Building trust and managing client insecurities - including Lawrence's "word bank" technique for portrait sessions
Keeping enthusiasm alive after 19 years - the daily present philosophy and why relationships are wealth
Film vs. digital and intentionality - how shooting film shaped Lawrence's approach to digital photography
Parenting, sports, and passing down the legacy - raising two sons in the family business

Folks and Things We Mentioned

Forty Photography - Lawrence's multi-generational Chicago photography studio
John H. White - Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer and church friend who inspired Lawrence
Gordon Parks - Legendary photographer and director of Shaft
Annie Leibovitz - Renowned portrait photographer
Richard Avedon - Fashion and portrait photographer
Sarah Oliphant - Artist who hand-paints canvases for photography backgrounds
Chicago Alliance of African American Photographers (CAAAP) - Organization focused on documenting Black life with pride
Rainbow Beach - Lawrence's "happy place" on Chicago's South Side
Artist Admin Hour - Stephanie's Wednesday accountability sessions for artists (artistadminhour.com)

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to the Conversation

• 06:49 - The Legacy of 4D Photography

• 12:36 - The Transition to Digital Photography

• 15:50 - Documenting Family Memories

• 22:50 - Capturing Moments: The Art of Photography and Trust

• 34:11 - Managing a Photography Business: Insights from Experience

• 42:12 - Lessons Learned from Hard Experiences

• 44:32 - The Importance of Sports in Parenting

• 49:44 - Exploring Photography and Relationships

• 56:15 - Reflections on the Podcast Journey

All about Lawrence

You're gonna love Lawrence—he's a third-generation photographer, cigar enthusiast, devoted father, and the kind of creative who believes every photo should evoke a sense of pride. His studio, Forty Photography (named after doctors told his father he'd be lucky to live to 40 after Vietnam War injuries—he's turning 80 next month!), serves families, schools, and organizations across Chicago. Lawrence approaches photography with intention, encouraging clients to think beyond social media and put their memories on the wall. He's also the guy who will absolutely not participate in your negative self-talk during a photo session—instead, he'll have you build a word bank of how you want to feel, then help you embody it.

Connect with Lawrence Nalls

Instagram: @fortyphotography
Website: fortyphotography.com
Location: Bridgeport, Chicago

Come to the Studio? 🪑✨

Want more? Good Stuff Only subscribers get:

👀 First Looks — New artwork, pins, films, and projects before anyone else

📖 Studio Stories — The messy, honest behind-the-scenes of making art IRL

🎉 Good Vibes Only — Candid updates and occasional treats

📅 What's Next — Exhibition invites, screenings, releases, and art happenings

More ways to connect:

Email: stephanie@missgraham.com
Check out my work
Follow me on Instagram: @stephaniegraham
Listen to more episodes

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Theme Music Lyrics: Queen Lex

Theme Music Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Recorded Live at Lumpen Radio, Chicago

This episode was recorded live on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Lumpen Radio in Chicago.

OUTCRY Project: How Collective Scream Sessions Create Radical Empathy and Healing with Whitney Bradshaw

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #97: OUTCRY Project: How Collective Scream Sessions Create Radical Empathy and Healing with Whitney Bradshaw

Thank you for listening to noseyAF! So happy to have your ears!

This conversation was recorded live at Lumpen Radio on Saturday, December 13, 2025

Summary of the episode

What does it look like to be out loud together? In this powerful episode, artist and activist Whitney Bradshaw shares the story behind OUTCRY—her groundbreaking social practice project that brings women, non-binary, and genderqueer people together for collective scream sessions centered on healing, resistance, and radical empathy.

Born from the intersection of the MeToo movement and the 2016 election,OUTCRY creates intentionally intersectional spaces where participants practice speaking up and out for themselves, release trauma held in their bodies, and build unexpected community with strangers. Over seven years, Whitney has facilitated nearly 80 sessions in 14 states, photographing more than 530 participants in moments of raw emotional power.

We get the skinny on what actually happens during these two-hour sessions, the science behind why screaming makes us 7% stronger, and how radical empathy can transform both personal healing and collective action. Plus, we talk about the new documentary film OUTCRY: Alchemists of Rage, somatic therapy, scream boxes, and why our culture desperately needs more spaces for collective grieving.

Key Takeaways:

The OUTCRY project serves as a transformative platform for collective healing and empowerment, particularly for marginalized communities
Screaming is not merely an act of expression; it serves as a therapeutic mechanism that fosters resilience, emotional release, and literally makes you 7% stronger
Whitney Bradshaw's work emphasizes the importance of radical empathy, encouraging participants to engage deeply with diverse experiences across intersectional identities
The sessions facilitate a unique environment where individuals can practice voicing their truths in front of strangers, contributing to personal and communal growth and often forming lasting friendships and activist networks

Resources & Links:

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
21C Museum Hotel Louisville (current exhibition through end of December 2025)

Chapters

00:09 - Introduction to Motivation and Self-Reflection
01:38 - Introducing OUTCRY: A Collective Healing Experience
17:14 - Voices Unleashed: The Power of Sharing Stories
22:50 - The Importance of Expressing Anger
27:11 - Introduction to Radical Empathy
41:41 - The Evolution of OUTCRY
51:10 - The Evolution of OUTCRY: A Journey of Healing and Art
55:57 - Exploring Artistic Identity and New Projects

All about Whitney

You're gonna love Whitney she's a powerhouse artist, activist, and the kind of person who invites neighbors over to scream in her living room (and bakes banana bread for the occasion).

Whitney Bradshaw is an artist, activist, educator, curator, former social worker, and documentary film producer whose practice is dedicated to healing and empowerment while boldly confronting the social systems that marginalize and oppress. She is the creator of OUTCRY, an ongoing social practice project that has been exhibited widely across the United States, with solo shows at Atlanta Contemporary, the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, the DePaul Art Museum, Villanova University Art Gallery, Moreau Galleries at St. Mary's College, the 21c Museum Hotel Louisville, and Wave Pool Contemporary Art Fulfillment Center.

Her photographs are held in prominent collections including the Museum of Contemporary Photography, the DePaul Art Museum, Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law, the Hall Art and Technology Foundation, and the Sara M. and Michelle Vance Waddell Collection and have been featured in Ms. Magazine, The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, NewCity Magazine, and Vogue.

Both Whitney and OUTCRY are the subject of a short documentary film titled OUTCRY: Alchemists of Rage directed by Clare Major and produced by Frankly Speaking Films. The film premiered at the Frameline Film Festival in San Francisco in June 2024 and was shortlisted for the International Documentary Association's Best Short Film Award of 2024.

In Fall 2023, Whitney was named one of NewCity Magazine's "50 Chicago Artists' Artists." She currently serves as curator at the Lubeznik Center for the Arts in Michigan City, Indiana, following earlier roles as chair of the visual arts conservatory at the Chicago High School for the Arts, curator of the esteemed LaSalle Bank Photography Collection, and adjunct professor of photography at Columbia College Chicago. Before her curatorial and educational career, she worked as a social worker supporting survivors of sexual abuse and assault, families of children with disabilities, and adults with disabilities.

Whitney holds an MFA in Photography from Columbia College Chicago and a BA in Sociology and Women's Studies from Eastern Illinois University, where she helped establish the interdisciplinary Women's Studies program in 1988 and became its first graduate in 1991.

Recent Press on Whitney:

Ms. Magazine: "Screaming for Change"
NewCity: "Feminine Gaze Feminine Rage OUTCRY" by Zara Yost (August 8, 2024)
NewCity's Top 50 Chicago Artists' Artists
Ms. Magazine: "Whitney Bradshaw's OUTCRY"

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by Artist Admin Hour

Every Wednesday, 7 to 9pm Central, artists show up on Zoom to tackle what we've been avoiding: residency applications, grant apps, budgets, invoices, whatever's on your list. Two hours of body doubling with structure, no shame, and real community. $25 to $45 a month gets you in. But if that's not doable, email me—getting this done is very important, and we will make it work.

Stop letting admin sabotage your practice. Join us today at Artist Admin Hour.

Connect with Whitney

Website: WhitneyBradshaw.com
Instagram: @thewhitneybradshaw
Film Website: OUTCRYfilm.com
Whitney's Linktree : For upcoming screenings, exhibitions, and sessions
Coming Up: The Feminist Art Project's Special Session at the College Art Association National Conference in Chicago on Feb 21

More ways to connect:

Email: stephanie@missgraham.com
Check out my work
Follow me on Instagram: @stephaniegraham
Listen to more episodes

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Photo of Whitney by Jamie Kelter Davis for Seriously Badass Women

Bring the Avalanche: How to Turn Rejection Into Motivation — with Maurice Proffitt

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #96: Bring the Avalanche: How to Turn Rejection Into Motivation — with Maurice Proffitt

“Trust yourself. This world will try to tell you otherwise every single day.”- Maurice Proffitt

This conversation was recorded live at Lumpen Radio on Saturday November 22, 2025

Summary of the episode

In this episode, we sit down with Chicago creative and producer Maurice Proffitt to talk about creative rejection, the fear of success, and what it really takes to build a career without waiting for permission. Maurice shares the moments that shaped him: the childhood spark that made him a storyteller, the brutal rejection that changed his entire trajectory, and how he learned to turn setbacks into motivation.

If you’ve ever felt overlooked, underestimated, or right on the edge of something big—but scared to leap—this conversation will give you fuel.

What we talk about

A friendly deep-dive into what it really means to grow as an artist.
Turning rejection into motivation
Overcoming the fear of success and leveling up
Growing up Black in Schaumburg and finding your “B-side” identity
Why you should stop asking for permission and create anyway
Building B-Side Productions and Dreamscape
Friendship, community, and the people who hold you up
Maurices first web series “Broke AF,” filmmaking, and learning to edit
The moment he said: “Enough is enough — I’m building my own lane.”

Things We Mentioned

Rejection Proof: How I Beat Fear and Became Invincible Through 100 Days of Rejection by Jia Jiang (affiliate link)

“Broke AF” web series

B-Side Studios

Dreamscape Theatre

Batman Begins — “Why do we fall?” reference

Chapters:

00:23 - Introduction to Self-Expression

01:51 - The Fear of Success

12:24 - Navigating the Creative Landscape

19:33 - The Heartbreak of Rejection

24:33 - The Concept of B-Side Productions

31:51 - Identity and Growing Up in Schaumburg

36:15 - The Journey of Friendship and Creativity

44:11 - Transition to Filmmaking and Editing

51:01 - Resilience in the Face of Adversity

54:43 - The Journey of a Show: From Preparation to Performance

All about... Maurice Proffitt

You're gonna love Maurice Proffitt—he’s a filmmaker, theatre producer, community-builder, and creative force whose work centers the stories and voices usually overlooked. From theater to film to building his own production companies, Maurice is all about creating space for the hidden gems, the B-sides, and the people who don’t fit the mold.

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by Artist Admin Hour.

Admin is the flex—and your practice deserves it. Join us Wednesdays, 7–9pm CT for structured co-working that helps you get things off your list and out of your head.

Learn more: artistadminhour.com

Connect with Maurice Proffit

Instagram: @mrproffit

Website: https://www.dreamscapetheatre.com/

More ways to connect:

Follow on Instagram @stephaniegraham

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Support & Feedback

Rate & Review on your podcast platform

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Artist Admin Hour instrumental by Soundroll

Welcome to noseyAF: Conversations about Art, Activism and Social Change

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 15:30:00 -0500

Ever wonder what a creative life really looks like beyond the highlight reel?

I'm Stephanie Graham, an artist and filmmaker, and I host noseyAF conversations about art, activism, and social change. I ask the kind of honest questions that make people go, "Ooh, good one".

We'll talk about when you knew you had to make a project, how you really handle rejection, and where the weirdest place inspiration struck. We have rich, fun, and honest talks with artists, activists, and everyday legends who are out here doing the work that matters. We get into the breakthroughs, the 3 AM doubts, the side hustles funding it all, and the messy, messy pivots.

If you want actionable, inspiring conversations that spark ideas and curiosity, subscribe to noseyAF today. Let's get nosy and curious together

Queer History Is Everywhere: Dr. Kate Henry on Archives, Rhetoric & Lisa Ben

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep # 95: Queer History Is Everywhere: Dr. Kate Henry on Archives, Rhetoric & Lisa Ben

Summary of the episode

Hey its Stephanie here! In this episode of noseyAF, we get into queer history, archives, and public scholarship with Dr. Kate Henry — writer, scholar, poet, and creator of Lisa Benography, a public scholarship project documenting Lisa Ben, the woman behind the first known lesbian magazine in the U.S. Kate and I talk about the magic and messiness of archives, what feminist historiography actually is, and how queer stories survive even when institutions try to erase them.

We also get into creative writing, rhetoric, butch/femme histories, and what it means to consider your own life an archive. It’s tender, nerdy, funny, and honestly one of my favorite conversations.

What we talk about

How Dr. Kate first stumbled into queer history and feminist historiography
The wild, brilliant, and deeply influential life of Lisa Ben
Why archives matter — and how everyday people create them
The difference between academic scholarship and public scholarship (and how to make knowledge accessible)
Creative writing, rhetoric, and the “moves” queer creators make under censorship
A juicy tangent on personal archives, family keepsakes, and documenting our own lives
How queer histories survive through scraps, letters, love, and community care

Things We Mentioned

Lisa Benography website (Kate’s public scholarship project)
ONE Archives at the USC Libraries (where Lisa Ben’s papers live)
“Vice Versa” — the first known lesbian magazine in the U.S.
The book Overlooked by The New York Times (Kate is cited in the Lisa Ben entry)
Patrick Kelly biography project by Dr. Eric Darnell Pritchard
Magazine of Horror / sci-fi fanzines (Lisa Ben’s “Tigrina” work)

Chapters:

00:09 - Exploring Queer History: The Legacy of Lisa Ben
09:06 - Public Scholarship and Queer Histories
24:11 - The Impact of Lisa Ben and Queer Archives
34:53 - The Legacy of Lisa Ben: Documenting Queer Histories
47:01 - The Evolution of Personal and Public Scholarship

All about Dr. Kate Henry

Dr. Kate Henry is a Productivity Coach who specializes in sustainable and well-being-oriented productivity for folks working on academic writing projects. Kate holds an MFA in Creative Writing and a PhD in Rhetoric and Composition, and she researches and publishes as a public scholar. She's the author of the newsletter "Tending," the host of the podcast "Honing In," and she lives in Boston, MA, with her spouse, two cats, and a 7-pound chihuahua.

Connect with Dr. Kate Henry

Instagram: @thetendingyear

Website: https://katehenry.com/

Newsletter: Tending with Dr. Kate Henry

Podcast: Honing In

🚨 Also, as I mentioned in the episode, Dr. Kate is a productivity coach. If you need your life together, hit her up in December. She will open her books for new Success & Accountability Coaching Clients who want to work together in 2026.

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Plant-Based Entrepreneur Niehla Ollie: From Beauty Industry to Homegirl’s Hummus

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0500

Ep # 94 : Plant-Based Entrepreneur Niehla Ollie: From Beauty Industry to Homegirl’s Hummus

This episode was recorded live on Saturday November 8th at Lumpen Radio in Chicago.

Summary of the episode

This week on noseyAF, I’m talking with Niehla Ollie, the creative behind Homegirl’s Hummus. After more than 20 years in the fashion and beauty world, Niehla had a late-night hummus craving in Milwaukee that changed everything. What started as a midnight snack moment turned into a full-on business built on flavor, love, and community.

Niehla opens up about loss, faith, and starting over, and we get into how food can heal and connect people. She shares what it’s really like to run a food business, the importance of taking care of yourself while chasing your dreams, and why kindness and a good dip go a long way.

This conversation is full of heart, hustle, and hummus — the perfect combo.

Chapters:

• 00:17 - A New Beginning

• 06:08 - The Origin of Homegirls Hummus

• 12:40 - Transitioning to Healthy Eating Choices

• 19:22 - Navigating Dietary Restrictions During the Holidays

• 22:57 - The Journey of Homegirl Hummus

• 32:06 - The Importance of Self-Care

• 45:34 - Faith and Business: A Journey of Hope

• 52:15 - Exploring the World of Hummus and Beyond

• 56:11 - The Art of Entertaining

What we talk about

How Niehla went from beauty industry boss to hummus queen

The story behind Homegirl’s Hummus and how it started with one late-night craving

Why plant-based eating doesn’t have to be complicated or boring

Handling grief, growth, and entrepreneurship with faith and flavor

The real talk about self-care and staying grounded while building something new

All about… Niehla Ollie

You’re gonna love Niehla Ollie (aka Niehla O). After more than 20 years in fashion and beauty, she wanted to help people feel good from the inside out. That led her to create Homegirl’s Hummus, a plant-based brand that’s all about community, creativity, and connection.

She started making hummus for friends in L.A. back in 2016, and after moving back home to Chicago — and through some major life changes — she decided to go all in. In 2021, Homegirl’s Hummus was officially born, spreading love (and hummus) one scoop at a time.

Connect with Niehla

Instagram: @homegirlshummus

Website: homegirlshummus.com

More ways to connect:

Support & Feedback

“Know My Name” by Chanel Miller

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Stop Overthinking Your Brand: A Real Talk Guide for Creative Entrepreneurs with Bridget Baker

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 20:30:00 -0500

Ep 93: Stop Overthinking Your Brand: A Real Talk Guide for Creative Entrepreneurs

Summary of the episode

In this episode of noseyAF, I sit down with brand designer and website strategist Bridget Baker to demystify the overwhelming world of branding for artists and creative entrepreneurs. Bridget shares her journey from professional dancer and choreographer to helping people build authentic brands that actually reflect who they are—not who they think they should be. We dig into why branding feels so intimidating, how to give yourself permission to be yourself online, and why perfection is the enemy of connection. Bridget breaks down the difference between personal and business brands, explains when (and if) you should worry about brand consistency, and shares practical advice for creative people who contain multitudes. If you've ever felt paralyzed by the pressure to have perfectly polished brand photos, matching color palettes, or a "professional" online presence, this conversation is for you.

Topics discussed:

Why branding feels overwhelming and how to give yourself permission to be authentic
The difference between personal and business brands (and what to do when you ARE the business)
How minimalism and organization principles apply to brand strategy
When to update your brand colors, photos, and messaging (spoiler: it's more flexible than you think)
Building community through co-working spaces like Write Shit Mondays
The problem with AI-generated brand content and homogenized aesthetics
Practical first steps for clarifying your brand based on what you actually want your life to look like

Chapters:

• 00:14 - Introduction to Bridget Baker

• 06:57 - The Intersection of Personal and Business Branding

• 12:25 - Evolving Brand Stories

• 17:41 - The Role of Minimalism in Branding

• 26:28 - The Journey to Website Branding

• 37:06 - Exploring Community and Connections

• 38:43 - The Evolution of Write Shit Mondays

• 46:20 - Understanding Branding Flexibility

All About Bridget

Bridget Baker specializes in working with coaches, consultants, therapists, organizers, and overall, people who help people. Her superpower is giving you the permission you need to brand your BIZ the way YOU want to. She's been a minimalist since before it was trendy, and organized her friends' closets for fun as a kid (true story!) Simplifying spaces and creating more room to play are her jam. That, coupled with a background in dance and choreography led her to want to find a way to use both her creative and organizational passions. Sprinkle in some writing and consulting, and over the past 15 years, she's built a business that has given her the flexibility and freedom to work from anywhere. Building brands and websites is the place where she combines all those skills and helps people let go of the cluttered ideas about their brands, and create the space for something they love.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Write Shit Mondays - Bridget's free weekly co-working writing community (every Monday)
Bridget's Website - Connect with Bridget for branding and website services

Noteworthy quotes from this episode

"Branding is your behavior. It's your personality. What has you go buy that color of Stanley mug? It's not just Instagram telling you—it's like, pink is my thing."

"This thing that's scary for you to share is probably the thing you should share because that's the thing that's going to make you the most vulnerable. That's going to have people connect with you and go, 'Oh my gosh, you're a real person.'"

