Art Heals All Wounds

Earth Day 2026: How Art and Activism Are Changing the World

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0700

I sit down with Evan Raskin, National Campaign Manager for Earthday.org, to explore the powerful relationship between art and environmental activism. Evan shares how artists have been central to the Earth Day movement since its very first gathering in 1970 and how creative expression continues to drive climate action today.

Evan shares his own life as an artist and how art helps him find harmony in a world full of dissonance. We discuss why collective action — starting at the local level — matters more than ever.

🔗 Find Earth Day events in your community: earthday.org 🎵 Find Evan's music on Spotify: search Raskin 🌍 Learn more about the Global Halt street art project: search #EarthDay2020Halt

Timestamped Highlights

[00:00] I introduce the episode and its Earth Day theme

[01:03] Why I'm dropping this episode now: Earth Day is right around the corner

[01:34] I introduce my guest, Evan Raskin, National Campaign Manager for Earthday.org

[02:03] We introduce this year's Earth Day theme: Our Power, Our Planet

[03:22] I ask Evan what a National Campaign Manager actually does — he breaks down his role

[05:03] I learn that Evan is also a musician, painter, and poet — and just published his first book!

[05:43] I ask Evan which art form he turns to when he needs release — his answer about music and rhythm is beautiful

[07:29] Evan explains how art can open perspectives, build empathy, and call people to civic action

[10:54] I ask Evan about his origin story: growing up with a Hollywood hairdresser mom and a Cirque du Soleil / hospital clown dad

[13:13] Evan tells me how a required college art class unlocked his visual creativity

[14:08] Evan makes the case that everyone has latent creative potential — and why you should just pick up that paintbrush

[15:15] I share my recent conversation with scientist Daisy Fancourt and her book Art Cure — even 10–15 minutes of creativity a day has measurable benefits

[16:27] I ask Evan how he came to work at Earth Day — it started with a college internship phasing out single-use plastics at the British Embassy

[17:49] Evan walks me through the history of Earth Day and how the 1970 movement used art, music, and protest to spark real policy change

[22:23] I'm amazed to learn that the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the EPA were all born from Earth Day 1970

[22:48] We do a deep dive into this year's theme: Our Power, Our Planet and what it means at every level

[25:51] I bring up the current political climate — Evan responds with hope, local action, and the wisdom of Fred Rogers: "Look for the helpers"

[29:37] Evan shares an encouraging stat: solar power has been the leading source of new U.S. electricity for nearly 25 months

[32:51] Evan tells me about his visit to COP 27 in Egypt, where global artists displayed installations made from pollution collected in their home countries

[33:20] Evan introduces me to Earthday.org's Artists for the Earth program and the annual official Earth Day poster

[33:52] The Global Halt Project: I love this — 500 artists across the world painted climate murals under cover of darkness, unveiled on Earth Day 2020

[35:47] Evan shares how YOU can get involved: visit earthday.org, find local events, organize a community cleanup, and start conversations in your school, faith community, or family

[38:10] I ask Evan where we can find his music and art

It's Never Too Late: Reclaiming Your Creative Identity with Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode, I sit down with Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey, abstract painter, life coach, and host of the Painting Your Path podcast — for a rich conversation about how she reclaimed her own creative identity and how she coaches her clients, usually women in midlife, to do the same. We talk about overcoming self-doubt, and building resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.

Clarissa shares her winding journey from retail management to graphic design to finding her true calling as an artist and coach, and how a diagnosis of spasmodic dysphonia — a rare neurological voice disorder — forced her to reimagine her work and reconnect with her deepest purpose.

We also discuss:

How well-meaning discouragement in childhood can silence our creative instincts for decades
Practical strategies for processing rejection as a creative person
Why "giving yourself grace" is the foundation of any creative practice
Clarissa's work supporting the Altadena community in the aftermath of the devastating 2025 Eaton Fire through art

Whether you're an artist, a creative in midlife, or someone rebuilding after loss, this episode with Clarissa offers genuine wisdom and encouragement.

00:00:12 — Introduction to the show and host Pam Uzzell

00:01:10 — Podcast updates: new schedule and hiatus explanation

00:01:53 — Introduction of guest Clarissa Castillo Ramsey and her background

00:02:37 — Clarissa's diagnosis with spasmodic dysphonia

00:03:08 — Clarissa's resilience and involvement with the Altadena community after the Eaton Fire

00:04:03 — Interview begins; Clarissa introduces herself

00:05:57 — Clarissa's life coaching work with women in midlife

00:07:13 — Growing up and receiving discouraging messages about pursuing a creative career

00:09:33 — The journey back to art: from retail management to graphic design to painting

00:11:40 — Discovering painter Rassouli at Agape International Spiritual Center

00:16:22 — Clarissa's spasmodic dysphonia diagnosis and how it affected her work

00:21:12 — Pam shares her own experience with myotonic dystrophy and voice challenges

00:24:56 — Theories on resilience and what keeps Clarissa going

00:27:55 — Dealing with rejection as a creative person; the TEDx talk rejection

00:36:16 — The Altadena community after the Eaton Fire and the healing power of art

00:39:11 — Where to find Clarissa and her podcast, Painting Your Path

🎙️ Find Clarissa on Instagram: @clarissacastilloramsey.art 🎙️ Listen to her podcast: Painting Your Path. Clarissa's Website.

How Artists Resist Oppression: Barbara Benish on Lessons from Cold War Czechoslovakia for Today's Democracy

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode, I speak with artist, curator, and author Barbara Benish about her book ArtMill: A Story of Sustainable Creativity in Bohemia — a hopeful, timely memoir about artistic resistance, creative community, and rebuilding culture after totalitarianism.

In This Episode:

[0:12] Host Pam Uzzell introduces the episode, reflecting on fear of communist countries during the Cold War and how that connects to today's political climate in the US
[2:34] Introduction to Barbara Benish's book ArtMill: A Story of Sustainable Creativity in Bohemia and why it feels especially relevant now
[3:49] Barbara describes her memoir — from leaving California as a young artist to integrating into Cold War Czechoslovakia, working with underground artists, and eventually founding a rural arts center
[6:14] Growing up in Southern California with Czech immigrant heritage, witnessing the Soviet invasion of Prague in 1968, and losing connection to the Czech language
[7:42] Crossing the Iron Curtain as a young American backpacker — navigating fear, border crossings, and Cold War propaganda
[10:41] Connecting with dissident artists in Prague — serendipity, secret networks, and the surveillance state
[12:08] Life under the secret police — being followed, bugged venues, and how artists developed coded communication to resist oppression
[13:53] Barbara's frustration with the commercialization of art in 1980s Los Angeles and what drew her to the underground art scene in Czechoslovakia
[15:14] The Art Dialogue exchange — bringing together LA and Czech artists during the Cold War and the challenges of mounting a cross-cultural exhibition under an authoritarian regime
[16:57] The Velvet Revolution of 1989 — why it's also called the Artist Revolution, the role of playwright-turned-president Václav Havel, and lessons from The Power of the Powerless for democracy today
[21:47] Buying the Červený Mlýn (Red Mill) in rural Bohemia — a $17,000 ruin, a leap of faith, and the beginning of a new life
[26:28] Renovating the mill, building a rural arts community, and the reality behind the romance
[27:46] ArtMill today — artist residencies, children's programs, university study abroad, and regenerative creativity in rural Central Europe
[29:12] Art as sustainability — how creative practice connects to environmental stewardship, indigenous ways of knowing, and regenerative living
[34:42] What today's political resistance in the US has in common with Cold War Czechoslovakia — and what comes after resistance
[38:45] Barbara reads a moving passage from ArtMill about climate, beauty, dignity, and hope for future generations
[40:35] Where to find Barbara Benish, upcoming California readings, and how to get the book

Resources & Links:

Barbara Benish's website: barbarabenish.com
ArtMill: A Story of Sustainable Creativity in Bohemia — published by New Village Press, distributed by NYU
Art Heals All Wounds Podcast: arthealsallwoundspodcast.com

arthealsallwoundspodcast.com

What If We Put Children First? Migration, Trauma, and Education with Harvard's Dr. Gabrielle Oliveira

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0800

What really drives families to make the dangerous journey to the United States? And what happens to them — especially their children — after surviving detention and family separation at the border?

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Gabrielle Oliveira, Jorge Paulo Lemann Associate Professor of Education and Brazil Studies at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Gabrielle's new book, Now We Are Here: Family Migration, Children's Education, and Dreams for a Better Life, documents the lives of 16 families from Central and South America who experienced detention and separation at the US border in 2018 and 2019 — and how they rebuilt their lives afterward.

Gabrielle shares how she spent three years building deep, trust-based relationships with these families, and why that kind of research — done with people, not on them — matters so much. We explore the surprising role that the dream of an American education plays in the decision to migrate, why children process trauma so differently than adults, and what a truly equitable, child-centered classroom might look like.

We also discuss a quietly unforgettable moment: a first-grade morning meeting where two children, asked what they wanted for lunch, spontaneously connected over eating frozen burritos in an immigration detention center — and what that reveals about how trauma lives in children's bodies and memories.

Gabrielle's core message is both simple and urgent: what if we made policy — immigration policy, education policy — by putting all children first?

Now We Are Here is available at your local independent bookstore, on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, or directly from Stanford University Press. Find Gabrielle on Instagram and at gabrielleoliveira.com.

[00:00:12] Intro — "Do you believe art can change the world?"

[00:00:48] Pam introduces the topic — migrant family detention and separation at the border

[00:01:48] Introduction of Dr. Gabrielle Oliveira and her book Now We Are Here

[00:04:06] Interview begins — Gabrielle describes her book and the 16 families she documented

[00:05:14] Discussion of research methodology — doing research with people, not on them

[00:08:28] Gabrielle reflects on being an immigrant herself and how trust is built over time

[00:10:04] How the book idea originated and how the research focus evolved

[00:13:57] Education as a driving force behind migration — beyond just fleeing hardship

[00:15:12] Moving past the "suffering subject" narrative — immigrant families and the desire for an ordinary life

[00:19:20] How trauma affects three groups differently — parents, teachers, and children

[00:23:03] The fajita/burrito story — how a first-grade morning meeting unlocked detention memories

[00:28:19] How teachers respond to children's trauma — and why "that's in the past" doesn't work

[00:33:29] Imagining a more equitable, trauma-informed classroom

[00:38:24] The problem with over-structured early childhood education and the loss of play

[00:42:08] Gabrielle's wish list — what she hopes readers take away from the book

[00:45:43] Where to find the book and follow Gabrielle's work

[00:47:06] Pam's closing reflections and outro

Follow Gabrielle!

Website

Book, Now We Are Here

Follow Pam!

Can Art Actually Heal You? Dr. Daisy Fancourt, Author of Art Cure, Shares the Science Behind Art as Medicine

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0800

What if the arts weren't just entertainment — but medicine? In this episode, I talk with Dr. Daisy Fancourt, one of the world's most cited scientists and author of Art Cure, about the growing body of research showing that creative engagement — music, dance, visual art — can reduce the risk of depression, slow dementia, help Parkinson's patients maintain motor function, and even slow biological aging. Daisy also shares personal stories, including her own daughter's recovery in the NICU, and practical tips for incorporating the arts into daily life.

00:00 — Intro & Pam's personal story: moving to Arkansas and witnessing the lingering divide of a recently desegregated school
01:39 — The music class that changed everything: Mrs. Gilbert and the upright piano
02:38 — Introducing today's guest, Dr. Daisy Fancourt
04:10 — Interview begins
04:47 — Why reading Art Cure kept Pam up at night
05:34 — "We are a planet of 8 billion artists" — we are all innately creative
06:37 — The "seatbelt moment": when art becomes as automatic as putting on the seatbelt in the car
08:01 — The many ways art affects our health: wellbeing, prevention, and treatment
09:58 — Daisy's background: from professional pianist to professor at UCL
11:41 — Arts on prescription and individual stories from the book
12:23 — Josh's story: cerebral palsy, magic camp, and the Magic Circle
14:32 — Emily's story: how magic gave a shy girl her voice
15:27 — Daisy's personal story: singing to her premature daughter in the NICU
18:50 — Dance and Parkinson's disease: what the studies show
21:29 — How music affects the brain — and slows aging
22:51 — Music, language acquisition, and why we sing to babies
26:08 — "Spit Girl": Daisy's PhD in psychoneuroimmunology and saliva research
29:09 — Drumming circles and the visceral power of rhythm
30:32 — Why your favorite genre is the healthiest music for you
33:10 — Elevator music, Muzak, and why grocery store playlists keep you shopping
35:12 — Threats to arts funding in the UK and US — and the economic case for the arts
37:42 — Practical tips for incorporating art into your daily life
39:39 — Why art binges don't work — and what does
41:04 — Where to find Art Cure and follow Daisy's research
42:24 — Closing thoughts: how arts education broke down barriers in school

Follow Daisy's Work!

https://sbbresearch.org/

Reach Pam at arthealsallwoundspodcast.com

We're Back! Art, Burnout, and Why Creativity Has to Come First

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:00:00 -0800

Hello everyone!

After a very long hiatus, Art Heals All Wounds is coming back! After a very long hiatus. I was so burned out. And I realized that I wasn’t really practicing what I preach! There was no time for art or creativity in my life.

So, during this pause, I decided to fix that. I joined a writing group. I started going to a drum circles. Then drum classes. There is nothing like drumming with a group to adjust your attitude for the better.

But now the show is back!

This Thursday, February 23rd, I’ll be sharing the first full episode of the season with an interview with Dr. Daisy Fancourt, author of Art Cure.

Doctor Fancourt is a professor of psychobiology and epidemiology at the University College London, where she heads the social Biobehavioral research Group. She's also director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Center on Arts and Health, and is listed as one of the most highly cited scientists in the world.

Daisy’s book Art Cure was such an inspiring read for. I hope you’ll Join me this Thursday to hear her talk about it!

In an attempt to not burnout again, I’ll be releasing mini-seasons. About four episodes or so, then a month break. I hope that you’ll stay with the show despite the short seasons and regular breaks. I appreciate your listening more than you can know!

I’m also continuing my break from social media. If you like this show and want to share it with a friend, that will help the podcast continue to grow. If you’d like to reach me, you can always connect with me through my website, arthealsallwoundspodcast.com.

Thanks for listening!

Why Supporting the Arts Matters Now More Than Ever

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0700

I’m letting you know that the current season of Art Heals All Wounds—focused on arts in medicine—has come to an end and that the podcast will be going on a temporary break. My increased workload and other creative commitments necessitate some time away, but I intend to use this pause to return with renewed perspective and fresh ideas.

This is a challenging climate for the arts in the United States. Recent threats to arts funding is resulting in the rescinding of grants for many organizations, including some previously featured on the show. I hope listeners can support the local arts organizations whenever possible. I also encourage you to harness creativity as a tool for community connection and personal well-being.

Please send in suggestions and ideas for future episodes through the podcast’s website. Thank you to all of the listeners of this show! More to come!

Key Takeaways:

The current season is ending; the podcast is taking a few months’ break but will return.
Juggling a demanding day job and other creative projects, leading to the need for a pause.
Recent political developments in the US threaten funding for the arts, impacting many organizations.
Support local arts and cultural centers, especially during times of uncertainty.
You are invited to share feedback and ideas for future episodes via arthealsallwoundspodcast.com.
Gratitude is extended to the global creative community and the podcast’s listeners.
Stay tuned—more episodes and inspiration are coming!

Links:

Art Heals All Wounds Website

Contact:
Have suggestions or feedback? Reach out through the website!

Thanks for listening, and stay creative!

Larissa Trinder – Arts in Medicine & Healing

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Discover how arts in medicine transform hospitals to support healing, well-being, and community engagement.

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I sit down with Larissa Trinder, the Assistant Vice President for Arts in Medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals. Larissa shares the transformative power of art within healthcare, discussing how intentional art initiatives and community engagement can improve hospital environments, support staff, and promote wellness for patients—including those in marginalized communities.

Key Topics Covered

· Larissa’s Path to Arts in Medicine:
Larissa shares her personal journey, starting with her son’s experience with dyslexia and the role of art in boosting his self-esteem, ultimately leading to his career as an animator.

· History of NYC Health + Hospitals’ Art Collection:
The hospital system holds over 7,500 works of art, one of the largest public art collections in NYC, originating from the 1930s Works Progress Administration. The collection includes iconic works like Abram Champanier’s Alice in Wonderland panels and a Keith Haring mural raising AIDS awareness.

· Art as a Tool for Engagement and Healing:
Larissa explains how art programs serve not just to beautify spaces, but to foster community, support staff well-being, and highlight critical social issues like gun violence and support for asylum seekers.

· Highlighted Projects:

o Art programs in correctional health services at Rikers Island, including a mural at the reentry center co-created by incarcerated individuals and artist Dindga McCannon.

o Guns Down, Life Up—an arts initiative embedded in hospital violence prevention programs.

Upcoming Events & Announcements

· Documentary Premiere:
Hidden Art Healing Walls will air on WNET’s Treasures of New York and all PBS stations in early 2026, showcasing the Art in Medicine program.

· Major Exhibition:
An exhibition of the Abram Champanier murals opens at the Museum of the City of New York, June–September 2026—the museum’s largest show of the year.

· New Exhibitions:

o We Belong Here (opens June 4, 2026): An exhibition highlighting immigrant support through NYC Care, with works by three immigrant artists displayed citywide.

o Housing for Health/Street Health Outreach: In collaboration with NYU’s Healing Arts Week (fall 2026), featuring art created by patients experiencing homelessness.

How to Learn More

· Bloomberg Connects App:
Search for NYC Health + Hospitals Arts in Medicine to view a digital collection and learn more about their programming.

· Official Website:
NYC Health + Hospitals – Arts in Medicine
(Note: The site is being updated but contains extensive information.)

· Book:
Healing Walls – Features photos and stories of the community mural program.

· Therman Statom

· Roger Ulrich

Connect with Art Heals All Wounds

Website: arthealsallwoundspodcast.com

Selma Zollman – Music Therapy & Healing Through Song

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Selma Zollman shares how music therapy in hospitals helps with grief, emotional healing, and creative well-being.

In this episode, I’m joined by Selma Zollman, a music therapist and member of Brazilian Voices—a nonprofit female vocal group based in South Florida. For over 22 years, Brazilian Voices has been bringing the tranquil sounds of Bossa Nova into hospitals, medical facilities, and schools, uplifting patients, families, and healthcare workers through music.

What You'll Hear:

Pam’s personal journey with grief and how art and music can provide solace in times of loss.
Selma Zollman’s story of following her passion for music therapy and joining Brazilian Voices.
The transformative power of harmony—how Brazilian Voices uses soft, multi-part singing to create a gentle ambiance in hospitals, allowing patients, families, and staff to simply “be.”
Why the group’s presence is about illumination, not cure, and how performing with “no expectations” brings peace for both singers and listeners.
Heartfelt anecdotes about the response from patients (including those at end-of-life), their families, and healthcare workers touched by the music.
Selma’s thoughts on the importance of expanding similar music programs to more hospitals and healthcare settings, despite the challenges around privacy and logistics.
Ways to follow and learn more about Brazilian Voices, including their Instagram, Facebook, and website.

Learn More:

Find out more about Brazilian Voices:

Connect with the Show:

Host Pam Uzzell welcomes your feedback and stories. Reach out via arthealsallwoundspodcast.com.

Credits:

Music in this episode: Ketsa, Lobo Loco, and Brazilian Voices
Editing by Iva Hristova

Amanda Bush – Yoga & Mindfulness in Schools | Art Heals All Wounds

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0700

Episode Summary:

Explore yoga and mindfulness programs for teens that reduce stress and promote creative healing in education.

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Amanda Bush, a yoga practitioner in residence with Arts in Medicine at Shands UF Health in Gainesville, Florida. Together, we explore Amanda’s vision of bringing yoga and mindfulness practices into middle schools to help students better cope with stress and challenging situations. Drawing on her extensive experience as a middle school educator, Amanda discusses the emotional landscape of adolescence, the potential benefits of integrating yoga and mindfulness into school curriculums, and the obstacles educators face due to underfunding and overburdened staff. The conversation is deeply personal, with both of us sharing our experiences as parents and educators, and it highlights the transformative power of art and movement in healing and supporting young people.

Topics Discussed:

Amanda’s background in yoga, community outreach, and education
The unique challenges faced by middle schoolers and the lack of coping resources
How yoga and mindfulness can provide critical tools for emotional regulation
Amanda’s experiences implementing yoga and movement workshops for youth
Barriers to integrating programs like this into schools, including funding and teacher burnout
The potential for empowering teachers with mindfulness strategies
Personal stories of transformation through yoga and meditation
Amanda’s next steps in making her vision a reality

Key Takeaways:

Middle schoolers are often in emotional limbo, facing adult-level stress without the necessary tools
Mindfulness and movement can help students manage anxiety, increase self-awareness, and improve resilience
Making these practices part of the school day (not just after school) would increase accessibility and long-term impact
Teachers are overwhelmed and underfunded, but can be a powerful ally in supporting student well-being if given the right resources
Amanda’s work is ongoing, and she aims to expand access and education in this vital area

About the Guest:
Amanda Bush is a yoga practitioner, educator, and community outreach facilitator. She is passionate about integrating yoga and mindfulness into education to support the holistic well-being of young people.

Find Amanda:

Website: elevatedyogaandwellness.com
Instagram: @elevatedyogaandwellness and @amanda.elevated.yoga

About the Host:
Pam Uzzell is the creator and host of Art Heals All Wounds, a podcast spotlighting artists whose work brings healing, understanding, and transformation to individuals and communities.

Resources Mentioned:

Shands UF Health, Gainesville, Florida
Girls Place (summer camp)
Breathe for Change (yoga teacher training program focused on educators)

How to Support the Show:

Follow Art Heals All Wounds on your favorite podcast app
Leave a five-star rating or review
Reach out via arthealsallwoundspodcast.com

Credits:

Music by Ketsa and Lobo Loco
Podcast editing by Iva Hristova

Thank you for listening! Be sure to connect with Amanda Bush for updates on her journey and the evolution of mindfulness in education.

Heather Dawn Batchelor – Art Therapy for Dementia

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Guest: Heather Dawn Batchelor

Episode Summary:

Learn how art supports memory care and caregiver healing in dementia through creative therapies.

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I speak with Heather Dawn Batchelor, an abstract expressionist painter and arts practitioner with Arts in Health Ocala Metro in Florida. Heather shares her personal journey with art, influenced by her artistic family, and her work with Memory Cafe, a program supporting individuals with dementia and their caregivers through creative arts.

Key Points:

1. Heather's Background:

o Heather grew up in a creative family, with artist parents.

o Inspired by a ballet production on PBS as a child, she has been chasing the sensation of creative expression through various artistic mediums ever since.

o She pursued art school, studying painting and photography, and connected deeply with abstract expressionism.

2. Art and Healing:

o Heather explains her desire to make the invisible visible, striving to capture spiritual elements through her art.

o Art serves as a form of personal self-care and emotional expression for Heather, especially through challenging times.

3. Memory Cafe:

o Heather leads the Memory Cafe, a program for dementia patients and their caregivers under Hospice of Marion County.

o The cafe offers arts and various activities to engage participants, supporting both dementia patients and caregivers.

o Heather shares moving stories of transformation and empowerment through art, emphasizing the universal need and benefit of creative expression.

