Join us for an in-depth conversation with Ben Orozco, a multimedia artist and designer renowned for his innovative glassmaking and photography. In this episode, we explore Ben's artistic journey, highlighting his unique blend of Scandinavian influences and Miami roots.Discover how Ben transforms everyday sensations into breathtaking glass sculptures and the ways he addresses the challenges of mental health within the creative process. Hear about his experiences in Sweden and how they've shaped his approach to art and design, as well as his insights on navigating the perfectionism and ADHD that often accompany an artist’s life.Whether you're an art enthusiast, a fellow creator, or simply curious about the intersection of creativity and mental well-being, this episode offers valuable perspectives and inspiration.Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful conversations with artists and creatives!

Alejandro Miranda is an Indigenous Latino filmmaker and co-founder of Bravebird. He recently debuted his first feature documentary titled "Sacred Wisdom Sacred Earth," which is currently screening at various tribal nations and will enter the film festival circuit soon. His storytelling approach emphasizes the importance of cultural narratives, often highlighting the unique perspectives of Indigenous communities.Throughout his career, Miranda has expressed a deep appreciation for the arts as a vehicle for communication about personal and societal issues. His filmmaking method is rooted in what he calls "Cinema Dignity," where he prioritizes transparency and collaboration with the communities involved in the films. This method ensures that the stories are told authentically and preserve the integrity of the cultures represented.Miranda's work often focuses on resilience and beauty within challenging contexts, aiming to share uplifting narratives amidst the prevalent portrayal of negativity in media. He reflects on the healing power of cinema and emphasizes the importance of community in the filmmaking process, stating that it leads to a richer storytelling experience

Noah Bloedorn, REAP Food Group, discusses the complexities of food systems, particularly focused on Dane County, Wisconsin, emphasizing the need for a transition from a profit-driven food system to one that prioritizes local consumption and recognizes food as a human right. Noah outlines the disparities in food accessibility, where a significant percentage of crops are grown for commodity rather than for human consumption. Efforts are being made to establish a local food economy by increasing food production for local needs and addressing the challenges faced by the most vulnerable populations. The conversation touches on issues such as poverty, housing costs, and the implications they have on food access, while exploring initiatives like community gardening to directly meet local food needs. The podcast highlights REAP Food Group's involvement in community outreach and policy work aimed at creating a sustainable and equitable food system.

Ever wondered how a simple photo can tell a profound story? Whitney Wells unveils her journey from struggling with panic attacks to capturing breathtaking moments through her lens. In this episode, Whitney shares the transformative power of photography and the solace it brought her during tough times. From family adventures in the mountains to learning the art of authenticity in every capture, you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation. Tune in and see how life’s layers reveal beauty in the unexpected!

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Dan Renderos, the creative mind behind a flourishing food truck that celebrates the vibrant essence of LA culture! From his early days sketching in his bedroom to the hustle of running a popular seafood pop-up, Dan shares his journey filled with passion, community, and the love for flavor. Discover how he’s not just cooking, but also crafting unforgettable experiences for his customers while highlighting the importance of authenticity and cultural connection. Tune in to hear his incredible stories, the challenges he’s faced, and what motivates him to keep pushing boundaries in the culinary scene. Don’t miss out—this episode will leave you hungry for more!

Morgan D. Stewart, actor, producer, and writer, discusses the evolution of her project "uHuman," which was born out of her personal recovery journey. She emphasizes the importance of creativity and connection in overcoming struggles with addiction and mental health. By integrating arts therapy tools into recovery practices, she aims to create a supportive environment for artists. The focus is on establishing a worker’s cooperative to empower artists and provide them with stability in their careers. Stewart believes that recovery is a process of self-discovery and creating spaces where individuals can thrive creatively while supporting one another.

The podcast features Dan Marek, the Director of Plant-Based Culinary at Rouxbe. He discusses the importance of whole food plant-based diets, emphasizing their transformative effects on health. Marek encourages viewers to try a plant-based diet for a month and observe changes through health tests. He shares personal experiences from his culinary career, including his work with the Whole Kids Foundation, advocating for healthier food options in schools. He highlights the significant influence food service professionals have on children's eating habits. Marek also promotes gradual dietary changes rather than drastic shifts, suggesting that adopting healthier eating practices can be seen as adjusting a lever rather than flipping a switch. The video discusses a recipe featured in The Shallot for a Beet Poke Bowl, illustrating how plant-based cooking can be flavorful and visually appealing.

In the podcast, Sophia Voelker shares her insights as a visual and mixed media artist, discussing the interconnectedness of her art, personal experiences, and mindfulness. She emphasizes the importance of being present, especially in overcoming anxiety and maintaining clarity in her creative process. Voelker reflects on her artistic journey, mentioning her experimentation with various mediums, including driftwood, acrylics, and digital artwork. She discusses the significance of her piece "Be the Star," which pays tribute to African American women in space science and highlights the lack of representation in educational resources, underscoring her mission to educate through art.Voelker candidly shares anecdotes about her experiences in art fairs and networking within the art community after relocating to Madison, WI. She reveals the challenges of balancing an art career with family responsibilities, emphasizing that it’s okay to pause and reflect during these journeys. Each of her artistic endeavors stems from her life experiences, and she encourages others to embrace their unique paths without the pressure of perfection. Her belief in the value of sharing both successes and failures aims to create a sense of community and connection among artists and those seeking inspiration. The overall message is one of patience, gratitude, and the importance of celebrating small achievements along one's creative journey