"Get clear about what you really want in your life. And then you build the brand from there. You don't just go, 'What marketable skills do I have?' Because then you just get into hustle culture."

"You contain multitudes. You have these different arenas that you share with the world—your art, your work, your podcast. That's what makes it interesting."

"I'm a website therapist because I do like to dig in and really figure out the juicy underbelly of people's brands."

Connect with Bridget Baker

Instagram: @bridgetbakerbranding
Website: bridgetbakerbranding.com

Connect & Stay Updated

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Voices of Survival: A Conversation with Filmmaker James Coney

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #92: Voices of Survival — A Conversation with Filmmaker James Coney

Thank you for listening to noseyAF! So happy to have your ears!

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This episode of noseyAF was recorded live on Lumpen Radio on October 25, 2025, and features filmmaker James Coney, founder of Joyful Rebellion Films and creator of the short film “There Are No Words”.

The film takes inspiration from Chanel Miller’s powerful victim impact statement, and James joins me to talk about what it means to tell survivor-centered stories with care, empathy, and intention. We get into how he brought together 35 actresses to collectively voice Chanel’s words, how filmmaking can serve as healing, and why representation behind the camera matters just as much as what we see on screen.

It’s a tender, thoughtful conversation about the ways art can open hearts, challenge silence, and spark community healing.

What We Talk About

How “There Are No Words” came to life
James’s creative process and why he chose 35 actresses to share Chanel Miller’s words
What it means to create a safe and supportive set
The connection between filmmaking, empathy, and activism
How storytelling can inspire understanding and change

Things We Mentioned

All About James Coney

James Coney has been a movie lover since childhood — Amadeus was his first big-screen obsession. After earning a film degree from Columbia College Chicago, he worked in TV production on shows like Judge Mathis, The Oprah Winfrey Show, Steve Harvey, and America’s Got Talent.

In 2015, he founded Joyful Rebellion Films — a company committed to fearless storytelling that challenges silence and celebrates authenticity. There Are No Words continues that mission by amplifying the voices of survivors and using film as a tool for empathy and awareness.

🎬 Instagram: @joyfulrebellionfilms

🌐 Website: joyfulrebellionfilms.com

Takeaways 💭

Art can be a form of healing. James shows how filmmaking can hold space for pain, reflection, and transformation — both for artists and audiences.
Representation behind the camera matters. Centering women’s voices in every part of the process changed the way this story was told and received.
Listening is powerful. When we take the time to truly hear survivor stories, we open the door to empathy, connection, and lasting change.

Chapters

• 00:04 - Live from Lumpen Radio: Meet James Coney

• 03:29 - How “There Are No Words” Came to Be

• 19:33 - Filmmaking Through a Pandemic

• 28:26 - Building a Safe Set for Survivors

• 42:06 - Why Representation and Empathy Matter

More ways to connect:

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

The Power of Intentional Community Building with Lindsay Lerner

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:15:00 -0500

Ep #91: The Power of Intentional Community Building with Lindsey Lerner

Summary of the Episode

Hey friends! In this episode, I’m talking with Lindsey Lerner community builder, photographer, and creative strategist who’s all about shaking things up. Lindsey calls herself “allergic to the status quo,” and once you hear her talk, you’ll totally get why.

Her project, Field Notes from the Work in the Wild, captures people in those quiet, in-between moments before the big break, before the outcome when they’re just doing the work and figuring things out. We talked about how capitalism affects the way we see value, what it really means to build community that matters, and how slowing down to notice the “messy middle” can actually be where the magic lives.

This one’s full of heart, honesty, and a few mic-drop moments. I promise it’ll have you thinking about creativity, care, and community in a whole new way.

Topics We Got Into

What intentional community building really looks like (and what it’s not)
How capitalism shapes the way we value ourselves and others
The inspiration behind Field Notes from the Work in the Wild
Owning your power and agency in work and life
The difference between having an audience, fans, and a true community
Curiosity and vulnerability as creative superpowers
What it means to be “allergic to the status quo”

Takeaways

You have more power and agency than you might think use it with intention.
A real community isn’t just followers or fans it’s about connection, care, and reciprocity.
The in-between moments matter. That’s where growth, creativity, and clarity show up.
It’s okay to question the systems you’re in and to define value on your own terms.
You’re allowed to be more than one thing artist, dreamer, strategist, whatever lights you up.
Don’t skip the messy middle it’s where the good stuff happens.

Chapters:

• 00:07 - Introducing Lindsay Lerner

• 01:10 - Navigating Personal Power and Community Values

• 15:32 - Understanding Community vs. Audience

• 18:25 - The Evolution of Community in the Digital Age

• 32:32 - Stepping Into Your Element

• 37:41 - The Concept of Portfolio Careers

• 45:24 - Creative Retreat Planning

All About Lindsey:

Lindsey Lerner is a photographer, interviewer, and strategist reshaping how we witness work, identity, and belonging. Through her project Field Notes from the Work (and the Wild), she captures people in their element — before the performance, before the polished story, before the world takes notice. Her work documents the rituals, questions, and quiet shifts that shape how people show up, offering a new lens on creativity, leadership, and meaningful change.

Lindsey speaks on the power of being fully seen, the stories we overlook, and how honoring the work behind the work transforms the way we build, connect, and live.

Noteworthy quotes from Lindsey

“You do have a sense of power and agency if you want to take accountability for the work you’re doing day to day.”

“When you have a community, there’s actual relationship. It’s not one way — it’s connection, it’s care, it’s reciprocity.”

“It’s not about reinventing yourself — it’s about riding the waves and listening to what’s real right now.”

Connect with Lindsey Lerner

Instagram: @lindseylerner

Website: https://www.lindseylerner.com/

Connect & Stay Updated

Visit my website (Art, Projects & More)

Follow on Instagram (@stephaniegraham)

Join my Studio Newsletter

Support & Feedback

Send Feedback or Message

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Using Art to Process Climate Anxiety and Loss with Katherine Steichen Rosing

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 90: Using Art to Process Climate Anxiety and Loss: Katherine Seichen Rosing

Summary of the episode

In this deeply personal conversation, Madison-based artist Katherine Steichen Rosing shares how she uses immersive installations and abstract paintings to explore climate anxiety, environmental loss, and the intricate connections between forests and watersheds. Katherine opens up about processing grief through art—from losing her mother to witnessing climate change's impact on the landscapes she loves. She discusses her journey from childhood camping trips around Lake Superior to creating large-scale installations that examine carbon cycles, water systems, and atmospheric rivers. This episode offers insight into how artists can channel eco-anxiety into meaningful creative work while addressing urgent environmental issues through beauty and immersion.

Chapters:

• 00:25 - Exploring the Connections Between Art and Nature

• 05:26 - The Connection Between Nature and Art

• 12:25 - The Interconnectedness of Trees

• 13:25 - The Importance of Trees in Urban Life

• 22:24 - The Artistic Process: Navigating Uncertainty

• 27:46 - The Impact of Climate Spirits on Art

• 31:23 - Exploring Residencies and Nature's Influence on Art

• 39:30 - Navigating Artistic Challenges

• 45:39 - Exploring the Artist's Mind: Decisions and Vulnerability

• 49:54 - Environmental Awareness and Individual Action

Topics discussed:

Processing personal loss and climate anxiety through environmental art
The deep connections between forests, watersheds, and natural cycles
Creating immersive installations that help viewers experience nature's systems
How childhood experiences in nature shaped Katherine's artistic practice
The role of beauty in addressing complex ecological issues
Working with scientists during artist residencies at Trout Lake and St. Croix Watershed
Atmospheric rivers, drought, and changing precipitation patterns
Trusting your artistic instincts and working through creative uncertainty
Individual actions we can take to address climate change
The interconnectedness of trees and forest ecosystems

All about Katherine Steichen Rosing:

Katherine Steichen Rosing creates immersive installations and intricate abstract paintings that explore environmental processes linking forests and watersheds, including the carbon and water cycles. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, her work has been exhibited in museums and galleries across the United States and abroad. She has received numerous grants and awards, including the Forward Art Prize and the Madison Arts Commission/Wisconsin Arts Board Individual Artist Fellowship. She earned an MFA in painting and drawing from Northern Illinois University, taught at universities and colleges in Madison and Chicago, and is represented by Kim Storage Gallery in Milwaukee and Groveland Gallery in Minneapolis.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Susan Simard - Researcher studying how trees communicate and interconnect through root systems
Trout Lake Research Station - Artist residency location in northern Wisconsin
St. Croix Watershed Research Station - Science-based artist residency
Pouch Cove Foundation - Artist residency in Newfoundland, Canada
ARC Gallery - Chicago gallery collective that pioneered installation art spaces
Greta Thunberg - Climate activist mentioned regarding individual action

Upcoming exhibitions

Solo Exhibition at K. Stecker Gallery, Ripon College, Ripon, Wisconsin

Opens: October 17, 2025

Artist Talk: October 17, 2025

Solo Exhibition at Kim Storage Gallery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Opens: April 17, 2026

On view: April 17 - May 23, 2026

Artist Talk: April 18, 2026

Noteworthy quotes from this episode

"When I look in the forest, I see that the old decaying logs or the trunks of the trees, they're fostering new life and nurturing new growth. They're decaying and becoming part of the soil. And it's just this beautiful life cycle."

"I think of white as a sort of a funeral color, like the absence of life and the draining of color. And so I was able to kind of try to give this sort of ghostly feeling as people walk through those translucent trees."

"We have to be our own final voice because we know what feels right."

"The answer to this or the lesson, I guess, is to not give up. Sometimes you just have to keep plugging away at it. Don't give up on the idea, but let it evolve."

"I think the thing that I'm passionate about, the idea that every single individual can make a difference... if we all make different buying decisions and act differently, all those actions add up."

Connect with Katherine Steichen Rosing

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Enjoy my work? Join my studio newsletter

More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Support the Show

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Danielle Scruggs: Curating the Future of Black Filmmaking

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #89: Danielle Scruggs: Curating the Future of Black Filmmaking

This conversation was recorded live in person on Saturday, September 27, 20205, at Lumpen Radio in Chicago.

Summary of the episode

In this episode of noseyAF, Stephanie talks with Danielle Scruggs—Chicago-based photo editor, photographer, writer, curator, and founder of Black Women Directors. Danielle recently curated File Under: Horror, a program spotlighting horror shorts by Black women and non-binary filmmakers. Together, they dive into why representation in film matters, how horror can be a powerful tool for storytelling, and the ways community sustains creative practice. Danielle also shares insights from organizing the Chicago Film Symposium, a celebration of Black filmmakers that fosters connection between artists and audiences.

This conversation explores the intersection of art, activism, and community building, while honoring the unique voices shaping the future of cinema.

What we talk about

Danielle’s journey founding Black Women Directors
Why horror is the perfect genre for telling underrepresented stories
Behind-the-scenes of curating File Under: Horror
Building community through the Chicago Film Symposium
The challenges and joys of creating space for diverse filmmakers

Chapters

00:01 – Introduction to the Show
04:11 – Exploring the Impact of Black Women in Horror Film
29:16 – The Chicago Film Symposium: A Celebration of Black Filmmakers
36:46 – Exploring Creative Constraints in Filmmaking
47:22 – Exploring the Aspirations of Filmmaking

Things We Mentioned

All about Danielle Scruggs

You’re gonna love Danielle !—she’s a visionary curator, photo editor, and community builder who founded Black Women Directors to archive and amplify the work of Black women and non-binary filmmakers.

Danielle A. Scruggs (she/her) is a Chicago-based photo editor, photographer, writer, and curator with over 15 years of experience in photojournalism, curation, and film programming. She is the founder of Black Women Directors, a digital archive and curatorial platform celebrating the work of Black women and nonbinary filmmakers, featured in outlets like Marie Claire, The Cut, Blavity, and the British Film Institute. Danielle has worked as a photo editor at The Wall Street Journal, Getty Images, Vox Media, and ESPN.

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by Artist Admin Hour

Artist Admin Hour is a weekly virtual co-working session for artists who need accountability and space to tackle the emails, grants, and admin that keep their practices moving forward. Come for the structure, stay for the community. Sign up at www.ArtistAdminHour.com

Connect with Danielle Scruggs

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Everything is Mutual Aid with Autumn Breon

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #88: Everything is Mutual Aid with Autumn Breon

Summary of the episode

In this episode of noseyAF, I sit down with Los Angeles-based artist Autumn Breon to talk about what it really means to redefine Black excellence. Autumn’s work lives at the intersection of Black feminist praxis, historical memory, and speculative futures—spanning performance, installation, and public art.

We talk about portals to other realities, the importance of rest and care in creative work, and why Black excellence must be understood beyond traditional measures of success. Autumn’s perspective challenges the pressures of perfectionism and productivity, urging us to embrace creativity, community, and well-being as true markers of success.

Whether you’re an artist, activist, or just curious about new ways of thinking about liberation, this conversation will leave you inspired to imagine and live differently.

What we talk about

The origins of Autumn’s visionary project, The Care Machine, and how it reimagines what community support can look like
Why Black excellence needs a redefinition that centers emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being—not just achievement
How denim, space travel, and performance art weave into Autumn’s creative practice and storytelling
The power of leisure, portals, and speculative imagination in reshaping culture and care

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Autumn Breon and Her Art

• 08:55 - Redefining Success and Creativity

• 11:22 - The Birth of the Care Machine

• 25:28 - Redefining Black Excellence

• 25:39 - Redefining Excellence: A Conversation on Black Identity

• 34:23 - The Ethos of Care and Abolition

• 39:34 - Exploring Performance Art and Collaboration

• 46:27 - Exploring Portals to Other Realities

• 52:50 - The Importance of Rest and Leisure in Creative Work

• 57:30 - Transitioning to Mutual Aid in Space

• 01:03:43 - The Importance of Care in Community and Culture

• 01:07:55 - The Cultural Significance of Denim

• 01:10:45 - The Cultural Significance of Denim in History

Things We Mentioned

All about... Autumn

You’re gonna love Autumn—she’s a portal-maker, care-weaver, and creative force reimagining what freedom can look like.

Autumn Breon is a Los Angeles-based artist whose work engages Black feminist praxis, historical memory, and speculative futures. Her practice spans performance, installation, and public art that centers liberation and care. Inspired by ancestral technologies and maroon ecologies, she creates portals to other realities through ritual, research, and play. Autumn studied Aeronautics and Astronautics at Stanford University and her work often explores spatial freedom beyond Earth. She’s exhibited at institutions like Hauser & Wirth, LACMA, and the Oakland Museum.

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by Artist Admin Hour — my weekly virtual co-working space where artists, filmmakers, and cultural workers come together to tackle the admin side of their practice. From grant writing to inbox cleanup, it’s a supportive and productive hour to get things done—together.

www.artistadminhour.com

Connect with Autumn

Instagram: @autumnbreon
Website: autumnbreon.com

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Ad Instrumental: Aubrey Modium

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Crafting Narratives: Insights from Filmmaker Kristina Thomas

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 21:45:00 -0500

Ep #87 : Crafting Narratives: Insights from Filmmaker Kristina Thomas

Summary of the episode

This episode of noseyAF dives into the vibrant and multifaceted world of filmmaking through an engaging conversation with Kristina Thomas, a writer and director whose path in the industry is marked by resilience, creativity, and remarkable achievements. From her beginnings in East Oakland to her work in television and independent cinema, Kristina shares her journey with authenticity and humor.

We explore her trajectory from aspiring youth attorney to filmmaker, how her legal background shaped her narrative voice, and the role of mentorship and community in sustaining an artistic career. Kristina opens up about navigating the challenges of the industry—pandemic disruptions, the writers' strike, and the evolving digital landscape—while continuing to inspire and uplift emerging voices.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, storyteller, or creative of any kind, this episode offers insight, motivation, and an invitation to embrace your own unique story.

Chapters

• 00:07 - Introduction to Kristina Thomas

• 01:24 - Exploring the Journey of Filmmaking

• 09:29 - The Importance of Kindness on Set

• 14:27 - Growing Up in East Oakland

• 23:58 - The Journey to Filmmaking

• 28:25 - The Influence of Akira Kurosawa on Filmmaking

• 32:44 - Reflections on Mentorship and Loss

• 40:00 - The Evolution of Indie Filmmaking

• 43:21 - The Journey of a Filmmaker

• 51:06 - Transitioning Careers in the Arts

• 56:09 - The Importance of Storytelling in the Digital Age

What we talk about

Growing up in East Oakland and the early spark of storytelling
Transitioning from music to filmmaking and nearly signing with Def Jam Records
The influence of Akira Kurosawa on her creative lens
Navigating mentorship, mentorship loss, and the power of guidance
Indie filmmaking today vs. then
The role of storytelling in the digital age

Things We Mentioned

All about Kristina Thomas

You’re gonna love Kristina Thomas—she’s a filmmaker, writer, and educator who blends creativity, intellect, and vision to push the boundaries of storytelling.

Kristina Thomas was born in East Oakland, California, and has emerged as a rising talent in film and television. She first made her mark in the documentary world by winning a $50,000 contest to direct a compelling TV pilot in New Orleans for MTV/Endemol. From there, she transitioned into scripted storytelling, working as a script coordinator on acclaimed series including Greenleaf, Lovecraft Country, and The Haunting of Bly Manor (S2).

Her feature script Worth It has gained recognition as a semi-finalist in competitions such as Women in Film/The Black List and BET's Project Cre8 Feature. She is actively developing the project while also teaching as an Adjunct Professor of Screenwriting at DePaul University.

Kristina’s short-form work has also made a strong impact. Her comedy short House of Balls earned lead actress Mariah Robinson Best Actress at the Alt Film Festival, along with Best Actor recognition, and was named a semi-finalist in BET’s Project Cre8: TV and the Hollyshorts Festival. The concept short for Worth It screened at festivals including the Toronto Black Film Festival (Canadian Screen Award–qualifying) and earned an honorable mention at Lady Filmmakers Festival. Most recently, her Film Independent Project Involve short Saving All My Love screened at the BronzeLens Film Festival and won the Audience Award at the BraveMaker Film Festival.

Beyond the screen, Kristina has served as a story consultant on two NAACP Award–winning scripted comedy podcasts, Yes We Cannabis and Stranded for Broadway Video. She is an alum of the Women in Film Mentorship Program for directors, Amy Aniobi’s TRIBE, and Film Independent’s Project Involve Fellowship as a directing fellow. Her television writing career includes staff positions on J.J. Abrams’ HBO series Demimonde and Dick Wolf’s CBS drama FBI: International.

A proud alumna of both Howard University and the University of Southern California, Kristina continues to inspire by weaving community, culture, and mentorship into her storytelling.

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by Artist Admin Hour

Welcome to Artist Admin Hour—where artists, filmmakers, cultural stewards, and soft-life strategists come to handle business like the creative kingpins we are. This weekly co-working ritual is where your admin to-do list meets your soft life era. Think invoices sent, budgets updated, grant apps finished, receipts wrangled—all with community, structure, and glam.

Whether it’s organizing your desktop, applying for that damn residency, or taming your inbox, Artist Admin Hour is where we stop doing admin alone and start getting it done—together.

✨ Behind every bold vision? A spreadsheet. Behind every dreamy exhibition? A budget that actually makes sense. Admin is the flex. ✨

Join us Wednesdays 7–9 PM CST or the 1st Saturday of each month for Studio Clean-Up 🧹. Pajamas welcome, champagne optional.

Connect with Kristina Thomas

Instagram: @itskristinathomas
Website: www.kristinareneethomas.com
The White Robe Stories @whiterobestories

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Ad Beat: Aubrey Modium

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

EASE Framework: Decluttering Your Life During Career Transitions

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #86: EASE Framework: Decluttering Your Life During Career Transitions

Summary of the episode

In this solo episode of noseyAF, host Stephanie Graham opens up about navigating over a year without steady film work and how she's using this unexpected time for personal growth. She introduces her EASE framework—Eliminate, Accept, Simplify, Expand—a decision-making approach she developed while decluttering her life and dealing with the film industry's ongoing challenges. From working on her first movie in months to starting a fellowship focused on community activism, Stephanie shares how she's creating space for new opportunities while letting go of what no longer serves her. This candid conversation explores the reality of freelance creative work, the importance of being a good neighbor, and practical strategies for finding ease during uncertain career transitions.