4. Impact on Caregivers:

o The program also benefits caregivers, providing them with much-needed support and a creative outlet to process their experiences and stress.

5. Future Plans:

o Heather discusses potential virtual components for Memory Cafe, ensuring accessibility for caregivers and patients unable to attend in person.

6. Personal Connections:

o Heather has a personal connection with dementia, having supported friends and family members, including her father, through the condition.

Links and Resources:

· Heather's Website: heatherdawnbachelor.com

· Arts in Health Ocala Metro: Provides resources and information about programs like the Memory Cafe.

· Marion County Hospice: Hosting the Memory Cafe and supporting dementia care initiatives.

Contact and Feedback:

· Pam encourages listeners to reach out through her website and sign up for her newsletter for updates on the podcast.

Music:

· Featured Music by Ketsa and Lobo Loco

Production Credits:

· Edited by Iva Hristova

Tune in to hear how Heather Dawn Batchelor uses art as a tool for healing and connection in the realm of dementia care and beyond.

Follow Me!

● Art Heals All Wounds Website

● My Instagram

Michael Claytor and Andrew Hix of Shift Change Radio Hour--How a Radio Show Supports Healing and Creates Community

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Learn how radio shows support healing and create community.

In this episode of "Art Heals All Wounds," Michael Claytor and Andrew Hix, arts in medicine practitioners at the Arts in Medicine program at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, FL and co-hosts of the Shift Change Radio Hour share the story behind starting this radio show. Michael, a musician, and Andrew, a literary artist, each share their journey of using art as a tool for healing within the hospital environment. They delve into their unique roles – Michael’s involvement with music engagement for patients and Andrew’s focus on storytelling.

The episode highlights their innovative project "Shift Change Radio Hour," a radio show aimed at acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of healthcare workers, especially during the pandemic. They discuss the conception and evolution of this program which focuses on playing song requests from healthcare workers, creating feature stories, and fostering community connections.

Michael, and Andrew share how the show has impacted the community, building bridges between hospital staff, patients, and the local community. They also reflect on the personal impact of the show on their own lives, emphasizing the role of collaboration and the healing power of music and storytelling.

Key Takeaways:

· Origins of Shift Change Radio Hour: The program was initiated to provide support and appreciation for exhausted healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is broadcasted twice weekly in collaboration with a local Gainesville radio station, WMBT 90.1 FM.

· Patient and Staff Interactions: The show is fully request-based, allowing healthcare workers to request songs, which creates a personal and engaging platform for staff and patients alike. This fosters deeper connections and provides a unique arts-based outlet in the healthcare setting.

· Creativity as a Healing Tool: Michael and Andrew share how integrating music and storytelling into healthcare not only benefits patients but also enriches their own lives as practitioners. They emphasize the importance of boundaries and self-care in their roles, as well as the rewarding nature of their work.

· Community Building: The show has successfully created connections between hospital staff, patients, and the broader community, emphasizing the human aspects of healthcare environments.

· Personal Reflections: Both guests express how the show has transformed their approach as artists and their understanding of community engagement through creative media.

Follow Shift Change Radio Hour!

Website

Follow Me!

● Art Heals All Wounds Website

● My Instagram

Don't forget to go to my website and leave me YOUR story of belonging to feature on a future episode!

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Facing Climate Despair: How Young Artists Inspire Hope for the Future

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this concluding episode of the series focusing on artists and climate change, I’m reflecting on the emotional impact of dedicating multiple episodes to the pressing issue of climate change. Initially optimistic about the potential of governmental agendas to address environmental issues, I’m feeling disheartenment, to say the least, due to political challenges that threaten environmental protection efforts. However, I found renewed hope through community engagement and the creativity of young filmmakers at a film screening event I co-hosted.

Key Highlights:

· My Personal Journey: I share my shift towards a more eco-conscious mindset after focusing on climate-themed episodes.

· Political Disappointment: My optimism about Biden's climate agenda is challenged by political setbacks, including threats to the EPA and public land protections.

· Community and Art as Hope: I highlight a film screening event I co-hosted with filmmaker Kristin Tièche, featuring local films on environmental topics. Young filmmakers offered a refreshing perspective, focusing on community solutions and creative problem-solving.

· Young Filmmakers' Impact: Despite climate challenges, the youngest participants exhibited hope and determination, emphasizing community engagement as a path forward.

· Appreciation and Future Vision: Thank you, listeners for your support! Stay tuned for the next series which will focus on artists in healthcare fields, beginning in early April.

Mentioned Films and Contributors:

1. The Invisible Mammal by Kristin Tièche, focuses on bats.

2. Film by Cynthia Abbott featuring artist Tess Felix and her ocean plastic portraits.

3. Above Ground by Jimmy Ramirez, discusses Oakland's natural waterways.

4. Threads of Change by Ethan Lee, covers fast fashion's environmental effects.

5. What's at Steak by Alisa Ching, Ashlynn Wong, and Sonia Shin, addresses beef overconsumption and global warming.

Acknowledgments:

· Special thanks to the podcast editor, Iva Hristova.

· Gratitude to musicians Ketsa and Lobo Loco for the podcast's music.

· Appreciation for listener donations and engagement throughout the series.

Next Series Preview:

· After a month-long break, the podcast will return in April with a new series focused on artists in the healthcare sector.

Listeners are encouraged to stay connected and join for future episodes as the podcast continues to explore the intersection of art and transformative societal impact.

Links to artists mentioned in the episode.

Kristin Tièche, The Invisible Mammal

Cynthia Abbott, Every Second Breath

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Cultural Resiliency Amid Rising Waters with Artist Kim Anno

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of "Art Heals All Wounds," I speak with multidisciplinary artist Kim Anno. Our conversation centers around Kim's commitment to addressing climate change through her art, particularly after seeing a photograph of the president of The Maldives signing a document underwater. This image served as Kim's climate alarm bell, prompting her to shift her art practice to focus on climate and environmental issues.

Kim shares insights about her film projects, which explore rising waters and their impacts on communities worldwide. Currently, she is working on a film about Indonesia's decision to relocate its capital from the rapidly sinking Jakarta on the island of Java to Nusantara on the island of Borneo. This massive undertaking raises questions about the effects on biodiversity, indigenous populations, and cultural heritage.

Throughout the conversation, Kim emphasizes the interconnectedness of global communities and the challenges posed by industrialization, consumerism, and climate change. She conveys how younger generations are hopeful and intent on fostering cultural resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Key Topics:

· The impact of a powerful photograph on Kim Anno's art practice.

· The significance of Jakarta's relocation due to climate change.

· The cultural and environmental implications of moving a major city.

· The importance of documenting and showcasing cultural resilience.

· The role of younger generations in imagining a sustainable future.

· Discussion on the global interconnectedness concerning climate impact.

· The urgency of addressing water scarcity and climate change.

· Kim Anno's "Men and Women in Water Cities" film series.

· The global role in exacerbating climate issues for island nations like Indonesia.

· The move of Indonesia’s capital from Jakarta to Nusantara.

· The challenges of preserving cultural practices amidst environmental upheaval.

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Painting About Climate Change by Bringing Humanity to the Canvas with Christine Hanlon

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of "Art Heals All Wounds," I speak with visual artist Christine Hanlon about her art and its focus on challenging subjects. Christine shares how she uses her work to engage with issues such as homelessness and climate change, emphasizing the importance of centering the human element in her paintings. Through her unique approach, Christine aims to draw viewers into narratives that might otherwise be uncomfortable or ignored.

Key Points:

· Introduction to Christine Hanlon (00:02:08): Christine Hanlon discusses her background as a visual artist and teacher. She explains her long-standing love for painting and how her work resonates with contemporary cultural issues.

· Homelessness Project (00:03:00): Christine talks about her graduate thesis project focusing on homelessness in San Francisco. She shares her experience of living in San Francisco during that time and how it informed her work. Her master's thesis show, "Home Street Home," served as a fundraiser for the Coalition on Homelessness.

· Artistic Approach and Impact (00:08:15): Christine explains how her artistic process involves using sacred geometry ratios to place figurative elements in her compositions, encouraging viewers to look more closely at challenging subjects.

· Current Work on Climate Change (00:09:55): Christine discusses her transition to focusing on climate disasters, particularly fires and melting glaciers. She explains how she developed this theme after moving to Oregon, inspired by media images and personal observations.

· The Importance of Challenging Topics (00:20:32): Christine shares her motivation for tackling subjects that are difficult to look at, such as homelessness and environmental issues. She emphasizes the need for activism and awareness in addressing these pressing global concerns.

· Artistic Inspiration and Expression (00:31:24): Christine reflects on her artistic journey and the influence of other artists who address tough issues. She describes how combining sacred geometry with social issues in her artwork allows for a complete expression of her concerns as an artist.

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Kevin Kunze – VR Art & Wildfire Trauma Healing

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0800

Kevin Kunze discusses virtual reality art as a tool for trauma recovery and wildfire storytelling.

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I’m joined by virtual reality filmmaker Kevin Kunze to discuss his short documentary film, "Silence in Paradise." This episode delves into the tragic events of the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise, California, which was one of the deadliest wildfires in US history. Kevin shares insights into the making of the film, the haunting experience of filming the aftermath with 360-degree virtual reality technology, and the broader implications of climate change and infrastructure issues that contribute to such disasters.

Key Points:

1. Introduction

o Reflecting on my childhood fascination with television shows that shaped my identity.

o My love for Los Angeles and California, where much of the culture I followed originated.

2. Paradise and the Camp Fire

o My introduction to the town of Paradise, CA due to the Camp Fire.

o Kevin Kunze opens up about his motivations and experiences in creating "Silence in Paradise," visiting the town the day after the fire and again a year later.

3. Documenting the Tragedy

o Kevin explains the innovative use of VR technology to create an immersive viewing experience, aiming to evoke empathy and awareness.

o The documentary captures the haunting aftermath and the resilience of the Paradise community in rebuilding efforts.

4. Challenges During Production

o Kevin discusses the 911 call recordings and highlights his empathy over the confusion during the evacuation.

o Insights into the enormous impact on human lives, structures, and the environment are provided.

5. PG&E and Infrastructure Issues

o Discussion about PG&E's role and liability in the Camp Fire, including bankruptcy filings and settlements.

o Kevin advocates for underground power lines as a preventive measure against future fires.

6. Climate Change and Future Prevention

o Addressing the need for public awareness and political accountability in mitigating climate change-induced disasters.

o Kevin emphasizes the importance of virtual reality in bringing these events to life for audiences.

7. Call to Action

o Kevin urges listeners to remain informed and proactive about fire safety and climate change issues.

o Kevin and I discuss the significance of art and storytelling in fostering social change.

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Báyò Akómoláfé

University of Florida Center for Arts in Medicine

Witnessing Nature's Cycles of Renewal and Healing with Slow Photographer J.M. Golding

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, guest J.M. Golding, a photographic artist from the Bay Area, shares her unique approach to analog photography, emphasizing the powerful connections between nature, self, and others that her work seeks to capture. The discussion dives deep into the art of "slow photography," the spontaneity of using plastic toy cameras, and the wonder of pinhole camera techniques and lumen prints.

Key Discussion Points:

· Spontaneity and Dreamlike Photography: J.M. Golding reveals how using plastic toy cameras and vintage techniques fosters a connection with the unpredictable and imperfect elements that make her images dreamlike and deeply evocative.

· Lumen Prints and Pinhole Wonders: Learn about the intriguing process of creating lumen prints and how Golding explores photography without a camera. Through pinhole cameras, she captures the simple beauty of a "box of air" making an image.

· Connection to Nature and Internal Experiences: Golding discusses how her photography reflects her internal experiences and often anticipates future events, showcasing nature's cycles, as seen in her series "From Destruction Grows A Garden of the Soul."

· Post-Fire Healing: Delve into the story of Golding's "Fire Followers" photographs, documenting the regeneration of nature after wildfires and drawing parallels to personal healing and the cycles of renewal in nature.

· Environmental Reflections and Interconnectedness: The conversation touches on the urgency of recognizing our interconnectedness with nature, exploring topics like climate change, and the role of imagination and creativity in finding solutions.

· Embracing Slow Photography: Pam and J.M. discuss the importance of slowing down both in art and life, advocating for a mindful approach to creativity that encourages reflection and presence.

Featured Series and Artwork:

· "From Destruction Grows A Garden of the Soul"

· "The Seeds of Its Own Renewal"

· "Wildflower" series "After the Fire"

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arthealsallwoundspodcast.com

Happy Holidays: Scott Stark's Musical Take on Climate Change

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Happy Holidays! Today I’m sharing a musical piece by filmmaker Scott Stark, blending some dark lyrics about climate change with a very catchy melody! Stark’s song, "Watching the Waters Rise," explores the cynical realities of environmental neglect with wit and humor. Scott says that this song and his film work are a coping mechanism for climate anxiety. Do you use art and creativity as a coping strategy? Leave me a voicemail at arthealsallwoundspodcast.com and tell me about it! I’ll share it on the show.

Timestamped Highlights:

· 00:00:12

- Introduction to the show and its theme: the power of art to change the world.

· 00:01:08

- Pam introduces Scott Stark, known for his experimental filmmaking, and the featured song "Watching the Waters Rise."

· 00:02:11

- Musical performance by Scott Stark highlighting the satirical commentary on climate change and political attitudes.

· 00:06:10

- Discussion on Scott's multipart long form film addressing climate catastrophe and how it serves as a personal coping strategy.

· 00:07:08

- Pam invites listeners to share their own experiences using art as a coping mechanism and provides contact information.

Additional Notes:

· Check out Scott Stark's work on his website, particularly his film "Love and the Epiphanists."

· To engage with Pam, visit arthealsallwoundspodcast.com or sign up for the newsletter.

· Music credits to Ketsa and Lobo Loco.

Contact Information:

· Visit the website:

· Leave a voicemail to share your story or feedback.

Next Episode:

· Regular full-length episodes will resume on January 8th. Stay tuned for more engaging discussions on art and its impact on climate and environmental issues.

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Connect with Scott!

Website:

scottstark.com

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betweenspiritandstonethefilm.com

Art, Healing, and the Human Experience : Voicemail from Filmmaker Ken Paul Rosenthal

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode I share a voicemail from Ken Paul Rosenthal, a filmmaker reflecting on the transformative power of art. Ken explores the theme of art as a healing force, both in his own life as he edits films and in the broader human experience. I love how Ken expresses the intrinsic link between personal conflict, trauma, and creative expression, and that these elements are part of the human experience.

Thanks for listening!

Mentioned in this Episode:

Ken Paul Rosenthal, Filmmaker
Joni Mitchell's interview on Fresh Air from 2004
Ken's documentary about the late poet Julia Vinograd:

Call to Action:

If you have a story about how art and creativity have impacted your life, Pam would love to hear it. Leave a voicemail on her website, arthealsallwoundspodcast.com, and consider signing up for the newsletter to stay updated on the podcast.

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betweenspiritandstonethefilm.com

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The Power of Storytelling: Michael O. Snyder and 'The Coming Coast'

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode, I revisit an episode of the podcast from 2022 with filmmaker and photographer Michael O. Snyder. Our conversation delves into the pressing issue of climate change, its multifaceted impacts on communities, and the power of creative communication to inspire hope and drive solutions.

Michael O. Snyder, a filmmaker, photographer, and educator focused on environmental and social justice stories. Based in Charlottesville, Virginia, Snyder runs Interdependent Pictures and collaborates with nonprofits to leverage storytelling in promoting meaningful change.

Featured Topics:

"Into the Dark" Film: Snyder's film, exploring ecological impacts in the Arctic during the polar night, premiered at the Tromso International Film Festival and DC Environmental Film Festival in 2020. It's available on Kanopy, distributed by New Day Films.
The Coming Coast Project: A pivotal project highlighting the impact of sea level rise on the Chesapeake Bay, focusing on the causes of rising seas and future mass migration challenges.
Climate Impact on Migration: Discussion on how climate change contributes to forced migration, particularly in regions like Central America and the implications for displacement in areas like California.
Environmental Storytelling: Snyder emphasizes the value action gap, using storytelling to emotionally engage audiences and foster meaningful responses to climate issues.
Community Engagement: The episode touches on Snyder's oral history interviews with diverse communities affected by sea level rise, emphasizing the need for inclusive climate solutions.

Key Insights:

Scientific Understanding: Michael stresses the importance of approaching climate change with robust scientific understanding and collective global action to address these issues at scale.
Hope and Solutions: Despite disappointments on international climate action, Snyder remains hopeful, highlighting local and regional advancements as well as innovative business leadership in sustainable practices.
Meaningful Migration: Exploration of 'meaningful migration,' which focuses on maintaining cultural connections and community resilience in face of climate-induced relocation.

Resources:

Contact Michael O. Snyder: Visit his website at michaelosnyder.com or follow him on Instagram @MichaelOSnyder for more information.
Host & Podcast Info: Pam Uzzell, host of Art Heals All Wounds, invites listeners to explore more episodes and sign up for her newsletter via her website.
Production Team: Episode edited by iva Kristova with music by Ketsa and Lobo Loco.

Join us as they explore the intersection of art, storytelling, and climate action in this compelling discussion that showcases the transformative power of creativity in addressing one of the most critical issues of our time.

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The Beach Speaks: Community, Connection, and Hope with Paige Friend

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Today I'm taking a moment to acknowledge and learn from a podcaster who reminded me of the importance of connecting with the natural world. Paige Friend hosts "The Beach Speaks", a podcast that centers around the universal appeal of the beach and its calming effects. Through her episodes, Paige delves into personal connections to the beach, reminding us to think about the ocean and its miraculous role in our ecosystems and our psyches. Using stories, community engagement, and hope-driven messages about the ocean and the beach, the Paige aims to foster a deeper relationship with nature and encourage proactive awareness among her listeners.

00:00 Nature's influence: Beach, redwood, healing, inspiration.

06:35 Beach closure surprised us; nature remains essential.

08:17 Single-use plastics impact environment; Beaches Go Green.

11:23 Kayaking trip lacked expected manatees, disappointment ensued.

16:14 Morning beach ritual interrupted by construction work.

17:45 Beach preservation and pollution's interconnection, policy needed.

21:56 Ocean sounds soothe and benefit our minds.

25:47 Kayak Titusville: bioluminescence, Bird Island, conservation concerns.

31:24 Engage with The Beach Speaks via website.

32:41 Art Heals All Wounds: Beaches connect us all.

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Hope is a Renewable Resource: Fighting Fossil Fuel Narratives with Christa Avampato

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Christa Avampato, a storyteller, climate activist, and a beacon of hope in New York City. Christa shares her journey of resilience, from growing up on an apple farm amidst adversity to becoming a fervent advocate for environmental protection. As a biomimicry scientist and business expert, she's dedicated to reshaping the way we think about sustainability and human design. Christa's optimistic outlook on healing—both personally, having survived cancer, and globally, through climate action—offers a refreshing perspective on the collective responsibility we all share for our planet's future. Join us as we explore her insights on the need for kindness in urban settings, the urgency of transitioning to clean energy, and her inspiring plans for fostering environmental restoration and community engagement.
00:00 Author, speaker, biomimicry enthusiast, product developer.

04:20 Dedicated New Yorker with kind, soft exterior.

08:02 Limited TV growing up, spent time outside.

12:38 Species migrating north due to climate change.

15:48 Solutions exist beyond big oil's influence.

19:43 Contact officials, not social media, for change.

21:27 Participating in democracy and environmental actions matters.

26:14 Individuals can significantly impact biodiversity and sustainability.

29:22 Utilize existing infrastructure for luxury electric buses.

33:14 Focus shifted from science to lifestyle impact.

37:21 ESG reporting is voluntary, often superficial.

38:34 Weekly climate actions shared via online platforms.

43:45 Cancer survivor finds joy, anticipates environmental lawsuit.

48:04 Art inspires hope; Berkeley explores cleaner energy.

49:40 Visit Art Heals All Wound's website to contribute or communicate.

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The Invisible Mammal: Bats, Conservation, and Human Health with Kristin Tièche

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Welcome to another episode of "Art Heals All Wounds," where we explore the powerful impact of art on the world and highlight artists creating positive change. In today's episode, I’m joined by filmmaker Kristin Tièche to delve into the fascinating world of bats and their ecological significance.

**Key Episode Highlights:**

- **Bats: Unsung Heroes of the Ecosystem:**

Discover how bats provide vital ecosystem services such as pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal. Learn about their significant economic impact on agriculture, helping farmers like Mike DeWitt reduce pesticide use and save money.

- **Threats to Bats and Conservation Efforts:**

Understand the threats bats face from habitat loss and white-nose syndrome, a deadly fungal disease affecting North American bat populations. Explore how organizations like the Yolo Basin Foundation are working to raise awareness and protect bat habitats.

- **Human Interaction and Misconceptions:**

Bats may be closer than you think! Discover the importance of bat houses for providing safe habitats and why wildlife rescue should be contacted if you encounter a bat in need.

- **Insights Into Bat Filmmaking:**

Join guest Kristin Tièche as she shares her journey into creating the documentary "The Invisible Mammal," which focuses on bat conservation and the role of women in science. Learn how her storytelling aims to change perceptions and inspire action for bat conservation.

- **One Health and Human Responsibility:**

Delve into the concept of "One Health," which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, wildlife, and environmental health. Hear why protecting wildlife habitats is crucial for preventing pandemics and learn about the human accountability in events like COVID-19.

- **Engagement and Support:**

Stay updated on "The Invisible Mammal" documentary by following on Instagram and Facebook (@theinvisiblemammal) or visiting the website theinvisiblemammal.com. Support the film's completion through donations to the Wildlands Collective.

Join us in this episode to learn more about the incredible impact bats have on our world and how we can contribute to their conservation. Be inspired by the art of film and storytelling as a force for change and awareness.

**Contributions and Support:**

If you enjoy the podcast, consider sharing your own stories related to art and creativity on our website. Support "Art Heals All Wounds" by contributing via our "buy me a coffee" link. Thank you for being a part of our community!

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Jimmy Ramirez – Environmental Art & Waterway Restoration

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Jimmy Ramirez shares how art supports waterway restoration, climate grief, and community resilience.

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I sit down with Jimmy Ramirez, an artist and high school teacher from Oakley, California. We talk about Jimmy’s film Above Ground, which delves into the ways that streams and creeks in Oakland have been ‘entombed’ in culverts in Oakland, California. We also discuss re-imagining our relationship to water.

**Key Topics Discussed:**

1. **Discovery of Hidden Waterways**:

- My personal experience.

2. **Jimmy's Film "Above Ground"**: The film explores how Oakland has buried many of its natural waterways under concrete, a practice known as "entombing." This impacts local ecosystems previously supporting species like salmon and trout.

3. **Personal Connection to Peralta Creek**:

- Jimmy discusses his family's history with Peralta Creek in Fruitvale, Oakland, emphasizing how urban development has drastically altered the waterway.

4. **Impact of Water Management Practices**:

- Water management practices designed to prevent flooding have dried out natural water bodies despite heavy rainfalls, disrupting ecological balance.

5. **Historical Decisions and Urban Planning**:

- The conversation addresses the historical decisions to bury natural waterways and how early urban planning overlooked long-term environmental impacts.

6. **Environmental and Mental Health Implications**:

- We discuss the concept of "slow violence" where the lack of natural elements in urban areas contributes to mental health issues and community stress.

