Kites and Strings

In this episode of Kites and Strings, we usher in Season 4 with Noah and Chloe Gose of the three-piece, Americana/folk band from Lincoln Nebraska, The Wildwoods.  We explore all sorts of things, and although we set out to explore what it was like to be married couple, writing music together, performing together, touring together and all that is involved in the business of making music and a band your way of earning a living, what's really interesting is that they have been together, doing all of those things since middle school.  Yes, Noah and Chloe, who are now married for 5 years, met at a music camp at the ripe old age of 13, and have essentially been performing together since.  And if you know anything about singing and harmonies, you know that what's referred to as "sibling harmony" is a thing.  Listening to The Wildwoods, one hears it, but in this case, it's, been together since 13 harmonies.  In this episode, some of their music is offered and the listener will hear right away that the vocal arrangements are center. We hope you enjoy this episode of string grabbing and kite flying with Noah and Chloe Gose, who are so genuine and such a joy to have on Kites and Strings. Oh, and the Wildwoods will be the headliner at the Oct 13, 2023 Trail Mix Concert Series (the series that Steve is involved in. Trail Mix Concert Series, including the link to purchase tickets to the Oct 13th, 2023:https://www.trailmixmusic.org/The Wildwoods website:https://www.thewildwoodsband.com/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music, in this episode, is by The Wildwoods.  The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

This is a special episode, as we bring back Phoebe Hunt.  It turns out that Phoebe will be playing the Trail Mix Concert Series in Homewood, Illinois, just south of Chicago, and to help promote that event, Steve and Catherine were going to do a quick check in, how ya doing, and lets introduce the re-release of your previous episode.  Well, Phoebe is such an interesting person with lots of stuff going on, so the quick check-in turned into a full-fledged episode, and we're thrilled. One might be served well by going back to listen to Phoebe's September 2022 Kites and Strings episode, but they will find that this episode is more than suitable as a stand alone, very interesting conversation. We get caught up on some exciting developments in Phoebe's, pandemic-born Ukulele Sprouts business, we explore Phoebe's songwriting, we discuss the power of connection, we go deep talking about past trauma's, self-confidence, and Phoebe's super power. All-in-all, we have a great time chatting with Phoebe Hunt, the "the soulful songstress with a fiddle" and are happy to release this episode just days before Phoebe releases her newest, solo album, Nothing Else Matters on Thirty Tiger Records. Trail Mix Concert Series, including the link to purchase Phoebe Hunt tickets for Aug 12th, 2023:https://www.trailmixmusic.org/Phoebe's website:https://phoebehuntmusic.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/phoebehuntmusicYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSgKSBzo1-H39tdqR-ZH0qgUkulele Sprouts https://www.ukulelesprouts.com/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music, in this episode, is by Phoebe Hunt.  The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode we talk with Kevin Stone, a large scale steel sculptor from Chilliwack, British Columbia.  And when we say "large," we mean it m as is work is upwards of 50 feet or more and needs to be delivered in pieces on multiple semi trailers. A recent piece was a 40' Game of Thrones dragon that blew fire.  That is one of his works going to a private buyer, but his work is also displayed  internationally in public settings. Several of his work has garnered what would be considered viral attention, including his contributions of a huge welded and sculpted portrait-quality Elon Musk head, that was put attached to a huge goat body riding a rocket.  his 85' polished steel Water Dragon has also made quite a splash.  We have a great chat learning about Kevin's early affinity for hotrods, his coming into the artwork via the trades, and his adapting and flexing between working on his art or customized hotrods.  We also get a sense of just how many things Kevin needs to take into account as he embarks upon creating large-scale public sculptures. Short answer; there are many. Kevin's website:  http://www.metalanimation.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetalSculptorKevinStone/Instagram:  @metal_sculptor_kevin_stoneHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.  The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today was an impromptu session. A slight miscommunication with a scheduled guest had Catherine and I just chatting and catching up as we waited for somebody to jump in.  Since we are planning to add a brief Catherine and Steve catching up in most, if not all episodes moving forward, we thought what the hey, lets record.  We had a fun conversation and hit upon some interesting, therapy as an art moments.  And don't worry, we were able to re-schedule with our guest and that episode will be airing in the next couple weeks.  There have been suggestions from some that folks want to hear a bit more about Catherine and I, So if you're one of those,  consider this a bonus episode.    Steve's Band, Butterfield Creek...  See pics of the new lineup. https://www.butterfieldcreektheband.comCatherine's new practice on Instagram...  @tattootherapybkHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.  In this episode we also have a recording of the public domain song, Bile Them Cabbage Down, as performed by the Glascals.  The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode, Steve and Catherine have a super fun chat with Jen Ash, a soulful pop/ r&b artist, born in Lebanon and raised in France.  After ending her professional basketball career, she decided to follow her true path, moving to Los Angeles in 2018 to pursue her music career.We explore the benefits of having a team, overcoming the obstacles present within her family, her song-writing process, her exploring other creative outlets and her ideal venue.  We also get some tasty little samples of her music as we explore Jen Ash's string grabbing and kite flying in this episode of Kite and StringsJen's website : https://www.jenashmusic.comInstagram : https://www.instagram.com/jenashmusic/Twitter:  https://twitter.com/jenashmusicTikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@jenashmusicFacebook https://www.facebook.com/jenashmusic/ & https://www.facebook.com/jennassh/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiHumBTdPHmi2iw_oBxeppA/videosHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all in this episode feature and are made available through Jen Ash.     The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.  This episode was produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling. 