What we talk about

The harsh reality of the film industry crisis and being out of work for over a year
Stephanie's EASE framework: Eliminate, Accept, Simplify, Expand as a guide for life transitions
Her community activism project to bring a movie theater back to her neighborhood through the Change Collective fellowship
The therapeutic process of decluttering physical spaces and digital life
Finding acceptance when fighting against circumstances isn't working
Creating space for new ideas, relationships, and opportunities during career uncertainty

Chapters

00:09 - Seeking Expert Insight on Palestine
04:05 - Navigating the Film Industry Crisis
14:51 - Decluttering and Organizing as a Creative Journey
20:07 - The EASE Framework: Decluttering Life and Creativity
24:23 - Embracing Change: Letting Go and Simplifying

Things We Mentioned

Change Collective Fellowship - Civic leadership program for community organizers
We Strangers - Independent film directed by Anu Valia, now in limited release
Chatham Cinema - Former neighborhood theater that closed during the pandemic
Chicago Art Department - Artist residency program
Director Anu Valia and Production Designer Amelia Steely
Special K Vanilla cereal (Stephanie's consistent breakfast choice!)

All about... This Solo Episode

You're gonna love this raw, honest check-in—Stephanie's serving up real talk about career uncertainty mixed with practical wisdom and that signature warmth that makes you feel like you're chatting with your most insightful friend.

Connect with Stephanie

Check out my work
Follow me on Instagram
Join the Good Stuff Only Newsletter
Listen to more episodes
Email: stephanie@missgraham.com (especially if you're a Palestine expert!)

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Segment Instrumental: Aubrey Modium

Theme Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

The Art of Environmental Empathy: A Conversation with Christine Forni

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep # 85: The Art of Environmental Empathy: Conversation with Christine Forni

Summary of the episode

Join me for a deep dive into the world of multidisciplinary artist Christine Forni, whose work beautifully weaves together themes of nature, science, and environmental empathy. In this conversation, we explore how Christine's childhood in the industrial landscapes of Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Detroit created the foundation for her unique artistic practice that examines the tension between urban environments and natural spaces. We dive into her transformative time in Paris, her dual residencies researching botanical collections and colonial bone specimens, and her newest venture, Green Garnet Press—an artist-run project fostering community engagement through art. This episode is all about the intricate relationship between art, nature, and social responsibility, and how artists can contribute positively to their surroundings while encouraging others to explore their own creativity outdoors.

What we talk about

Christine's childhood next to a forest preserve in industrial Detroit and how it shapes her art today
Her bold move to Paris in 2015 and the dual residencies that changed her perspective
The fascinating intersection of art and science in her practice
Green Garnet Press and building community through artist-run projects
Environmental empathy and the artist's role in social consciousness
How personal experiences and place deeply impact creative processes
The importance of accountability and support in artistic practice
Learning and growing in creative spaces (plus my own live radio learning journey!)

Chapters:

00:32 - Introduction to noseyAF Live
06:57 - Introducing Christine Forni: A Journey of Art and Life
19:10 - Engaging with Nature Through Art
25:41 - Artistic Residencies and Nature's Influence
34:33 - The Spiritual Connection to Nature
37:37 - The Artistic Journey of Christine Forni
48:30 - Generosity in Artistic Practice
54:50 - Shifting Practices: The Impact of Color and Community on Art
01:00:01 - Exploring the Concept of Art Residencies

Things We Mentioned

Green Garnet Press - Christine's artist-run community project
École du Breuil d'Horticulture - Paris botanical residency
Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle - Paris natural history museum residency
Lumpen Radio - 105.5FM Chicago community radio station
Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art - Chicago exhibition venue
DeCordova Sculpture Museum - Boston exhibition venue
Ueno Royal Japanese Art Museum - Tokyo exhibition venue
Morgan Freeman Through the Wormhole
Time and Beauty by Adrian Bejan: Book Christine was mentioned in (affiliate link)

All about Christine Forni

You're gonna love Christine—she's a multidisciplinary nature-science genius and community building superhero who creates art that makes you think differently about the world around you.

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by the amazing community at Lumpen Radi

They're doing cool stuff like supporting independent voices and community-driven programming. Check them out at lumpenradio.com or tune in locally at 105.5FM!

Connect with Christine Forni

Website: christineforni.com

Instagram: @christineforni

Instagram for Christine’s Drawing You Outside project: @drawingyououtside

Connect with Stephanie

Listen to more noseyAF episodes

Support & Feedback

Take the listener survey here

Check out my Bookshop – Find every book we chat about on the show, plus guest picks and their own titles. (affiliate link)

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Tom Burtonwood: Art, Philosophy, Community and Pragstraction

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Tom Burtonwood: Art, Philosophy, Community and Pragstraction

🍧🍧Click Here to take the noseyAF Listener Survey! I Want Your Feedback Pretty Please! 🍧🍧

This week on noseyAF, Tom Burtonwood comes to speak I sit down with Chicago-based multidisciplinary artist Tom Burtonwood on nsoeyAF Live to talk about his recent exhibition at 21C Museum Hotel and his ongoing project, A Cube is a Rectangle. Tom’s work blends drawing, sculpture, and animation, engaging deeply with ideas of repetition and transformation inspired by philosopher Gilles Deleuze.

We also explore and brainstom on Tom’s new and brewing artistic movement and philosophy—Pragstraction—a fusion of pragmatism and abstraction that encourages artists to embrace constraints while experimenting with non-objective forms. Tom shares how this approach connects to community building and creating a more supportive, collaborative art world.

If you’ve ever wondered how artists navigate the digital era, build movements, and stay rooted in their values, you’ll want to hear this conversation.

What we talk about

The origins and evolution of A Cube is a Rectangle
How “Pragstraction” blends pragmatism and abstraction in art
The role of repetition and transformation in Tom’s cube sculptures and animations
Building supportive artist communities instead of competitive ones
The future of art in the digital age

Things We Mentioned

All about Tom Burtonwood

You’re gonna love Tom—he’s a multidisciplinary artist and educator, born in sunny Manchester and raised in the North of England, now calling Chicago home since 2001 (class of Stanley Kubrick, no less). He’s an Associate Professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he brings his passion for sculpture, drawing, animation, and sound to the next generation of artists. Tom’s work explores perception, transformation, and the ways art can spark community and social change.

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by YOU

Your support keeps noseyAF going! Fill out the listener survey, share the show, or treat yourself to some pins and prints in the shop.

Chapters:

• 00:15 - A New Beginning

• 02:41 - Introduction to Tom Burtonwood and His Artistic Journey

• 10:03 - The Evolution of Artistic Inspiration

• 18:29 - Introducing Pragstraction: A New Art Movement

• 24:13 - The Impact of Drawing on Memory and Consciousness

• 28:22 - Exploring Shapes: Philosophy and Practice

• 34:23 - Exploring Pragstraction: Community and Collaboration in Art

• 42:05 - Transitioning to New Artistic Ventures

• 44:24 - Exploring Collaborative Art Through Technology

• 52:31 - Exploring the Intersection of Art and Animation

• 58:32 - Exploring the Intersection of Sound and Animation

Connect with Tom Burtonwood

Website: tomburtonwood.com
Tom on Instagram

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Break Instrumentals: Aubrey Modium

Navigating Life's Challenges using Human Design Insights and Bravery with Heather Vickery

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 83: Navigating Life's Challenges using Human Design Insights and Bravery with Heather Vickery

🚨Help me make the show better—take the noseyAF Listener Survey!🚨

Summary of the episode

In this episode of noseyAF, I sit down with Heather Vickery to talk about human design—not in a super spiritual way, but in a real-world, practical, “okay, so what do I do with this?” kind of way.

Heather walks me through the basics of human design and how it can help us understand ourselves a little better. We also talk about bravery—not as something loud and dramatic, but as the small decisions to do things differently, even when it’s uncomfortable. Heather shares her BRAVE Method™, and we look at how it can support change, clarity, and taking responsibility without beating yourself up.

This episode first aired on Lumpen Radio (WLPN 105.5 FM Chicago) on Saturday, July 26, 2025, as part of their community broadcast lineup.

What we talk about

A real convo about doing life on your own terms:

What human design is and how it can be useful (without getting too mystical)
What it actually looks like to be brave in everyday life
Why gratitude and little wins matter when you’re trying to make changes

Chapters:

• 00:31 - Introduction to Chicago Radio

• 02:25 - Introduction to Human Design

• 10:30 - The Concept of Bravery

• 14:50 - Understanding Bravery and Human Design

• 22:27 - Taking Radical Responsibility

• 32:21 - Navigating Life Changes and Seeking Fulfillment

• 34:25 - Introducing the BRAVE Method

• 41:34 - Celebrating Wins and Gratitude

• 45:40 - Understanding Gratitude and Its Impact

• 51:50 - Manifesting Dreams and Community Action

Things We Mentioned

All about Heather:

Heather is one of those people who’s good at asking questions that make you think without making you feel bad about not knowing the answers.

She’s a coach, a speaker, and someone who used to live life by the book—until she decided to throw out the book and figure out what worked for her. Now she helps other people do the same using her BRAVE Method™, a tool that mixes reflection, decision-making, and a lot of self-trust. She’s into helping people lead lives that feel right instead of ones that just look good on paper.

Connect with Heather Vickery

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Originally aired on Lumpen Radio 105.5FM Chicago on July 26, 2025.

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

You Might Like Listening To: Wednesday Wellness Debrief

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You Might Like Listening To: Wednesday Wellness Debrief

🎧 You Might Like Listening To is a short series where I share trailers from podcasts I think you’ll love. These shows are made by thoughtful, bold, and intentional creators—just the kind of people we love around here at noseyAF.

This week, I’m featuring Wednesday Wellness Debrief, hosted by Brittany Biggett-Heeren. This podcast brings you supportive, educational conversations every Wednesday focused on optimizing your fitness and navigating maternal health.

Topics range from accessible healthcare and mental well-being to the ways politics impacts our everyday health. If you're someone who cares about wellness that includes everyone—this is a must-listen.

Where to Listen

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

🎧 You Might Like Listening To: Empaths Anonymous

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You Might Like Listening To: Empaths Anonymous

🎧 You Might Like Listening To is a special mini-series where I share trailers from podcasts I think you’ll love. These shows are created by creative, smart, and heart-centered folks who are exploring what it means to live fully and honestly—just like we do here on noseyAF.

This week, I’m featuring Empaths Anonymous—a mental health podcast and support group for the BIPOC community, empaths, highly sensitive people, and anyone on a healing journey. Hosted by Crystina and Danie, this show dives into topics around mental health, spirituality, wellness, and culture—all through the lens of being an empath.

If you’ve ever felt a lot or wondered how to take better care of your mind and spirit in a loud world, this one’s for you.

Where to Listen

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

You Might Like Listening To: The Grad School Femtoring Podcast

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You Might Like Listening To: The Grad School Femtoring Podcast

🎧 You Might Like Listening To is a special mini-series where I share trailers from podcasts I think you’ll love. These shows are created by smart, bold, creative people who are asking big questions and making good trouble—the kind of folks we love around here at noseyAF.

This week, I’m featuring The Grad School Femtoring Podcast, hosted by Dr. Yvette Martinez-Vu.

What It’s About

This award-winning podcast supports first-gen BIPOC students and professionals in navigating grad school, careers, and life—with a focus on sustainability and values-alignment. If you love real talk about productivity, boundaries, and building a meaningful path, this one’s for you.

🎁 Don’t miss Yvette’s free Sustainable Productivity Playbook and curated podcast playlist:

👉🏿 https://creative-trailblazer-5062.kit.com/29b17bb6a4

Where to Listen

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Crashing Weddings and Creating Art: Conversations with Ayana Major Bay

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep # 79: Crashing Weddings and Creating Art: Conversations with Ayana Major Bey

🚨Click Here to take the noseyAF Listener Survey Today Please!! 🚨

Summary of the episode:

Welcome to episode #79! Stephanie welcomes multifaceted actor and creative force Ayana Major Bey for a profound discussion about the intricate balance between art and personal passion. The conversation explores Ayana's journey through acting, mentoring, and podcasting, illuminating the complexities inherent in the creative process as she navigates producing her own cabaret. Central to their discussion is the notion that artists must continually seek joy in their craft while highlighting the importance of community and collaboration in the arts. From a lighthearted story about crashing a wedding to deep insights about artistic pivots and self-validation, this episode uncovers both the challenges faced by artists today and the enduring power of creativity as a vehicle for personal expression and social change.

Topics discussed:

The Artist Pivot podcast and embracing change in creative careers
Finding joy in artistic craft and the importance of self-validation
Community and collaboration in the arts
Challenges faced by women of color in the creative industry
The vulnerability inherent in performance and authenticity in art
Wedding crashing adventures and embracing life's spontaneous moments

Chapters:

00:12 - Introduction to Ayana Major Bay
02:47 - Crashing a Wedding: A Memorable Story
22:22 - Exploring the Art of Performance
37:20 - In Pursuit of Joy: Crafting a Cabaret
48:50 - The Journey of Producing Art
55:46 - The Role of Mentoring in Artistic Development

About Ayana:

Ayana is New Jersey native of Guyanese heritage with a flare for the dramatics. An actor by trade, voice over artist, and podcaster who loves to travel (been to 27 countries) and likes to take cooking classes in each country she visits. A plant mom, who is also an event planner for family and friends and enjoys a good wine tasting and sound bath.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Connect with Ayana Major Bay

Connect & Stay Updated

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Help Shape noseyAF: Take Our 2025 nosey Summer Listener Survey! 🏖️

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

📣 I Need Your Help — Take the noseyAF Listener Survey!

📝 Take the survey here: noseyAF.com/survey

Hey hey — it’s me, Stephanie! In this quick episode, I’m inviting you to fill out the 2025 Summertime noseyAF Listener Survey so I can hear directly from you about what’s working, what you want more of, and where we can take the show next.

I’m especially curious about how you feel about solo episodes vs. interviews, and whether things like live events, creative hangouts, or small group convos sound exciting to you.

💛 Your feedback means everything. This show has always been about community and connection, and I want to make sure it continues to reflect you.

💝 Everyone who fills out the survey will be entered to win a $25 Bookshop.org gift card (because I know y’all love a good read).

✨ And the first 25 people who drop their mailing address will get a free limited-edition Graham Cracker Pin and a handwritten thank-you note from me.

📝 Take the survey here: noseyAF.com/survey

📚 While you’re there, feel free to check out my curated booklists on Bookshop.org! I’ve pulled together titles by noseyAF guests, books on art, activism, housewives, creative practice, and more. Every purchase supports indie bookstores and the pod.

Thanks so much for listening — and for being nosey in all the best ways. 💛

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Exploring the Intersections of Food, Art, and Community: A Conversation with Radius

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep #77: Exploring the Intersections of Food, Art, and Community: A Conversation with Radius

This episode premiered first on Lumpen Radio on July 28, 2025

Summary of the episode

In this episode of noseyAF, we get into the transformative power of food, wellness, and culture with multidisciplinary creative Radius. Our conversation explores how food is not just sustenance, but a form of resistance, celebration, and healing—especially within Black and Brown communities. We talk about decolonizing our diets, embracing natural abundance, and how creativity, music, travel, and community all intersect in the journey to holistic wellness.

If you've ever thought about food as more than just something you eat—if it’s a connection to your roots, your creativity, your people—this one's for you.

What We Talk About

How food can be a decolonial tool and a form of cultural empowerment
Radius’s personal journey from traditional habits to holistic lifestyle living
What it means to live abundantly—and honestly
Traveling as a cultural ambassador and what it’s taught him
Daily rituals, creative practices, and hydration as rebellion
The role of music, photography, and storytelling in his mission
An inspiring shoutout to Dr. Aris Latham and the importance of natural foods

Things We Mentioned

RA’s Natural Abundance – Radius’s wellness brand

Dr. Aris Latham’s Instagram – the father of gourmet ethical raw food cuisine

Lumpen Radio – where this episode was recorded

All About... Radius

Radius (Ramón, a.k.a. Radius Etc / Ramón Etc / RA) is an interdisciplinary artist, DJ, music producer, and photographer born and raised in Chicago, with deep roots on the city’s South Side. Known primarily by his moniker Radius, a name rooted in his early years immersed in hip-hop and graffiti culture, he embodies a practice centered on community, creativity, and care.

As a musician, Radius is the founder of ETC Records—a label and artist brand with an evolving list of meanings: Ear To Chicago, Educate The Children, Express Truth Consistently, Embrace The Circle, Empower The Community, and more. His work with ETC reflects his commitment to truth-telling, sonic exploration, and uplifting community narratives through sound. His forthcoming vinyl album, Alive & Thriving, will be released via Consumers Research and Development Label in collaboration with Someoddpilot Records in Fall 2025.

Under the name Ramón Etc, he explores photographic storytelling, capturing moments of place, migration, and transformation. His recent zine Brooklyn Zoned reflects on his time living in Brooklyn during the early pandemic (2020–2021), with upcoming projects documenting life in Morocco, Mexico, and beyond.

Beyond his creative practice, Radius is a passionate advocate for holistic health and food sovereignty. He actively promotes indigenous, earth-derived, plant-based living—especially sun-fired RA (raw) foods—helping others transition to cleaner lifestyles rooted in decolonization and wellness. This ethos extends into his community organizing as a co-founder of The Love Fridge Chicago, a mutual aid initiative that combats food insecurity through shared, accessible community fridges.

Radius’ work—whether through beats, images, food, or movement—is a dedication to liberation and joy. Grounded in love, gratitude, and an unwavering belief that we are meant to thrive, not just survive, he works to build a world where collective care replaces systemic neglect, and abundance is recognized as the origin—not the exception.

Connect with Radius

Instagram: @radiusetc

Photography: @ramonetcphoto

RA’s Natural Abundance: @rasnaturalabundance

ETC Records: @etcrecords

Website: ramonetcphoto.com

Label: etcrecords.com

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Engage Projects – Alberto Aguilar

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Wellness in Our Communities: Breaking Barriers and Building Access with Health Coach Kristal Holmes (noseyAF Classic)

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:45:00 -0500

EP #76 noseyAF Classic: Wellness in Our Communities: Breaking Barriers and Building Access with Health Coach Kristal Holmes

Summary of the episode

This noseyAF Classic is packed with empowerment, inspiration, and real talk about true holistic wellness. Originally aired in November 2023, this episode features Kristal Holmes — attorney, health coach, mother, and the force behind the Go Hard Chick movement.

Kristal shares her powerful journey from living with autoimmune disease to becoming an advocate for whole-person health that goes way beyond the gym. We dive into the eight dimensions of wellness — emotional, environmental, financial, spiritual, social, physical, occupational, and intellectual — and unpack how to navigate stress, embrace body positivity, and challenge toxic wellness culture, especially in underserved communities.

Whether you’re new to wellness or reevaluating what health means to you, this conversation invites you to dream radically and prioritize your version of balance and joy.

What we talk about

Kristal’s journey from autoimmune diagnosis to holistic health advocate
The origin of Go Hard Chick and what it really means to “go hard”
Body positivity and why fitness doesn’t have to mean chasing thinness
Rethinking wellness in a post-Hollywood strike moment
The problem with mainstream health advertisin
Stress management, self-advocacy, and making wellness accessible

Things We Mentioned

All about Kristal Holmes

You’re gonna love Kristal — she’s a powerful blend of brains, heart, and hustle. As a health coach, attorney, and mom, she’s changing the conversation around what wellness looks like for real women — especially Black women navigating the intersection of strength, softness, and survival.