7. **Neighborhood Disparities**:

- Disparities between wealthier neighborhoods with more greenery and lower-income areas in Oakland are highlighted, showing the uneven distribution of environmental resources.

8. **Community Initiatives and Successes**:

- Some residents have successfully removed culverts to restore natural water flow, though legal ambiguities persist.

9. **Government and Political Dynamics**:

- Oakland officials have shown interest in Jimmy’s film to raise awareness about these environmental issues, and the conversation touches on the politicized nature of water management in California.

10. **Reimagining Water Use**:

- Jimmy advocates for a collectivist approach to water systems, inspired by indigenous wisdom, contrasting America's individualistic mindset.

11. **Challenges and Resistance**:

- Addressing restrictive regulations around rainwater collection and gray water reuse, and how contractors are now more conscious about concreting over backyards.

12. **Future Projects and Art's Role**:

- Jimmy discusses future projects and the significance of art in processing climate grief and inspiring change. He also expresses gratitude for support from the California Arts Council.

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Celine Shein Das – Dance & Climate Change Art

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Celine Shein Das uses classical dance to raise awareness and inspire action on climate change.

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I talk with Celine Shein Das, Executive Director of the Chitresh Das Institute. We talk about the transformative power of art through the lens of the Kathak dance performance 'Invoking the River,' a multimedia production that draws attention to climate change and the human relationship with water. Celine shares insights on the origins and evolution of Kathak dance, the profound storytelling it enables, and the collaborative efforts behind this performance. The episode also highlights the institute's commitment to art for the planet and the impact of the performance of Invoking the River, both in the United States and India. Celine encourages us all to explore our relationships with art and the planet while reflecting on the powerful messages conveyed through this unique performance.

00:00 Introduction: Can Art Change the World?

01:57 Meet Celine Shein Das and Chitresh Das Dance

02:40 Exploring Kathak Dance and 'Invoking the River'

05:36 The Artistic Vision Behind 'Invoking the River'

10:10 The Legacy of Pandit Chitresh Das

33:08 Impact and Reception of 'Invoking the River'

45:35 Future Performances and Final Thoughts

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We Loved It All: Lydia Millet – Climate Action Storytelling

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Lydia Millet explores how writing and storytelling can drive environmental awareness and creative activism.

In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds,' I have the pleasure of speaking with the author, Lydia Millet. Lydia’s latest book 'We Loved It All: A Memory of Life' explores themes of interconnectedness, extinction, and climate change. She shares insights into her writing process and the challenges of addressing such monumental issues through storytelling. The conversation also delves into the cultural narratives that have led to environmental degradation and the potential of new, inclusive stories that could inspire change. Lydia’s work is a reminder of the importance of love and protection for all beings as essential components in the fight against mass extinction and climate catastrophe.

00:00 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:44 The Extinction Crisis

02:16 Interview with Lydia Millet

05:15 Lydia Millet on Writing and Climate Change

11:56 The Role of Stories in Shaping Our World

30:01 The Importance of Love and Protection

35:02 Conclusion and Call to Action

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Creating New Narratives for Climate and the Environment

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I’m thinking about the transformative power of storytelling. The stories that we tell ourselves shape our actions and decisions. One of the most powerful ways we can move forward is recognizing when a story no longer serves us. The artists in this season are creating new narratives to combat climate change and protect the environment, helping us move from despair to action.

If you’re an artist creating work about climate and the environment, please get in touch through my website. I’d love to share your work on the show!

00:00 Introduction: Can Art Change the World?

00:47 Personal Stories and Their Impact

01:36 A Childhood Memory at the Refinery

03:22 The Reality of Global Warming

03:57 Artists Telling Better Stories

04:29 Get Involved and Share Your Story

05:04 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

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Stories of Connection and Climate: Voicemail from J.M. Golding

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0700

I’m thinking about the importance of connection. The voicemail from photographic artist J.M. Golding tells her artistic collaboration with Hélène Barrette, where they created a book of lumen prints titled 'Playing with Light'. This story of cross-continent creativity shows the rich possibilities of connection. And from this voicemail, I discovered J.M.’s series of photographs of wildflowers after a devastating fire in California. J.M. will share that story in the upcoming season about Climate and the Environment that starts August 21st.

00:00 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:52 Pam's Reflections on Connection

02:22 J.M. Golding's Voicemail

02:40 The Art of Lumen Prints

03:52 Collaboration with Hélène Barrette

05:50 Creating 'Playing with Light'

06:45 Conclusion and Upcoming Season

07:08 Listener Participation and Support

07:46 Credits and Acknowledgements

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Second Chances and New Beginnings: A Deep Dive into 'Last Bets' with Mary Carroll Moore

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode I talk with novelist Mary Carroll Moore about her latest novel, 'Last Bets’. Mary shares how a life-changing breast cancer diagnosis at the age of fifty motivated her to leave a successful career as a food journalist to writing novels. We explore the theme of second chances, the complexities of female relationships, and the juxtaposition of high stakes gambling with the serene yet risky world of scuba diving. Set on a tropical island, the story follows two women, Ellie and Rosie, as they navigate personal challenges, budding friendships, and moral dilemmas against the backdrop of an impending hurricane. Mary delves into her character development process, the significance of intergenerational dynamics, and how personal experiences shape her writing. This episode offers a deep dive into Mary’s creative mind and the intricate layers of her new novel.

00:00 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

01:14 Meet Mary Carroll Moore: A Journey of Second Chances

03:09 Mary's Transition from Food Writer to Novelist

07:26 Exploring the Themes of Last Bets

10:52 Character Dynamics and Development

21:06 The Ticking Clock: Hurricane and Tension

23:26 Nuanced Characters and Villains

28:13 The Role of Scuba Diving and High-Stakes Gambling

34:39 Conclusion and Where to Find Mary Carroll Moore

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Saving Face: Effy Redman on Disability, Identity, and Advocacy

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, host I talk with author and disability advocate Effy Redman about the transformative power of art. Effy shares insights from her memoir, 'Saving Face,' which chronicles her life with Moebius Syndrome, a condition that affects her ability to make facial expressions. Effy speaks candidly about her experiences with shame, disability advocacy, and the intersection of LGBTQ identity. She also highlights the significance of therapy and writing in her journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment. This episode delves into personal stories, familial relationships, and the broader implications of disability and identity, offering listeners a deep and empathetic understanding of Effy's experience.

00:00 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:34 Exploring the Power of a Smile

01:12 Effy Redman's Journey with Moebius Syndrome

02:51 Effy's Advocacy and Writing

17:29 Navigating Family Dynamics

40:51 Intersection of Disability and LGBTQ Identity

47:42 Conclusion and Contact Information

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From Teaching to Art: Natalie Davey's Story of Connection

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I share a voicemail from Natalie Davey, co-host of the Reframables podcast. Natalie recounts her journey of leaving a 20-year teaching career due to depression and discovering the importance of creativity for her well-being. Pam reflects on the power of creative conversations and invites listeners to share their stories about the role of art and creativity in their lives. The episode highlights the healing potential of art and the significance of creative work in fostering connection and personal fulfillment.

00:00 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:48 Pam Uzzell's Personal Journey

02:16 The Power of Creative Conversations

03:21 Episode Update and Listener Voicemail

04:05 Call for Listener Stories and Support

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Deep Listening and the Healing Power of Writing with Meredith Heller

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, versatile and multidisciplinary artist Meredith Heller shares her story of how writing poetry saved her life. From a troubled adolescence to becoming a writer and workshop leader, Meredith describes her longtime practice of deep listening as the beginning of self-expression. Her latest book, Writing by Heart, is a guide for individuals to access internal quiet spaces and practice reflective writing. Meredith discusses her experiences working with various communities, including incarcerated women, and emphasizes creating internal peace, listening, and sharing heartfelt, authentic work that strengthens our circles of connection.

00:00 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:35 Meet Meredith Heller: A Multifaceted Artist

00:50 The Power of Listening and Connection

00:58 Meredith's Journey: From Nature to Poetry

01:19 Writing by Heart: A Deep Dive

02:06 Supporting the Show

02:21 Interview with Meredith Heller

06:47 The Healing Power of Writing

11:05 Creating Quiet Spaces and Connection

15:32 Workshops and Community Building

32:36 The Poem Knows the Poem

38:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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The Power of Vulnerability: How M. Brady Found Courage In Creativity

Wed, 29 May 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds,' I explore the transformative power of vulnerability with guest Michael Brady, a psychotherapist and newly emerged musician. Michael, whose performance name is M. Brady, shares his journey from suffering a panic attack during a crucial audition in his youth and abandoning his dream of becoming a musician for two decades. Inspired by the courage of his clients and his desire to confront his long-held fears, he began writing songs, culminating in the release of his first album. This episode delves into the interplay between vulnerability, creativity, and personal healing, highlighting how Michael's experience not only fulfilled a lifelong dream but also enriched his psychotherapeutic practice. Listeners hear about the deep emotional and psychological impacts of unprocessed trauma and small ‘t’ traumas, and the healing potential of creativity.

00:00 Welcome to Art Heals All Wounds

00:35 Chasing Dreams and Facing Failures

02:35 M. Brady's Journey from Psychotherapy to Music

05:00 The Therapeutic Power of Music and Vulnerability

18:12 Creating an Album: A Therapist's Musical Exploration

23:14 The Impact of Art on Personal Growth and Therapy Practice

26:41 Exploring Identity, Shame, and Creativity

33:27 Conclusion and How to Discover More About M. Brady

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Artistry and Activism: Catherine Filloux and 'How to Eat an Orange'

Wed, 15 May 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds', I explore the transformative power of art with playwright and activist Catherine Filloux, focusing on her work that highlights human rights and the stories of survivors. Catherine discusses her upcoming one-woman play, 'How to Eat an Orange', inspired by the life of artist and activist Claudia Bernardi and her experiences during the military junta rule in Argentina. The episode delves into the themes of storytelling, the importance of remembering as a revolutionary act, and how art can serve as a map towards healing and human rights advocacy. Catherine also touches on her other upcoming project, an off-Broadway musical titled 'Welcome to the Big Dipper'. The discussion emphasizes the role of art in addressing trauma, fostering connection, and promoting social change.

00:00 Welcome to Art Heals All Wounds

01:04 The Power of Art in Human Rights: Catherine Filloux's Journey

01:40 Claudia Bernardi: Art, Activism, and the Dirty War

02:19 Behind the Scenes of 'How to Eat an Orange'

03:02 Supporting the Show and Engaging with the Community

03:16 Catherine Filloux: A Deep Dive into Her Work and Inspirations

08:16 Exploring Time, Memory, and Art in 'How to Eat an Orange'

11:01 The Intersection of Art and Forensic Anthropology

13:33 The Genesis of 'How to Eat an Orange': A Story of Chance and Destiny

21:12 Remembering as a Revolutionary Act: The Importance of Survivor Stories

27:39 Looking Forward: Catherine's Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts

28:59 Closing Remarks and How to Support the Show

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The Power of Art: Alex LeBoeuf's Creative Impact on the Myotonic Dystrophy Community

Wed, 01 May 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds,' I share a personal story about my daughter's diagnosis with myotonic dystrophy. How I wished to meet someone like today’s guest! Alexandra LeBoeuf, a young Canadian artist and myotonic dystrophy advocate, discusses how her artwork and personal experiences have helped create a support network and raise funds for research. Alex's story illustrates the impact of art in connecting individuals with shared experiences, particularly through her creation of a logo symbolizing strength for the myotonic dystrophy community. Together, Alex and I explore themes of resilience, creativity, and the importance of community support for those living with myotonic dystrophy or other rare diseases.

00:00 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:46 A Personal Journey with Myotonic Dystrophy

02:12 Spotlight on Alexandra LeBoeuf: Art, Advocacy, and Myotonic Dystrophy

02:58 The Power of Community and Creativity

04:34 Alex's Creative Journey and Impact

11:20 Exploring the Therapeutic Role of Art and Music

20:36 Building Connections Through Creativity

30:03 The Importance of Support Groups and Advocacy

31:30 Conclusion and Thanks

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The Making of Us: Adoption Stories that Connect and Heal with Sarah Reinhardt and Louise Browne, Hosts of Adoption: The Making of Me

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0700

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In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds', my guests Sarah Reinhardt and Louise Browne explore the impact of stories in addressing the complex issues of adoption. As an adoptee myself, listening to their podcast, ‘Adoption: The Making of Me’ has been a healing experience. Sarah and Louise, adoptees and former business partners, have created a community through sharing their experiences and those of other adoptees. We delve into the emotional complexities of being adopted, challenging traditional narratives and discussing the systemic issues within adoption processes. This episode emphasizes the power of storytelling and community in understanding and healing from the trauma of adoption, making a compelling case for the need to reform how adoptions are handled and viewed societally.

00:00 Welcome to Art Heals All Wounds: The Power of Art and Storytelling

01:07 Discovering a Podcast That Resonates: Adoption: The Making of Me

01:28 The Complexities of Adoption: Personal Journeys and Insights

04:40 Introducing Sarah and Louise: Voices Behind 'Adoption, The Making of Me'

06:07 The Genesis of a Podcast: Connecting Through Shared Experiences

09:55 Exploring Adoption Narratives: The Impact of Sharing and Listening

21:00 The Role of Oral Histories in Challenging the Adoption Narrative

26:56 Reflecting on Adoption and Personal Growth

27:26 The Complex Journey of Adoption and Identity

28:48 Adoptee Perspectives: From Media Representation to Personal Realizations

30:27 Navigating Relationships and Self-Perception as an Adoptee

30:57 The Evolution of Understanding Through Storytelling

31:52 Adoption Narratives: The Impact of Literature and Community

39:18 Embracing Self-Acceptance and Connection

48:18 Adoption: The Making of Me Podcast and Community Engagement

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Voicemail from Special Education Teacher and Mother, Julie Leboeuf

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0700

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The Transformative Power of Art: Julie Leboeuf's Family Journey

Voicemail from Julie Leboeuf! Julie, a special education teacher and mother, shares how art has played a critical role in her family's life, especially after her husband and two of her children were diagnosed with myotonic dystrophy, a genetic neuromuscular disease. Julie shares her belief in the therapeutic and empowering aspects of art, recounting how creative expression has helped her family navigate the challenges of the disease, connect with their community through activities like paint nights for fundraising and awareness, and find personal empowerment and confidence. Julie emphasizes the universality and accessibility of art as a tool for self-expression, learning, and community engagement, encouraging listeners to embrace their inner artists. Thank you, Julie!

00:00 Welcome to Art Heals All Wounds

00:48 Julie Leboeuf's Journey with Art and Family

02:04 The Transformative Power of Art in Overcoming Challenges

02:41 Art as a Medium for Connection and Community Engagement

03:18 Empowering Lessons from Art

05:33 A Personal Invitation to Share Your Art Story

05:55 Supporting the Art Heals All Wounds Podcast

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How Mythical Creatures and Persian Fairytales Heal in a Coming of Age Story with Kiyash Monsef

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0700

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In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds', I talk with author Kiyash Monsef about his book 'Once There Was', a story that blends mythical creatures and the protagonist Marjan's quest to reconnect with her Iranian heritage solve her father’s mysterious death. Kiyash discusses the importance of mythical creatures in reflecting human traits and the significance of understanding one's cultural heritage. He shares insights into the book’s development and how his Iranian-American identity and the global pandemic influenced its themes of grief, healing, and identity. The episode delves into the nuances of writing for a broad audience, the interplay between personal and cultural narratives, and the timeless appeal of mythical beings across cultures. Additionally, Kiyash touches on the complexities of human nature and the book's exploration of grief and growing up through Marjan’s journey.

00:00 Welcome to Art Heals All Wounds: The Power of Artistic Expression

00:43 Exploring the Realm of Mythical Creatures and Persian Fairy Tales

01:44 Diving into 'Once There Was': A Tale of Heritage and Mythical Beings

03:51 Behind the Scenes with Kiyash Monsef: The Creation of a YA Masterpiece

19:33 The Essence of Mythical Creatures: A Deep Dive into Their Significance

23:39 Navigating the Human Experience: Characters, Grief, and Growth

31:32 The Personal Journey: Reconnecting with Iranian Heritage Through Storytelling

35:32 Where to Find 'Once There Was' and Closing Thoughts

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Voicemail from Writer, Filmmaker, and Podcaster Rebecca Davey

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0700

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Voicemail from Rebecca Davey! Rebecca is an artist who discusses the significant role art has played in her life, particularly in navigating a painful platonic breakup during the pandemic. Rebecca shares how this personal experience became the inspiration for a new film she is writing, emphasizing the power and therapeutic nature of artistic expression in processing emotional pain. Rebecca and her sister Natalie Davey's podcast, Reframeables, focuses on changing perspectives on life's challenges.

00:00 Welcome to Art Heals All Wounds

00:47 The Transformative Power of Art: A Personal Journey

01:19 Rebecca Davey and Her Upcoming Film

02:07 The Impact of Platonic Breakups in Film

04:03 Listener Engagement and Show Support

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Adoption and Identity: I Would Meet You Anywhere with Susan Kiyo Ito

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0700

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This episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds' features a conversation with Susan Kiyo Ito, author of 'I Would Meet You Anywhere,' focusing on her experiences as a transracial adoptee seeking connection with her birth and adoptive families. Susan and I talk about adoptees' quests for origin and belonging, highlighting the role art and creativity play in exploring and understanding complex identities. Susan's story, encompassing her journey to find her birth mother and the dynamics within her adoptive family, underscores broader themes of identity, belonging, and the resilience required to navigate the emotional landscapes of adoption. The episode also discusses the societal and legal challenges adoptees face in accessing birth records, while celebrating the power of storytelling in building connections and fostering understanding.

00:00 Opening: The Power of Art to Heal

00:43 Introducing Susan Kiyo Ito and Her Journey

01:51 The Complexities of Adoption and Identity

03:26 Susan's Story: A Quest for Connection

04:05 Engaging with Susan: The Interview Begins

05:44 Exploring Family Dynamics and Ethnic Identity

15:38 The Impact of Historical Trauma and Fear

20:38 The Evolution of Family Relationships

31:59 The Importance of Telling Your Own Story

33:18 Celebrating Susan's Book Success and Closing Thoughts

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Voicemail from Musician and Podcaster, Carolyn Kiel

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0700

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In a voicemail message to Art Heals All Wounds, podcaster and musician Carolyn Kiel shares how arranging music has changed how she listens and how she sees the world!

Thank you for leaving this voicemail, Carolyn!

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Connecting through Writing and Music: How Joe Field’s Books Inspire Young Readers

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0800

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In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds,' I explore the theme of connection in art and creativity with Joe Field, creator of the Legends Universe and author of superhero books for adults and children. Joe delves into his creative process, from his early days when music influenced his writing to learning of the impact his stories have on readers, particularly children, who see his characters as friends. This discovery has shaped Joe’s approach to writing, ensuring characters remain relatable and positive. Joe also discusses the unexpected connections made through his music, sharing a touching story about playing piano for a night worker at an airport. Revealing his motivations for writing, Joe aims to inspire, entertain, and make a difference in people's lives through his work. The episode also includes an offer from Joe to book clubs and highlights the upcoming release of his piano music album.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Art

00:39 The Inspiration Behind the Show

01:05 The Journey of Joe Field: From Music to Writing

02:21 The Impact of Art: Listener's Connection

04:12 Joe Field's Creative Process

08:40 The Influence of Feedback on Writing

16:08 The Power of Music: A Personal Story

20:39 The Future of Joe Field's Creative Journey

40:22 Conclusion: The Healing Power of Creativity

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Connecting Through Art: Stories of Change and Growth

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Happy to be back for the sixth season of 'Art Heals All Wounds', where we’ll talk about 'Connection'! Exploring the transformative power of collaboration, cultural exchange and human bonds through artists and their stories, how does connection alter narratives and inspire growth? For this season, the podcast episodes will be released bi-weekly instead of weekly for the sake of the work-life balance I'm trying to achieve! Please continue to leave voicemails sharing your experiences with art and creativity. If you want to support this show, leave a five-star rating or review, and follow Art Heals All Wounds on listening apps. You can also 'Buy me a coffee' to help with the costs of this show.

Thanks for listening!

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Art

00:53 The African Proverb: Going Together

01:38 Exploring Connection and Growth

02:08 Personal Reflections: Adoption and Belonging

02:48 Season Six: The Theme of Connection

03:32 Podcast Schedule and Listener Participation

04:38 Supporting the Show: Donations and Reviews

05:10 Conclusion: Looking Forward to Exploring Connection

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Art, Community, and Hope: Joe Field's Stories of Healing through Legends Universe

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of "Art Heals All Wounds," I talk about how this turn of the calendar from 2023 to 2024 reminds me of sliding down a wooded hill on snowy days with my friends—right into a street! I also share a voicemail from Joe Field, creator of the Legends Universe. Joe discusses how his work has affected individuals, from helping a young boy overcome a video game addiction to providing companionship during the isolation of the COVID pandemic. It’s a great reflection on the impact of creative work. Please continue to share your voicemails for the podcast! And stay tuned for Season 6, coming late February or early March!

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Connecting Through Music: A Voicemail from Joey Held

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0800

On this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I share a voicemail from Joey Held, who talks about the impact of music on building a sense of belonging and the ability of art to heal. Joey hosts a podcast called Good People, Cool Things but he’s also a member of the band Burning Years. Joey talks about the way he sees music bringing people together during the band’s shows. He also shares an incredible experience with a fan of the band—a recent transplant from Dublin, Ireland, to Austin, Texas where Joey lives. This fan told him that before he left Dublin, he had been in a pub that played one of Burning Years’ songs and that the entire pub began singing along. They knew all of the words! A reminder that art knows no boundaries, it transcends cultures to create connections.

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Finding Belonging and Discovering the Power of Listening: Gwen Whittle, Postproduction Sound Supervisor

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I interview longtime friend Gwen Whittle, a supervising sound editor and three-time Academy Award nominee for the films Avatar, Tron Legacy, and Avatar, The Way of Water. We discuss Gwen's journey from New York to San Francisco, her experiences in the sound editing industry, and the importance of sound in storytelling. We both share stories of belonging and the impact of travel on our perspectives and the importance of listening.

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Celebrating Neurodiversity, Beauty, and Belonging with Illustrator and Writer Allegra Thelemaque

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode, I interview my daughter, Allegra Thelemaque, illustrator and writer, about the idea of feeling like you belong in your body. We also discuss how finding one's own sense of style can help redefine the concept of beauty. Allegra and I both have myotonic dystrophy, a multi-system disease that can affect muscle strength, muscle stiffness, eyes, digestive system, brain, heart, and increase the risk of certain cancers. Allegra identifies as neurodivergent. We talk about how meeting others with the same condition has provided a sense of understanding and support. Allegra shares her personal journey and offers some advice to me on self-acceptance and belonging.

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Transformation, Healing, and Belonging: Dazié Rustin Grego-Sykes and Derrick Miller-Handley on Queer and Black Representation in Art

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0800

This week I interview artists Dazié Rustin Grego-Sykes and Derrick Miller-Handley. They discuss the creation and impact of their performance piece, 'The Changer and the Changed', a performed memoir of Dazié’s lived experience, exploring issues of child sex abuse, addiction, and the experience of being Black, Queer, and HIV positive. Through this deeply personal piece, performed in a community space, Dazié and Derrick aimed to create an intimate shared experience, encompassing the transformation, complex conversations, and the delicate balance of addressing difficult topics. The duo, who form the art collective 'Bundle of Sticks', share how their long-term friendship forms the foundation of their collaborative process. They also highlight the importance of acknowledging and embracing personal histories, shaping experiences into art, and finding a sense of belonging.