This episode of Kites and Strings is pretty twisted. We interview Larry Moss, who the Washington Post has called the "best balloon artist in the world.  He has been featured on television shows around the world and recognized by Ripley's Believe It or Not, and has been in the Guinness Book of World Records multiple times.  In addition to the large sculptures that are several stories high and that use tens of thousands of balloons in each, he's also been recognized for his work replicating the art of masters, like Cezanne, Da Vinci, by Leonardo da Vinci,  Botticelli, and Grant Wood.  Steve and Catherine have a great time chatting with Larry, talking about his work, the qualities of balloons as a medium, his creativity origins story which involves,  party balloons, magic, and music, and his process.   All good stuff. Larry's website:https://www.airigami.com/aboutTeaching  Artists ROChttps://teachingartistsroc.com/A really fun time-lapse video of Larry and his crew at work replicating French artist Jean-Honoré Fragonard's The Swing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxZn4vQdlPUHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode we talk with Rachel Rose, an expressive arts educator who authored the book, Creating Stillness: Mindful Art Practices and Stories for Navigating Anxiety, Stress and Fear, published by North Atlantic Books.  We have a great discussion talking about what artmaking can do in the way of establishing mindfulness and to, well, navigate anxiety, fear and stress.  We discuss Rachel's thoughtful and informative book, which is chock-full of meaningful, skillfully written stories used as touchpoints amongst valuable lessons in art.  However, these lessons are not a how-to guide, as it is so much more about the process, preceded by recognizing and avoiding  various obstacles and barriers that so often interfere and get in the way of our using creativity to overcome. Rachel's website:   https://www.workshopmuse.com/Vimeo Videos:  https://vimeo.com/user56322087Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/WorkshopMuse/Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/rachelmarierose/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

This is a very special episode, as it is number 100 for Kites and Strings.  Can you believe it... 100 episodes!?  We're so thrilled about reaching this milestone and are really happy with our guest this week.  We really rose to the challenge of finding something interesting and worthy of our 100th episode.  Our guest on momentous episode person is Uncle Jack, from AskUncleJack fame on TikTok, and more recently, Instagram.  You see, Uncle Jack is in his 100th year, and he and his nephew Damon discuss that and share amazing stories from Uncle Jack's younger years and offer just plain amazing tips on how to live.  All to the tune of over 1.3M TikTok followers and videos that are nearing 27M views (at the time of recording this episode). Some would argue that Uncle Jack is not a true artist, musician, etc., but to that we call bullshit."  Uncle Jack, who refers to himself as a naturalist, is every bit a creative who has adapted and has found an awe inspiring manner in which to move through this world. Through their work together producing videos, it is easy to see that Uncle Jack and Nephew Damon inspire each other and that their is a genuine desire to help Uncle Jack share his words of wisdom and inspiration with others and the numbers indicate that it is of value. In this episode we learn about Uncle Jack's relationship with Damon, early stories of childhood and interfacing with animals and nature, and we get such a great feel for how Uncle Jack has made it this far.  In short, we have a great time exploring how Uncle Jack has grabbed his String and flown his Kite for nearly 100 years. as Nephew Damon says in this podcast, it is expensive being Uncle Jack's age and therefore, they welcome donations through Uncle Jack's gofundme page. That link is listed below along with several other liks to social media Uncle Jack LinksGoFundMe, https://www.gofundme.com/f/askunclejackLinktree: @AskUncleJack, https://linktr.ee/askunclejackTikTok: @AskUncleJack, https://www.tiktok.com/@askunclejack?lang=enInstagram:  @AskUncleJack, https://www.instagram.com/askunclejack/?hl=enUncle Jack's Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5ujj49bxbAGTe7OVyz8ixp?si=1c1edc108aae457a&nd=1Kites and Strings links:Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Our guest in this episode is Azuka Muol. She's a 23 year-old digital artist from Lagos Nigeria who, is represented and showing all over Africa. And despite her understanding  the business of art and what it takes to identify those who will someday buy her work, she also realizes that she has a way to worm her ideals into their head. She is recognized for tackling many big subjects such as gender equality, trauma and abuse, to name a few, and we learn that in addition to her digital art, when really loves film and creating worlds and narrative via that medium. We are wholly impressed by Azula's intelligence and, in the end, feel very comfortable knowing that the likes of her will help direct our planet after earlier generations