Connect with Kristal

Instagram: @gohardchick
Website: gohardchick.com

Connect with Stephanie

Support & Feedback

Art Isn’t Always Easy: Friendship, Parenting & Self-Definition with Kimmy Noonen

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep # 75: Art Isn’t Always Easy: Friendship, Parenting & Self-Definition with Kimmy Noonen

Recorded Live at Lumpen Radio: May 24, 2025

Summary of the episode

Kimmy Noonen Joined my Live on Lumpen Radio!

This episode is basically two friends—me, Stephanie, and Kimmy Noonan—chatting about all the messy, beautiful stuff that happens when art meets real life. Kimmy opens up about how becoming a mom changed her whole creative vibe and the struggle to stay true to herself while juggling all the expectations that come with being an artist (and a human). We get into the ups and downs of figuring out who you are in the art world, dealing with pressure, and why being kind to yourself is the secret sauce. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your creativity alive while life keeps throwing curveballs, this one’s for you.

Takeaways:

In our conversation, we explored the complexities of artistic identity and the struggles inherent in labeling oneself within the creative domain.
We discussed the significance of accessibility in art and the importance of making it relevant to everyday people, particularly those from diverse backgrounds.
How parenting impacts one's artistic journey, likening it to a transformative residency that reshapes priorities and creative output.
We get into the concept of delegated performance art as a means of engaging others in the creative process, highlighting community involvement in art.
The necessity of archiving conversations about art was stressed, aiming to foster deeper connections and understanding among artists and their audiences.
Lastly, we acknowledged the tension between artistic integrity and the commercial aspects of art, advocating for a balance that supports both creativity and community engagement.

Chapters:

• 00:21 - Introduction to the Show

• 00:42 - The Journey of an Artist

• 12:20 - The Evolution of Artistic Expression

• 15:40 - The Evolution of My Podcast Journey

• 24:12 - Navigating the Challenges of Being an Artist

• 32:00 - The Importance of Titles in Creativity

• 36:42 - The Impact of Parenthood on Artistic Practice

• 42:32 - Navigating High School Choices in Chicago

• 46:06 - The Pressure of Art and Marketing

• 57:49 - The Nature of Artistic Conversations

About Kimmy:

Kimmy (not Kim) Noonen is a multi-disciplinary artist, podcast creator, and mother. She has spent the last twenty years making art through painting, photography, and interactive installations while also teaching, parenting two children, running a small business, and doing a heckofa lot of therapy. In her work, she re-imagines the potency of overlooked ideas and discarded materials to give form to our invisible inner-landscapes, asking questions about control, interdependence, holistic health and the expansion of identity over time. Kimmy is the creator of Kimmy Not Kim Podcast where she talks to real artists about their process, personhood and purpose and she lives with her husband and kids in the northwest side of Chicago.

Connect with Kimmy

Instagram: @kimmynotkim

Website: https://www.kimmynotkim.com/

Connect & Stay Updated

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Thanks for your help at Lumpen Charlie!!

Navigating Grief through Sculpture: Bobbi Meier’s Story

Tue, 13 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 74: Navigating Grief through Sculpture: Bobbi Meier’s Story

“Grief doesn’t have to be gray. It can be neon, it can be soft, it can be joyful.”- Bobbi Meier

Summary of the episode

In this episode of noseyAF, we explore navigating grief through sculpture with Chicago-based artist Bobbi Meier. Bobbi’s journey as an artist is intimately shaped by personal loss and the emotional complexities of caregiving, grief, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her tactile, vibrant sculptures—which she calls “squishy, colorful towers”—Bobbi channels emotion, joy, and memory. These works, part of a series titled Sentinels for Innocence, reflect how grief and play can coexist in powerful ways.

We discuss how Bobbi’s sculptural practice creates space for healing, community, and catharsis, and how her art invites both personal introspection and public dialogue. From the transformation of grief into vibrant form to the role of humor in tragedy, this conversation reveals the power of creative expression to shape identity and connect us to one another.

Topics discussed:

How personal loss and caregiving shaped Bobbi Meier’s art
The role of play and innocence in sculpture
Art as a response to grief and social-political upheaval
Balancing humor and tragedy in creative practice
Professionalism, hobby culture, and rediscovering joy in artmaking

Chapters:

• 00:07 - Kicking Off Season Six

• 06:20 - Exploring the Impact of the Pandemic on Artistic Expression

• 18:21 - The Emotional Journey of Art: From Creation to Reflection

• 22:42 - Art and Memory: Conversations on Impactful Pieces

• 30:00 - The Power of Art and Personal Loss

• 39:31 - Defining Professionalism in Art

• 44:10 - The Art of Hobbies: Discovering New Passions

• 48:23 - Reflections on Fear and Art

About Bobbi:

Bobbi Meier is a Chicago-based multimedia artist whose provocative, fiber-based sculptures confront the tension between what’s seen and what’s suppressed. Blurring the lines between public and private, her abstract forms tap into themes of repressed sexuality, proper manners, and emotional excess. With an MFA and MAAE from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Bobbi’s work has been featured nationally and was recognized with a prestigious Kohler Arts/Industry residency in 2019.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Connect with Bobbi Meier

Instagram: @bobbimeierart

Website: bobbimeierart.com

Connect & Stay Updated

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Alberto Aguilar on Making Art from Everyday Life

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0500

Ep 73: Alberto Aguilar on Making Art from Everyday Life

Summary of the Episode:

In this episode of noseyAF: Conversations About Art, Activism, and Social Change, artist and host Stephanie Graham sits down with Alberto Aguilar, a multidisciplinary artist known for transforming everyday moments and interactions into meaningful creative expressions. The conversation explores how Aguilar weaves art into the rhythms of family, teaching, and community life. If you’ve ever wondered how to sustain creativity without compartmentalizing your life, this episode is for you.

This episode is a follow-up to Alberto’s first appearance in Episode 35, “I Was Wrong About Alberto Aguilar.”

Takeaways

The conversation emphasizes the significance of engaging with everyday objects to derive meaning and foster communication.
Alberto Aguilar’s exhibition, A Factual Account, explores the interplay between art, presence, and the narratives objects can evoke.
The discussion reveals the creative process, highlighting how constraints can lead to innovative expressions in artistic practice.
Aguilar shares insights on how personal experiences and family history influence his work, underscoring the connection between art and human experience.

Chapters

00:24 – A Conversation with Alberto Aguilar

01:40 – The Ladder Performance: A Journey of Collaboration and Creativity

16:05 – The Journey of an Artist

19:28 – The Complexity of Identity and Art

27:31 – The Art of Activation: Engaging with Objects and Space

36:51 – Exploring Aesthetic and Contextual Poetics

50:58 – Exploring Doubt and Certainty

53:20 – The Dream of a Grocery Store Art Space

Guest Bio

Alberto Aguilar is a Chicago-based artist who uses whatever materials are at hand to make meaningful connections with viewers. He does not distinguish his art practice from his other life roles, which allows him to make work wherever he is. He has shown and presented work in museums, galleries, storefronts, homes, and street corners around the world.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Last Time Alberto was on noseyAF: “I Was Wrong About Alberto Aguilar” – Episode 35

Eva Hesse – “Hang Up”

Nikki the Death Doula

Noteworthy Quotes from This Episode

“Limitations are not obstacles — they are the source material.”

“I’m not trying to make art about life. I’m trying to make life into art.”

“I think the best work comes from the moments you’re most present.”

Connect with Alberto Aguilar

Instagram: @albert0aguilar

Website: albertoaguilar.org

Connect & Stay Updated with Stephanie

Visit my website (Art, Projects & More)

Follow on Instagram (@stephaniegraham)

Join my Studio Newsletter

Share noseyAF with friends

Support & Feedback

Join the noseyAF Dispatch

Send Feedback or Message

Episode Credits

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

On location recording: Ryan Harder

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Mastering the Art of Growth: Insights from Kenyatta Griggs

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 22:10:00 -0500

Ep # 72: Mastering the Art of Growth: Insights from Kenyatta Griggs

“Every experience is a tool—what you build is up to you.”- Kenyatta Griggs

Summary of the episode

Its the last episode of Season 5 of noseyAF and we are closing out with a wonderful conversation with Kenyatta Griggs!

Kenyatta Griggs (Dr Yatta!), is an esteemed barber, author, and filmmaker, exemplifying the intersection of personal development and hip hop culture. His influential platform, Hip Hop Motivation, serves as a beacon for those seeking inspiration and growth, as he shares invaluable insights that resonate deeply within the community. In this engaging dialogue with Stephanie Graham, we delve into the vital importance of self-care and the formative years, discussing how these foundational experiences shape our lives and relationships. Kenyatta's perspective on parenting emphasizes the necessity of empathy, patience, and consistency, urging us to reparent ourselves and redefine our narratives. Through this conversation, we explore the transformative power of introspection, the impact of our choices, and how the subconscious mind influences our journey toward personal fulfillment and empowerment.

Topics discussed:

The intersection of hip hop culture and personal development
The importance of self-care and revisiting formative years
Conscious parenting and the power of reparenting yourself

About Kenyatta:

Kenyatta Griggs is a barber, author, filmmaker, and founder of Hip Hop Motivation, a platform dedicated to inspiring growth and self-development through the lens of hip hop culture. His work bridges creativity, motivation, and entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights that empower individuals to navigate life authentically and fearlessly.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Kenyattas’s Projects

The Game of Life and How to Play it by Florence Scovel Shinn (affiliate link)

Chapters:

• 00:05 - Introducing Kenyatta Griggs: Barber, Author, and Filmmaker

• 08:52 - The Journey to Barbering: A Personal Development Story

• 18:39 - The Turning Point: A Life-Changing Moment

• 24:52 - The Importance of Connection

• 34:53 - The Importance of Self-Respect and Relationships

• 51:44 - Understanding the Formative Years

• 58:56 - Conscious Parenting and Personal Growth

• 01:04:17 - The Importance of Legacy and Relationships

• 01:15:54 - The Importance of Self-Care in Childhood

• 01:24:16 - The Importance of Preparation

Connect with Kenyatta

Instagram: @hip_hop_motivator

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Join my studio newsletter

More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Please leave me feedback or send me a message

Support the Show

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Faux Fur, Circus Stories, Feelings, and Soft Power with Catie Burrill

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Ep 71- noseyAF Live!:

Faux Fur, Circus Stories, Feelings, and Soft Power

with Catie Burrill

“Textile work has always been a silent language, especially among women.”- Catie Burrill

Summary of the episode:

The inaugural episode of noseyAF on Lumpen Radio introduces host Stephanie Graham and her signature blend of curiosity, creativity, and community. In this candid conversation, Stephanie sits down with Chicago-based fiber artist Catie Burrill to discuss the intersection of art, activism, and social change. Known for her whimsical and thought-provoking use of faux fur, Katie shares how her circus background, textile work, and commitment to sustainability shape her artistic vision. This episode sets the tone for the series—personal, probing, and full of laughter and insight.

Listeners are invited to reflect on how art can be a medium for activism, the history of textiles as silent communication, and the power of affirmations in mental health and creative practice.

Chapters:

00:10 - Introduction to Lumpin Radio
07:19 - The Art of Furgate: A Journey into Textile and Community
13:15 - The Circus Life: Behind the Scenes
29:13 - The Intersection of Madness and Art
43:02 - Art, Snacks, and the Uncomfortable Aisle
51:02 - Communicating Through Craft: The Art of Fiber and Affirmations

Topics discussed:

Stephanie’s first day on-air as a radio host
Catie’s journey through circus life, fiber art, and faux fur
The emotional and cultural significance of textile art
Art as activism and community engagement
Affirmations, mental health, and creativity

Guest bio

Catie Burrill is a Chicago-based fiber artist whose work pulls from a decade of wayfaring across the US on Greyhound buses, circus trains, and non-descript cargo vans. Fascinated by the psyche, she uses textiles and found objects to explore the intersection of madness, cultural identity, and storytelling through stitchwork and the early internet.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Episode sponsored by: This episode is brought to you by Graham Cracker Pins, affordable limited-edition wearable art by artists. Shop now.

Connect with Catie

Instagram: @yescatie

Website: catieburrill.com

Subscribe to Catie's Newsletter

Connect & Stay Updated

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits:

Thank you, Ariandy, for supporting me in the studio, leading the way, and teaching me

Hosted by Me, Stephanie Graham

Recorded live on Lumpen Radio on April 12, 2025

Music Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

🎉 Big News: noseyAF Is Now a Live Radio Show!

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 70:🎉 Big News: noseyAF Is Now a Live Radio Show!

Summary of the episode

Friends!! Stephanie’s got a mic, a mixing board, and a whole new way to be nosy. This is your official heads-up: noseyAF is now a live radio show on Lumpen Radio in Chicago 105.5FM, and you’re invited to the party. Here’s the what, why, and how — plus a teaser of what went down in our very first broadcast.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Connect & Stay Updated

Support & Feedback

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Liberation, Softness, and A Good Ol’ Banjo with EbonyJanice

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:00:00 -0500

Ep # 69: Liberation, Softness, and A Good Ol’ Banjo

“I'm brilliant because my ancestors were brilliant.”

- EbonyJanice

Welcome to episode 69, Liberation, Softness, and A Good Ol’ Banjo!

This episode invites you to reflect on your own journey toward softness, wholeness, and unapologetic self-expression. Whether you’re an artist, activist, or simply someone looking to heal, EbonyJanice’s insights will leave you feeling inspired and ready to embrace your truth.

✨ Episode Summary

In this robust conversation, I’m joined by the incredible EbonyJanice, author of All Black Girls Are Activists. We dive into the transformative world of Fourth Wave Womanism, where personal wellness and self-care are celebrated as radical acts of resistance and pathways to liberation. EbonyJanice’s work bridges art, activism, and academia, offering fresh perspectives on reclaiming your story and prioritizing your well-being as a Black woman or femme individual.

📝 What We Discuss:

🌊 Fourth Wave Womanism: Redefining womanism beyond feminism to center the lived experiences of Black women, emphasizing healing, empowerment, and radical self-acceptance.
🎨 Art as Activism: Creativity as a declaration of existence, challenging societal norms, and uplifting Black female narratives.
🪶 Honoring Ancestors: The importance of connecting with heritage for spiritual and legal empowerment.
🌻 Healing & Liberation: How Black American women are reclaiming their stories and moving toward freedom from historical trauma through art and community.
🫶🏾 Community & Collaboration: Building networks that encourage vulnerability, authenticity, and collective growth.

👩🏾‍🏫 EbonyJanice’s Bio:

EbonyJanice is the founder and CEO of The Free People Project and The Ebony Janice Project. She has authored several books, including All Black Girls Are Activists: A Fourth Wave Womanist Pursuit Of Dreams As Radical Resistance. Her Spiritual Mentorship Program, “Dream Yourself Free,” supports Black Women in healing intergenerational wounds and prioritizing pleasure. Ebony Janice’s talks embody a Hip Hop Womanist perspective.

She is the visionary behind Black Girl Mixtape, a platform uplifting the intellectual authority of Black Women, and the All The Black Girls Are Bestsellers Campaign, which has raised over a million dollars to mass purchase Black femme books with the goal of getting them on The New York Times Best Sellers List. This project has contributed to Black and Indie-owned bookstores and gifted thousands of books nationwide.

Ebony Janice earned her Bachelor’s in Cultural Anthropology and Political Science and a Master of Arts in Social Change with a concentration in Spiritual Leadership, Womanist Theology, and Racial Justice.

Chapters:

00:07 - Introduction to EbonyJanice: Activist and Artist
06:11 - The Emergence of Fourth Wave Womanism
13:47 - The Journey of Self-Discovery
29:58 - The Role of Ancestry in Faith
41:02 - Waking Up with Intention
49:54 - The Power of Softness and Being Seated
59:24 - The Influence of Housewife Culture

📚 A Few of the Folks EbonyJanice knows IYKYK

🎉 Sponsor Shoutout:

This episode is sponsored by Graham Cracker Pins!

Check out the Soft Style Pin that pairs perfectly with today’s episode, available on the noseyAF Website’s shop tab.

🎉 Check out Ebony Janice Book!

📖 All Black Girls Are Activists by Ebony Janice (affiliate link)

🌐 Connect with Ebony Janice:

Instagram: @ebonyjanice
Website: ebonyjanice.com

💌 Connect & Stay Updated

🌟 Support & Feedback

🎥 Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Jewelry, Tech, and Staying Authentic with Helen with the Gold Teeth

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 19:45:00 -0500

Ep #68:

Jewelry, Tech & Authenticity with Helen with the Gold Teeth

Summary of the episode

Helen with the Gold Teeth is here!

Y’all, this episode is a treat. Helen Harris, aka Helen with the Gold Teeth, shares her incredible journey from engineering to luxury jewelry, proving that sometimes, the best career moves are the unexpected ones.

We dive into her philosophy on accessible luxury, the personal storytelling behind her work, and how she’s redefining what high-end jewelry can be—especially for Black and LGBTQ+ communities.

Helen’s pieces aren’t just jewelry. They’re heirlooms, cultural artifacts, and statements of self-expression. We talk about craftsmanship, pricing, community, and the business of making beautiful things while staying true to yourself.

Get ready for a conversation full of wisdom, humor, and—let’s be real—a little bit of fangirling on my part.

Topics discussed:

Helen’s journey from engineering to high-end jewelry making
Jewelry as storytelling—how her pieces become heirlooms
Luxury, but make it intentional—how Helen challenges exclusivity in the art world
The tech influence—how her background in engineering shapes her craftsmanship
Building community in the jewelry world—support, collaboration, and pricing with integrity

Chapters:

• 00:12 - Fangirling with Helen Harris

• 02:56 - Helen's Journey into Jewelry Making

• 11:46 - Transitioning to a Full-Time Job: Balancing Life and Business

• 14:30 - Navigating Work and Personal Life

• 21:23 - The Concept of Luxury

• 29:02 - Navigating Self-Expression and Professionalism

• 36:51 - The Jewelry Community: Insights and Relationships

• 41:06 - Reflections on Growth and Identity

• 43:50 - Navigating Client Relationships and Pricing

• 52:08 - Exploring New Segments in Conversations

Helen’s Bio -

Helen with the Gold Teeth is the brainchild of Helen Harris, born during a pivotal moment as she transitioned from engineer to jeweler. Seeking the structure, security, and personal connection of corporate life—but on her own terms—she quickly incorporated the brand, setting a clear vision for growth.

What started as a personal passion became a movement, drawing in New Yorkers from all walks of life. With a guerrilla spirit, intentional craftsmanship, and a deep love for her work, Helen has built something far bigger than jewelry—she’s creating legacy pieces that tell stories and hold history.

🔗 Resources mentioned

📲 Connect with Helen:

Instagram: @helenwiththegoldteeth

Website: Helen With the Gold Teeth

📲Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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💡 Support the Show

Evanston Made on Instagram

🎙 Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

From Nosey to Necessary: The Impact of Evanston Made

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:40:00 -0500

Welcome to episode 67:

From nosey to necessary: The Impact of Evantson Made with Lisa Degliantoni

"I started this work at 40, which just goes to show that it’s never too late to begin something new and impactful" - Lisa Degliantoni

Summary of the episode

Today's conversation centers on the vital role of community arts education and advocacy, delivered with profound insights from Lisa Degliantoni, a dedicated advocate for artists in her community. As the founder and co-director of Evanston Made, Lisa embodies a commitment to fostering visibility and support for artists, emphasizing the necessity of kindness and engagement in a world that often feels overwhelming. Throughout our conversation, we explore how Lisa's journey into arts advocacy began later in life, reminiscent of notable figures who found their calling beyond traditional timelines. She elucidates the importance of creating community among artists, highlighting that the isolation often experienced can be alleviated through collective support and shared experiences. This episode serves not only as a reminder of the power of community but also as an invitation to engage actively in fostering the arts within our own neighborhoods.

Topics Discussed:

local initiatives can foster support and visibility for artists.
Lisa’s journey into arts advocacy demonstrates that significant career transitions can occur later in life, inspiring individuals to pursue their passions.
How Evanston Made serves as a model for community-driven arts organizations, focusing on the needs and aspirations of local artists.