00:12 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:47 Discovering Dazié Grego-Sykes and The Changer and The Changed

01:47 Experiencing The Changer and The Changed

02:19 Understanding the Impact of Art

04:19 Interview with Dazié Grego-Sykes and Derrick Miller-Handley

05:03 Introduction to the Art Collective Bundle of Sticks

07:01 The Creation and Transformation of The Changer and The Changed

15:13 The Role of Personal Journals in The Changer and The Changed

20:34 The Power of Mythology in Art

23:48 Creating a Tangible Environment

24:18 The Thin Line Between Performance and Reality

24:52 The Power of Trust and Friendship in Performance

25:21 The Real-Time Experience of Performance

26:10 The Transformational Power of Art

27:03 The Influence of Kehinde Wiley's Work

28:38 Creating New Spaces in Art

29:28 The Role of Afrofuturism in Art

32:06 The Importance of Ancestry and History

35:41 The Performers: A Deep Dive into Their Stories

38:40 The Concept of Belonging in Art

41:19 Connecting with the Audience

43:17 Where to Find More About the Artists and Their Work

44:11 Closing Remarks

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The Nature of Belonging--A Voicemail From Miguel Angel Vazquez

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode, I feature a thought-provoking reflection on belonging in a voicemail from Miguel Angel Vazquez. Discover the different dimensions of belonging, how it can shift with experiences, and the essential ways we know that we belong.

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Exploring Healing Through Art with Almudena Rocca and The Intuitive Drawing Journal:

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I speak with multidisciplinary artist Almudena Rocca about her book 'The Intuitive Drawing Journal: A Guided Journal for Processing Feelings and Emotions'. The journal employs the technique of continuous line drawing to help individuals explore and express their emotions without judgement. Almudena shares her personal journey with mental health, the therapeutic benefits of the drawing method in the journal, and emphasizes the importance of self-care in mental wellness. The episode concludes with a special discount for listeners who wish to purchase Rocca's book, and an opportunity to win a free copy of the book!

00:12 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:47 The Struggle with Self-Judgment

01:15 Discovering The Intuitive Drawing Journal

03:00 Interview with Almudena Rocca

03:44 Understanding The Intuitive Drawing Journal

09:50 The Power of No Judgment

12:43 Therapeutic Practices and Self-Care

14:55 Where to Find Almudena's Work

16:11 Conclusion and Special Offer

Special Offer for Art Heals All Wounds listeners: Get 25% off of your copy of The Intuitive Drawing Journal: A Guided Journal for Processing Feelings and Emotions. Use the code INTUITIVE25 and order at https://watkinspublishing.com/books/the-intuitive-drawing-journal-a-guided-journal-for-processing-feelings-and-emotions/

*This code remains active until January 1st 2024.

For a free copy of A Guided Journal for Processing Feelings and Emotions leave a 5-star rating and review for Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts. Send a screenshot of your review to me, pam@arthealsallwoundspodcast.com. I’ll connect the first 3 people to send this screenshot with Almudena’s publisher for their free copy of The Intuitive Drawing Journal: A Guided Journal for Processing Feelings and Emotions.

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Her Deaf Mother Blossomed and Found Belonging as an Artist--A Voicemail From Paige Friend

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I share a heartfelt voicemail from Paige Friend, host of ‘The Beach Speaks’ podcast, discussing her deaf mother’s journey of self-realization and acceptance facilitated by art. Ginny, developed her lip-reading skills, giving Paige a delightful way of communicating with her mother across a room. Unable to work, Ginny turned to painting and silk-screen printing, becoming a successful and celebrated artist, and finding a sense of belonging in the artistic world.

Please share your own story of belonging by leaving me a voicemail!

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Adoption, Secrets, and Identity: Christina YR Lim’s Film 'B-Side for Taylor'

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds', I speak with filmmaker Christina YR Lim about 'B-Side for Taylor', a film that explores adoption, identity, and family secrets. As a contribution to National Adoption Awareness Month, the discussion centers around the film's storyline, which follows a Korean American adoptee's journey to learn more about her origins as well as dealing with her adoptive mother's death. The film also dives into the complex dynamics around adoption and the need for open and honest communication within families. Uzzell and Lim discuss the rich themes and choices in character development, shedding light on how art can be an avenue for exploring and addressing societal issues.

00:12 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds

00:47 Exploring the Theme of Adoption

01:05 Unveiling Family Secrets

01:40 Invitation to Share Your Story

02:11 Interview with Film Director Christina YR Lim

02:37 Exploring the Film 'B-Side for Taylor'

03:42 Unraveling the Plot Twists

04:31 Conversation with Christina YR Lim

04:48 Behind the Scenes of 'B-Side for Taylor'

08:11 Exploring the Theme of Family Secrets

11:54 Understanding the Characters in 'B-Side for Taylor'

23:40 The Open-Ended Nature of the Film

28:21 Finding Christina YR Lim and 'B-Side for Taylor'

29:24 Closing Remarks

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Adoption, Family Secrets, and Healing with Carlyn Montes De Oca, Author of "Junkyard Girl"

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Animal advocate Carlyn Montes De Oca embarked on a journey of self-discovery when she took a commercial DNA test in 2019. Expecting to uncover her Jewish heritage within her Hispanic bloodline, Carlyn was stunned to learn that she had been adopted at birth. This revelation shattered her sense of identity, as she discovered that her entire extended family, including 63 first cousins, were aware of her adoption but had kept it a secret from her. Determined to piece together her origin story, Carlyn began a relentless mission to uncover the truth about her past and find out who she truly was. Combining two stories in her new book, Junkyard Girl - her search for her biological family and the story of growing up with loving, overprotective parents, who also happened to be hoarders - Carlyn embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery.

CARLYN MONTES DE OCA is a multi-award winning author of Dog as My Doctor, Cat as My Nurse and Paws for the Good Stuff. She is an international speaker, animal-human health expert, and passionate animal advocate. Ten percent of every purchase of her book Junkyard Girl benefits Animal Protection New Mexico.

Key Topics:

Discovering the Adoption
Growing Up First-Generation Latina
The Impact of the Adoption Revelation
Coping with Loneliness and Shame
Finding Healing through Writing and Art
Advocating for Animal Welfare

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How Art and Creativity Lead to Well-Being with Dr. Tasha Golden and Arts on Prescription

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Dr. Tasha Golden is an international speaker and consultant, a career singer/songwriter, and a public health scientist. In this episode, Tasha shares with us her work on the Arts On Prescription Field Guide, a resource that seeks to integrate arts, culture, and nature into medical care to promote overall well-being and not just the absence of disease. Tasha's extensive research and personal experiences as an artist have led her to some incredible insights on how the arts can play a transformative role in healing and supporting individuals. Drawing from her own experience with depression, she shares how medicine, by integrating art, can transform the health of individuals and communities. Arts on Prescription Field Guide is a resource for anyone looking for guidance on how to include equitable, accessible, and community-based arts, culture, and nature as part of health care.

Key Topics

Integrating Arts, Culture, and Nature into Medical Care for Well-being

- Arts On Prescription Field Guide created by Tasha Golden, PhD

- The Field Guide's focus on promoting well-being, not just the absence of disease

- Historical lack of equity and inclusion in arts, culture, and nature institutions

- Opportunities for Arts on Prescription to enhance equity, inclusion, and community-centered focus

- The role of grassroots initiatives in long-term success

- Transformation and personal growth resulting from the experience of depression

- Tasha Golden's shift to studying and researching mental health

- Partnership between Mass Cultural Council and University of Florida Center for Arts in Medicine

- Launch of Culture Rx as the first statewide arts and prescription program in the US

- Barrier between clinical health and community-based health

- Importance of integrating healthcare with beneficial resources outside of traditional settings

- The need for a field guide to access community resources

- Tasha Golden's experience as a musician and connecting with audience members

- Bridging the gap between sharing stories in music venues and clinical spaces

- Supporting survivors and those with mental illness through shared experiences

- Importance of considering the needs of human beings for thriving environments

- Addressing root causes and structural solutions for improved access to thriving environments

- Shifting from reactive to proactive approaches in health

- Ensuring equitable availability of resources for well-being

- Redefining health as the presence of complete well-being

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Finding Belonging as a Standup Comedian--Rabiah Coon

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Standup comedian and podcaster, Rabiah Coon, shares a story of belonging on a voicemail to the show! Listen to how Rabiah found a sense of belonging performing standup.

If you want to share your story of belonging on Art Heals All Wounds, you can send me a voicemail at https://www.arthealsallwoundspodcast.com/ and I'll share it on a future episode!

Check out Rabiah's work!

Stay in Touch with Art Heals All Wounds:

LEAVE ME A VOICEMAIL WITH YOUR STORY OF BELONGING!

Stand-Up and Stereotypes: Sadia Azmat's New Book 'Sex Bomb'

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Description: In this episode, I sit down with the talented comedian and author Sadia Azmat. We delve into the world of stand-up comedy, exploring how Sadia has used humor to navigate complex themes of identity, culture, and relationships. From her unique perspective as a hijabi comedian, Sadia shares her journey of self-discovery and how she's challenged cultural norms with her humor.

Key Topics:

Sadia Azmat's journey into stand-up comedy
The intersection of comedy and cultural identity
Breaking stereotypes and challenging societal norms
The significance of the hijab in Sadia's life and comedy
Navigating love, relationships, and self-discovery

Connect with Sadia:

Stay in Touch with the Podcast:

LEAVE ME A VOICEMAIL WITH YOUR STORY OF BELONGING!

Reclaiming Haitian Heritage: Lalin St. Juste's Music Explores Different Experiences of Belonging

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Lalin St. Juste has been a staple in the Bay Area music scene for a decade with her genre-bending band The Seshen. In this episode, Lalin takes us on a transformative journey of healing and reclamation of her Haitian heritage through her solo music. As a Haitian American, Lalin has felt a deep connection to her roots, but also struggled with issues of identity and the negative stereotypes associated with Haiti. Through her music, she aims to unlearn these misconceptions and show the true richness and beauty of Haitian culture. Lalin's musical journey started as a means of expressing herself as a shy and quiet child. But it was her bond with her maternal grandmother that truly influenced her path. As Lalin coped with the loss of her grandmother, singing became a source of solace and healing. Her music celebrates and reclaims her matrilineal bloodline and Haitian heritage, in turn leading to a reaffirmation of her sense of belonging as a Haitian American

Don't forget to go to my website and leave me YOUR story of belonging to feature on a future episode!

Buy Me a Coffee!

Episode Highlights

[00:02:15] LA-raised musician connects with Haitian heritage.

[00:05:51] Shy child found solace in music. Strong bond with maternal grandmother. Sang to cope with mother's passing. Healing and self-expression through music.

[00:08:18] Influenced by Little Dragon, our Electronic session incorporates genre-bending sounds, dance production, and elements of traditional Haitian music. My solo work is constantly evolving with an ethereal, cosmic, and spiritual aesthetic.

[00:10:16] Daughter of Haitian immigrants embraces cultural heritage.

[00:14:59] Powerful connection to Haiti through song.

[00:20:13] Creating a unique home, exploring identity, inclusion.

[00:21:24] First song I wrote from EP after Jamaica trip, connecting with Jamaica in absence of Haiti. Fresh off Caribbean essence, thinking about family and their lives.

[00:27:59] "Art Heals All Wounds - Lalaine Saint Juste shares her story and upcoming performances in the Bay Area. Connect with her and listen to her work on Bandcamp. Leave a voicemail on arthealsallwoundspodcast.com to share your story of belonging."

Guest Info:

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Don't forget to go to my website and leave me YOUR story of belonging to feature on a future episode!

Buy Me a Coffee!

Reclaiming Public Spaces: The Impact of Feminine Street Art with Amilli Onair, Street Artist

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Are you comfortable with the parts of you that are feminine? Are you comfortable in a feminine space? Explore the world of street art and its transformative power in public spaces with Amilli Onair. Discover how her murals challenge perceptions of feminine energy and create safe spaces for all. Amilli's street art beautifully embraces and celebrates the feminine. She believes that by adding feminine elements to public spaces, we can create a sense of welcome and belonging for all individuals. It's a powerful way to challenge societal norms and create spaces where everyone can explore their feelings. Amilli is from a family of women artists and shares insights into her own journey as a muralist, how her work resonates with individuals seeking feminine spaces, and the energetic impact of her art in public spaces. Amilli shares her perspective on the public nature of street art and how that challenges the concept of art belonging to the artist who created it, and also how reactions to that art reflect currents ideas and beliefs in a society. We delve into the concept of microaggressions, in particular a drawing of a certain part of the male anatomy that she often finds added to her murals. We also touch upon Amilli's personal experience with her mother’s struggle with mental illness and how that relationship has influenced her artistic journey. Join me on Art Heals All Wounds as we delve into the intersection of art, belonging, and social commentary.

Episode Highlights

Exploring Street Art and Its Impact: 00:03:00
Taking Up Space and Feminine Energy: 00:07:00
The Resilience of Women and Flowers: 00:08:00
Influences from Women Artists in the Family: 00:10:00
The Uterus Mural: Healing and Expression: 00:13:00
Coexistence of Emotions and Feminine Space: 00:18:00
Street Art as a Commentary on Society: 00:23:00
Expanding Notions of Feminism: 00:26:00
Connect with Amilli Onair: 00:29:00
Closing Remarks and Support for the Podcast: 00:31:00
Music Credits and Location Acknowledgment: 00:31:00

Guest Info:

● Amilli's Instagram

● Amilli's Website

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Memory, Climate Change, and Urban Transformation with dream hampton and her film 'Freshwater'

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

We continue our season focusing on belonging by talking about places and spaces. What kinds of stories do you tell about the places of your past that made you who you are? How do you tell that story when that place has been destroyed by the effects of climate change? dream hampton is an independent filmmaker who recently released a nine-minute short film called Freshwater. Prior to this project, hampton had worked on three long-form projects, including the widely recognized Surviving R. Kelly docuseries. Dealing with studios and facing creative limitations took a toll on dream, prompting a search for a creative project that could heal. In collaboration with her friend Invincible, dream embarked on a film project exploring flooded basements as a metaphor for memory, the effects of climate change, and the changing demographics of her hometown, Detroit. Freshwater was shot over all four seasons with a small crew of three or four people. My conversation with dream includes thoughts around migration and climate refugees. Why aren’t we doing a better job of responding to those who have left homes that have been made uninhabitable due to climate catastrophe? We also talk about ways that urban planning and surveillance have contributed to why our places are so poorly equipped to withstand the many challenges we’re facing, whether it’s fire or too much water. Through her story of loss, dream invites us all to reflect with her on how we might respond to this moment when, as she so aptly puts it, nature is talking to us. As storytellers, are we listening? How will we shape our stories to meet this moment?

Guest info and other notables from the episode:

Here's how you can donate to Maui fire victims

Buy me a coffee!

Leave me a voicemail to share on the show!

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The Heroism and Beauty of LGBTQIA+ Asylum Seekers, with Umberto N. Nicoletti, The Photographer Behind the Book 'Asylum'

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Who do you look up to? Do you have heroes? Fashion photographer Umberto N. Nicoletti has created a new coffee table book full of photographs of some of his heroes—LQBTQIA+ asylum seekers. Inspired by his friend Diego Puccio, a volunteer for Arcigay, an Italian organization that helps refugees obtain asylum, Umberto became passionate about fighting for LGBTQIA+ rights. He was shocked to learn that over 40% of countries still have laws against the community and realized that even his own inner circle of friends was unaware of this issue. Umberto decided to take action and create an artistic project to raise awareness about the criminalization of the LGBTQIA+ community worldwide.

Umberto joins me to talk about his new book of photography, Asylum, which features photographs of some of the LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers Umberto has met. We talk about his choices in terms of the style of the photographs, why it’s important to him to show the subjects in a more glamorous and idealized way, the process of interviewing the subjects of the book, and his hopes for the book and future projects based on it.

We also cover how Umberto feels a connection to these asylum seekers based on his search for belonging in his own life.
Transcript

Leave me a voicemail on my website arthealsallwoundspodcast.com!

Guest Info:

How to Get Involved with Art Heals All Wounds:

Share Your Story of Belonging--I'll Go First

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today's episode is all about belonging. In Season 5 we delve into the stories of artists and individuals who have experienced feeling like they don't fit in and have discovered creative ways to connect and heal. Today, I'll be sharing my own personal story of adoption, a journey that made me question where I truly belonged. I also want to invite all listeners to become a part of this season. If you have a story of finding a sense of belonging through art or creative practices, head over to my website, arthealsallwoundspodcast.com, and leave me a voicemail with your story. I want to collect enough stories to share them on episodes.

Conversations: Crossed Wires with Jae Bloom and James Bilsbrough and guest, Dr. Catherine Flick, Chatting AI Ethics

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

AI--how are you feeling about it? Excited about its potential? Concerned that it's not quite ready for prime time? I feel both of these things. I've already heard some amazing ideas for its use in Arts and Health. And I've used ChatGPT, with mixed results. So my ears perked up while listening to this episode from Jae Bloom and James Bilsbrough on their show Crossed Wires. Jae and James are joined by returning guest, Dr. Catherine Flick, to have a chat about the ethics of tools like ChatGPT and the general concepts of LLMs (Large Language Models) in AI. We also look at some of the privacy concerns around using such tools.

Crossed Wires

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Conversations: Reframeables, Hosted by Rebecca and Natalie Davey: Reframing "The Sex Talk" with Emily Roach

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Do you remember getting "The Sex Talk"? The ones I experienced left a lot to be desired! Which is why I love this conversation between the hosts of Reframeables, Rebecca and Natalie Davey, and sex-positive communicator, Emily Roach. If you find yourself facing "The Talk" with a young person in your life, I think you'll find some good ideas from this conversation!

From Reframeables:

Today we're reframing how we talk about sex with kids with sex-positivity communicator Emily Roach — whose loyal and growing following on TikTok suggest that we're not the only ones looking for this conversation. We talk about creating spaces for judgement-free conversations, healing our own relationship to sex, and ways of speaking about consent. Listen in and we hope you learn some new words — we did!

Conversations: Wild Precious Life, Hosted by Annmarie Kelly: Somebody's Daughter, with Ashley C. Ford

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Time to share some amazing conversations!

I love sharing feed drops of my favorite shows during this break between seasons! These are all conversations that moved me and taught me a thing or two.

Today I’m sharing an episode from the brilliant podcast Wild Precious Life, hosted by Annmarie Kelly. Her guest on this episode is Ashley C. Ford. Ashley C. Ford is the author of The New York Times Bestselling memoir, SOMEBODY’S DAUGHTER. In this episode, Annmarie and Ashley talk about surviving family trauma, setting healthy boundaries, and how to trust the people in our lives to do their own mental health work. On the lighter side, Ashley and Annmarie also discuss yacht rock, Midwestern pride, and their favorite character on The Golden Girls.

Podcast Info:

· Wild Precious Life Website

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100 Things: Setting Intentions

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0700

How do we creatively increase empathy? What about increasing compassion for ourselves? Last year I experienced chronic pain for 8 months, which made me think a lot about empathy for those in pain of any kind—physical, emotional, or mental. Are our societies built for those who suffer from chronic pain? Can we increase empathy through art? Reading the book Your Brain on Artand talking with its co-author Susan Magsamen has really inspired me in the ways that so many people are already doing this.

Do we begin with more compassion for ourselves? How do we set intentions around practicing that self-compassion. I thank a guest from Season 2, Ceci Najar, who wrote a memoir called Unf*ckupable: A Love Story for inspiring me with the list she made when she decided to change her life. Sitting down and writing 100 things to see, do, or have helped her to believe that she deserved to have things that had always felt out of reach before.

How do you set intentions? Do you, like me, feel resistance to the idea that you deserve the things on your list? I’d love for you to share! Reach me at arthealsallwoundspodcast.com.

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Susan Magsamen:Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Susan Magsamen, Founder and Executive Director of the International Arts + Mind Lab at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Applied Neuroscience. She’s also the co-author of Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us, which explores how aesthetic experiences impact the human brain and body. In our conversation, Susan shares where her fascination for the intersection of art, science, and education stems from. She describes the research and writing process for Your Brain on Art, and goes into detail about some of the standout sections of the book, including the role art can play in community building and physical healing.

So much of Susan’s work is centered around the extraordinary ways art measurably changes the brain, body, and behavior. By breaking down the silos between scientists and artists, this knowledge can be translated into specific practices that advance individual and communal wellbeing. Your Brain on Art is an approachable starting point for understanding how humans are wired for the arts and ways we continue to evolve through creative expression. Susan is also the Co-Director of the NeuroArts Blueprint. We dive into the five-year global initiative she and her team are building in the field of neural arts. Their goal is to ensure art becomes a part of mainstream medicine and public health conversation.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● How Susan and co-writer Ivy Ross brought Your Brain on Art to life

● Key terms and concepts related to the neuroscience of art

● Examples of the physiological, psychological, and sociological impacts of art

● What gives Susan hope about how art can support communities in addressing certain social issues

● Insights from research that shows how art can impact the progression of certain diseases and disorders

Guest Info:

● NeuroArts Blueprint Website

● Arts + Mind Lab Website

● Your Brain on Art Website

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● February 31st show at the Anglim/Trimble Gallery

Support for Political Prisoners with Rigo 23, Painter and Activist

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Rigo 23, a painter, muralist, and activist who has undertaken collaborative art projects with some of America's political prisoners. In our conversation, Rigo expands on the inspiration and process behind two of his works: His recent February 31st Exhibit that includes work with, and inspired by, the Angola 3 and a large-scale statue of Leonard Peltier based on one of Peltier’s self-portraits.

Herman Wallace, Albert Woodfox, and Robert King, also known as the Angola 3, were subjected to a combined 114 years in closed cell restriction, which is the longest known solitary confinement incarceration in world history. February 31st is an exhibit that invites viewers to explore the work of Rigo 23 that was a collaboration with Wallace, Woodfox, and King, and inspired by the unique worldview that Herman, Albert, and Robert developed during their years of deprivation and inhumane conditions.

Rigo also shares the story behind his statue of Leonard Peltier, an Indigenous rights activist who is still serving a prison sentence from when he was wrongfully convicted of murdering two FBI agents in 1975. The statue Rigo created, based on Leonard Peltier’s self-portrait, has traveled around the country, and exemplifies how art can harness support for those unjustly imprisoned.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● The personal experience that sparked Rigo’s interest in learning about the lived experiences of political prisoners

● The lasting impact on Rigo from his relationship with the Angola 3 and Leonard Peltier

● How Leonard Peltier’s self-portrait in prison inspired Rigo to create a solidarity statue How the sculpture of Leonard was stolen, then found with community help

● Art as a way to go beyond structural division by race, gender, and beliefs

Resources Mentioned:

● The Leonard Peltier Statue

Guest Info:

● Rigo's Instagram

● rigo23info@gmail.com

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Decolonizing Art with Choreographer Alleluia Panis

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by dancer, choreographer, and cultural leader Alleluia Panis. In our conversation, Alleluia expands on the vision behind her captivating performances, many of which are inspired by her lived experience as a Filipina immigrant.