have fouled it up in such profound ways. You can find Azuka and her work on the following sites (not an exhaustive list):Artsy, https://www.artsy.net/artist/azuka-muoh/works-for-saleBettershare, https://bettershared.co/collections/azuka-muohChristopher Moller Gallery,  https://www.christophermollerart.co.za/artists/azuka-muohLinked In, https://www.linkedin.com/in/azukamuoh/?trk=public_profile_browsemap&originalSubdomain=ngInstagram @azukamuohTikTok, @AzukaMuohHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Such a fun interview today. We talk with Allegra Levy, a jazz singer from Manhattan who has been the recipient of so much positive press. She's a top 10 rising star jazz vocalist, who said to be able to "sing life back to you," she's been called the "new pin-up girl for cool, " and she's been called "exotic" and "far beyond the ordinary," by the likes of the New Yorker, the New York Times, the Downbeat Critics poll, the Midwest Record, and many more. She certainly lands in the category of sultry and smoky, but over the last year, she's jumped into writing and recording kids music. Yes, inspired by having had her first child, but it's deeper than that.  We have such a great time learning about Allegra's motivation, her process and how music gets her through. for more information on Allegra Levy, check out her website. https://www.allegralevy.com/She's on Facebook @allegralevyjazz, https://www.facebook.com/allegralevyjazzLinktr.ee/allegrajazz, https://linktr.ee/allegrajazzInstagram @allegrameanshappyHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastInstagram: @kites_and_strings, https://www.instagram.com/kites_and_strings/?hl=enTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music in today's episode is by Allegra Levy.  The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode we visit with Amy Welsh.  When she is not engaging in one of her hobbies, like circus arts or arial arts with Catherine in New York City, she is an experiential marketer. Didn't realize there was such a job?  You're not alone, but it's pretty evident, especially after talking with Amy, that it's a blast and that it certainly calls for creative approaches.   If you have any questions about whether an experiential marketer needs to be fun and bring an ability to connect and engage with the public,  a quick listen to this episode will answer those questions.  Amy is down-right fun and really seems to enjoy her job.   Hang tight, as we learn about some of Amy's most memorable jobs like liberating dreamers from Corvettes at auto shows, organizing flash mobs, and engaging in guerilla marketing on the streets, to name just a few.  Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's episode features Harry Kappen, a Dutch musician who is finding balance in his work as an engaged music therapist working with teens and as a professional musician who consistently finds time to write, record and put out albums.  Steve and Catherine with Harry as we find and discuss several of the parallels that exist between art therapy and music therapy.  Of most note is the benefit of giving oneself permission to listen, to react, to improvise and to connect, whether it is around artmaking or making music together.  In addition to his work as a music therapist, we hear about what inspires Harry to write and create. One such motivation, especially for his most recent album, War Games, is that currently there seems to a lack of protest songs.  In this episode you will get a taste of Harry's music, including the title track from his latest full length album. Harry Website: http://www.harrykappen.com/Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/kappenhe/Instagram: @kappenharryHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music in today's episode is written, performed and produced by Harry Kappen.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode, we dig in the dirt a bit  with Leanne McClurb Cambric. She's an acclaimed and exhibiting  ceramicist who hand builds functional art.  Here we discuss her creative origins story and the idea function in art, while also factoring the extensive history of clay and pottery.  Leanne is also a professor and head of the BFA/MFA program at Governor's State University, just a bit south of Chicago, Illinois. It is in that role that she created a whole course on creativity.  While having a great conversation with Leanne, Catherine and Steve explore means of sneaking in or enrolling in said class. At the very least we'll explore some of the resources that Leanne shared in this episode. Leanne's website: https://www.leannemcclurg.com/Leanne's Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/cambricclayfacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063499249335Instagram:  @leanimalzenHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In today's episode, Steve and Catherine talk with MB Bailey. He' s a full-on working musician from Homewood, just south of Chicago, where Steve lives.  We've meant to get MG on the show for a while, but he truly has been on and off tour zig zagging the country since the second things started to open up after the quarantine. We cover a great deal in this interview and really get a sense of how playing music, especially the way MG approaches that task, is about connecting and relating with people.  