Meet Lisa -

Lisa is a community advocate for artists and makers and is a passionate Community Arts Builder in Evanston. Working as the founder and co-director of the nonprofit arts organization, Evanston Made, Lisa’s enthusiasm for community art building drives the organization's mission-based programs and events that bring visibility and opportunity to the artists in the community.

Chapters:

00:08 - Introduction to Community Arts and Kindness
03:40 - The Heart of Community Engagement in Evanston
19:10 - Creating Community Through Art Advocacy
31:24 - Navigating Community and Self-Awareness
43:23 - Community Engagement and Cultural Renaissance

Resources mentioned in this episode

Connect with Lisa

Lisa’s Instagram: @thelisadshow

https://www.lisadegliantoni.com/

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Follow noseyAF on Instagram

More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Leave me feedback or send me a message: https://castfeedback.com/noseyaf

Support the Show

Flow Mastery Group Coaching

Newsletter sign-up

Embrace the Real You: Ditch the 'New Year, New You' Myth

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 66: Embrace the Real You: Ditch the 'New Year, New You' Myth

Summary of the episode

The latest episode of noseyAF dives into the concept of self-acceptance versus the pervasive "New Year, New You" mentality that often pressures individuals to completely reinvent themselves each January. Host Stephanie Graham reflects on her own experiences and goals from the past year, emphasizing the importance of self-trust and embracing who we already are. Guest Valerie Friedlander expands on this idea, discussing how societal expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy and the harmful messaging that something is inherently wrong with us. Instead of striving to become someone new, the conversation encourages listeners to reclaim their true selves and recognize the value of their unique identities. This thought-provoking dialogue invites everyone to step into 2025 with self-acceptance and a commitment to honoring their authentic selves.

Takeaways:

The New Year, new you mantra is often toxic, pushing unrealistic expectations on individuals.
Instead of trying to reinvent ourselves, we should focus on reclaiming our true selves.
Reflecting on the past year can help us set more authentic intentions for the future.
Building self-trust is key to personal development, rather than conforming to external pressures.
Embracing who we are allows for more genuine connections with ourselves and others.
Recognizing that our perceived flaws can actually be strengths is essential for growth.

Chapters:

00:01 - Welcome to Nosy: Conversations About Art and Activism
04:16 - Embracing the New Year as Your True Self
14:38 - Reclaiming Yourself: The Journey to Authenticity
17:59 - Embracing Your True Self
26:30 - Understanding Self Through Personality Assessments
34:15 - Building Self Trust and Relationships

All about Valerie

Valerie is a compassionate and creative coach dedicated to helping individuals, particularly women, break free from internalized patterns that limit their potential. With a deep understanding of societal pressures and the unique challenges faced by empathetic individuals, Valerie empowers clients to align with their most powerful selves and channel their energy toward meaningful work.

Her coaching philosophy emphasizes that transforming internalized patterns not only amplifies one’s impact on the world but also fosters intentional, joyful relationships in all areas of life. Known for her empathetic and engaging style, Valerie guides clients through a creative and fun process that honors their humanity and intuition, uncovering personalized solutions that lead to lasting change.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Create Your Flow Course

You Were Born For This by Chani Nicholas

🚨Lofi Beats for you to lay on the couch!🚨

Fun Personality Tests:

Myers Brigg

Enneagram (read up on this one though folks have wild ideas about it)

SHOW NOTES

As the calendar turns to 2025, Stephanie Graham reflects on the whirlwind of experiences and challenges that shaped 2024. In this engaging conversation, she discusses the importance of self-reflection and personal growth, especially at year-end. Stephanie encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves rather than succumbing to the societal pressures of the 'New Year, New You' mantra that has pervaded our culture. Highlighting her own experiences with unmet goals and the lessons learned, she emphasizes celebrating achievements, no matter the scale, and fostering a supportive community that embraces individuality. The episode culminates in a special feature from Valerie Friedlander, who delves into the toxic nature of the 'New Year, New You' ideology, advocating instead for self-acceptance and trust. Listeners are invited to embark on a journey of reclaiming their identities and envisioning a year that honors who they truly are, rather than who they feel pressured to become.

Valerie Friedlander takes center stage as she dismantles the harmful narratives surrounding personal transformation. She critiques the idea that individuals must completely reinvent themselves with each new year, positing that this mindset stems from a deeper societal belief that one is inherently flawed. Valerie encourages listeners to identify and embrace their authentic selves, arguing that the traits often labeled as 'defects' are merely misunderstood assets waiting to be recognized and harnessed. By sharing personal anecdotes and insights from her coaching practice, Valerie inspires a shift in perspective, inviting individuals to reflect on their journeys and reclaim the parts of themselves that society may have sidelined. This enriching dialogue not only underscores the significance of self-trust and authenticity but also empowers listeners to approach the new year with a renewed sense of agency and purpose, focusing on self-compassion rather than unattainable standards of perfection.

The conversation between Stephanie and Valerie serves as a powerful reminder that personal growth does not necessitate losing oneself in the process. Instead of adhering to rigid resolutions, they advocate for a more fluid approach to self-improvement, one that acknowledges the complexities of individual experiences. This episode encourages listeners to recognize the societal pressures that influence their self-perceptions and to challenge the notion that they need to conform to external expectations. By engaging in introspection, celebrating progress, and fostering a mindset of acceptance, individuals can cultivate a year filled with genuine growth and fulfillment. As Stephanie and Valerie navigate these themes, they ultimately empower their audience to embrace their true selves, setting the stage for a transformative and authentic 2025.

Connect with Valerie

Facebook

Instagram

Get email updates from Valerie!

Work with Valerie!

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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Ep 64 Episode about Reciprocity and Mutual Aid with Eric Von Haynes

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Saint Nick Sets The Record Straight

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 65: Saint Nick Sets The Record Straight

Summary of the episode

Get ready for a magical holiday treat as our friends of Modern Dadhood, Adam and Mark, sit down for an exclusive interview with Santa Claus himself!! I know so wild! This special episode is designed for the entire family, making it a perfect way to spark joy and excitement in the hearts of children and parents alike. Adam dives into some of the kids' biggest questions about Santa, covering everything from how he manages to visit every home in one night to the secrets behind the elves and the Christmas spirit. With Santa's warm and humorous responses, listeners will be enchanted by the magic of the season and the importance of belief. Join Adam and Mark as they explore the world of Santa Claus and share heartfelt moments that embody the true spirit of Christmas.

Listeners are in for a treat as they dive into a special holiday episode of Nosy AF, where the magic of Christmas comes alive with an exclusive interview featuring Santa Claus. Stephanie sets the festive tone, inviting families to gather their little ones for a delightful experience that blends wonder with heartfelt insights. The episode unfolds through a lively dialogue between Adam and Santa, exploring an array of whimsical topics such as how Santa manages to visit every child in one night, the significance of believing in Santa, and the role of his helpers around the world. With humor and charm, Santa shares stories from the North Pole, vividly depicting his preparations and the joy he spreads each year.

As the conversation progresses, listeners are treated to Santa's perspective on the importance of kindness and belief, not just during the holiday season but throughout the entire year. The hosts engage in thoughtful reflections about what it means to be part of a supportive community, especially during the holidays, as Mark shares his gratitude towards Adam for assisting him in preparing for Christmas while he was under the weather. This genuine moment of friendship resonates deeply, serving as a reminder of the true spirit of the season—supporting one another and cherishing connections. With Santa's comforting presence and the hosts' personal anecdotes, this episode encapsulates the essence of Christmas, leaving listeners inspired and filled with holiday cheer as they embark on their own holiday traditions.

Takeaways:

This holiday episode features a special interview with Santa Claus, perfect for family listening.
Santa emphasizes the importance of belief and kindness, encouraging children to keep the magic alive.
Listeners learn about the busy life of Santa Claus and his workshop during December.
The conversation highlights the joy of holiday traditions, such as Elf on the Shelf.
Adam and Mark discuss how Santa manages to visit homes without chimneys using magic.
The episode also touches on the significance of community support during the holiday season.

Chapters:

00:10 - Introducing a Special Episode
05:31 - Interview with Santa Claus
09:46 - The Secrets of Santa Claus
19:30 - The Origins of Santa Claus
28:44 - The Holiday Spirit and Support

About Modern Dadhood Podcast :

Adam Flaherty and Marc Checket are two dads from suburban New England. And while they might think they’re pretty funny and cool, the world clearly does NOT need another white dude ramble-cast.

That’s why Modern Dadhood explores what it really means to be a "dad" in 2024 through candid, authentic, and often hilarious conversations with diverse dads of all walks of life… including famous dads, NOT famous dads, dads-to-be, step dads, grand dads, trans dads, and more.

By celebrating present, engaged parenting and commiserating over common fatherhood challenges, listeners will gain new perspectives and feel empowered to become more present and mindful fathers, raising the next generation of kick-ass, world changing kids.

The show features relatable anecdotes from the hosts' own lives, recurring segments like Instant Regrets, Kisses & Disses, and Confessions, and plenty of thoughts on the good, the bad, and the ridiculous.

Expect a healthy dose of laughter, sincerity, vulnerability, and 90s nostalgia in each biweekly episode.

Notable guests include actor Terry O'Quinn (Lost, The Stepfather), SNL alum Bobby Moynihan, MSNBC anchor Craig Melvin, Sesame Street's Emilio Delgado, and comedians Chris Gethard, Rory Scovel, and Michael Ian Black.

Resources mentioned in this episode

www.moderndadhood.com

NORAD Santa Tracker

Modern Dadhood Instagram

Modern Dadhood Facebook

Modern Dadhood TikTok

Modern Dadhood YouTube

Website: www.moderndadhood.com

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Support the Show

Eric Von Haynes: Drawn Through Restraint

Episode Credits:

Special thanks to Adam and Marc at Modern Dadhood

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Music: Adam’s 10-year-old

From Art to Aid: Eric von Haynes on Creating Community Connections

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 64: From Art to Aid: Eric von Haynes on Creating Community Connections

Summary of the episode:

Today’s conversation centers on the critical distinction between mutual aid and charity, as articulated by our guest, Eric von Haynes. Eric emphasizes that mutual aid is rooted in reciprocity and community connection, contrasting it with the more transactional nature of charity. He shares insights from his extensive work in mutual aid initiatives, including the Love Fridge project, which provides community fridges stocked with food and resources, emphasizing the importance of anonymity and equality in these efforts. Throughout the discussion, Eric reflects on his artistic journey, particularly his passion for printmaking as a means of disseminating ideas and fostering community dialogue. With a focus on the values of horizontality and support, this episode encourages listeners to think critically about how we share resources and uplift one another in our communities.

Takeaways:

Mutual aid emphasizes reciprocity and community support, distinguishing it from mere charity.
The Love Fridge initiative in Chicago showcases how community fridges can foster mutual aid.
Eric advocates for slow media, valuing thoughtful engagement over rapid consumption.
Art practices, like printmaking, provide a platform for voices that challenge societal norms.

Chapters:

• 00:01 - Introduction to Nosy AF Conversations

• 03:10 - Understanding Mutual Aid and Reciprocity

• 12:04 - The Concept of Mutual Aid

• 17:46 - Community Fridges and Mutual Aid

• 26:42 - Community Engagement and Food Rescue

• 36:52 - Understanding Mutual Aid vs Charity

• 40:45 - Values and Practices in Community Engagement

• 46:25 - The Importance of Print in Art and Society

• 55:13 - The Philosophy of Anarchy and Community

• 01:01:40 - The Importance of Slow Media

• 01:06:45 - The Legacy of Robert Blackburn

About Eric:

Eric Von Haynes operates under the imprint Flatlands Press and co-founded Love Fridge Chicago, a mutual aid initiative supporting community fridges. He is a visiting senior instructor of graphic design at the UIC School of Design and currently serves as the president of the Chicago Printers Guild.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Dean Spade Mutual Aid Book

*link to this book is with an affiliate link*

Community Centered Design

Love Fridge

Btw Happy Anniversary, Love Fridge! 💕🎊

Food Not Bombs

Chicagoland Food Sovereignty Coalition

Getting Grown Collective

Narcan

Robert Blackburn

Gabe Hoare

Connect with Eric

Instagram: @Flatlands_press

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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Episode 59: Holiday Market Adventure

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

First-Time Vendor: My Experience at a Holiday Market

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 63: First-Time Vendor: My Experience at a Holiday Market

Summary of the episode:

Hey friends, welcome back to noseyAF! In this solo episode, Stephanie Graham reflects on the whirlwind of 2024 as December kicks off. Stephanie shares her experience as a first-time vendor at the 476 2nd Annual Holiday Market, hosted by her film union, IATSE. From setting up a cute booth with her cousin Brandy of Poor Little Rich Girl to selling her tiny, inspired pins, Stephanie dives into what it was like to step into the world of holiday markets.

She recounts highlights like Santa Claus, a Tony Bennett impersonator, and DJ-spun tunes, as well as valuable lessons learned from seasoned market vendors like Nyla from Homegirls Hummus. Stephanie also touches on the joy of connecting with buyers face-to-face and shares tips for anyone looking to try their hand at vending.

Looking ahead, Stephanie teases an exciting lineup for the remainder of the year, including a conversation with Eric Von Haynes , a talented printmaker, and part of The Love Fridge project. She hints at taking a well-deserved break before returning fresh in 2025.

Tune in for a heartfelt recap, lessons learned, and a sneak peek at what’s to come. Stay curious, and take care!

Links Mentioned in this Episode

Pictures from the Holiday Market

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Support the Show

Join the noseyAF Dispatch.

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

From Disappointment to Determination: A New Path Forward

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 62: From Disappointment to Determination: A New Path Forward with Brian Pughsley

Summary of the episode

This episode of noseyAF centers around disappointment and reflection following the 2024 election results, highlighting the importance of community, faith, and resilience. Host Stephanie Graham expresses her pride in the efforts made by individuals who supported Vice President Harris, emphasizing that their hard work should not feel wasted. Reverend Brian Pughsley joins the conversation, offering a powerful message about faith and perseverance during challenging times. He encourages listeners to strengthen their convictions and unite in their causes, reminding everyone that the fight for rights and justice continues. Together, they inspire a sense of hope and determination to push forward, regardless of the obstacles ahead.

Takeaways:

In times of disappointment, it is essential to reflect on the effort we put into the election process.
Reverend Brian Pusley emphasizes the importance of strengthening faith and community in challenging times.
The podcast highlights the necessity of activism and unity within the community for future rights.
Brian encourages listeners to stay ready and equipped to fight for their rights and the rights of others.
Stephanie expresses gratitude for the support and dedication of those who worked for change during the election.
The message is one of hope and resilience, reminding us that God is still in control.

About Rev Brian C. Pughsley:

Rev. Brian C. Pughsley is a multifaceted preacher, actor, rapper, writer, and podcaster dedicated to connecting with people through faith and creativity. Baptized at an early age, he answered his call to ministry on July 4, 2001, and was licensed and ordained on November 21, 2004, at Living Water Missionary Baptist Church in Hammond, Indiana, under Rev. Dr. Homer Walker, Jr.

Throughout his ministry, Rev. Brian has served in various pastoral roles, including Associate Pastor for Youth and Media Ministries at Living Water Missionary Baptist Church and Pioneer Missionary Baptist Church in South Holland, IL. His involvement has extended to youth leadership roles at Covenant United Church of Christ and New Faith Baptist Church International, where he supported ministries in prayer, media, and men’s fellowship.

Currently, Rev. Brian serves as Associate Pastor at Trinity United Church of Christ-Gary, where he also contributes as a digital pastor. In early 2023, he joined Immanuel Church Unusual in Chicago as a Digital Pastor, assisting the church's digital outreach as they launched in the area.

In 2018, Rev. Brian started a podcast, which evolved during the pandemic from entertainment-focused content to a ministry without walls, reaching people with messages of hope. A trained actor, violinist, rapper, and singer, he brings his diverse talents to each endeavor, blending artistry and ministry in meaningful ways. In his spare time, he enjoys writing, drawing, and inspiring others.

Currently, he resides in the suburbs of Chicago, IL.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Check out Brian’s podcast, Safe Haven

Organ music Terry Brandford Walk with Me performed by Gregg ”Happy Guitar” Hayes” check out the full performance here

Worship Music: Peace - Deep Instrumental Worship full video here

Connect with Brian

Instagram: @revbrianpughsley

Website: safehavenpodcast.org

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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Support the Show

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Get Up, Get Out, and Vote: A nosy AF Election Special with Stephisha Ycoy-Walton

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Buckle up, everyone! It’s Election Day 2024, and the energy is electric! The stakes are high, the tension is real, and all eyes are on the possibility of a new Madame President. In today’s episode, host Stephanie Graham is joined by her trusted battle buddy, Stephisha YCoy Walton, to break down what this pivotal election means for us all.

Join them as they dig into the importance of voter mobilization and civic engagement, sharing their own experiences in activism, from phone banking to grassroots organizing. With passion, humor, and a few personal stories, they explore how each vote shapes our collective future and why showing up to the polls matters more than ever. Get ready for an inspiring, motivating, and sometimes funny conversation about the power of our voices—and the responsibilities we hold as citizens.

About Stephisha:

Stephisha Ycoy Walton is a God-fearing individual who lives life in the gray area of most things, focused on community impact and social justice. Passionate about financial literacy, she is dedicated to coaching, teaching, and mentoring others to improve their financial skillsets. As a licensed financial advisor, member of Oakland's Budget Advisory Commission, and credentialed teacher, Stephisha walks her purpose on purpose. She believes that financial independence is a result of consistent choices and is committed to guiding others toward financial success.

Takeaways:

The importance of grassroots mobilization to the polls in the 2024 election is crucial.
Financial literacy education for youth can empower them to understand money management.
Engaging in local elections is just as vital as voting for president and vice president.
The impact of social media on political engagement is growing and cannot be overlooked.
Community involvement in political processes can shape the future of local education systems.
Understanding candidate policies is essential for informed voting during elections.

Resources Mentioned:

World Economic Forum
Great Awakening Documentary (I think this is it)

Episode Summary:

With the 2024 election looming on the horizon, Stephanie Graham and Stephisha Ekoy Walton engage listeners in an impassioned discussion about the power of voting and grassroots activism. The episode captures the palpable tension and excitement of election day as the hosts reflect on their experiences mobilizing voters in their communities. Stephanie shares her personal stakes and concerns, emphasizing how the election’s outcome could significantly impact the lives of marginalized individuals and families. Through their candid conversation, they highlight the urgency of civic engagement, encouraging listeners to recognize their roles within the democratic process and to take action.

The discussion broadens to encompass the significance of financial literacy as a tool for empowerment. Stephisha, with her background as a licensed financial advisor, emphasizes the importance of educating young people about personal finance as a means of breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering independence. The hosts share inspiring stories of their community initiatives aimed at teaching financial skills, and they discuss how these efforts can create a more informed electorate. This emphasis on financial literacy intertwines with their advocacy for social justice, illustrating how understanding economic systems can enhance one’s ability to navigate the political landscape effectively.

As the episode unfolds, Stephanie and Stephisha reflect on the narratives surrounding Vice President Kamala Harris and the importance of a nuanced understanding of her role in the political arena. They address the criticisms she has faced while emphasizing her commitment to the communities she serves. This dialogue encourages listeners to critically evaluate political narratives and to seek out candidates who prioritize equity and justice. Through their engaging and relatable conversation, this episode serves as both a motivational call to action and a reminder of the power of individual voices in shaping the future of our communities.