Alleluia describes how many of the indigenous Filipino traditions have been forgotten due to the dark history of colonialism in the country. As the Artistic and Executive Director of KULARTS, Alleluia’s mission is to reintroduce the world to contemporary and tribal Filipino art. In her personal quest to reconnect with her indigenous self, she invites others to question where they might also be estranged from their true identity.

Alleluia’s curiosity has led her to explore more of her lineage and global history. After her research phase, she collaborates with other artists to develop characters, storylines, and corresponding dance pieces. Alleluia shares details of how this process unfolded for performances like for ‘She, Who Can See,’ ‘Nursing These Wounds,’ as well as her current project about the relationship between the US military and the Philippines. She also touches on the retreats and workshops she hosts in tandem with indigenous tribes in the Philippines.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Alleluia’s journey to becoming a dancer and performer

● Why it’s so important to Alleluia to represent the immigrant experience on stage

● Dance as a form of meditation and prayer

● How Alleluia works to find the balance of a piece that communicates her truth, but also invites others to find themselves in it

● What Alleluia notices about the next generation of young artists she works with

Guest Info:

● KULARTS Website

● Alleluia’s Instagram

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Feed Drop: Allyship is a Verb, Hosted by Chris Angel Murphy: One Woman's Late in Life Lesbian Story, Featuring Kathy Houston

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Show notes from Chris Angel Murphy and Allyship is a Verb

Put yourself in the other person's shoes. This week, Kathy Houston (she/her) talks about Club LILLES and what it means for her to be a late in life lesbian. In this episode, you will learn 1. How lesbian TikTok has been a wonderful, informative resource. 2. Why her first girlfriend gave her “homework.” 3. What it feels like to live in the affirming bubble of St. Petersburg, Florida.

💜 Enjoyed this episode? Consider donating to keep the podcast going: https://anchor.fm/chris-angel-murphy/support

👕 Rock the official podcast merch: https://www.bonfire.com/store/allyship-is-a-verb/

🎧 Make sure you’re following wherever you listen to podcasts: https://pod.link/allyshipisaverb

🎙️ Connect with Kathy to learn more about + support her work:

💻 Sources and resources from this episode:

Club LILLES | A social community and platform for women and non-binary people who identify as lesbian, bi-sexual, pansexual, or any sexuality that loves women. The word LILLES is an acronym for Late in life Lesbians but has been adapted since its creation. LILLES means people who love women who also are dedicated to a growth mindset and support others in the community.
Queer Flower | TVTropes page on flowers and their meanings in the LGBTQ+ community
In U.S., 10.2% of LGBT Adults Now Married to Same-Sex Spouse | GALLUP
Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend | Wikipedia
Girls In Wonderland
Biden signs into law same-sex marriage bill, 10 years after his famous Sunday show answer on the issue | CNN
Tennessee House passes bill targeting marriage equality | The Black Wall Street Times
"Loofah code" at Florida's largest retirement community more about confused than enthused | Palm Beach Post

Feed Drop: The Beach Speaks, Hosted by Paige Friend

Wed, 31 May 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Show Notes for this Episode from Paige Friend and The Beach Speaks

A friend of mine from “up North” asked me what’s it like to be in a hurricane? That got me thinking about my past 22 years living in Florida. How many hurricanes had I been in?

I grew up in the mountains of Pennsylvania. The only “natural disasters” I ever experienced were blizzards - which were fairly common and not all that disastrous. It wasn’t until I moved to Florida that I had ever been in an actual natural disaster - a hurricane.

I had just moved to Orlando when four hurricanes rolled through Florida - one right after the other:

Charlie, Francis, Ivan, and Jeanne.

Don’t you love how hurricanes have “everyday” names?

It makes sense to give hurricanes a name because it makes it really easy to talk about them later, like: “Remember when Andrew came one night and took our roof ?” Or, “Katrina - yeah - she was bad”

And, like people, hurricanes have different personalities, are difficult to predict, and you never quite know what they’re going to do.

In this episode, I tell my story of two significant hurricanes in my life (so far): my first, Charley, and my last, Ian.

The hurricanes were roaring, the beach was speaking, and I was listening!

Listen to The Beach Speaks on Buzzsprout Apple, or Spotify (or your favorite Podcast Player)

Support the show (for free) by following (it’s free) on Apple and Spotify and sharing it with your friends (did I mention it’s free?)

Click here and buy me a virtual coffee to help keep the podcast going: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/paigefriend (it takes caffeine and cash to keep this podcast afloat)

Leave a voicemail! https://www.speakpipe.com/TheBeachSpeaks

Follow on the Socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeachspeaks/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TheBeachSpeaks

Web: https://the-beach-speaks.onpodium.com/

● Sign up for the upcoming UNtensive workshop

Anti-Racism: Unpacking White Supremacy Through Body-Based Practices with Kai Hazelwood and Sarah Ashkin

Wed, 24 May 2023 00:00:00 -0700

In today’s episode, I’m joined by body-based artists and activists Kai Hazelwood and Sarah Ashkin. Kai and Sarah are co-founders of Practice Progress, an anti-racist facilitation practice that addresses structural, professional, and interpersonal white supremacy through embodied learning. In our conversation, Kai and Sarah describe what body-based learning is, particularly through the lens of their LISTEN IN workshops, which are race-based spaces that address the physiological impacts of racism. In Kai’s BIPOC Affinity Circle, the focus is on repairing the rest and care gap that so many people of color people face. She leads participants through embodied rest, practices that settle the nervous system, and frameworks for setting boundaries. Sarah facilitates the white working group and guides members to build awareness around what it means to actively be anti-racist. Kai and Sarah share examples of modalities that support the collective unlearning and healing in both workshops. In addition, Kai and Sarah are partnering with Arcos Dance to host their third annual UNtensive workshop. The four-day virtual gathering is designed for educators, artists, or really anyone who wants to explore the embodied nature of rupture and repair.
Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● The distinction between body-based artists and dancers

● Recognizing the ways that different groups embody white supremacy

● The physiological toll of covert and overt racism

● Building community around anti-racism and embodiment

● Why Kai and Sarah decided against facilitating workshops in multiracial spaces

● What to expect from the UNtensive workshop

Resources Mentioned:

● Kai’s essay: I'm Breaking Up With Dance: I Can't Heal In The Same Relationship That Hurt Me

● Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey

Guest Info:

● Practice Progress Website

● Kai's Website

● Sarah's Website

Follow Me:

● Abolition. Feminism. Now. by Angela Y. Davis, Gina Dent, Erica Meiners, Beth Richie

Brittany Delany, Dancer and Choreographer: Free the Body: Exploring Personal, Cultural, Social, and Political Liberation Through Interactive Art and Movement

Wed, 17 May 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Brittany Delany, a dancer, choreographer, and co-director of the dance and social justice collective GROUND SERIES. We discuss the latest project from GROUND SERIES called “Free the Body,” an interactive art installation at The Coachella Valley Art Center that explores what it means to free the body within personal, cultural, social, and political settings. In our conversation, Brittany describes the inception of this project and how different elements of writing, sound, movement, and visual art were introduced. She shares what people can expect from the installation, including the various workshops the collective is hosting with local nonprofit organizations. When Brittany found herself in a cycle of rage and frustration brought on by the pandemic, the murder of George Floyd, and the overturn of Roe v. Wade, she joined with collaborators to channel that energy into “Free the Body,” using the text Abolition. Feminism. Now as inspiration. Brittany unpacks the refuge that this project offers her and what she hopes people will take away from the experience. She also highlights ways that the collective is working to engage with local community organizations and foster restorative justice services within the Coachella Valley community.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Dance through the lens of politics, spirituality, and research

● Brittany’s perspective on what it means to free the body

● Rage as a powerful motivator for artists

● The fortification of community through in-person events

● The core curriculum and methodology of “Free the Body” workshops

Resources Mentioned:

Guest Info:

● GROUND SERIES Website

● GROUND SERIES Instagram

● Free the Body Website

● Coachella Valley Art Center Website

● Brittany's Website

● Brittany's Instagram

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● Towards Opulence, the Opera at The Cutting Ball Theater

Our Collective Capacity to Manifest Change: Skywatchers, Featuring Shavonne Allen, Joel Yates, and Dazié Rustin Grego-Sykes

Wed, 10 May 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Shavonne Allen, Joel Yates, and Dazié Rustin Grego-Sykes, three members of Skywatchers, a performance ensemble based in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco. Skywatchers is an interdisciplinary, intergenerational, mixed-ability, and multicultural performance group that aims to amplify the voices of Tenderloin residents. Their mix of movement, music, visual art, and spoken word get to the core of what the Tenderloin is, which, despite the despair that is visible on the streets, is a place of abundant generosity. In Dazié’s words, community members in the Tenderloin have been given a limited view of themselves based on what outsiders see on the surface. The Tenderloin is an inclusive neighborhood where people support their neighbors and forge social spaces despite the hostile architecture that discourages social gathering in the area. Skywatchers performances explore the real, raw, lived experiences of ensemble members and life in the Tenderloin, but also share a vision of how things could be. Shavonne, Joel, and Dazié highlight the impact their art has on the neighborhood and reflect on how their lives have changed since joining the ensemble.

Listen, rate, and review Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● The history of the Tenderloin neighborhood and how it became a containment zone for the city’s biggest unsolved social issues

● How Shavonne, Joel, and Dazié were introduced to Skywatchers

● The story behind the ‘Opulence Portraits’ and ‘Towards Opulence' pieces

● Examples of what hostile architecture looks like, particularly in downtown San Francisco

● What Shavonne, Joel, and Dazié have gained from being part of Skywatchers

● What other Tenderloin community members gain from the work of Skywatchers

Guest Info:

● Skywatchers Website

● Skywatchers on Instagram

● Skywatchers on Facebook

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Accessibility and Inclusion In the Indian Film Industry with Priyanka Pal and Shweta Ghosh

Wed, 03 May 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by filmmakers Shweta Ghosh and Priyanka Pal to discuss their work together on We Make Film, a feature documentary about filmmaking by people with disabilities in India. Through a series of ‘interview workshops,’ the film highlights the creative ways that filmmakers with disabilities articulate their perspective and artistic vision, despite the accessibility challenges they face. Shweta and Priyanka connected on the idea of making a film where people with disabilities can bring their professional experience, as well their story, into their production process. What started out as Shweta’s PhD project in 2015 eventually became a deep dive into the dynamics within communities of people with disabilities, how they engage with each other, and how they define themselves. In our conversation, Shweta and Priyanka expand on stand-out moments from interviews and how those conversations opened their eyes to small, yet powerful ways to create a more accessible and inclusive filmmaking environment. They also describe how they’re working with the next generation of artists to challenge stereotypes and welcome diverse voices both in front of and behind the camera.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Why it’s so important to Priyanka, a filmmaker with a locomotor disability, to create a new narrative for how people with disabilities are portrayed in mainstream media

● Shweta’s process for defining the project scope and finding people for each role

● The surprising ways that different participants interpreted Shweta’s interview prompts

● How Shweta’s father’s disability shaped her perspective as an able-bodied filmmaker

● Priyanka and Shweta’s vision for how film crews and media can be more accessible and inclusive

Guest Info:

● We Make Film Instagram

● Priyanka's Instagram

● Priyanka’s Email

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● &

Crying Uncle Bluegrass: Bluegrass Roots, Modern Shoots: The Future of Bluegrass Music

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by the members of Crying Uncle Bluegrass, a California-based bluegrass band. Fiddle player Miles Quale teamed up with his brother Teo, a mandolin player, bassist Andrew Osborn, and guitarist John Gooding to jam together almost five years ago when they were all in their early-to-mid teens. Together they represent the next generation of the community-driven bluegrass genre.

In our conversation, the four members share how they were introduced to this type of music and what inspires them to continue playing it. They first crossed paths at the Father's Day Bluegrass Festival in Grass Valley, CA. Festivals are a common theme in our discussion as they’ve played a critical role in their growth and success as musicians. Miles and John describe how the collaborative nature of bluegrass lends itself well to spaces that promote community building, jamming, and workshops that are often featured at these events. Because it’s not everyday that you meet a group of young musicians playing bluegrass, I wanted to get their perspective on mixing traditional sounds with modern trends. They reflect on how they’ve evolved musically and the gratitude they have for the rich history of bluegrass music. They also share what they hope to accomplish as a band and what they’re looking forward to in the near future.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● How Miles, Teo, Andrew, and John came together to form Crying Uncle Bluegrass

● Each band member’s relationship to bluegrass music

● The influence of new players on this traditional genre

● A look back on their most memorable performance at the La Roche Bluegrass Festival in France

● What they love most about bluegrass as a genre and community

● The story behind the name ‘Crying Uncle’

Guest Info:

● Crying Uncle on Instagram

● Crying Uncle on Facebook

● Crying Uncle on Bandcamp

● Crying Uncle Website

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Queerness, Anti-Racism, Creativity, and Complexity with Jason Wyman of Queerly Complex

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Jason Wyman, an artist, creative coach, and co-founder of Queerly Complex, a creative hub and community platform. In our conversation, Jason shares what led them to creating a gathering space for making sense of the world and helping other creatives find their place in it. In a society that demands simplicity and easy-to-consume ideas, Jason likes that they’re willing to sit with the pain, trauma, and suffering of the world to question their personal beliefs and find where they fit in. Between getting kicked out of a seminary for being an openly queer person to becoming estranged (and then reuniting) with their family, Jason has always sought refuge with people who know what it’s like to move in the margin. They describe how their queerness became directly tied to understanding racism and committing to anti-racism work, which has eventually expanded into Queerly Complex. Jason emphasizes the importance of giving space for the entire emotional spectrum and learning how to show up even in the face of depression, anxiety, and overwhelm. Instead of bypassing the reality of social injustice, Jason encourages people to create change on an individual level, which infinitely ripples out into the world. One of the greatest tools in that process is to surround yourself with other people who celebrate your complexity and how you create amongst the chaos.

Listen, rate, and review Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● What Queerly Complex is and the story behind the name

● What brought Jason to the idea of creating space and community for ‘queerdos and comrades’

● An beautiful example of what's possible between a straight father and a queer child

● How Jason came to tie their visual work and consulting work together

● Why Jason doesn’t believe that balance exists in activism

● Current projects and initiatives at Queerly Complex

Guest Info:

● Queerly Complex Website

● Queerly Complex Instagram

● Queerly Complex Youtube

● Immigrant Artist Network Website

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Mathew Gabriel Gonzales, aka Philthy Dronez: Wepa Life: West Coast Cumbia From Eastside San Jose

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Mathew Gabriel Gonzales (aka Philthy Dronez), musician and music producer, to explore the roots behind his signature West Coast Cumbia sound. As an Eastside San Jose native, Mathew draws inspiration from the hip hop, funk, and cumbia rhythms he grew up around in his vibrant neighborhood.

In Mathew’s words, music doesn’t have borders, which is why he celebrates the multicultural melting pot of Eastside San Jose. In our conversation, Mathew gives an overview of the history of cumbia and why it’s had such a major impact on his life. He describes the throughlines of the genres he mixes, namely how they’ve all emerged from collective oppression.

Between the flashy lowriders, steaming bowls of pho, and lively music streaming from every direction, outsiders might write Eastside San Jose off as ‘rowdy’ or ‘disorderly.’ But to Mathew, that’s what makes the city so beautiful and what he hopes to portray in his innovative music. He shares his plans to travel through Europe this year and show people around the world what West Coast Cumbia is all about.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Mathew’s musical background and how he started developing West Coast Cumbia

● The history of Eastside San Jose’s old nickname, “Sal Si Puedes” to United Farm Workes “Si, se puede”

● How the Vietnamese and Latino cultures intersect in San Jose

● What drew Mathew to experiment with cumbia music

● Mathew’s vision for expanding the reach of West Coast Cumbia

Guest Info:

● Philthy Dronez on Spotify

● Philthy Dronez on Instagram

● Philthy Dronez on TikTok

● Philthy Dronez on Facebook

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Art, Community, and Resilience in East Oakland:: Hoodland Chronicles with Roy Miles, Filmmaker, Puppeteer, and Toymaker

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Roy Miles, aka Ghetto Geppetto, a filmmaker, motion graphics artist, puppet maker and puppeteer, toymaker, and animation artist. On top of his impressive resume, Roy is also a former student of mine who stands out as one of the most creative people that I’ve had the pleasure of working with.

Roy has an animated universe called “Hoodland'' that's somewhat of a West Coast version of Sesame Street. Growing up in the 70s and 80s in East Oakland, Roy looks back fondly on his childhood of biking around the city with his friends and experiencing the liveliness of different neighborhoods. In our conversation, he describes how he draws on those memories to create the multidimensional characters and storylines in the Hoodland series.

Even though we can laugh at some of Oakland’s unique qualities and reflect on the rich history and culture of the city, there’s no denying how gun violence and disparity have deeply impacted the community. Roy looks back on how he leaned into his creative practice to cope with depression after his wife and children were caught in the crossfire of a shooting. He also explains why he’s not planning on leaving Oakland.

Listen, rate, and review Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Moments and people from Roy’s life that are represented in Hoodland

● Celebrating the multiculturalism and close-knit communities in East Oakland

● Struggling with creativity and a sense of artistic purpose after tragedy

● Honoring the creative ingenuity and expression of people from East Oakland

● Why Roy is committed to staying in East Oakland

Guest Info:

● Roy's Instagram

● Hoodland on YouTube

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La Doña, Singer-Songwriter and Multi-Instramentalist: Cultural Evolutionary: The Empowering Sounds of Femmeton

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Cecilia Cassandra Peña-Govea, aka La Doña, to discuss the inspiration and meaning behind her “Femmeton” music.

As a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and educator from The Mission in San Francisco, CA, La Doña’s music draws on many of the social-political issues of her neighborhood. From women's empowerment and trans-inclusivity to gentrification and climate anxiety, she offers an honest look at her life as a young, queer, Latinx person in the Bay Area.

La Doña brings an intentional femme perspective to the typically misogynistic themes of reggaeton. In our conversation, she walks us through two songs: Cuando Se Van and Nada Me Pertenece. She also opens up about the pressure that so many Bay Area musicians experience and factors that ultimately drive them out of the city. But despite those challenges, Cecelia is dedicated to continuing to show up for her community and keep her culture alive.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● The inspiration behind La Doña’s music and lyrics

● How gentrification has disrupted the cultural fabric of many Bay Area communities

● Challenging the narrative that musicians need to move to LA to be successful

● How La Doña and other Bay Area artists work to maintain space for their culture

● Experiences that have informed Cecelia’s songwriting process

Guest Info:

● La Doña's Website

● La Doña on Instagram

● La Doña on Spotify

● Nada Me Pertenece Music Video

Follow Me:

● Art Heals All Wounds Newsletter

Promoted Podcast:

· Crossed Wires

A Birth Mother Heals Through Her Creative Life in Film: Vivien Hillgrove and her upcoming documentary 'Vivien's Wild Ride'

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by legendary film and sound editor Vivien Hillgrove to discuss her upcoming documentary, Vivien’s Wild Ride.

After being diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, an eye disease that blurs central vision, life as Vivien knew it completely shifted. Her experience losing her eyesight transported her back to the confusion and isolation she felt as a pregnant teen who was persuaded into giving her daughter up for adoption. In Vivien’s Wild Ride, she explores how secrets and sadness shape our lives and the freedom that’s available when we finally release that shame.

Vivien describes how she’s been grappling with the reality of losing her sight, which is one of the most crucial senses that filmmakers rely on. After the initial shock and adjustment, Vivien has discovered that her loss of sight provides a unique perspective on blindness both as a condition and a metaphor.

In our conversation, Vivien brings us back to one of the darkest periods of her life and talks about how her introduction to filmmaking brought her out of it. She shares stories of how her film community embraced and empowered her to live her truth and express it through art. Vivien’s Wild Ride expands our understanding of loss, love, and healing.

Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Vivien’s main motivation for creating a memoir documentary

● The three stories that unfold in Vivien’s Wild Ride

● Vivien’s description of the ascent into creativity and Charles Bonnet syndrome, a condition that causes visual hallucinations

● Processing grief and trauma through art

● What Vivien hopes the audience will take away from Vivien’s Wild Ride

Guest Info:

● Vivien's Wild Ride on Facebook

● Vivien’s IMDb Profile

Follow Me:

● Art Heals All Wounds Newsletter

Promoted Podcast:

Crossed Wires

Catherine Filloux, Playwright and Librettist: Remembering is a Revolutionary Act—Honoring the Stories of Survivors

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by award-winning artist, playwright, and librettist Catherine Filloux to discuss how she explores the intersection of social justice and theater in her work. In our conversation, Catherine expands on the stories that have captured her heart and informed her career, including the survivors of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia and the Dirty War in Argentina. Where Elephants Weep is a rock opera that follows the love story of two Cambodian-Americans who return to their homeland. Catherine outlines the expansive research that she and composer Him Sophy did to bring this story to life and explains why she’s dedicated to exploring the generational impact of the Khmer Rouge regime. Because the play was banned after it was broadcast for the first time on Cambodian national television, Catherine and Him Sophy are updating and relaunching it next year. Catherine’s also working on a one-woman play about the extraordinary life of visual artist and activist Claudia Bernardi. Catherine gives an overview of what we can expect from How to Eat an Orange and why she was inspired to pursue this story. We also discuss the potency of storytelling in the theater, especially as we’ve been driven towards screens and experiencing art alone. Catherine leaves us with an inspiring message about her passion for honoring survivors' stories and highlights why it’s revolutionary to remember.
Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.
Topics Covered:

● Catherine’s early introduction to theater and what sparked her interest in playwriting

● An honest look at the United States’ complicity in international conflict

● Why Where Elephants Weep was banned in Cambodia

● The deep impact of the Khmer Rouge regime on Cambodian arts and tradition

● Using the theater as a setting to honor the victims and survivors of human rights violations
Guest Info:
● Catherine's Website
● Catch Where Elephants Weep on Broadway on Demand through April 22, 2023
● Stay updated about the premiere of How to Eat an Orange at La MaMa
Follow Me:
● My LinkedIn
● Art Heals All Wounds Website
● Art Heals All Wounds Instagram
● Art Heals All Wounds Facebook
● Art Heals All Wounds Newsletter

America's Missing and Unidentified Women: Aimee Baker, Writer and Vanessa Cicarelli and Jason Greer, Filmmakers

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0800

Today, I’m joined by writer Aimée Baker and filmmakers Vanessa Cicarelli and Jason Greer. Aimée is the author of Doe, an award-winning poetry collection in which she commemorates the lives of missing and unidentified girls and women in the United States. She is Vanessa and Jason’s full-length documentary about Aimée and her eye-opening work. With true crime podcasts and series topping the charts, I often wonder if we’re all becoming desensitized to the real-life horror of the subject matter. Doe and She have a more empathetic approach to the genre. Aimée, Vanessa, and Jason work to honor the victims, particularly those who don’t make front-page news.

In our conversation, we discuss the importance of making visible something that’s in danger of being forgotten or disappearing. Aimée, Vanessa, and Jason highlight the lack of attention and sympathy that missing BIPOC women receive, as well as challenge the narrative that girls and women are asking for trouble when they engage in certain behaviors considered as risky. We also get into details about both the writing and filmmaking processes. Aimée opens up about what inspired her to pursue these stories and how she took care of herself during such an emotionally challenging project. Vanessa and Jason share how they built trust with Aimée when she was hesitant about the film and what their overarching goals are for it.