Chapters:

• 00:05 - Intro: Welcome to Nosy AF

• 00:35 - It's Election Day: Feeling Nervous

• 00:52 - Introducing Stephisha Ekoy Walton

• 01:06 - Mobilizing for the Election

• 00:27 - Understanding What's at Stake

• 03:31 - Getting Involved: Community Engagement

• 03:36 - The Importance of Voting

• 17:21 - Financial Literacy and Community Impact

• 34:20 - Taking Action: Teaching Youth Financial Skills

• 04:27 - Closing Thoughts: Celebrating Change

Connect with Stephisha

Instagram: @sycoywalton

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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Latinas in Podcasting Summit

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Special thanks this episode to Amanda McGrane, KO Meyers, and Dave Jackson

Doom-Scrolling and Daily Joys

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0500

Ep 60: Doom-Scrolling and Daily Joys

Summary of this episode

In this episode of noseyAF, host Stephanie shares candid, one-take thoughts on navigating the emotional weight of the current election cycle. She opens up about being glued to the news and refreshing social media while dealing with the uncertainty that comes with it. Stephanie hopes these reflections will resonate with listeners and offer a bit of support during these overwhelming times.

She also gives a shoutout to her podcast bestie, Paulette Erato, and her incredible work organizing the Latinas in Podcasting Summit, an event that brought together both new and experienced podcasters.

Stephanie would love to hear from you, too—how are you holding up? Reach out and let her know!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Paulette's Podcast La Vida Más Chévere

Mindful Marketing Podcast: pod.link/1390672198

Check Your Voter Registration Status

Connect with Stephanie:

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Enjoy my work? Join my studio newsletter

More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Support the Show:

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

From Artist to Entrepreneur: Join My Holiday Market Adventure!

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Join Stephanie Graham as she talks about her enamel pins and shares exciting news about her upcoming debut as a vendor at a holiday market. With a passion for creativity and conversation, Stephanie reflects on her journey of making quirky, limited-edition pins that spark joy and connection. From her inspiration at a local artist gallery to her fun designs like the "Freedom Kahlo" and "I Need a Baker," she opens up about her artistic process and the stories behind her creations. Get ready for some fun insights, a catchy new beat for a podcast segment, and a heartfelt invitation to support local creatives. Tune in for a bright, engaging discussion that feels like chatting with your best friend!

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Takeaways:

Stephanie Graham introduces her creative journey from filmmaking to starting her pin business.
The upcoming holiday market will be Stephanie's first experience as a vendor showcasing her pins.
Graham Cracker Pin Company focuses on quirky, limited-edition enamel pins that spark conversations.
The inspiration for her pins came from an artist's gallery visit that inspired her creativity.
Stephanie shares her unique designs, including a Frida Kahlo pin that reflects her identity.
The holiday market supports fellow filmmakers, showcasing their talents beyond the film industry.

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Hosting with Heart: Breaking the Rules of Traditional Entertaining

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 58: Hosting with Heart: Breaking the Rules of Traditional Entertaining

“The heart of hospitality isn’t about impressing others but making them feel welcome.”

— Saanya Ali

Summary of the episode

Welcome back to episode 58 of nosyAF!

In this episode of nosyAF: Conversations About Art, Activism, and Social Change, host Stephanie sits down with Saanya Ali, founder of Soiree, to discuss how she is hosting with heart and redefining hospitality through her creative and joyful approach to gatherings. Saanya shares how hosting can move beyond stress and formality, focusing instead on connection and generosity. From her international upbringing to her passion for food and community, Saanya highlights how hospitality can be as simple as pizza on the floor with friends, emphasizing that the experience is about people, not perfection.

Topics discussed:

🍜Hosting with heart means prioritizing connection over perfection and making everyone feel valued and at home.

🍕A dinner party doesn’t have to be elaborate. It can be pizza on the floor—the connection matters," says Saanya.

🍽️ By breaking down the barriers to hosting, Saanya shows everyone can create memorable experiences, no matter the setting.

🥂Hospitality is about generosity and bringing people together, whether at a lavish event or a casual get-together.

All About Saanya:

Saanya Ali is a storyteller, writer, self-trained chef, and community-builder. She founded SOIRÉE, a platform that simplifies hosting for a new generation of entertainers. Born in Switzerland to South Asian parents and having traveled to over 65 countries, Saanya is fascinated by how food connects people across cultures and traditions. For her, a shared meal is more than just food—it's a way to break down barriers, tell stories, and bring people closer to their roots and communities.

After graduating from NYU's Gallatin School with a focus on Mixed Media Storytelling and Human Rights, Saanya worked at Well+Good before leaving in 2022 to focus full-time on SOIRÉE. The platform offers playful, practical solutions for Gen Z hosts, prioritizing authenticity, creativity, and accessibility over perfection.

At heart, Saanya is a curious third-culture kid who passionately believes in the power of food and connection. Her journey, from her multicultural upbringing to her extensive travels, has reinforced her belief that food is a universal language that can bridge cultural gaps and foster meaningful connection.

Resources mentioned in this episode

SOIRÉE Website
Sign up for the Saanya’s newsletter: SOIRÉE

Noteworthy quotes from this episode

“We dont need a run of show!”

"Food is a universal language—it brings people together, and that's what hospitality is all about."

"The heart of hospitality isn’t about impressing others but making them feel welcome.”

Connect with Saanya

Instagram: @justsoiree

Website: https://www.justsoiree.com/

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Black Male Friendship: A Love You Bro Update

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 57: Black Male Friendship: A Love You Bro Update

Summary of the episode:

In this episode of noseyAF, host Stephanie invites Black men living in Chicago to participate in her ongoing photography project titled "Love You Bro." Launched in 2018, the project aims to document the unique bonds of friendship among Black men through photography. Stephanie shares her inspiration for the project, which stemmed from her personal observations of the loyalty and camaraderie in these friendships. Listeners can learn more about the project and find a link to sign up for the photography session scheduled for October 6th at a studio in Chicago. Join the conversation about art, activism, and the importance of friendship in the Black community.

Topics discussed:

Inspiration Behind the Love You Bro Project
Significance of Friendship
Come to the Photo Session!!

Resources mentioned in this episode

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Leave me feedback or send me a message:

More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Support the Show:

Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

Choosing You: Art, Family, Community with Pugs Atomz

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ep 56: Choosing You: Art, Family, Community

🎨👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🤎✊🏾

"You got to choose you." - Pug Atomz, Prince of Art 😎 IFYKYK

Hey friends, welcome back to another episode of nosey AF! Today, we have an incredibly versatile Chicago artist, Pugs Atomz, on the show. Pugs is a true Renaissance man, excelling as an emcee, painter, sculptor, fashion designer, and more. In this episode, we dive deep into his multifaceted creative journey.

Episode Summary:

We start by discussing Pugs' impressive discography, which includes around 32 albums. We also explore the challenges of being a multi-talented artist and how Pugs navigates people's attempts to pigeonhole him. Pugs shares fascinating stories about his early career, including his time working at the Chicago Children's Museum and how he balanced his art with various day jobs.

Pugs reveals the importance of choosing oneself, especially as an artist. He recounts a pivotal moment when he decided to pursue his dreams over job security. We also discuss the power of community and how he founded the Nacrobats, a hip-hop crew that started in 1993 and grew to include over 200 members.

One of the highlights of our conversation is Pugs' approach to his art, which he describes as highly detailed and research-driven. Whether painting, making music, or designing fashion, Pugs emphasizes the importance of layers and details in his work.

We also discuss his latest project, "Mookie on the South Side," a multi-disciplinary work that includes paintings, installations, and an album. Pugs explains how he sees his projects as mini-movies, each with a beginning, middle, and end.

Towards the end of the episode, we delve into Pugs' style and his time as the creative director for the fashion line Iridium. He shares insights into how he plans his outfits and the importance of having a versatile wardrobe.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights and stories from one of Chicago's most dynamic artists. Whether you're an aspiring artist or just a fan of creative expression, you won't want to miss this conversation with Pugs Atomz.

Thanks for tuning in. Pugs' fashion brand, Usuwe, offers some stylish and unique pieces.

Topics discussed:

Pugs Atomz’s Multifaceted Career: The episode explores Pugs' various artistic endeavors, including his music, painting, sculpture, and fashion design.
The Artist's Journey: Pugs discusses his early career, challenges, and the importance of choosing oneself as an artist. He also shares insights into the power of community and his experiences with the Nacrobats.
Pugs' Creative Process and Projects: The episode delves into Pugs' approach to his art, including his focus on detail and research. He also discusses his latest project, "Mookie on the South Side," and his style.

Pugs Atomz Bio:

Pugs Atomz is a multi-talented artist—a designer, muralist, rapper, and radio host. Inspired by his Chicago upbringing and artistic mother, he explored visual arts and music. In the 1990s, he co-founded The Nacrobats collective, releasing albums and solidifying himself in hip-hop.

After attending art school, Pugs released his debut album in 2000 and toured internationally. He documented his life as a graffiti artist through music and art installations. His social commentary led to involvement with anti-violence movements.

Pugs' international tours with DJ Vadim sparked a passion for fashion. He designed for major brands and co-founded Iridium Clothing, which attracted celebrities and cultivated young talent. He now runs his brand, Usuwe, and contributes to public art projects through co-founded initiatives.

Resources mentioned in this episode

In our conversation, I mentioned that Pugs has been interviewed many times. Here is another Conversation I found on YouTube where Pugs discusses his latest Project, "Mookie on the Southside," with producer DJ Real One interviewed by the project engineer, Justin “Zesto” Quiñones, who also has a YouTube channel. I know nothing about music production, so I thought this discussion was interesting; watch it here.

Sponsor Shoutout

UsUWe (pronounced Us-you-we) is a brand offering t-shirts, paintings, music, videos, and activations to reflect the emotions of us, you, and we. It's a time capsule of events and great memories.

I made Pugs' brand, UsUWe, a sponsor of this week's episode just for fun because he was on the show. I own a few things from UsUWe and bought his clothes as gifts. It's good stuff!

Shop Usuwe here: https://usuwe.threadless.com/

Check out Usuwe and support Pugs Atomz!

Note: In the episode, I mistakenly said "USUWE93" instead of "Usuwe." I apologize for the error.

Connect with Pugs Atomz

Instagram: @pugsatomz

Website: https://www.pugsatomz.com/

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

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Episode Credits:

Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)

Lyrics: Queen Lex

Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

The Pros and Cons of Paying for Art Opportunities

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of art submissions. Stephanie answers a listener's burning question: Is it worth paying an entry fee for art opportunities? She breaks down the importance of thorough research, emphasizing the value of understanding the hosting organization, juror, and curator.

Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting , this episode offers practical advice on navigating the complex landscape of art opportunities with confidence and clarity.

Topics discussed:

🔍Researching Art Opportunities: How to dig deep into an organization's history, the juror's style, and the curator's vision.

🔍Setting Financial Boundaries: Creating a budget and limiting monthly spending on entry fees.

🔍DIY vs. External Opportunities: Weighing the pros and cons of producing your own exhibition vs. applying to external art calls.

🔍Maximizing Your Investment: How to choose opportunities that align with your artistic goals and offer the best potential return.

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Check out my art and projects

More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Leave me feedback or send me a message:

Support the Show

Check out my art and projects.

Celebrating 50 Episodes: A noseyAF Q&A Special

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Hey there, noseyAF fam! Stephanie Graham here, and guess what? We're hitting a significant milestone with our 50th episode, and it's a Q&A special, baby! I'm seriously feeling the love from all of you fantastic listeners, whether you've been rocking with us since day one or just hopping on board. Seriously, your support means the world to me, and I'm beyond stoked to celebrate this momentous occasion with every one of you.

So, what's in store for this special ep?

Well, get ready to dive deep into all sorts of topics as I spill the beans on my summer plans (Summertime Chi vibes, anyone?), reminisce about my very first artwork, and even dish on which Real Housewife could make it big in the visual art scene. Plus, we're tackling the big question of how to bring creativity into those oh-so-serious corporate settings and diving into the ultimate goal of our beloved podcast.

This is only possible with your fantastic questions and the vibrant noseyAF community we've built together. Seriously, you all are the real MVPs. And hey, the fun doesn't stop here! We've got more epic episodes, bonus content, and surprises lined up for Season Five, so you better stay tuned, stay curious, and keep those questions coming. Do you want to join the convo or share your thoughts? Hit me at Stephanie@missgraham.com, slide into those show notes, and leave feedback. Until next time, noseyAF friends, keep being curious and remarkable, and I'll catch you on the flip side!

Resources mentioned in this episode

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram:

@stephaniegraham

@noseyafpod

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Summer 2024 ⛱️ Update-Get Ready for Season 5

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Hey, nosey friends! I'm just popping in to share some exciting updates about noseyAF.

What You'll Learn:

When Season 5 is dropping
About the new noseyAF Dispatch newsletter

Fun Chicago Events:

Chicago Art Department's 20th Anniversary Crystal Ball September 14th:

Calling all art enthusiasts! Join the glamorous celebration with code STEPHANIE for 10% off tickets.

Get your Crystal Ball tickets here

Terrain Exhibitions Fundraiser: Garden Party September 21st:

Enjoy art, food, and music at the Riverside Art Center.

Get your Early Bird tickets now!

Join the Community:

Sign up for the noseyAF Dispatch newsletter: Get exclusive content and stay connected.

Join the "Get Your Butt Up Club" Mondays @10am CST through August:

Motivate yourself and knock out those tedious tasks!

Connect with Stephanie:

Instagram: @stephaniegraham & @noseyaf

Email Stephanie

Website

More noseyAF:

Explore past episodes at noseyaf.com

Leave feedback or a message

Support the Show:

Rate and Review noseyAF

Learn about sponsorship opportunities

Calling All Grocery Owners, Food Experts & Community Artists! Be a Podcast Guest

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0500

This episode is a call to action for listeners! Stephanie, the host, is looking for guests for future episodes of noseyAF.

Folks I'm looking for:

Grocery store owners and managers to discuss the challenges and rewards of running a local store and its impact on communities.
Food economists or urban planners to explore the concept of food deserts and its impact on neighborhoods.
Artists with a community-engaged art practice to discuss creating art that benefits the community and can be a business model.
Sneaker resellers to delve into the world of sneaker reselling culture and how people make money reselling sneakers.
Etiquette coaches and dinner party masters to discuss the art of throwing a dinner party and proper etiquette.

If you know anyone, please send me a email , Thanks you so much for your help!

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Email: noseyAFpodcast@gmail.com

More Episodes at noseyaf.com

Leave me feedback or send me a message: https://castfeedback.com/noseyaf

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Episode link & contact info

Newsletter sign-up

Listen Now: Studio Noize

Tue, 21 May 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Introducing the podcast Studio Noize! where creativity meets conversation! Join host Jamaal Barber on a journey into the vibrant world of Black creatives who are reshaping the art scene. Whether renowned artists like Deborah Roberts and Bisa Butler or emerging talents making their mark, Studio Noize offers intimate, behind-the-scenes access to their stories and inspirations.

With each episode, Jamaal invites listeners into the studios of these remarkable individuals, exploring the passion, dedication, and unique perspectives that fuel their artistic endeavors. From insightful discussions on technique and process to candid reflections on the challenges and triumphs of their careers, Studio Noize celebrates the diverse voices shaping contemporary art.

As an artist and printmaker, Jamaal profoundly understands and appreciates the creative journey. His infectious enthusiasm and genuine curiosity, which have the power to ignite sparks of inspiration, infuse each conversation, leaving listeners energized and inspired to pursue their own artistic dreams.

Join the Studio Noize family today and discover the power of creativity, community, and connection. Tune in at [insert podcast link] to explore the boundless world of art through the lens of Studio Noize.

Listen to Studio Noize: https://www.studionoizepodcast.com/

Support noseyAF!

Join the noseyAF newsletter

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Atlanta, Prints and Podcasts with Jamaal Barber

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Atlanta, Prints, and Podcasts with Jamaal Barber

Hey Everyone!! Welcome to another episode of another noseyAF!!! This is episode 51!

Summary of the episode

In this episode I enjoyed sitting with the incredibly talented artist and printmaker Jamal Barber. Jamal, a Virginia native now deeply embedded in the Atlanta art scene, shares his journey from stumbling upon a screen printing demo to becoming a full-fledged artist passionate about the craft.

We delve into the intricacies of printmaking, discussing how the medium's process-oriented nature helped Jamal find his artistic voice and build confidence. He opens up about the challenges and triumphs of pursuing art full-time, especially after being laid off from his job. It's a story of resilience, with Jamal crediting his wife's unwavering support as a pivotal factor in his decision to focus on his art career.

Our conversation also touches on the importance of honesty in the art world, the evolving definition of success, and the role of relationships in an artist's life. Jamal emphasizes that art is not just about individual achievement but also about the partnerships and life circumstances that shape an artist's journey.

Additionally, Jamal gives us a peek into his podcast, Studio Noise, which he views as a curation project, highlighting the diverse voices and experiences within the art community. He reflects on the significance of sharing these stories and how they can inspire listeners to understand that there's no single path to being an artist.

This episode is a testament to the power of curiosity, the strength found in community, and the beauty of a life dedicated to art. Join us for this insightful and heartfelt conversation with Jamal Barber and discover the multifaceted world of printmaking and the vibrant art scene in Atlanta.

Topics discussed:

Jamal Barber's journey from discovering screen printing to establishing himself as an artist in the Atlanta scene.
The role of resilience and support, particularly from Jamal's wife, in navigating the challenges of pursuing art full-time.
Insights into the importance of honesty, evolving definitions of success, and the role of relationships in an artist's life, as discussed through Jamal's experiences and reflections.

Jaamal’s bio:

Jamaal Barber is a creative, imaginative soul born in Virginia and raised in North Carolina. In 2013, after seeing a screen printing demo at a local art store, Jamaal started experimenting with printmaking and made it his primary focus. His woodcuts and mixed media prints are displayed at ZuCot Gallery. They have also been included in the Decatur Arts Festival, Atlanta Print Biennial Show and at various art shows around the Metro Atlanta area. Additionally, Jamaal has done work for Twitter, the New York Times, Penguin Random House, Black Art in America and Emory University.

In 2004, Jamaal moved to Atlanta, GA where he now resides with his wife and two children.

Connect with JaamalInstagram: @jbarberstudio :@studionoizepodcast

Website: www.jbarberstudio.com/

Connect with StephanieInstagram: @stephaniegraham :@noseyafpod

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Textures, Tones and Cirque Colors with Alyane Spafford

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to noseyAF.

Today, we're wrapping up our On the Rock Series by chatting with artist Alayne Spafford. But first, a heads-up: Next episode, it's all about you. I'll be answering your questions, so send them over via email or DM on Instagram.

Alayne Spafford is an Edmonton-based visual artist. Originally from Saskatchewan, she spent time in Montreal and worked at Cirque du Soleil before settling in Alberta to focus on painting full-time. Her work explores the balance between chaos and order, reflecting her background in textiles and her time in the circus world.

Now, let's dive into our conversation with Alayne.

Connect with Alyane

Instagram: @alayne_spafford

Website: www.alaynespafford.com

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @noseyafpod

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Ask Me a Question: https://castfeedback.com/noseyaf

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Hues of Insight with Marie Lannoo

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Welcome to noseyAF, continuing on with the On the Rock Series, where we dive deep into the intriguing realm of art and creativity. I'm thrilled to introduce our esteemed guest today, Marie Lannoo, a Canadian artist whose boundary-breaking work continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Born in Simcoe, Ontario, and raised in Delhi, Ontario, Lannoo's artistic journey has taken her to the vibrant landscape of Saskatchewan, where she has flourished as a painter primarily based in Saskatoon. Known for her mesmerizing abstract paintings.

Lannoo's creations tantalize the senses with their layered colors and intricate textures, challenging us to explore the nuances of perception and form.

Throughout her illustrious career, Lannoo has garnered recognition and support from esteemed institutions, including grants from the Saskatchewan Arts Board. Her recent publication, "In Extremis," offers a profound glimpse into her exploration of light and color, enriched by thought-provoking essays from Robin Kingsburgh, Leah Taylor, and Robert Youds. Additionally, Lannoo's involvement with 330g—an independent artist-run space in Saskatoon—underscores her commitment to nurturing artistic dialogue and collaboration within the community.