Listen, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Using poetry to express possible parts of the story of missing and unidentified women in the United States

● Vanessa and Jason’s connection to Aimée’s work and why they wanted to make a documentary about it

● What Aimée discovered about the incredible bias about who does (and doesn’t) get media coverage when they’re missing or unidentified

● The range of emotions that all three artists experienced while engaging with these stories

● A deeply moving reading from Doe called “Dustland Fairytale”

Guest Info:

● Aimée's Website

● Get Your Copy of Doe

● Watch or Download She

Follow Me:

Ausma Zehanat Khan, Writer: Mysteries and Human Rights

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0800

Today, I’m joined by writer Ausma Zehanat Khan to discuss how she explores the scope and horror of nationalism, Islamophobia, and racism in page-turner detective novels. As a Muslim woman and former immigration and human rights lawyer, Ausma draws on her professional and personal experiences to craft enticing storylines around topics like criminal justice reform and race relations.

In our conversation, we unpack themes and details of her most recent book, Blackwater Falls, and Ausma provides insight into what inspired her to pursue this story. We also touch on some of Ausma’s earlier work, including her decade-long research on The Balkan Wars that informed her debut novel, The Unquiet Dead.

Ausma has a unique perspective on American politics as a Canadian living in rural Colorado. She sees first-hand the impact of systemic racism and xenophobia on BIPOC communities in her area.

Set in a similar town to where Ausma currently lives, Blackwater Falls illuminates the nuances of how ultra-nationalist movements gain traction and eventually erase multiculturalism. Through the heavy topics, Ausma also artfully weaves in elements of romance, family dynamics, and small town drama.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● What sparked Ausma’s investigation on military intervention and war crimes of The Balkan Wars

● Using crime fiction as a way to communicate about systemic injustices

● The identity challenges that many BIPOC law enforcement officers face

● Ausma’s thought process behind the three main power structures in Blackwater Falls

● The signs and consequences of ‘incrementalism’ in American politics

Guest Info:

● Ausma's Website

● Ausma's Instagram

● Ausma's Facebook

● Ausma's Twitter

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● Living While Black: Portraits of Everyday Resistance

'Living While Black: Portraits of Everyday Resistance' by Ajuan Mance, Comic Artist and Illustrator

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0800

Today, I’m joined by Ajuan Mance, a visual artist and educator who recently published an illustrated encyclopedia titled, Living While Black: Portraits of Everyday Resistance. The book features around forty illustrations of activities that are perfectly legal, but for which African Americans have been arrested, harassed, or even killed. In our conversation, Ajuan provides some context for why she created this body of work and reflects on stylistic choices, including her decision to portray Black people how she sees them: resilient, loving, and joyful.

There’s a powerful juxtaposition in the formatting of the book. On one side of the page, Ajuan includes colorful illustrations of everyday life, and on the other side, there’s a description of the weighty subject matter. Whether it’s a glare at a high-end supermarket or a not-so-routine traffic stop, Living While Black illuminates stories that don't make the major news cycle, but are so important to understand the daily discrimination that Black people endure for simply existing. Ajuan also highlights some of her personal takeaways from the illustration process. The scope and age range of Black people who are subject to violence continues to shock her, but she hopes this book will call attention to the narratives and stereotypes that deeply harm her community.

Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Ajuan’s personal relationship to Living While Black

● What it was like for Ajuan to do such a large collection of drawings around the violence and harassment of Black people

● Ajuan’s decision to include a timeline of events at the end of the book

● How the non black people's perceptions of African Americans put African Americans in danger

● Ajuan’s strategy for illustrating the community that’s left in the wake of traumatic events

● The message that Ajuan hopes to leave readers with

Guest Info:

● Ajuan's Website

● Ajuan's Instagram

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Queer Comics: with Vivian Kleiman, Documentary Filmmaker, Behind the Scenes of 'No Straight Lines'

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0800

Today, I’m joined by Peabody Award-winning documentary filmmaker Vivian Kleiman. In her latest film, No Straight Lines: The Rise of Queer Comics, Vivian offers an intimate look at five pioneers of queer comics: Alison Bechdel, Rupert Kinnard, Howard Cruse, Jen Camper, and Mary Wings. The film also introduces a new generation of LGBTQ+ artists creating comics. In our conversation, Vivian and I discuss how this project came about and her thought process behind certain cinematic touches. Vivian hits on some of the storytelling conflicts she went through while creating the film, including how to bring the viewers into the hearts and minds of the featured artists.

We also talk about what it means for a film like this to be picked up by PBS, given the current political climate. Although she originally imagined No Straight Lines on a streaming platform like Netflix or HBO, it ultimately landed with Independent Lens, the independent documentary film branch of PBS. Vivian shares her approach to conforming with the FCC guidelines in a way that honors the content, but makes it available to a wide audience.

You can watch No Straight Lines for free on PBS until April 23, 2023. If you’re catching this episode after that date, it’s still available for a small fee as a PBS member.

Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Why Vivian pursued this film, even though she doesn't identify as a ‘comic geek’

● The importance of having queer stories represented in comics that are humorous, but also poignant

● How Vivian came up with a way to portray these artists and their work in a dynamic way

● Celebrating Tongues Untied, a landmark film she produced with Marlon Riggs, entering into the in the National Film Registry

Guest Info:

● Vivian's Website

● Vivian's Instagram

● Vivian's LinkedIn

● No Straight Lines Website

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● The Breakup Monologues: The Unexpected Joy of Heartbreak

Healing and Joy After Heartbreak with 'The Breakup Monologues' by Rosie Wilby

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0800

Today, I’m joined by award-winning comedian, author, and podcaster Rosie Wilby to discuss her latest book, The Breakup Monologues: The Unexpected Joy of Heartbreak. Rosie has a generous and open-minded way of talking about breakups, heartbreak, and all the messiness in-between.

In our conversation, Rosie shares what it was like to rehash old relationships when researching this book. We especially bond over the idea of falling in love with someone who is so utterly unavailable and how painful it can be to hold onto a relationship that’s doomed for failure.

Rosie also unpacks how she uses humor to process her experiences and invite people to look at their relationships through a new lens. You’ll hear in the short excerpt that she shares how witty and painfully relatable her comedy is.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● What inspired Rosie to write a book about breakups

● How unrequited love can psychologically push you into new growth

● Stylistic choices that Rosie made to demonstrate how the ending of one chapter is always the beginning of another

● How Rosie uses comedy as a tool to make topics like infidelity, breakups, and heartbreak accessible to a broad audience

Guest Info:

● Rosie's Website

● Rosie's Instagram

● Rosie's Twitter

● Rosie's Podcast

Follow Me:

● Art Heals All Wounds Newsletter

Promoted Podcast

· More than Work

Bonus Episode--Deciphering Love Languages with Reframeable Hosts Natalie and Rebecca Davey

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0800

Whether it’s in your garage, basement, storage unit, or the back of a closet, I think most of us are holding on to a box or two of miscellaneous objects from our childhood. I had all but forgotten that I was storing a box of musical figurines in my garage until I discovered it soaked through on the flooded floor. Unpacking the box and assessing the damage brought up a complicated mix of emotions. On this bonus episode, I’m joined by Natalie and Rebecca Davey, hosts of Reframeables, to explore a different perspective on my relationship with my mom and the gifts she gave me throughout my life.

Despite never showing any interest in delicate, not-to-be-played-with toys, they were always waiting for me under the Christmas tree. What was my mom trying to do within the dynamic of our family by curating other people's collections? Why was it so hard for her to accept my aesthetic and lifestyle?

Natalie, Rebecca, and I dig deeper into these questions and talk about the vulnerability that exists in the mother-daughter dynamic. They really help me reframe and remember the things that I loved about my mom and the effort she made to connect our family.

If you enjoy this conversation, I encourage you to check out Reframeables to hear the deeply insightful and healing discussions they bring to every episode.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● My relationship with the gift-giving love language

● What do we do with our disappointment when we understand someone's good, albeit misaligned, intentions?

● Grappling with feeling like an outsider within my family’s dynamic

● Expressing my true self through art and in my communities of care

● Am I repeating the pattern of holding onto things for my daughters that they don’t really care about?

Guest Info:

● Subscribe to Reframeables

● Reframeables Instagram

● Reframeables Twitter

● Reframeables TikTok

● Reframeables Youtube

Follow Me:

● Show Notes From This Interview With Sue Klebold

Bonus Episode--All the Wiser, Hosted by Kimi Culp!

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0800

If you got the chance to interview the host of one of your favorite podcasts, what questions would you ask them? On this past Season, Season 3, I got that chance. Kimi Culp, the host of the podcast All the Wiser, was a guest on my show. On All the Wiser, Kimi interviews people with remarkable stories. Stories about the darkest moments of their life. What brought them there? How did they get through it? And what wisdom did they gain from that experience? There were a lot of things I wanted to ask Kimi, but the first question that popped into my head was about one guest in particular. This guest was Sue Klebold. Sue Klebold is the mother of Dylan Klebold, one of the perpetrators of the mass shooting at Columbine High School in 1999. The mass shooting at Columbine wasn’t the first mass shooting at a high school, but for some reason it became the most iconic and felt like the beginning of the ongoing wave of school shootings we’ve seen in the United States. I asked Kimi about inviting the mother of one of the most notorious mass shooters on her show. Why did she choose her? Was she nervous about how this choice would be interpreted by her listeners? Kimi’s answer to me was incredibly moving and, if you haven’t heard my episode from Season 3 with Kimi, I invite you to go back and listen to it. Thanks to Kimi’s courage in this choice of guest, I would say that my heart grew just a bit more. First, when I listened to Kimi’s interview of Sue Klebold. And second, when Kimi told me why she interviewed her.

As a bonus episode between seasons, I’m sharing Kimi Culp's interview with Sue Klebold from her podcast All the Wiser. I’ll put a link back to the All the Wiser website so that you can read the show notes from this episode and check out more episodes from this show.

All the Wiser Info:

● All the Wiser Website

Follow Me:

Bonus Episode--Beyond 6 Seconds, Hosted by Carolyn Kiel!

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0800

Many times on this show, I’ve talked with guests who were keeping secrets. Not secrets entrusted to them by others—but secrets about themselves. These secrets might be past actions or experiences that they felt shame around. It might be a difference, a unique quality about themselves that they kept hidden, for fear of rejection or of judgement from others.

We’re in-between seasons at Art Heals All Wounds, which gives me the great opportunity to share with you an episode from one of my favorite podcasts, Beyond 6 Seconds. Beyond 6 Seconds is hosted by Carolyn Kiel. Most of her guests are either neurodivergent or have a disability. Carolyn herself is autistic—and I say “is autistic” rather than has autism because that’s what Carolyn prefers. Carolyn is a skilled interviewer and with her help, her guests share their stories of coming into their own, thriving, and helping others to thrive, too.

I’m sharing Carolyn’s interview with Ruth Rathblott, someone who hid her limb difference for years. Ruth doesn’t hide it anymore. As she shared in her TEDx talk, when she stopped hiding her difference, she found freedom. If you’d like to be free of something you’re hiding from the world, this might just be a great story for you to hear.

I’ll include a link back to the Beyond 6 Seconds website so that you can read the show notes from the episode with Ruth Rathblott and check out more episodes from this show.

Follow Beyond 6 Seconds:

● Link to this episode's show notes

● Beyond 6 Seconds Website

● Beyond 6 Seconds Twitter

● Beyond 6 Seconds Instagram

Follow Me:

Season 3 Finale: It's a Wrap!

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0800

Here we are, again. We have reached the end of another season of Art Heals All Wounds. I want to say how much I appreciate all of you for listening. The podcast has been growing and it's all thanks to you. I'll be back with a new season in February 2023. Until then, please keep in touch via any of the links below and if you have a favorite episode, please share it with a friend. Your support is what keeps the show growing.

Do you know an artist you'd like to see featured in the next season? You can reach me at arthealsallwoundspodcast.com

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Giving thanks to all who contribute to the podcast and make it possible

● A special tribute to Pam’s Dad

● Thanks to you, the listeners!

Follow Me:

● Watch What We Leave Behind on Netflix

Iliana Sosa, Filmmaker: Love, Loss, and Legacy in the Film What We Leave Behind

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0800

This week, I’m joined by Mexican American filmmaker Iliana Sosa to discuss her first feature documentary, What We Leave Behind. It’s a deeply moving portrait of her grandfather, Julian Moreno, the patriarch of her family, and serves as a beautiful tribute to his legacy.

During World War II, Julian Moreno came to the US as a seasonal agricultural worker as part of the Bracero Program, later returning to his home in Mexico to start a family. Sadly, Julian was widowed at an early age with seven children to raise. Iliana’s mother was the first of his children to immigrate to the US, leaving Mexico at the age of 14 to go to El Paso, where she eventually met Iliana’s father. In the subsequent years, Iliana’s grandfather frequently took the bus from his home in Durango, Mexico to Iliana’s home in El Paso, then on to Albuquerque to visit other relatives. His visits were always brief so that he could return home to care for his adult son with a disability.

Iliana’s initial plan was to make a documentary film about her grandfather’s time as a bracero, but as in many documentaries, the story takes a twist. The film chronicles his journey of constructing a house in Mexico at the age of 89, and the larger message of what that project meant for him and his family.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● A brief synopsis of What We Leave Behind and why Iliana pursued this project

● How Iliana’s relationship with her grandfather changed over the course of filming

● Coming to terms with aging and things left undone at the end of your life

● The importance of family connection, particularly one with members on both sides of the US-Mexico border

● How capturing everyday life naturally crafted the storyline and portrait of Iliana’s grandfather

Guest Info:

● Iliana Sosa’s Website

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How Sports Teams Tell the Story of People and Places with Marcus Thompson of The Athletic

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0800

Marcus Thompson is a long-time Golden State Warriors beat reporter and Bay Area News Group sports columnist and currently writes for The Athletic. Growing up, he was fascinated by two things: words and Bay Area sports teams. In our conversation, he highlights teachers and other adults in his life that encouraged him to lean into writing, including sportswriter Michael Silver.

From 1971 to 2019, the Warriors called Oracle Arena in Oakland home until moving to the swanky new Chase Center in San Francisco. Marcus notes that the brand of the Warriors was built on the accessible and communal nature of basketball and details the grassroots momentum of the team. He shares why he thinks the marketing and communication missteps have left fans feeling slighted, abandoned, and priced out of their beloved team.

We talk about how this uprooting parallels a lot of what’s happening in our community. I’ve been vocal about the shift in demographics, gentrification, and rising cost of living in the Bay Area, and as an Oakland native, Marcus has experienced it, too.

Finally, we discuss why it’s so valuable for young athletes to learn the art of storytelling. He explains what's required of them these days, including an element of branding and taking ownership over your narrative. Listen in to hear our conversation about how local sports teams often reflect the cultural dynamics of their community, and so much more.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● How Marcus became a sportswriter

● Ways that the Oakland sports teams mimic the story arc of Oakland, especially the Warriors

● Marcus’ take on the decision to move the Warriors from Oakland to San Francisco

● Solutions to bridge economic and cultural gaps in the Bay Area

● Why it’s so important for athletes to know how to articulate and express their story

Guest Info:

● Marcus' Instagram

● Marcus' Twitter

● Marcus Thompson - The Athletic

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The Power of Everyday Artists and Makers of Things with Lenett Partlow-Myrick and Jenny O'Grady

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0800

Today, I’m joined by artists and educators Lenett Partlow-Myrick and Jenny O'Grady to discuss the medium of book art and the transformative workshops that they lead. Lenett describes book art as a way to reimagine the possibility of what books can be, how they’re created, and ways that we can interpret them. In their workshops, which they lovingly call “human bonding studios,” they lead groups of people through a journey of self-exploration and genuine connection.

Lenett and Jenny provide space, materials, and a thought-provoking question to get their students started. The focus isn’t on the end product, but rather being open to a different way of delving into deep conversations about one's intentions, limitations, and purpose. Lenett and Jenny believe that everyone is an artist and describe what they’ve witnessed when a group of adults take time to pause and get curious.

In our conversation, we also touch on Lenett and Jenny’s collaborative efforts outside of the workshops. They’ve recently wrapped up “Dos-A-Dos II,” a showcase of book art and poetry called at Howard Community College’s Richard B. Talkin Family Art Gallery. Listen in to learn more about Lenett and Jenny’s enriching perspective on how sculptural storytelling can impact individuals and communities on a foundational level.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Jenny and Lenett’s introduction to book art

● Questions that workshop participants explore

● Ways to make art more accessible to people, especially those who don’t identify as artistic or creative

● The impact of quality, honest communication

● Using book art workshops as a way to dissipate polarity in communities

Guest Info:

● Lenett's Website

● Jenny's Website

● Jenny's Instagram

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New Visions for Rwandan Filmmakers with Ganza Moise

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0800

Today, I’m joined by Ganza Moise, a Rwandan writer and filmmaker, to talk about his art and the Rwandan film community. We unpack the themes and artistic direction of two of his recent independent films, “Sensory Overload” and “Mazunga.” Ganza describes the unexpected ways that he frames characters and explores philosophical, existential questions that so many of us grapple with. He also touches on the transitional nature of his generation and highlights some of the filmmaking and distribution challenges in Rwanda.

“Sensory Overload” is an audio-visual experience based on Natacha Muzira’s poem about the liberating power of imagination. He explores similar themes in “Mazunga,” which is about a taxi motorcyclist who is forced to face his internal conflicts when the whole world shuts down during the pandemic. In our conversation, Ganza explains why he’s drawn to these types of stories and breaks down his artistic process.

I ask Ganza about the generation of Rwandans who teeter the Millennials/Gen-Z line. He illustrates how he and his peers are doing a lot of talking, thinking, and creating to find their cultural identity in a country that is very ambitious, but also mourning the atrocities of genocide from the not-to-distant past.

Part of the country’s rapid growth is reflected in the film scene. Ganza is the co-founder of KIRURI mfn, an arts production and distribution company. He shares his insight into how Rwandan filmmakers are getting their work in front of larger audiences and how he’s working to amplify their art.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● What drew Ganza to filmmaking

● Powerful scenes and themes of “Sensory Overload” and “Mazunga”

● How Ganza seeks to make sense of his experiences and internal conversations through art

● Challenges that Ganza and other Rwandans of his generation are currently facing

● What’s happening with the independent film scene in Rwanda

Guest Info:

● Ganza's Instagram

● KIRURI mfn YouTube

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Healing Through Storytelling After Surviving a Mass Shooting with Ashley Hoff

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0800

Today, I’m joined by Ashley Hoff, an executive producer of the new Paramount+ documentary "11 Minutes." The four-part series offers an insider’s look into the mass shooting that took place at the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 1st, 2017. In our conversation, Ashley opens up about her experience being a survivor of this tragedy and details why she felt called to highlight other survivor’s stories.

Through first-hand accounts from eventgoers and first responders, as well as real body cam and cell phone footage, “11 Minutes'' is a truly immersive, effective approach to storytelling. The documentary illustrates the light that came from such a harrowing event and the power of healing in community.

Fifty-eight people were killed in the immediate aftermath of the shooting and two survivors later died of their gunshot wounds. Hundreds more were injured. Even though it’s the largest mass shooting in the US to date, it cycled out of the news in about a week. With “11 Minutes,” Ashley hopes to portray the lasting impact of this event and facilitate healing in a safe way.

Ashley shares how she and her team crafted the series in a way that respects the various narrators while providing powerful, necessary visuals. She describes the public feedback and praise that the film has garnered and highlights how it’s touched people from all walks of life. Ashley also dives into the turning point when she decided that she would tell this story and celebrate the resiliency of this survivor community.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● How to tell a story in a way that honors the victims of a tragedy

● The thought process behind the decision to use real-life footage instead of reenactments

● How Ashley and her team chose the narrators who are featured in the documentary

● The prolific moment that made it clear to Ashley that she was meant to make “11 Minutes”

● The simple, yet impactful message that Ashley hopes viewers will take away from the documentary

Guest Info:

● Watch "11 Minutes" on Paramount+

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The Art of Being Human and Sharing Stories for Healing with Kimi Culp

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Kimi Culp, founder and host of All the Wiser, a podcast that explores nonfiction storytelling through conversation. On her show, Kimi gives people from all walks of life the chance to tell their story in a way that maybe they've never had a chance to do before. We discuss Kimi’s deeply empathetic approach, what inspired her to illuminate people’s lived experiences, and reimagine what it looks like to heal in community.

To kick off our conversation, I asked Kimi how being bipolar and sharing that she lives with that condition informs her show. She explains why she decided to share that part of her life with her audience and describes the incredible ripple effect that it’s had on her community. She also illustrates how she supports herself as a deeply emotional person, which can be challenging given the content of her show.

Kimi shares how some of her potentially controversial episodes, like Sue Klebold's and Amanda Knox's, came to be. She talks about what draws her into people’s stories and how she goes about finding guests for the show. Kimi and I touch on how podcasting and really hearing someone’s story from their perspective has the potential to heal us as individuals and a society. She also highlights how she sees the show progressing and the decision to donate $2,000 to a charity that is near and dear to each storyteller’s heart.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● How Kimi started to come to terms with her bipolar diagnosis

● Where Kimi’s deep sense of empathy comes from

● Honoring what it’s like to live the full human experience

● The intimate nature of podcasting for both the content creators and listeners

● Kimi’s dedication to ethical storytelling

Guest Info:

● All The Wiser Podcast

● All The Wiser Website

● All The Wiser Instagram

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Beyond the Trauma of Sexual Assault: The Nightingale: A Story of Hope, with Robbi Stevens and Esme Pellegrini

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0700

Trigger Warning: Sexual Assault

Today, I’m joined by Robbi Stevens and Esme Pellegrini to talk about the overarching themes of their upcoming short film, The Nightingale. Robbi is the writer and director, and Esme plays the lead role of Grace.

Based on true events, the film follows 22-year-old Grace as she navigates post-traumatic stress disorder and life after sexual assault. Robbi, Esme, and I discuss what inspired them to bring this story to life, how Esme prepared for such an intense role, and what they hope viewers will take away from this film.

For the past decade, Robbi has worked closely with various non-profits that support survivors of sexual assault and sex trafficking. As an acting coach and founder of RAaW acting school, she created her signature style called the “Stevens Technique.” The practice helps actors dive deeper into themselves and feel supported as they take on new roles. Esme describes what her experience was like in that training and how it helped her embody the role of Grace in The Nightingale.

As heart-wrenching as the topic of sexual assault is, The Nightingale is ultimately a story of hope, strength, and healing. Robbi explains why she wanted to adapt this story and inspire people in a similar position to seek support. Listen in to hear Robbi and Esme’s reflections on the film and where you can learn more about it.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● What drew Robbi and Esme into this story

● The types of trainings and exercises that Robbi teaches at RAaW

● How the Stevens Technique facilitates trust between actors and directors

● Using art as a tangible way to express emotions and communicate

● Robbi’s mission and vision for the film

Guest Info:

● Robbi's Instagram

● Esme's Instagram

● The Nightingale Film Twitter

● The Nightingale Film Instagram

● RAaW London

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● The Together While Apart Art Project

Deane V. Bowers, Artists Giving Back to Frontline Medical Workers

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Deane Bowers, a mixed media artist who creates environmental folk art with found objects. She’s the driving force behind the Together While Apart Artwork, which is a collective quilt-like art project made up of 35 squares, each square six inches by six inches. However, instead of fabric, each piece is made from recycled cardboard. In our conversation, we talk about what inspired the project, details about the piece, and how she’s using it to create awareness and raise money for the well being of nurses.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● The story behind how Deane started making art from recycled materials

● Deane’s process for finding artists who wanted to participate in the project

● The amazing public reception, including a feature in The Smithsonian Institution online exhibit

● The emotional toll that so many nurses experience

● Why it’s so important to have art in healthcare setting

Guest Info:

● Please consider making a donation to help support nurses across the country: The Together While Apart Project’s 2020 Thank You Campaign To Benefit and Honor Nurses

Follow Me:

● The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.