But before we delve into our conversation with Marie, I want to extend an invitation to our listeners. We're planning our first Q+A episode, and we want to hear from you! Whether you have burning questions about Marie's artistry, her creative process, or anything else related to the world of art, we want to hear them. Head over to our Instagram page @noseyAFpod and leave your questions in the comments. Your curiosity could shape the direction of our upcoming episodes! Now, without further ado, let's unravel the colorful world of Marie Lannoo.

Connect with Marie Lannoo

Instagram: @marielannoo5

Website: https://marielannoo.com/

Check out Marie's Book

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Instagram: @noseyaf

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Beyond the Bindings: Exploring Artistic Narrative with Conny Gölz Schmitt

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we delve into the spunky, bright, and warm world of Conny Goelz Schmitt, a renowned collage artist and sculptor whose work is deeply influenced by her rich multicultural experiences. Conny's journey spans continents, from her upbringing in Germany to her time in Taiwan and eventual settling in the United States. She seamlessly integrates elements of her diverse cultural background through her art, drawing inspiration from German artistry's meticulous attention to detail, the vibrant retro aesthetics of 1980s Taiwan, and the boundless creativity of the American pioneering spirit. Her profound connection with vintage books lies at the core of Conny's artistic expression. She shares her evolution from 2D collages to intricate 3D sculptures, experimenting with various levels of complexity and materials such as wallpaper and enamel. Despite exploring different mediums, Conny's unwavering dedication to books as her primary medium remains unwavering. For her, books serve as a conduit for time travel, bridging the past with the future and igniting a continuous stream of creative ideas. During our conversation, Conny reflects on her recent residency in Pouch Cove, delving into the projects she worked on and the inspiration she drew from the serene coastal surroundings. We explore the underlying reasons behind her choice of books as a medium and her profound attachment to them, prompting her to question the essence of her creative journey and the inexhaustible wellspring of ideas that fuels her passion.

Finally, we discuss Conny's unique perspective on cultural similarities from her immersive experiences in Germany, Taiwan, and the United States. Through her keen observations, she unveils unexpected connections that transcend geographical boundaries, highlighting the universal language of art that resonates across diverse cultures.

Conny is a joy, and I hope you enjoy this conversation!

Topics discussed: • Cultural Fusion in Art: • The Timeless Medium of Vintage Books • Exploring Creativity and Collaboration. About Conny: Conny Goelz Schmitt is a collage artist and sculptor who spent her youth in Germany, moved to Taiwan in her twenties, and relocated to the US in 1996. Having been immersed in three very different cultures, she is drawn to hard edge painting influenced by the German “attention to detail”, the retro color palette reminiscent of Taiwan in the 80s, and the very often experimental and creative pioneering spirit of Americans. Her medium of choice is almost without exception the vintage book. In Germany she studied Sinology and German Literature at Eberhard Karls University in Tuebingen. She was named Sculptor of the Year by Chief Curator of Boston University, Kate McNamara in CAA’s 69th Members’ Prize Show. In 2016, Paul C. Ha, Director of the List Visual Art Center at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, selected her work for the Best Multi Media Prize in CAA’s National Prize Show. She was awarded a fellowship to the Vermont Studio Center for 2020. Besides exhibiting at Kathryn Markel Fine Arts, New York, NY and Hidell Brooks Gallery in Charlotte, her work has been featured at Galerie Biesenbach, Cologne (Germany), the Cultural Association of Rosa Venerini, Viterbo (Italy), The Painting Center, New York, Site: Brooklyn, New York, The Danforth Art Museum, Framingham, MA, among others. Conny has a studio in Beverly, Massachusetts.

Connect with Conny Gölz Schmitt Conny’s Instagram Conny’s Website Connect with Stephanie Instagram: @stephaniegraham @noseyafpod Check out my art and projects More Episodes at noseyaf.com Leave me feedback or send me a message Support the Show! Rate and Review the show Share noseyAF with your friends

The Art of Balance: Meg Franklin on Life, Cats, and Painting Dreams

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 02:58:00 -0500

In this vibrant episode of the Nosy AF Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with the incredibly talented artist Meg Franklin. Meg's journey from the picturesque landscapes of Georgia to the bustling art scene of New York and back again is a tale of passion, creativity, and the pursuit of an artist's dream.

Meg shared her experiences of living in New York for 15 years, her eventual return to Georgia, and the accidental acquisition of a bunch of cats. We delved into her dream of ditching the regular job to paint full-time, free from the distractions of office life.

Throughout the episode, we explored Meg's artistic process, including her transition from painting on velvet to using vibrant colors on black backgrounds. Meg's work is influenced by the color palettes of her childhood, Muppets, and even the movie Fantasia, which she watches repeatedly for inspiration.

We also touched on the importance of networking in New York and how Meg has adapted to connecting with the art world digitally since moving back to Georgia. Meg's insights into what makes a good painting and her criteria for her own work provided a fascinating glimpse into the mind of an artist.

Meg and I discussed the benefits of art residencies, like the one we both attended at Pooch Cove, and how such experiences can rejuvenate an artist's creativity. We also touched on the darker side of the art world, including the recent tragedy involving the Titanic submarine expedition near Newfoundland, where we had our residency.

As always, I aim to bring you closer to the lives of fascinating individuals, and Meg Franklin's story is no exception. Her blend of humor, artistic insight, and candid sharing made for an inspiring and entertaining episode. So grab your paintbrushes, and let's dive into the colorful world of Meg Franklin on this episode of Nosy AF.

Remember to stay connected and let me know your thoughts on the episode. And if you're curious about my own art and film projects, check out my website at MissGraham.com. Until next time, keep being curious and nosy about the world around you!

Topics discussed:

Meg's Vibrant Color Palette
The Necessity of New York for Artistic Success
The Importance of Artist Friendships

I made this bio about Meg:(well me and Chat GPT did)

Meg Franklin, a painter originally from Georgia, embarked on a creative journey that led her to New York, where she resided for about 15 years. Despite her rich educational background, including an MFA in Painting from the New York Academy of Art in 2013, an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Florida in 2007, and a BA in English from Washington and Lee University in 2004, Meg felt the magnetic pull of her Southern roots. Now back in Georgia, she finds inspiration for her art in the serene charm of her home state.

Meg's artistic achievements are highlighted by solo and two-person exhibitions, such as the collaborative "Appetite of Ghosts" with Marcia Resnick at Turn Gallery, New York, NY, in 2019, and solo shows like "Gloryland" at Occulus Gallery, Pacific Design Center, Los Angeles, CA, and "Small, Small World" at Marvin Gardens, Ridgewood, NY, both in 2018. Her contributions extend to various group exhibitions, showcasing her work in cities like London, San Francisco, and Brooklyn.

In addition to her visual accomplishments, Meg has left her mark in literary circles. Noteworthy publications include features in "The Coastal Post," where Jen Shepard explored "The Hazy Identity of Objects" in November 2017, and "The Cluster Mag," which showcased "Not-Men" in May 2013. Roxy Kirshenbaum delved into Meg's artistry in "The Artists: Meg Franklin" for "The WILD Magazine" in the same year. Maria Teicher provided insights "Inside the Studio with Meg Franklin" on the NYAA Blog in November 2012, giving readers a glimpse into Meg's creative process.

Despite the twists and turns of her artistic journey, Meg Franklin continues to seek authenticity and fulfillment in her art, guided by her experiences and the charm of her Southern surroundings.

Connect with Meg Instagram: @gabooldra

Connect with Stephanie Instagram: @stephaniegraham @noseyafpod

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noseyAF Classic: Israelite Speed Dating: A Unique Approach to Finding Love

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 04:13:00 -0500

🎙️ Another Classic noseyAF Episode!

This is a rebroadcast of an enlightening conversation with Mr. Andre, a Hebrew Israelite, in one of my favorite episodes! This special discussion emerged from my curiosity about a group often misunderstood as radical and unwelcoming.

Prompted by critical social media posts, I invited Andre to tackle all the "really crazy questions" about his faith, including the challenges of dating as a Hebrew Israelite.

Andre illuminates the beliefs of Hebrew Israelites, revealing their perspective that African Americans are the descendants of biblical Israelites. We explore historical perspectives, cultural practices, and the impact of the transatlantic slave trade on shaping their identity.

Addressing negative stereotypes, particularly those surrounding street preachers, Andre emphasizes the diversity of thought within the Hebrew Israelite community.

Discover the intriguing aspects of their lifestyle, from creating self-sustaining communities to navigating challenges in a society operating on a Christian calendar.

Listeners' questions, addressed with candor by Andre, highlight the difficulty of maintaining religious observances in a world that doesn't always accommodate them.

This episode breaks down barriers and misconceptions, showcasing the power of open dialogue for understanding and respecting different beliefs and practices.

If you enjoyed this eye-opening episode, please rate, review, and share the show. Check out my website, missgraham.com, and my pin company, Graham Cracker Pins, to support the podcast. Wishing you a blessed week, and stay nosy, my friends! peace✌🏾✌🏾

Follow @stephaniegraham and @noseyAFpod on instagram

noseyAF Classic-Wandering Together: The Nomadic Family Lifestyle with Abby McNair

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to a brand new year of NoseyAF! I'm joined in the studio by my friend and filmmaker, Ife, as we kick off the year by revisiting a classic episode from 2018. Today, we invite you to join us in the excitement as we replay an inspiring conversation with the dynamic force behind "All We Do Is Wander," Abby McNair.

Abby's journey began when her husband Dion was given the option to retire, propelling them to fully embrace a nomadic lifestyle. In early 2017, they meticulously crafted a plan, sold everything, and leaped into a life of constant exploration. From the vibrant streets of Mexico to the serene landscapes of Japan, the McNairs have traversed diverse destinations, generously sharing their experiences and inspiring others to prioritize travel in their lives.

Throughout our conversation, Abby reflects on the challenges and rewards of nomadic living, emphasizing the significance of meticulous planning and the unwavering support of their community. The McNairs aren't just advocates; they embody living proof that transforming dreams of a nomadic lifestyle into reality is possible. Through their company, TLC Travel Life Coaching, they guide those aspiring to make travel a priority and assist families in embracing the nomadic lifestyle.

As we replay this episode, we delve into poignant topics such as black travel, alternative schooling, and the pivotal decisions that led the McNairs on their extraordinary journey. Join us in rediscovering the wisdom and insights generously shared by Abby.

If you haven't already, follow Abby and her family on Instagram (@allwedoiswander) and explore their adventures on their website at https://www.allwedoiswander.com/.

We're eager to hear your thoughts on this episode! Reach out to us through email or visit www.noseyaf.com to send us a message. And, of course, don't forget to rate, review, and share NoseyAF if you find joy and inspiration in our conversations.

Happy listening, and here's to a year filled with thrilling adventures and uplifting stories!

Wrapping Up 2023: Creativity, Growth, and Friendship with Award-Winning Filmmaker Ife Olatunji

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Happy Holidays, Y'all! Welcome to noseyAF!

This year has been a tough one for me, but a constant source of joy has been this podcast project and connecting with so many incredible artists, including you! Thank you so much for being a part of this journey.

I’m taking some time off until after the new year to rest, reflect, plan, and kick! But before I go, let's dive into a special episode. Joining me is the amazing filmmaker and friend, Ife Olatunji. In this fun, spontaneous conversation, we discuss the highs and lows of 2023, share plans for 2024, and indulge in one of our favorite activities – daydreaming.

2024, here we come! I'd love to hear how you're spending the end of the year and what you're thinking about for the new year. Drop me an email at stephanie@missgraham.com.

About Ife:

Ife Olatunji is a distinguished and award-winning independent visual anthropologist and documentary filmmaker. Her passion for exploring diverse cultures has earned her recognition for producing short documentaries during extensive anthropological fieldwork in locations such as India, Chicago, the UK, and beyond. Her portfolio includes captivating music and dance videos, as well as thought-provoking experimental non-fiction and observational cinema.

Thank you for being a part of this podcast journey. I wish you all a fantastic holiday season and look forward to an exciting 2024!

Connect with Ife:

Instagram: @freedom_lvrfilms

Website: freedomloverfilms.com

Connect with Stephanie:

Instagram: @stephaniegraham | @noseyafpod

Website: missgraham.com | noseyaf.com

Achieving Wellness & Conquering Stress with Kristal Holmes

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Get ready for another exciting dive into the world of wellness on noseyAF! This week, join Stephanie and special guest Crystal Holmes, the powerhouse health coach, attorney, and creator of the 'Go Hard Chick' movement. Discover the secrets to holistic wellness as they unravel the pillars extending beyond the gym – from emotional and environmental to financial, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. Crystal shares her journey of triumphing over autoimmune disease and her mission to guide others to fuller lives. Uncover stress management strategies, challenge the norms of wellness advertising, and explore a future where health services are accessible to everyone. Tune in for practical tips, lively discussions, and a vision for embracing overall health with these dynamic voices. Don't miss this engaging episode packed with empowerment and insights! Thank God for Kristal!!

Connect with Kristal!

Instagram: @gohardchick

Website: gohardchick.com

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham @noseyafpod

Website: missgraham.com noseyaf.com

Shaping Newfoundland's Artistic Legacy with James Baird

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the podcast, host Stephanie Graham interviews James Baird, the founder of the James Baird Gallery and the Pooch Cove residency in Newfoundland. James shares his journey in shaping the artistic landscape of Newfoundland, from running convenience stores to owning a bookstore and launching a newspaper. He discusses his passion for art and the joy of connecting artists with the vibrant tapestry of Pooch Cove. James emphasizes the importance of saying yes and being open to new opportunities. He also shares his thoughts on art collecting, encouraging people to buy what they love and not to focus on art as an investment. Overall, James provides insights into his unique approach to art and his commitment to creating a welcoming and inspiring environment for artists.

Connect with James

Instagram: @james.baird.gallery @pouchcove_org

Website: pouchcove.org jamesbaird.com

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham @noseyafpod

Website: missgraham.com noseyaf.com

Art, Authenticity, and Advocacy with Najee Dorsey

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0500

🎨 Dive into the vibrant art world in the latest "Nosey AF" episode! Join Stephanie as she gets up close and personal with the art mogul Najee Dorsey, the brilliant mind behind Black Art in America. Have you ever wondered what separates a mere art 'buyer' from a passiohttp://www.instagram.com/@blackartinamerica_nate 'collector'? Dorsey unravels this and more, sharing his transformative journey from a budding artist to an industry icon.

Discover the magnetic pull between business strategies and artistic flair, and get an insider's peek into Dorsey's fresh take on animating landscape art. But that's not all! Get a virtual tour of the iconic Black Art in America Gallery, a hub of creativity, community, and culture. From toe-tapping jazz evenings to bustling farmers' markets, it's a space that pulses with energy and inspiration.

And for those eager to be part of a larger artistic family, there's a special reveal about the much-anticipated "Black Art Family Reunion." Trust, visibility, and raw emotion shine throughout the conversation, making this episode a treasure trove for seasoned art lovers and curious newcomers. So, art aficionados, grab your headphones, and let's get nosey with the best in the biz! 🎧🖼️

Connect with Najee

Instagram: @blackartinamerica_

Website: https://www.blackartinamerica.com/

Connect with Stephanie

Instagram: @stephaniegraham and @noseyafpod

Website: www.noseyAF.com and www.missgraham.com

Magical Forests & Neon Dreams: Immersing in the Vivid Canvases of Sheri Rush

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 23:18:00 -0500

Another artist is in the building in this exciting episode of the Nosy AF Podcast!! Continuing with the On the Rock series, host Stephanie sits down with artist Sheri Rush for a captivating conversation about her journey as an artist and her upcoming exhibition "Situations of Liminality and Transformation." Sheri's large-scale abstract paintings, filled with vibrant colors and magical forest landscapes, have wowed audiences for years. Stephanie describes Sheri's work as immersive and animated, like walking through a bright, neon forest. Sheri shares her process, which involves documenting and archiving photographs as a source of inspiration. We also talk about our residency together at Pouch Cove; if you're curious about contemporary art and want to hear from a talented artist, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss out on the chance to dive into Sheri's world and get inspired by her unique approach to painting.

Follow Sheri, check out her exhibition, and follow her on Instagram: Sheri Rush Website Sheri Rush on Instagram More details about Sheri's exhibition with artist Jared Betts here

Thank you so much for listening to another episode of noseyAF!

Please give a like and review wherever you listen to podcasts

Follow and slide into Stephanie's DM on Instagram Check out Stephanie's projects at www.missgraham.com

All things noseyAF at www.noseyaf.com

Big thanks to Amanda for producing this podcast. Find out more at Cassiopeia Studio

Pioneering Women, Paintings, and Prairies with Susannah Papish and Melissa Potter

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to another episode of noseyAF! Episode 37!!

I am still keeping the series going with the "On the Rock" series!

In this engaging episode, artists Melissa Potter and Susannah Papish are two incredible women I spoke to while I was at my residency in Pouch Cove. In this conversation, I delve into their journeys within the art realm and their collaborative project, "Invisible Labors." Melissa touches upon her unorthodox route into the arts, spurred by her mother's encouragement. At the same time, Susannah recalls her formative experiences at the Art Institute and her deep dive into art history at the University of Illinois Chicago. The heart of their discussion centers on "Invisible Labors," a rich exploration of the women from the Blue Island area, spotlighting their roles in gardening, farming, and community engagements. They also discuss the pressing environmental concern of the vanishing prairies in Illinois and the vital importance of soil health. Dive in to hear two passionate artists discuss their work, inspirations, and the environmental ties that bind their projects.

Follow Melissa and Susannah and learn more about their project, "Invisible Labors."

Melissa Potter's Website

Melissa Potter on Instagram: @melissahpotter

Mel's project Feminist Seed Bank

Susannah Papish's art space boundary

Follow Susannah and boundary on Instagram: @susannahpapish @boundarychicagospace

Check out Mel and Susannahs Book "Invisible Labors"

Comedy as Practice and Purpose w/ Christina Anthony

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 21:38:00 -0500

Christina Anthony is a multi-talented actress, writer, vocalist, and improviser. She is originally from the Chicago comedy scene and is best known as an emeritus company member of Playmakers Lab after teaching creative writing throughout Chicago Public Schools to countless students. Christina is also an alum of the Second City e.t.c. Chicago where she co-wrote three award-nominated sketch revues and performed thousands of shows for Chicago audiences. Most recently, Christina was a series regular on the ABC Black-ish spinoff Mixed-ish and starred opposite Kristen Bell in the Netflix dark comedy series The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window. This spring, she made the move to NBC to appear in a lead role in Non-Evil Twin, a sitcom pilot created and starring Amber Ruffin. In this episode of the Nosey AF Podcast, host Stephanie Graham sits down with her good friend and multi-talented comedian, Christina Anthony. They dive into the different worlds of comedy, from stand-up to improv, and discuss the importance of conserving energy and finding support within the artistic community. Christina shares her journey into comedy and reflects on the innate humor that has always been a part of her. Get ready for a hilarious and insightful conversation with this talented comedian. Follow Christina on Instagram Connect with me on the social meeds!! Follow me on: Instagram See my art, photography, and films at www.missgraham.com Check out our website at www.noseyaf.com Thanks to Amanda at Cassiopeia Studio for producing this episode

I Was Wrong about Alberto Aguilar

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0500

I thought I had Artist Alberto Aguilar all figured out, and I was wrong. LOL, I mean, not at all.

Alberto Aguilar is a Chicago-based artist who works wherever he is, with whatever material is at hand, collaborating with whoever is near. It's a way of living and making that allows him to be more present in all his roles. He teaches at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and the University of Illinois in Chicago, regularly exchanging with his students. He runs Mayfield, an independent art space from his home/studio, with his daughter and fellow artist, Madeleine Aguilar. He has exhibited at museums, street corners, highway rest stops, storefronts, galleries, and people's homes worldwide.

In this special episode, I speak to Alberto Aguilar about his art practice and his family, and Alberto gives me some advice too.

Suppose you are reading this in August of 2023. In that case, Alberto will be on residency at the Visual Arts Center of Richmond, where he will have a house and produce work for an upcoming traveling group exhibition titled Self Adjacent. In September, I will have a solo exhibition/project at Centro Romero, a community-based organization that serves the refugee immigrant population on the northeast side of Chicago.

Yall, Alberto is booked and busy. I appreciated how open he was about his process, family, and art world dreams, and I hope you will enjoy this conversation with him.

Follow Alberto on Instagram

See his work at: albertoaguilar.org

Connect with me on the social meeds!!

Follow me on: Instagram

See my art, photography, and films at www.missgraham.com

Check out our website at www.noseyaf.com

Credits:

Thanks to Amanda at Cassiopeia Studio for producing this episode

Welcome to Season Four of the Nosey AF Podcast

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 12:21:00 -0500

Hello from Newfoundland!! In this episode of the Nosey AF podcast, host Stephanie Graham welcomes listeners to Season 4, Episode 34.

In this episode, Stephanie shares that she is currently in Canada for an art residency in Pouch Cove. She talks about how being in a residency is important for her art resume and how it aligns with her current free time due to her TV gig ending early. She also expresses support for the ongoing writer's strike in the film industry and discusses the need for better treatment of crew members.

Things Mentioned in the Episode:

Pouch Cove Foundation

James Baird Gallery

Credits:

Thanks to Amanda at Cassiopeia Studio for producing this episode

Connect with me on Instagram See my art, photography, and films at www.missgraham.com

Check out our website at www.noseyaf.com

Reflections and Lessons from Season 3

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 00:49:00 -0500

As Season 3 of noseyAF concludes, I reflect on all the fly girls that came through to share their projects with us and some key lessons I've learned in my creative practice and making this podcast.

Thank you for another fun season of noseyAF! I enjoy making this show and connecting with people, so I'm excited about Season 4!

You can find me and my work at missgraham.com

Podcast Episodes www.noseyaf.com

Follow Me on Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Conquering Burnout w/ Coach Ellyn Schinke

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 03:56:06 -0500

Burnout is NO Joke, yall!! I've been going through it and just trying to take the best care of myself. Through this journey of redefining balance, prioritizing rest and getting back into my creative flow, and just wanting to hang out, I came across the work of Dr. Ellyn Schnike, and she has been a solid help in me working on getting out of burnout. Btw I'm still working on it yall!

Ellyn Schinke is a former scientist and certified professional coach. After spending over a decade in academic and corporate environments, she's on a mission to help busy, burned-out corporate professionals and entrepreneurs free themselves from burnout and find their balance. Ellyn will empower you with the knowledge, mindset, and tools to realize that burnout might happen, but staying burned out? That's a choice.

I'm excited to have her on the podcast this week to help us figure this burnout stuff together, and I'm thankful for her time. I hope you find this episode helpful.

Would love to hear from you about this week's episode and let us know your thoughts.

Links we mentioned in this episode:

Take the Burnout Quiz

Check out Ellyn here and give her a follow and slide in her dms on Instagram

As for me: You can find me and my work at missgraham.com

Podcast Episodes www.noseyaf.com

Follow Me on Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Oh and of course, if you enjoyed today's episode please leave me a rating and review wherever you are listening today.

Thank You.

Party Girls & Startups with Astin Hayes

Tue, 10 May 2022 06:00:44 -0500

What's the career life of a real-life party girl? Only one lady I know can answer this question, Astin Hayes!

Astin is a Chicago-based sales and marketing specialist. Astin has worked with brands such as

VIBE Magazine, Chicago Cares, Inc, and Clear Channel Media & Entertainment. Currently, Astin is a Key Account Manager for Rémy Cointreau, executing multiple significant events such as concerts, live listener experiences, street team promotions, and parties!

To date, Astin's most significant achievement is adding app developer to her list of accomplishments as the founder and CEO of TipOff gaming app is a game of blacklisted words similar to Taboo. The inspiration for the app is to bring people together organically using culture and technology. So naturally, I asked Astin about developing her game and how she responds to those that say, "I got an idea for an app."

I think this is a fun conversation. Astin is a remarkable lady, and I hope you enjoy the conversation!

Let us know what you think!

Check out Astin's game: The Tip-Off:

Check out the Tip-Off Game on Instagram

Follow Astin on Instagram

As for me: You can find me and my work at missgraham.com Podcast Episodes www.noseyaf.com Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Art as Social Practice with Ellen Mueller

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 03:33:37 -0500

It's the 30th Episode for noseyAF yall! How exciting is that?! Today's Episode is celebrated with a conversation with Ellen Mueller, an artist, author, and educator based in Minneapolis.

When I was researching social practice art, I discovered Ellen and came across her book "Some Social Practice." Ellens's work has included social practice, drawing, and time-based work.

In this Episode, Ellyn tells us all about her work that explores issues related to the environment and capitalism as it affects everyday life. She also advises on adding social practice to our art and lives.

I also share a random dating story on littering.

Hit us up and let us know what you think! You can see more of Ellyn's work at: https://ellenmueller.com and follow her IG: @ellenmmueller

As for me: You can find me and my work at missgraham.com

Podcast Episodes www.noseyaf.com

Instagram: @stephaniegraham

Also, with it being the 30th Episode and all, I would love it so much if you would leave me a rating and review wherever you are listening today :)

Thank You.

Self-Care, Forreal w/ Taylor Elyse Morrison

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 06:00:58 -0500

I wish I had a nickel for every time I hear the word Self Care! Anything and everything is self-care. My french fries are self-care, my new dishes are self-care, my blinds are self-care. #LAWD

Thank God for Taylor getting down to the bottom of my research of what the heck self-care REALLY IS! I mean, outside of keeping my nails did, what else is there? Taylor is a self-care expert and is the founder of the wellness lifestyle brand Inner Workout. Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Bon Appetit have celebrated Taylor's work.

I think you will find some clarity and direction from listening to Taylors' wisdom. I have personally benefitted from her content as I figure out all this burnout crap. Yall I even asked her about healing? Cause what does that even mean? Another buzzword. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this conversation.

Hit us up and let us know what you think!

In the episode, Taylor mentions "The Take Care Assessment." You can take that assessment here (also do it every quarter, and maybe even your birthday)

Taylor + InnerWorkout on the Internet: Follow Taylor on Instagram Follow Inner Workout on Instagram Taylor's Website Inner Workout

As for me: You can find me and my work at missgraham.com Podcast Episodes www.noseyaf.com Instagram: @stephaniegraham

I would greatly appreciate a review of this podcast wherever you are listening. Thank you so much XOXO

Halftone Prints & Artist-Run Spaces with Vic Barquin

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 09:00:09 -0500

Welcome to the noseyAF podcast! Today's guest is Vic Barquin, an artist, arts administrator, great gal, and a bomb screen printer who started Halftone Projects, an artist-run space that… well, she will tell you about it. I asked Vic about her experience being a curator and artist #atthesamedamntime Why she started her artist space, Halftone Projects, and how it benefitted her and the art community she is involved in, as well as some advice to creating your own artist space.

I love Vic's work, and I hope you enjoy this conversation. Hit me up and let me know!

Links Mentioned in This Episode: Halftone Projects Vic's Website Follow Vic on Instagram Parlour and Ramp (where Vic had her retrospective show)

Calling Art Collectors+Art Supporters: Vic and I collaborated on a print to benefit the Southside Art Center. We still have a few left; you can buy a print here.

As for me, Stephanie, your host. Follow me on Instagram, Slide in my DM's, and say Hi! Check out my Website and see my projects.

noseyaf.com

Maps, Money and Men with Artist and Activist Tonika Lewis Johnson

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 09:00:29 -0500

Tonika Johnson is a photographer, social justice artist, and life-long resident of Chicago’s South Side neighborhood of Englewood.

Tonikas project Folded Map was organized to develop creative educational tools & interactive projects to help educate and engage the public about how we are socially impacted by historic racial and institutional conditions that segregate Chicago and our country.

Super lucky to have Tonika on episode 26 of the noseyAF podcast to talk about her latest work, the Folded Map Action Kit project, her photography career, and what it is like running her Not-For-Profit. I also ask her... Tonika, are you dating anyone?

Tonika on the Internet: Visit the Folded Map Project Website

Tonika's Website

Follow Tonika on Instagram

Stephanie on the Internet: noseyAF Podcast

Stephanie's Projects Follow Stephanie on Instagram

Coming Back From Burnout

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 09:00:33 -0500

Welcome back to a new season of the noseyAF podcast! It's been an overwhelming few years, and your girl has been on a journey, but Im ready to welcome you back with brand new episodes! I share a bit about where I have been and what to expect this season in this episode. Links mentioned in this episode: Softer Sounds Studio (my friend Amelia) Coach Ellyn's Burnout Quiz Burnout Book

Episode Credits: Episode Produced by Amanda Roscoe Mayo Theme Music by Luvjonez

Check out my projects: www.missgraham.com Follow Me on IG @stephaniegraham

024 All The Wins!

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 09:00:00 -0500

Happy 2019 Yall! I'm so excited to be back, I've missed creating this podcast and talking to you so much!!

This episode I share all of your wins and a few of my losses!! Yikes!

I'm ready to make 2019 the BOMB YEAR yall. Soo ready.

I mentioned my State of the Union Letter and if you're interested in reading it, check it out here.

I love to hear from you so hit me up at stephanie@missgraham.com

See my work at www.missgraham.com

Follow Me on Instagram!

If your feeling this episode and the noseyAF podcast, please leave me a review and share with a friend!!

I'm so thankful that you listened today! Go Be Great!

4 Things I Learned from Black Men

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the noseyAF Podcast! This week it's just you and me, I've been photographing Black men for my new exhibition and I wanted to tell you somethings I learned that I wanted to share. I feel like I got this peek behind the curtain, and I just wanted to share some fun facts.

skateboarding and punk rock in the Mexican community w/Alex Rojas

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to the noseyAF podcast Episode 22! This week we talk to my friend filmmaker Alex Rojas about punk culture in the Mexican community. Alex is a wealth of knowledge and my buddy, he schools us this episode yall. I hope you enjoy.

Alex is a filmmaker in LA. Check out his work: https://www.illvillskill.com/

www.noseyaf.com www.missgraham.com

this isnt a real episode

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 18:09:30 -0500

My show opened at boundary and though I had a great time! I'm so exhausted yall! I had an idea for an episode this week, and the plan for the episode just failed. I didn't want to leave you hanging. So just hear me out.

Thanks for listening.

Stephanie

www.noseyaf.com

Africans in the Jamaican Club, Going Dutch, and Tyra Banks w/Michelle G

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Episode 20! It's a throwback today too! I'm sharing a So This One Guy episode with you from Michelle G. Ya see back in 2013 I thought my project So This One Guy was going to be a multimedia project but I made the project smaller and focused on video. This conversation is old but its good stuff here and I'm excited to share 2013 me with you.

Enjoy!

Can't wait to hear your thoughts

Parties, Tesla, and Hip Hop OH MY! with KMoon

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Yall my guest KMoon is a regular girl from the west side of Chicago that Keeps Making Opportunities Outta Nothing.

I met KMoon at a mutual friends birthday party and found her super interesting. Mostly because her business names would sound like she had a full crew, but it was really just her, like who does that?! LOL

Folks know KMoon because she throws parties, but she also does charity work, produces concerts, flips houses. I mean she is basically Oprah.

It's my goal this episode of noseyAF you get inspired by KMoon hustle and you too will aspire to be her friend, another cool girl doing cool things I think you should know about.

Enjoy

www.missgraham.com www.boundarychicago.space

Follow KMOON on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kmoon319/

Follow Thank You Chicago: https://www.instagram.com/tychicago/

www.missgraham.com

90 Day Fiancé, Exhibitions and Friendship

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Have yall been watching 90 Day Fiancé? Well if not get on it, its the craziest thing I've ever seen and it's making me question what friendship means. I can't wait to talk about this with you. Episode 18 OMG!

I have a new exhibition coming up September 29th at boundary. I would for you to attend. Journey of a Rap StarSeptember 29th- November 3rd, 2018. Opening Reception September 29th at 5:30-pm

017 doing good just because and $45 purple hands

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 08:00:00 -0500

The Million Waves Project is one of the coolest organizations I've run across in a while, and I'm excited to share them with you. So today, you and I are chatting it up with the founder of the Million Waves Project Chris Moriarty so that he can tell us not only the cool thing he does but also what its like to run a not for profit as Chris has just been doing this for seven months. It's on and popping with this episode. Its super inspiring. Oh, and there is a basic necessity giveaway too

Check out the Million Waves Project: www.millionwavesproject.com

Show notes can be found at noseyaf.com

noseyAF Season Two!

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 02:52:08 -0500

Yall! Season Two is just around the corner! I'm excited and this quick little episode is just a shout out to let you know I'm still here. I'm being vulnerable and letting yall know... I missed a deadline but I'm still here!

See you soon! Season Two Starts September 3rd!

015 Quality over Quantity, Baby its Episode 15

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Yall we have made it to episode 15 and its all I talk about. We have made it to the final episode of Season 1 but wait...theres more!!

014 How to Speak to Someone Whom You Don't Remember

Mon, 23 Jul 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Yall this past weekend I totally ran into someone who I just could not remember. I feel awful, wanted to tell you about it and then also share what to do if you find yourself in the same situation..

I'm here to save the day yall! I got you.

Show notes available at www.noseyaf.com

013 Baseball, metal music, and friends who need a place to stay.

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Episode 13! Ursula is the co-host of the podcast Flipping Bats and Winning Games a podcast about baseball, focused primarily on New York baseball affairs. Ursula and I talk baseball, but we spend most of the time talking about her friend Barabara a girl who overstayed her welcome. What do you do with those friends who need a place to stay? Another cool thing is that Ursula is really into metal music so we talk that too!!

Check out Ursula's Podcast Flipping Bats and Winning Games here

Credits: Thanks to Aubrey Modium for Nosey AF Theme Music Thanks to Jennifer Longworth for editing Connect with me on the social meeds!! Instagram Twitter Facebook

See my art, photography, and films at www.missgraham.com

012 Artwork, Filmlife and Family Vacations

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Yall, I'm back from a week-long family vacation, and though I'm still decompressing the world wind of a family trip. I have some thoughts. Also wanted to share some fun news about my art so check me out for this quick and easy episode cause I'm excited to update you.

Imhotep Definition of Crazy according to Merriam Webster Kanye West said slavery was a choice

Trying New Things in a "You Wanna Do What ?" Kind of Way with Monica Rivera

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 08:00:00 -0500

It was fun to talk to Monica, about her podcast experience with her show "You Wanna Do What" and hearing all the different experiences she's had. A fun brown girl Ki Ki about adventure and podcasting, I hope you'll dig this episode.

010 Just a Wandering With Your Family of Six with Abby McNair

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Yall if you didn't know, I want to remind you that black women are number one ! mmmkay! I know yall didn't need that reminder because if you are following me, you believe that. #yesyesyallAbby McNair, with her husband and four babies, are boppin around the world yall, LITERALLY WANDERIN' living their best life!

Abby of All We Do is Wander is a family of 6 nomads traveling the world! Last year they were in Latin America this year we are bouncing through Asia.

Abby and I talked about black travel, how she and her family decided to become nomadic, alternative schooling and how we can be like her.

I hope you enjoy this conversation, and if you do tell me so! Would love to hear from you by way of email, rating, review and sharing with a friend! Follow Abby and her family on Instagram Check out their website at https://www.allwedoiswander.com/

Would love to hear from you, send me a message at www.noseyaf.com

If you dig the conversations please rate, review and share NoseyAF!

009 The Who, What, Where and dating life of a Hebrew Israelite with Andre Yisrael

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Andre is a Hebrew Israelite. I'm not sure if you know this, but Hebrew Israelites get sort of a bad rap for not being welcoming and some radical when one challenges their faith. Thankfully for us, Andre a member of this faith, sat with me to discuss the ins and outs of what being a Hebrew Israelite means and gives me an idea if finding an Israelite boyfriend/girlfriend is a good idea, or not. I'm thankful for people like Andre saying yes and allowing me to ask dumb questions.

I'm excited about today's show as its getting to the bottom of what this podcast is about having conversations and asking questions of those who are nothing like me. Its fun, I'm thankful, and I love you.

If you enjoy this show, please let me know, I would love to hear from you, send me a message and say hello.

Rate, Review and Share Nosey AF with your friends if you are having fun I would super appreciate it.

008 Rap Beefs, Barbecue Sauce, and Getting Back to Innocence

Sun, 10 Jun 2018 23:28:22 -0500

Performance Artist Drunken Monkeee is without a doubt one of the energetic performers you will ever see! I'm not just saying that either, his performances are super fun. Even though Monkeee is based in Minnesota right now, he was in town to perform and visit family, and I was happy that he said yes when I went on a limb and asked him to come by for the podcast. If you love hip-hop, underground hip-hop, social justice and pop culture, this is a fun chit chat with Drunken Monkeee.

Links from the episode:

Find Drunken Monkeee's music here: All things Drunken Monkeee: Soundcloud, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and of course Facebook Things we mentioned in the episode: Goodie Mob feat. Estero "World I know"

Drake on Degrassi High

Tekashi 69

Slam movie with Saul Williams

Beyonce speaking on becoming Sasha Fierce

Drake vs. Pusha T

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255

Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain

No sponsor for this episode, I just think we need to check in on our own mental space as well as the mental space of those we love and care about. If you enjoying being Nosey AF with me please consider leaving a review, comment and sharing the show with a friend, I would appreciate that. Credits: Thanks to Drunken Monkeee for letting me use his music in today's episode Connect with me on the social meeds!! Instagram Twitter Facebook

See my art, photography and films at www.missgraham.com

007 Collecting Art and Sustainable Design with Kandy Christensen of Meandering Design

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Just like Kandy!!! Do you know that song, I think the lyrics go in a way a little bit racier but none the less, its a cute kick off as a description for this weeks podcast guest, Kandy Christensen from Meandering Design. Kandy came through to my studio and told me all about collecting art. Kandy and I are both art collectors, but Kandy talks to us today about her getting started in art collecting, as well as sustainable design for not only your home and workspace but also... your health. Kandy pops lots of vitamins, and we talk about it all on this weeks NoseyAF Podcast.

Links from the episode:

Find Kandy on Instagram Visit Kandy at Meandering Design

Chicago Spots Kandy Likes:

Alapash District Chicago

Great places to find art in Chicago:

Cornelia Arts Building

Bridgeport Art Center

Zhou B Art Center

Art First Friday's in Pilsen

Where to find art:

The Sponsor of today's episodes is me! I'm available for portrait photography and would like the opportunity, send me a email and check out my work at www.missgraham.com.

If you enjoyed this podcast, let me know, please review where wherever you are listening and share it with a friend!

Credits: Thanks to Aubrey Modium for the NoseyAF theme music. Thanks to Alex Sugg for editing this podcast!

You can find me on social media! Instagram.com/stephaniegraham Twitter.com/missgraham

Hit me up at www.missgraham.com

006 Scott Jones on Filmmaking, Hipster Racism and Popeyes

Mon, 28 May 2018 08:00:00 -0500

After many a back and forth I was finally able to track down my buddy and filmmaker Scott Tanner Jones, to talk to about his filmmaking career in Los Angeles! We also talk about what its like to be a white man in today's political climate, Popeyes chicken (can you believe Scott has never had Popeyes!!!!) and also Hipster Racism. I'm excited about today's episode!

Follow Scott on Instagram

Check out Scott's webseries Carbone

The Who,What,Where and a Guy Named Rashid

Mon, 21 May 2018 08:00:00 -0500

OMG! Big Things Poppin! Episode Number 5! A mini milestone for me that I am taking seriously! I realized that today's episode maybe should have been one of the first, but I like it as number 5. Today it's about me yall! Well, it's about you and me! No guest just me sharing with you the details about Who I am and my goal with Nosey AF! I never introduced myself to you, I just hit the ground running, and if you got a few minutes I would like to do that! I'm asking for feedback on this show so make sure you hit me up at stephanie@missgraham.com

Thanks for listening