Claudia Marulanda, Creating New Narratives with Art

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Claudia Marulanda, a New York City-based visual artist and educator. Claudia describes how she hit an emotional rock bottom and turned to her colored pencils and paint brushes to process her feelings. She’s expanding her reach by leading a series of workshops and art programs that encourage participants to build awareness around their emotions and channel their energy into a creative outlet. In our conversation, we discuss how Claudia uses art as a way to heal from within, connect with herself spiritually, and help others do the same.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● How Claudia managed to reframe the pain and depression she was experiencing through her art

● Discovering a sense of safety and clarity through a creative process

● Using art as a way to create new narratives and gain new perspectives

● The story behind how Claudia started weaving elements of hair into her drawings and paintings

● Why Claudia created a series of workshops and art programs, and what she hopes people will gain from them

Resources Mentioned:

● Trauma and Expressive Arts Therapy: Brain, Body, and Imagination in the Healing Process by Cathy A. Malchiodi

Guest Info:

● Claudia's Instagram

● Claudia's Website

Promoted Podcast:

Reframeables

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Allison Landa – Memoir Healing & Self-Acceptance

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0700

Allison Landa discusses memoir writing as a tool for healing, self-acceptance, and emotional growth.

Today, I’m joined by Allison Landa, writer and educator, to discuss the themes in her memoir, Bearded Lady. At the age of ten, Allison was diagnosed with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which is a genetic hormonal condition that creates dark, obvious facial hair and other symptoms. We talk about the role of her mom in hiding her condition, Allison’s process for accepting herself and opening up to the world, and why it’s so important to recognize that everyone is going through a personal battle.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● What congenital adrenal hyperplasia is and how it was expressed in Allison

● Allison’s conflicting feelings when she discovered her mother had the same condition

● The incredible catharsis that Allison felt when she told her partner about her diagnosis

● How Allison became comfortable and confident enough to open up to the world about her experience with congenital adrenal hyperplasia

● The kindness that comes from understanding that everyone is going through something

Guest Info:

● Order your copy: Bearded Lady: When You’re a Woman with a Beard, Your Secret is Written All Over Your Face

● Allison's Website

● Allison's Instagram

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● Check out a screening of Jack Has A Plan at the Clarion Performing Arts Center on October 1st

Bradley Berman, The Right to Die With Dignity

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by filmmaker and writer Bradley Berman to discuss his most recent documentary, Jack Has A Plan. The film follows the last three years of Jack Tuller’s life and his decision to exercise his right to die with dignity.

For 25 years, Jack lived with a brain tumor and was determined to navigate the medical system, his life, and his relationships in a way that meant he didn't suffer or burden other people around him with suffering. In my conversation with Bradely, we discuss what this process was like as both a filmmaker and close friend to Jack, what he came to understand about Jack’s decision, and the empowerment that takes place for a terminal person when they decide their own destiny.

Topics Covered:

● What's being made possible through new laws that allow us to transform the experience of terminal illness

● How this film changed my perspective of The End of Life Option Act

● The resistance and discomfort that people in Jack’s life had around him making this decision

● What the public reaction to the film has been like so far

● How Bradley used the filmmaking process as a way to work through grief

Guest Info:

● Jack Has A Plan Website

● Jack Has A Plan Facebook

Resources:

● If you're having thoughts of suicide or harming yourself, please call 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here in the United States, or connect with other hotlines and resources

● Being Mortal: Illness, Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande

● The Day I Die: The Untold Story of Assisted Dying in America by Anita Hannig

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William Rhodes, Creating Connections Between Generations and Across Communities

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by William Rhodes, a mixed-media artist and Program Director of the Intergenerational Arts Program at Bayview Senior Services in San Francisco. We discuss what called him to quilting, how his art projects are dissolving divisions between communities, and the inspiration behind some of his recent projects, including works for The Southeast Family Health Center and the We Are Bruce Lee exhibit.

Topics Covered:

● The displacement of the African American community in Bayview-Hunters Point due to gentrification

● The importance of documenting and representing the history of the community in a health center

● Willam’s journey to becoming a quilter

● The magic that happens when you pair up seniors and children to work on an art project together

● The techniques and overarching messages in some of William’s mixed-media art

Resources Mentioned:

● Documentary: Take This Hammer

● Zine: We Are Here

● Public Art Project: The Southeast Family Health Center

● We Are Bruce Lee: Chinese Historical Society of America Museum

● South African Quilt Project: The Nelson Mandela International Quilt

● Mixed-media: Red thread art

Guest Info:

● William's Website

● William's Facebook

● Check out William’s work at the Black Artists on Art at Crocker Art Museum

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Alka Raghuram, Forging a Path in Film

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 09:54:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Alka Raghuram, an independent filmmaker who makes narrative, documentary, and experimental films, as well as multimedia projects. Alka and I discuss how her childhood in Indore, India helped shape her career, the influence of certain film professors, and the story behind her documentary film, Burqa Boxers, and an upcoming sci-fi project.

Topics Covered:

● The ethics around telling stories, particularly the ones that aren't our own

● Inhabiting both insider and outsider views with understanding and mindfulness

● The unique way that Alka judges the success of her projects

● Gaining confidence to tell ambitious stories

● Alka’s plan for depicting the intersection of the mythology and pollution of India’s sacred Jamuna and Ganges rivers

Guest Info:

● Alka's Website

Other Resources:

Promoted Podcast

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Amikaeyla Gaston, Finding Forgiveness and Love Through Music

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Amikaeyla Gaston, a public keynote speaker, performer, educator, and author. She’s the founder and executive director of the International Cultural Arts & Healing Sciences Institute and a cultural ambassador for the US State Department. Amikaeyla leads corporations, universities, and other organizations through cultural competency, restorative justice, and racial equity training. In our conversation, we explore the concept of music as medicine, and how she has used the power of song in her own healing journey, as well as in her career.

Topics Covered:

● How the power of music ties into the power of letting go of hatred and trauma

● The connection between art, advocacy, and healing

● Powerful stories about her work with refugee communities

● Details about the workshops that she hosts about discovering your truth and embracing authentic expression

● Amikaeyla’s inspiring perspective on karmic energy

Guest Info:

● Amikaeyla's Facebook

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Art Heals All Wounds, Season 3 Trailer

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 16:31:19 -0700

Do you want to change the world? So do I! On this podcast, we meet artists whose work is doing just that. Each week I interview an artist and talk about their work. As creative thinkers, artists present us with some of the most compelling visions of ways that our world could work better for everyone--art around environmental, social, and racial justice, gender equity, ways to build community and bridge divisions, and solace for grieving-- If we can see solutions to the things that prevent us from thriving as individuals and societies, we can imagine implementing those solutions. Once we imagine, we can become the people we want to be, belonging in communities that nurture everyone, and living in societies based on equity and justice.

How do we change the world? One artist at a time.

Bonus Episode: Grief Forward from Reframeables

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 00:00:40 -0700

What can you learn from having a conversation? A conversation with someone who knows you really well, someone who may not always agree with you, but always has your best interest at heart. When you need to work through a problem you’re having or get a fresh perspective, that’s when you need to find that person that you love and trust and have a thorough conversation. I’m so happy to share with you an episode from the podcast Reframeables, hosted by sisters Rebecca and Natalie Davey.

Rebecca Davey is a multi-hyphenate artist, having worked as a writer-creator-producer-actor for over a decade. Her current brainchild is Ceres Productions, which fills its expanding creative universe with diverse projects big and small. She brings an unstoppable curiosity and joie de vivre to her work. Natalie Davey is a teacher and writer who helps to cast the narrative net of the show a little wider. With a PhD in education and a past life as a prison literacy teacher, she brings a social equity perspective to issues that need thoughtful exploration from diverse angles. These two sisters are passionate about how all the things we struggle with in our lives can be reframed through art.

One thing I know—if conversation is an art? Rebecca and Natalie are masters of it.

Here is a link to the show notes for this episode at the Reframeables website.

Guest Info:

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Bonus Episode: Material Feels, Fiber Scroll

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 00:00:26 -0700

To celebrate my birthday, I’m sharing one of my favorite podcast episodes!

How do you translate the sense of touch into an audio experience? This offering from Catherine Monahon and Material Feels does exactly that! This episode is part one of a work titled Conversations with the Material World that was on display at the Hirshhorn Museum in Washington, DC as a part of Sound Scene. If you’re in the Bay Area, you can catch Conversations with the Material World in San Francisco through the Yerba Buena Art Center on August 21st!

The soundscape I’m sharing today is called Fiber Scroll and is one of four. Catherine will be releasing all of the soundscapes on the Material Feels podcast feed throughout the summer, so check them out!

Catherine also runs ceramics classes in their Oakland studio Waveform Ceramics. If you’re in the Bay Area and want some fun exploring a new art, this is definitely the place to go.

Material Feels info:

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Season 2 Finale: The Thank You Episode

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 00:00:10 -0700

Episode Summary:

As I wrap up season two, I want to take a moment to thank the amazing team that helps bring this podcast to life, and all of you who tune in from around the world. Over the next few weeks, I'll be sharing a couple of episodes from other shows that I've enjoyed, and that I think you'll enjoy too.

I hope you’ll reach out to me at pam@arthealsallwoundspodcast.com and let me know what types of artists you're interested in hearing from next season. I’ll see you back here in September for Season 3 of Art Heals All Wounds.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Special Offers:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please Fill Out the Listener Survey!

Cecilia Najar, Taking Control of Your Own Narrative

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 00:00:04 -0700

Episode Summary:

Today, I’m joined by Ceci Najar, a writer living in Los Angeles. She’s in the process of writing her memoir titled Unfuckupabale: A Love Story, which is all about taking control of your life by rewriting your story. She unpacks her experiences as a female Mexican-American writer in Hollywood, feelings of deceit and disappointment from her father, learning to live in integrity, and so much more. Though it’s a love story at its core, Unfuckupabale explores finding your center and living as your authentic self.

Topics Covered:

The stories that Ceci was lead to believe about her value and safety as a child growing up in Mexico
Realizing that what you don't know can hurt you
The clarity that Ceci had around the reality of her 20-year marriage
What happens when we unplug from perfectionism
Ceci’s experience writing her memoir so far

Guest Info:

Special Offers:

Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please Fill Out the Listener Survey!

Allegra Uzzell Thelemaque: How an Artist Understands Her Disability Through a Magical Lens

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 00:00:54 -0700

Today, I’m joined by my eldest daughter, Allegra Thelemaque. Allegra is a visual artist and writer. An enormous fan of acting, singing, and other performances, she's also an avid reader and movie watcher. Allegra was born with congenital myotonic dystrophy, a genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness. We talk about some of the creative work that she's done to come to terms with the idea of having a disability, including her latest zine, How The World Sees Disability.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● Where the idea for How The World Sees Disability came from

● How Allegra’s outlook on living with a disability has changed over the years

● What Allegra hopes readers will take away from her zine

● Where Allegra draws inspiration from, including Harry Potter and associated fan-made films

● Allegra’s perspective on ‘happily ever after’ fairy tales

Guest Info:

● Allegra’s Zine: How the World Sees Disability

Special Offers:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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Tahmina Watson – Art & Immigration

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 00:00:53 -0700

Hear how art helps an immigration lawyer heal and advocate for social change.

Today, I’m joined by Seattle-based immigration lawyer, Tahmina Watson. Tahmina describes herself as “a birding immigration lawyer who sketches” and often turns to nature photography as a way to cope with the intense nature of her work. She’s the founder of Watson Immigration Law and The Washington Immigrant Defense Network, an organization that funds and supports legal services for detained low-income immigrants. We discuss Tahmina’s life in the legal sphere, how she incorporates art into her self-care practice, and the ripple effect that bird photography and sketching has had on her life.

Topics Covered:

● What a day in the life of an immigration lawyer looks like

● How Tahmina discovered her interest and passion for birding

● Nature photography and sketching as a form of meditation

● Mindset blocks that come up for Tahmina around painting

● How Tahmina’s art practice positively impacts her career

Guest Info:

● Tahmina's Website

● Tahmina's Instagram

● Tahmina's LinkedIn

● Tahmina's Art Website

● Watson Immigration Law Website

● Tahmina Talks Immigration Podcast

Special Offers:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

choice.crd.co

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Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris Watts, The Creationist, on Guaranteed Income for Artists

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 00:00:11 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Chris Watts, aka The Creationist. Chris is a San Francisco-based visual artist and recipient for The SF Guaranteed Income Pilot for Artists, a stipend program powered by Yerba Buena Center for the Arts that makes no-strings-attached cash payments to artists who have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Chris and I discuss how participating in the program has made a difference in his life and his ability to practice his art. We also touch on the nature of his recent work and how he conveys a sense of peace through his unique hieroglyphs.

Topics Covered:

● Why Chris goes by the name ‘The Creationist’

● How Chris found out about The SF Guaranteed Income Pilot for Artists and went about the application process

● The future of the program, including international iterations

● How having a steady income has helped Chris realize his broader artistic vision

● Background on how Chris created his own hieroglyphic alphabet

Guest Info:

● Chris's Website

● Chris's Instagram

Special Offers:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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● Learn more about the 2nd Friday Art Talk hosted by Victor

Victor Mavedzenge, Belonging

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 00:00:28 -0700

Today, I’m joined by visual and performance artist, educator, and community leader Victor Mavedzenge. Victor describes his feelings of not belonging and some of the ways that that feeling shaped him as a person and an artist. His journey from his home country of Zimbabwe, to London, to Berkeley, CA have led him to embrace an international identity. A natural community builder, Victor shares the story of how the 2nd Friday Art Talk panel discussion started and what it’s grown to today. We also touch on his role as Project Manager at Downtown Streets Team, an organization that works with the unhoused population in Northern and Central California. Transcript

Topics Covered:

● How Victor turns to painting as a way to reset during times of transition

● Victor’s experience in London as a person from a former British colony

● The danger of having a limited identity

● Victor’s vision for the 2nd Friday Art Talk event

● What draws Victor to the role of community builder

Resources:

Guest Info:

● Victor's Website

● Victor's Instagram

Special Offers:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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· Welcome to the Neighborhood

Mildred Howard, Public Art, Collective Memory

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 00:00:40 -0700

Today, I’m joined by mixed-media artist Mildred Howard to discuss how her inspiration for public art is shaped by consideration of the community and the history of the location. If you’re familiar with the Bay Area, you’ve probably seen some of Mildred’s work and not even realized it. She describes the story behind one of her recent installations called Frame in Hunter’s Point, as well as three major pieces that she’s currently working on. Transcript

Topics Covered:

● Mildred’s early introduction to dance and arts and crafts

● How Mildred works with the community to design a public art installation

● Challenges that arise when creating art for a public space

● Factors that Mildred takes into consideration during the design process

● A brief history and explanation behind the three projects she’s currently working on

● Reflections on the housing crisis in San Francisco

Guest Info:

● Mildred’s Instagram

Film about Mable and Mildred Howard

Special Offers:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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Spencer Wilkinson, How One Mural Empowered a Community

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:20 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Oakland-based documentary filmmaker Spencer Wilkinson to discuss his second feature film called Alice Street. It’s one of the most moving, heartbreaking, and motivational films I saw this past year, especially as a person who has lived in the area for 30 years. The film explores the importance of getting the community's input for a piece of public art, how to create coalitions, gaining the political momentum with those coalitions, and also the heartbreak of letting go of a beautiful creation.

Transcript

Topics Covered:

The backstory of how Spencer came about making this film
Large scale shifts happening in the cultural fabric of downtown Oakland that Spencer witnessed while filming
A brief history of The Oakland Hotel and Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts
How the community negotiated with developers around the $20 million Community Benefit Agreement
Spencer’s vision for the future of this film and his plans to nationally expand the social impact tour

Guest Info:

Special Offers:

Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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Arts, Activism, and Urban Planning with Fay Darmawi

Wed, 25 May 2022 00:00:46 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Fay Darmawi, the Founder and Executive Director of the SF Urban Film Fest. The organization highlights art that addresses different aspects of urban planning and other systems that aren't serving the communities that rely on them. Fay and I discuss the history of cultural districts, specifically in San Francisco, and how the mission behind them has expanded beyond preserving the arts and culture of neighborhoods. Fay also shares where she sees opportunities for change and what she hopes for the future of this city that we both love so much.

Transcript

Topics Covered:

● What inspired Fay to launch the SF Urban Film Fest

● What culture districts are and why they’re vital to preserving the identity of cities like San Franscico

● How affordable housing issues overlap with the need for cultural districts in San Francisco

● The wake up call that many culture district organizers experienced during the pandemic

● Examples of how we all subconsciously make urban planning decisions daily

Guest Info:

● SF Urban Film Fest Website

● Donate to the SF Urban Film Fest

● SF Urban Film Fest Twitter

● SF Urban Film Fest Instagram

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Candace Roberts: San Francisco Housing Costs Pushed Her Out, But She Found Home Again Through Song

Wed, 18 May 2022 00:00:32 -0700

Today, I’m joined by artist-healer Candace Roberts. She’s a singer, songwriter, and performer, as well as a Certified Hypnotherapist and Journey Accredited Practitioner. Candace is known throughout the Bay Area for her campy, political cabaret shows, but like so many of us who came of age in San Francisco, Candace has been priced out of the city due to the tech boom. We discuss our complicated grief over the Bay Area and the two tracks that Candace wrote in response to the inequity happening in our communities. Candace also shares the stories behind “Take Back Your Beaver” and “Say I Do”ーboth an ode to self-love and confidence. transcript

Topics Covered:

● Candace’s calling to songwriting and stage performance from a young age

● The battle for more affordable housing in San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, and the surrounding communities

● What it’s like for Candace to visit San Francisco now that she’s relocated to Austin

● The inspiration behind some of Candace’s songs and accompanying music videos

● The most important lesson that she learned during her years as a nomadic petsitter

Guest Info:

● Candace's Music Website

● Candace's Healing Practice Website

● Candace's YouTub

Promoted Podcast

● Subscribe and listen to the Goodniks podcast.

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Michael O. Snyder, Climate Change Stories that Engage and Create Change

Wed, 11 May 2022 00:00:00 -0700

Today, I’m joined by photographer, filmmaker, and educator Michael O. Snyder. His work focuses on the intersectionality of environmental and cultural change. Our conversation is centered around his project called The Coming Coast. In this photography project, Michael explores the impact of rising seas and how it will affect the Chesapeake Bay in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The area is important both strategically and infrastructurally, and it is predicted to be one of the places most highly impacted by rising sea levels. We also talk about some of his other work, including a film called Into the Dark, how he brings visibility and awareness to abstract concepts, and his approach for reaching diverse audiences.

Transcript

Topics Covered:

● The impact on the ecology, infrastructure, and cultures of the communities affected by coastline change

● What the term ‘value-action gap’ means

● The direction and vision for The Coming Coast project, and how that changed when the pandemic hit

● The underlying role that climate change plays in migration

● Transforming the documentary material into other art forms to reach a wider audience

Guest Info:

● Michael's Website

● Michael's Instagram

Resources:

● Raincoast Conservation Foundation

● Third Act

Special Offer:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

Promoted Podcast

● Goodniks podcast

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Ernesto Diaz-Infante, An Avant Garde Musician Fill His Children's Lives With Music

Wed, 04 May 2022 00:00:18 -0700

Today, I’m joined by avant garde and experimental composer and guitarist Ernesto Diaz-Infante. You might remember my conversation with his wife, filmmaker Marjorie Sturm, back in season 1 where we touched on how they are creating a home for their children to also explore the arts. Ernesto and I expand on that a little further and discuss how his childhood shaped how he and Marjorie are raising their family. We also get into how his music has evolved since his days in the Mexican rock band, Cielo Azul.

Topics Covered:

● What avant-garde music means to Ernesto

● The role that music played in his family growing up

● The story behind how he joined a rock band at the age of thirteen

● What inspired him to take a different path from mainstream music

● His approach to parenthood

Guest Info:

● Ernesto's Instagram

● Ernesto's Bandcamp

● paxrecordings.com

Other Music

· Cielo Azul

· Ketsa

Special Offer:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

Kasama Labs

● Sign up for the next Shelter in Pace weekender audio storytelling class labs at shelterinplacepodcast.org/labs.

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Laura Joyce Davis, Balancing Motherhood and Work

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 00:00:19 -0700

Today, I’m joined by Laura Joyce Davis, the creator and host of the award-winning podcast Shelter in Place. What started as a creative outlet to cope with the stay-at-home order of March 2020 has now turned into almost 200 episodes of narrative nonfiction storytelling about reimagining life through creativity and community. Laura and her husband have since expanded into the podcast education space with the launch of Kasama Collective, an intensive podcast training program for female and non-binary audio storytellers, as well as a self-paced online course. We discuss navigating motherhood and creative ambitions, confronting the role of perfectionism in her life, and what inspires her to continue showing up authentically online. Transcription

Topics Covered:

● How Laura started and scaled Shelter in Place and Kasama Collective

● Balance your needs as a creative person with your parental duties

● Why perfectionism isn’t always a bad thing

● Creating community and fulfilling the desire for connection via podcasting

● Being recognized at the International Women's Podcast Awards

Guest Info:

● Shelter in Place Website

● Kasama Collective Podcast Training

● Kasama Labs Online Course

Featured Podcast:

● Wild Precious Life

Join author, educator, and learner, Annmarie Kelly as she laughs, cries, and kvetches with the writers, musicians, entrepreneurs, and wanderers who inspire all of us to reach beyond our divisions and discover what it means to be wild, precious, and brave.

Special Offer:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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Alexi Lacey, Colonialism Through a Family Lens: A Mother Returns to Fiji to Confront Her Family's Colonialist Past

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 00:00:36 -0700

Today, I’m joined by independent director and producer Alexi Lacey. She has over 20 years of experience in filmmaking, and her most recent project, Fiji Memory Colonial Time, has been on her mind since she was a teenager. The film explores the complexity of identity when it's been formed by privilege due to the exploitation of other people and the intended destruction of their culture. For Alexi, this was an opportunity to profile her mother's courage, share the bitter truths in their family's history, and the legacy of colonialism in Fiji. We discuss what motivated Alexi to pursue this story, how colonialism impacts our identities, and what she hopes viewers take away from this film. We also touch on the work that she does with issues around the housing crisis, displacement, and gentrification happening in San Francisco.

Topics Covered:

● Why Alexi chose to tell her mother’s story in this way

● How she contextualized the larger legacy of colonialism in Fiji

● Coming to terms with her own identity and how she fits into her family’s history

● How the vision for the film changed over the 13 years of production

● Why she’s so passionate about fighting for housing rights in San Francisco

Guest Info:

Featured Podcast:

· Wild Precious Life

Special Offer:

● Check out https://newsly.me and use the promo code ARTHEALS for a free one-month premium subscription.

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Rachel Dusa, Safer Working Conditions for Motion Picture Craftspeople

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 00:00:27 -0700

Today, I’m joined by cinematographer, camera operator, and first assistant camera Rachel Dusa. Rachel and I discuss navigating a male-dominated field, how she formed her professional network in Los Angeles, and the unfortunate realities of working on set for streaming service content. She shares why it’s unsafe for many craftspeople on set, and the loopholes that some companies are cashing in on to pay smaller wages. We touch on what the viewing public can do to support the people who are behind-the-scenes and potential solutions for the exploitative working environment.

Topics Covered:

● Where her confidence and tenacity come from

● How she launched her career in LA

● Forming best business practices and finding jobs that are the right fit

● The massive increase in demand for content一and fast

● Concerns about the expectations and working conditions on streaming service productions

● Why some unions support ‘French hours’ and others don’t

● What’s next for Rachel

● How content consumers can support change within the film industry

Guest Info:

● Rachel's Instagram

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Promoted Podcast:

Wild Precious Life

Shantre Pinkney, Raw, Black & Blue: A Story of Trauma and Healing in a Community Experiencing Violence

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 00:00:34 -0700

Today, I’m joined by photographer, filmmaker, and writer, Shantre Pinkney. You might recognize her from Season 1, Bonus Episode 2 where I shared the pilot for her podcast, The R(e)ad Lounge, which Shantre uses as a space for the audio storytelling of her upcoming book, Raw, Black & Blue. On today’s episode, we talk about her introduction to photography, what inspired her to connect photography with written stories, and some of the themes she’s working through in Raw, Black & Blue.

Sponsorship Link to Raw, Black, & Blue

Topics Covered:

● Shantre’s early childhood memories of art and photography in White Plains, New York

● Elementary school teachers that fostered Shantre’s creative writing

● How living in Bayview–Hunters Point has informed her work

● Background on what Raw, Black & Blue is about

● Utilizing audio storytelling to write and edit her book

● What she’s currently working on

Guest Info:

● Shantre's Website

● Shantre's IMDb

● Shantre's Instagram

● The R(e)ad Lounge podcast

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Jim LeBrecht and Sara Bolder, The Love Story Behind the Making of the Film Crip Camp

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 00:00:10 -0700

Today, I am joined by Jim LeBrecht and Sara Bolder, husband and wife creative team. Jim is the co-director with Nicole Newnham of the film Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution and Sara is a producer of the film along with Jim and Nicole. We discuss their film, which shares the beauty, insight, and humor of one group of disabled young people at Camp Jened. Jim and Sara share why this project was particularly special for them and highlight the disability advocacy work that they’re doing through the film and other organizations. Join us as we dive into the story behind Crip Camp, the challenges and highlights of the documentary, and what Jim and Sara are up to now.

Topics Covered:

● The inspiration behind Crip Camp

● Jim’s experience as a camper at Camp Jened

● The magic of the People’s Video Theater archival footage

● Powerful moments and motifs from the documentary

● How Jim and Sara met

● Jim and Sara’s working and romantic relationship

● Jim’s advocacy work in Hollywood and beyond

● What Sara and Jim are currently working on

Guest Info:

● Crip Camp Website

● Jim's Twitter

● FWD-Doc Website

● Jim's IMDb

● Sara's IMDb

● Nicole's IMDb

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Preeti Vangani: Healing From Grief with Poetry

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 00:00:45 -0700

Today, I’m joined by writer, poet, and educator Preeti Vangani. Preeti’s work covers themes of family, grief, sexual politics, and the body. In our conversation, we discuss her transition from the corporate world to creative writing, where she draws inspiration from, and what she's currently working on. Plus, she reads two of her poems and unpacks the story behind them. Tune in to learn more about Preeti’s journey and how poetry has helped guide her healing.

Topics Covered:

● The intersectionality between poetry, comedy and performance arts

● The daunting experience of leaving her steady marketing career to follow her artistic passion

● Unlearning what ambition and success means

● Growing up in a conservative and non-confrontational environment

● Major themes in her work

● Why the personal and political cannot be separated

● Where poems usually start for Preeti

Guest Info:

● Preeti's Website

● Mother Tongue Apologize

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Word of the Day With Comedians

Music Credit:

● Remus

● Ketsa.

Pre-roll

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Catherine Monahon, Using Your Voice

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 00:00:50 -0700

Today I’m joined by Catherine Monahon, host of the podcast Material Feels. We talk about the way that Catherine works with their voice as their creative medium, how they care for their voice, and how they use it to inject the right tone to their podcasts. Catherine believes that creativity is a human right, that no one is “bad at art.” Their podcast is a love letter to the material world, inviting each listener to find their creative medium.

Topics Covered

· Using their voice and tone to shift the energy in their podcast

· Sister Practices—how a physical activity such as running can release creative ideas

· Why they do a podcast about artists and their materials

· How we become distanced from our relationship to the material world and creative practices

· The importance of good teachers and mentors

· Their connection of movement and creativity

· Good listening skills help with being a good speaker

· The importance of authenticity as a podcast host

Follow Catherine

CXM Productions Website

· Material Feels Website

· Catherine's Instagram

· Catherine’s LinkedIn

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Vanessa Willow, Giiniw-ikwe, Painter: Reclaiming and Celebrating Your Body After Cancer

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 00:00:49 -0800

*This episode includes brief mentions of childhood sexual abuse

Today I’m joined by Giiniw-ikwe, also known as Vanessa Willow, a painter in the Woodland Art tradition. Vanessa is Ojibwe, a nurse, mother, grandmother, cancer-survivor, and childhood sexual abuse survivor. After undergoing a double mastectomy, lumpectomy, and radiation treatment, Vanessa received a gift of paints and canvases by her best friend. This gift would change her life. Although she never thought of herself as an artist, she has been painting continuously since that day. Her art practice has been a healing journey for her in terms of accepting her body and accepting herself. Beyond that, Vanessa’s work is being exhibited throughout Canada and used as part of social justice campaigns for missing Indigenous women. Most recently her art is part of the album art for new work from singer-songwriter Shy Ann Hovorka.

Vanessa’s Shop on Redbubble

Topics Covered:

· Vanessa’s experience of getting a cancer diagnosis

· Using painting as a way to express her feelings after surgery and radiation

· Painting as a way to navigate ongoing cancer diagnoses

· The path to accepting her body and herself

· How painting is a sacred practice which connects her to her culture and her ancestors

· How her art is being shared and becoming part of social justice campaigns

Follow Vanessa

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Freight & Salvage, Featuring Barbara Higbie and Vicki Randle

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 00:00:17 -0800

I’m joined by musicians Vicki Randle and Barbara Higbie. We discuss how they got their start in music, what they love about the Bay Area music scene and what’s going on at the legendary Berkeley nonprofit community arts organization, Freight & Salvage. They share how the venue has navigated these last two years and how it’s supporting musicians through the pandemic. Listen in to hear more of our conversation about their musical and community connection.

Freight & Salvage Website

Topics Covered:

● Vicki and Barbara’s early exposure to music

● How the Bay Area was a salvation from their adolescence in Orange County

● What makes Freight & Salvage more than just a music venue

● The Freight’s new project with Berkeley Public Schools to inspire the next generation of musicians

● The story behind Vicki’s band, Skip the Needle

● Music as an expression of love

● How to get involved and support Freight & Salvage

Resources Mentioned:

Follow Freight & Salvage:

Follow Vicki:

● Vicki's Website

Follow Barbara:

● Barbara's Website

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Julie Wyman, Celebrating Diverse Bodies in Media with Her "Untitled Dwarfism Project', Part 2

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 00:00:56 -0800

In part two of my conversation with documentary filmmaker and professor Julie Wyman, we discuss the broader questions that her documentary raises. Julie talks about the implications that the growth medication Voxzogo has on the future of dwarfism, the complex feelings she has around changing her body, and connection through shared experiences. I also open up about the challenging dilemmas that I’ve faced as a person with a genetic disease that I unknowingly passed on to my daughter.

Topics Covered:

● What Julie means when she says the future of dwarfism is ‘uncertain’

● The questions that choosing a treatment plan for your child raises

● Powerful moments and conversations from filming

● Why it matters when people make collective decisions

● Looking at medical conditions through a different lense

● Creating a more flexible and accepting world

Guest Info:

● Julie's Website

● Julie's IMDb page

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Julie Wyman, Celebrating Diverse Bodies in Media with Her "Untitled Dwarfism Project'

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 00:00:56 -0800

Today, I’m joined by documentary filmmaker and a professor of filmmaking at UC Davis, Julie Wyman. Julie’s work aims to challenge and expand our culture's narrow range of represented bodies, and her latest project is no different. As an adult, Julie was diagnosed with a form of dwarfism called Hypochondroplasia. Her diagnosis was part of the inspiration behind the documentary she’s currently working on, and on today’s episode, we discuss her vision for the film and some of the highlights and challenges that it’s presenting.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

● What drew Julie to the art of documentary filmmaking

● Identifying as a little person and person with a disability

● Her feelings about her diagnosis

● Performance and narrative filming elements that she plans to include in her documentary

● Turning the camera around and including herself in her film

● Finding the balance between sharing her story and highlighting a community

Guest Info:

● Julie's Website

● Julie's IMDb page

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Sarah Davis, Healing From Grief and Finding Community

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 00:00:49 -0800

Sarah Davis, a learning experience designer, lost her father to cancer in 2016. Her experience of grief left her feeling isolated and unbalanced. She had difficulty sharing this experience, mostly because there were so few examples of how to share and navigate the grieving process. She started the podcast Breathing Wind as a space to share and create community for those grieving the loss of a parent. This podcast normalizes sharing loss and grieving.

In Season 2, Breathing Wind focuses on the healing process. Sarah continues to explore parts of the adult journey, such as caregiving to a parent.

Season 3 of Breathing Wind will be about joy, an essential part of the healing process. You can find Episode 1 from Season 3 here. If you find yourself navigating the journey of grief, you are warmly invited to join the community of Breathing Wind.

· Young Women Social Entrepreneurs

Referenced in the episode:

· Her interview with Laura Davis about her book The Burning Light of Two Stars, details the challenges of care-giving to an elderly parent with a shared difficult past.

· First episode with Benjamin Gunning.

Guest Info:

Breathing Wind Website

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Season 2 Trailer

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 07:00:04 -0800

Welcome to Season 2 of Art Heals All Wounds, the podcast where we meet artists transforming lives with their work. In this season, we'll explore some of the themes that came up in Season 1--the body, family, home, community, and self. We’ll be releasing episodes every week. We’ll hear the stories of artists whose work presents a creative approach to these five themes. of body. Through stories we gain empathy for others and we find compassion for ourselves. This podcast is an invitation to find inspiration together.

Featuring audio from Seeason 2 guests Shantre Pinkney, Mildred Howard, Preeti Vangani, Tahmina Watson, Chris Watts, Candace Roberts, Allegra Thelemaque, Ceci Najar, Catherine Monahon, Julie Wyman, and James LeBrecht. Other Season 2 guests are Vanessa Willow, Spencer Wilkinson, Rachel Dusa, Sarah Davis, Laura Joyce Davis, Alexi Lacey, Sara Bolder, Victor Mavedzenge, Jenee Darden, Barbara Higbie, Vicki Randle, Ernesto Diaz Infante, Michael Snyder, and Fay Darmawi.

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Art Heals All Wounds Season 1, Bonus Episode 3

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 05:00:43 -0800

The infectiously optimistic music from Quincy Griffith and Luqman Frank from Episode 11 of Season 1 is helping me to get through this long January at the beginning of year 3 of the pandemic. If you need some cheer in your life and you like soul music this may be what you need to hear right now. As an added bonus, videos for some of the songs from the album are starting to be released. You can find the video for Gonna Be Alright here and a teaser video for Never here.

Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Art Heals All Wounds Season 1, Bonus Episode 2

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 07:00:04 -0800

Sit back and relax while you listen to episode 1 of The Re(a)d Lounge from Shantre Pinkney. You'll get a chance to hear excerpts from her upcoming book Raw, Black, & Blue in her podcast. You can find The Re(a)d Lounge wherever you listen to podcasts and you can hear more about her story as a writer, filmmaker, and photojournalist on Season 2 of Art Heals All Wounds.

Be sure to sign up for the Art Heals All Wounds newsletter at arthealsallwoundspodcast.com to hear more about the guests on the podcast! Please reach out to pam@arthealsallwoundspodcast.com. Let us know how you're enjoying the show and give your suggestions for artists you'd like to hear interviewed on the podcast.

Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Art Heals All Wounds Season 1, Bonus Episode 1

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 07:00:17 -0800

Some new directions for Season 2 of Art Heals All Wounds. Sign up for the Art Heals All Wounds newsletter to learn more about upcoming guests as well as insight to art and healing from guest contributors.

Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hector Armienta, Mexican American Opera in the Metaverse

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 07:00:07 -0700

The very special guest on the Season 1 finale of Art Heals All Wounds is opera composer Hector Armienta. Hector is also the Art Director of Opera Cultura, a Latinx Hispanic opera company in San Jose, California. As a Mexican American composer, Armienta composes operas that explore what it means to be between two cultural worlds. His musical inspirations include the works of Puccini, Mexican corridos, and mariachi, to name a few.

What is it like to brave crossing the border in the hopes of finding a better life in America? What about farm workers, people who work in homes, cleaning and caring for children, young people who thought they were finally fulfilling their dream to attend college? What happened when March 2020 brought a pandemic that turned these dreams upside down? Hector Armienta interviewed Latinx immigrants in San Jose and Santa Clara Valley and gave their stories voice, a beautiful, operatic voice, in his operas Cuentos and Mi Camino.

Hector’s compositions are beautiful. But it’s his vision that is really exciting. He pushes the preconceived boundaries of opera and theatrical performance with his work. During the pandemic, when live performances weren’t possible, he created an animation for the opera Mi Camino. His plans are to take opera beyond the restrictions of borders, pandemics, and cultural and political boundaries, into virtual reality, augmented reality and extended reality. If the metaverse is coming, having Hector’s music there will make it a much more human space.

April Harris, Finding Your Voice And Healing Through Telling Your Story

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 07:00:46 -0700

April Harris performs to heal. Her journey as a performer began when she was still serving as Captain in the United States Army. She had survived several sexual assaults during her service, but she realized that surviving wasn’t enough. For herself and for her two sons, she needed to thrive. To do that, she first needed to heal. Finding her way to a personal storytelling workshop was the beginning of April’s healing journey. Every time she took to the stage, she dropped more and more of her shame--as a victim of sexual assault, as a parent, and the shame she felt for neglecting herself for so long. Now she leads classes and workshops at The Theatre Lab in Washington, DC. She completed their Life Stories Institute, then began teaching her class Finding Your Voice. People from all walks of life attend this class—some who need to heal, some who are in transition, all of them seeking to connect deeply with their own stories. As the teacher and facilitator of the class, April doesn’t project what she thinks the participants need. Her role is to hold the space with love and respect so that each person can dig deeply to find their own voice.

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Michelle Kennedy, Working Through Grief and Loss in Memoir

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0700

Have you ever had a difficult relationship with someone that you absolutely adore? How would you handle your grief if that person unexpectedly dies before you've worked through your issues together? This was exactly the dilemma faced by Michelle Kennedy when her father was tragically killed in a car accident. As a writer, on-camera reporter, and news anchor, Michelle was at the top of her field. She left her career in TV news to travel around the world, having an amazing time with her best friend. However, she soon found that wherever she went, the ghosts of her unresolved issues with her father followed her. The result was her book Don't Pee in the Wetsuit-- part travelogue and part a navigation through grief--and always full of humor and love; both for her father, who she knows did his best, and for herself as she tackles the doubts and insecurities their relationship left behind. Now, with her knowledge and know-how, she's coaching others who need to be their best on camera. And she has the empathy to help anyone work through their own doubts and fears so that they can share their gifts with the world.

Ken Paul Rosenthal, Honoring Poet Julia Vinograd Through the Poetry of Film

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 07:00:06 -0700

Filmmaker Ken Paul Rosenthal first met Berkeley street poet Julia Vinograd thirty years ago. Struck by her work and her presence, he asked if he could make a film about her poems. Although she agreed, Rosenthal felt that he didn’t yet have the experience as an artist to do her work justice. In 2018, Julia Vinograd passed away. Now Rosenthal has taken on the mission of bringing this iconic poet to life on screen by conveying the power of her work that both observed and shaped the politics and culture of the sometimes volatile, never dull, Telegraph Ave. Rosenthal creates images of poetic beauty that show the transcendent spirit of Vinograd’s life and work, while grounding it in the gritty stones of the neighborhood that Vinograd loved and championed.

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Skin of Glass, Denise Zmekhol's Search for Her Father's Legacy Leads to an Eye-Opening Tale of the Housing Crisis in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 07:00:02 -0700

They say you can never go home again. When Denise Zmekhol, daughter of the late Roger Zmekhol, a prolific and masterful architect in Brazil, decides to make a documentary film about his most famous building in Sao Paulo, she hopes that by telling the story of the building she will also be able to deepen her connection with her father. Known as the Skin of Glass (Pele de Vidro), this building symbolized the emergence of Brazil on the world stage when it was designed in 1961. After surviving a military coup and dictatorship, the building is unable to survive the decades of neglect and the occupancy of the houseless people who rely on it for shelter. As Denise comes to terms with the loss of this tangible reminder of her father, she shares the story of a housing movement whose members long for a place to call home.

Luqman Frank and Quincy Griffin, Everything's Gonna Be Alright, recording an album during the pandemic

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 07:00:53 -0700

Do you need a positive mantra to get you through the ups and downs that these times keep throwing our way? How about a mantra set to amazing music? I know the perfect thing for you, a new single, Gonna Be Alright, from Luqman Frank and Quincy Griffin. It's from their upcoming album, composed and recorded during the pandemic, with messages of positivity, unity, and love as a response to the cultural and political division that have marked the last few years. All set to the sounds of classic soul!

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Maw Shein Win, Unpacking Her Volume of Poetry 'Storage Unit for the Spirit House'

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 07:00:02 -0700

When the poet Maw Shein Win was faced with the wearisome task of moving, it got her thinking about her relationship with her things. She found a storage unit for the objects she didn't part with and she realized that, while the storage unit contained her things, her things, in turn, were containers as well--of memory, emotions, and attachments. At the same time, she had been researching nat spirits, something she was familiar with from her upbringing as a Buddhist. Her parents, Burmese immigrants, didn't worship nats, but she knew it was a common practice among many Buddhists in Myanmar. These preoccupations led to her latest volume of poetry, Storage Unit for the Spirit House. Her work in this book has been called "marvelous, timely, and resilient," (D.A. Powell). Maw Shein Win is described as a "mistress of the acute, quietly searing detail..." (Amy Gerstler). The poems, written in 2019, were prescient of a year in which everyone would find themselves contained at home, perhaps with nats of their own making mischief?

Angelica Trimble Yanu, Connecting with Sacred Homeland

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 10:22:36 -0700

Printmaker and sculptor Angelica Trimble Yanu talks about how her work brought her from existing “in-between” to grounding her in her Oglála Lakȟóta heritage. At the same time, it connects her to a larger community of Indigenous artists. Her bold prints of landscape and short films join the growing chorus of Indigenous voices in saying, “We are here. We are real. And we are resilient.” (Angelica Trimble Yanu, episode 9 of Art Heals All Wounds)

Marjorie Sturm, Decriminalizing Psychedelic Medicine and Healing Through Memoir Film

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 12:07:13 -0700

How can the power of storytelling help us make sense of things as seemingly disparate as the Covid-19 pandemic, the healing potential of psychedelic drugs, and the navigation of life's largest crises? In this episode, documentary filmmaker Marjorie Sturm shares her work on PSAs for Decriminalize Nature San Francisco, an organization which advocates for the decriminalization of the cultivation, possession, and sharing of many plants, including some with psychedelic properties, such as psilocybin mushrooms. Her background as a social worker in mental health and drug addiction, combined with her storytelling skills have resulted in several short 2-4 minute films. These short films feature local practitioners and mental health workers who work with some of these healing plants. The use of psychedelic drugs for their healing properties overlaps with her latest film, a personal documentary that explores finding clarity in some of life's most challenging experiences, those events with the power to wake us up and propel us in new directions.

Creating Community Through Music with DJ Orlando Williams

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 12:15:48 -0700

Orlando Williams, aka DJOACES, helped form a budding core group of DJ's in 1980's Berkeley, California. Known as the Mixologist DJ's, this group would help build the tradition of house parties in the city, as well as influence other DJ's in the wider world of Hip Hop. After the death of his mother, Orlando turned to his life-long passion of spinning music as a way to travel beyond his grief. In the process, he discovered that his gift of music and dance was also the key to building community in his hometown.

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Drag King Joy with Cassandra Falby

Wed, 26 May 2021 08:05:54 -0700

Do you like drag kings? Of course you do! In this episode, we meet psychotherapist Cassandra Falby and learn about her performance as drag king Brock Cocker. What made her decide to begin performing as a drag king and what are some of the benefits of creating an alter-ego like this? We talk about what it means to perform masculinity and femininity as a drag performer. Why are drag queens better known in our culture than drag kings? Cassandra shares how creating the character of fun-loving Brock Cocker has increased her joy and helped her find flexibility in her own expression of gender.

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Morgan Schmidt-Feng, Circling Home

Tue, 11 May 2021 15:37:46 -0700

In this episode, documentary filmmaker and cinematographer Morgan Schmidt-Feng and I talk about his new film Anton:Circling Home about the New York-based artist Anton van Dalen. We explore the theme of home in Schmidt-Feng's other works and what effect the San Francisco Bay Area housing crisis has had on his life, as well as how it has drained the Bay Area of artistic talent over the past few decades. And we talk a lot about pigeons--because they are really good at finding their way home!

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Books to Heal Children and Families of African Descent with Tiffany Golden

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 13:43:13 -0700

Tiffany Golden, author of the Midnight Story Series, describes her pivot from filmmaking to writing when lupus and rheumatoid arthritis forced her to find a creative outlet that was kinder to her body. As part of her journey to self-kindness, she also wrote Loving Myself with Lupus. Her children's books, geared towards children and families of African descent, offer stories of healing for readers of all ages.

Bodily Autonomy Through Pole Dancing with Tiffany Braden

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 20:22:43 -0700

When my cousin, Tiffany Braden, a.k.a. Halloween the Dancer, first started pole dancing twelve years ago, my first response was “Oh my!” Considering that my cousin is one of the smartest people I know, I knew that I had to learn more about it. I've watched her grow to be an incredible artist, with choreography that is moving and expressive and makes my heart ache. I finally got to hear her story in-depth when she joined me on the show as my guest.

If you already know and love the art of pole dancing, I hope you’ll listen. If you don’t know anything about pole dancing or have a negative impression of it, I hope you’ll listen and become a believer.

Ajuan Mance, The Importance of Representation

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 20:14:37 -0700

Ajuan Mance, visual artist and illustrator, uses her art as a lens through which to understand both the world and herself, with work that represents too-often overlooked subjects.

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Deb Gottesman and Buzz Mauro: The Theatre Lab's Life Stories Institute

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 15:45:01 -0800

In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, we meet Deb Gottesman and Buzz Mauro, co-directors of The Theatre Lab in Washington, DC. We'll hear about their Life Stories Institute in which non-actors write and act in plays about their lives. Everyone from senior citizens, people in recovery, and veterans have been able to take control of their own narratives in this innovative and healing program.

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