We also see how that played out in his teaching guitar to seemingly every teen that ever touched a guitar south of Chicago during the 90's and the early ought's.  We discuss the job of a one-man-band musician, we hear several of his songs, we explore his evolving taste in music and we explore MG's writing process. It's all good, but things switch -up pretty quickly, so pay attention. MG's website,  https://www.mgbailey.com/Facebook,  https://www.facebook.com/mgbaileyonemanbandInstagram, https://www.instagram.com/mg.bailey/Youtube,  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAage8R4_v6YtGC89HHD7cgMG Bailey at 2019 Trail Mix - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Of7atGgrj0Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music in today's episode is provided courtesy of  our guest, MG Bailey.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's guest is punk rock pioneer, Jon Langford, a founding member of The Mekons, who were considered one the first wave punk bands from Britain.  We learn about Jon's melding folk and country music with punk music in The Mekons and several other side projects including The Waco Brothers, which he founded in Chicago after moving to the city in 1992.  We learn of how his music career was a surprise detour that materialized after The Mekons turned some record label heads while Jon and his at-school mates were simply having a blast thrashing about in the 1970's punk scene.  Between record labels and touring with The Mekons, Jon dusted off his paint brushes and found that he was able to make a bit of a splash as a visual artist.  Jon continues to perform and record music sporadically with The Mekons and he plays solo acoustic shows, while continuing to paint, with works in several high profile galleries. Steve and Catherine have a great conversation with Jon and we learn a great deal about his creative process, both as a musician and as a visual artist. Jon's Website:  https://jonlangford.de/Jon Langford at  "thank u, next: and event by the Homewood Arts Councilhttps://www.facebook.com/events/490492629917527 Original music from this epsode:Where Were YouThe Mekonsfrom the album, Hen's Teeth and Other Lost Fragments of Un-Popular Culture, Volume 2Harm's WayThe Waco Brothersfrom the album, To the Last Dead CowboyHey Rockstar!The MekonsNot Enough Love to Go RoundJon Langford and Skull Orchard , Low Noise Music (USA)Performed by Me with Bethany Thomas Spencer Tweedy and John SzymanskiHey Rockstar! and Not Enough Love to Go Round are from Jon's ongoing Lucky 7 series of singles for the Tiny Global Productions label of ValenciaHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music in today's episode is provided courtesy of  our guest, Jon Langford (see above).   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode Catherine and Steve talk with Heather Polk. She's a collage artist based out of Chicago who exhibits and is a featured artist with multiple collectives, such as The Get Gallery,  Spacey Studios and PxP Contemporary.   She's been featured in publications such as The New Yorker Magazine, The Washington Post and Cosmopolitan and she created www.artcuresall.com, which houses much of her amazing collage work, and outlines the idea that "Creativity Unleashed Rewards Every Soul"  or C.U.R.E.S.  Heather shares about research she's done and has experienced in real life around the curative factors of art, artmaking and getting into flow states. She shares her somewhat happenstance discovery of artmaking while in the throws of caring an ill friend and she found that in the process, her exploration of art therapy, and how the work that she does not only taps into a subconscious part of her but that it also helps articulate and amplify her voice as a woman of color in a world that too often ignores and makes people like her invisible.  What is quite refreshing in our talk is hearing how Heather epitomizes an integration of creativity rather than simply settling for balance. Art C.U.R.E.S All - https://www.artcuresall.com/Framed Gallery https://www.framedgallery.net/artists/heather-polk-38147PxP Contemporary https://www.pxpcontemporary.com/collections/heather-polkSpacey Studios https://spaceystudios.com/collections/heather-polkThe Get Gallery https://thegetgallery.com/collections/heather-polkInstagram https://www.instagram.com/artcuresall/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artcuresallPinterest  https://www.pinterest.com/artcuresall/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode of Kites and Strings, Steve and Catherine talk with author, Mary-Lou Weisman. She's a prize-winning journalist who has contributed too many articles to list in publications like the New York Times, Connecticut Weekly, Vogue, Newsweek, Newsday, and Woman's Day.  She's also a bestselling book author with five published books to date, and she teaches writing at the university level.  Mary-Lou's insights and utter joy for the art of writing comes to the fore in this interview as we learn about her creative process, and a few clever tricks that she uses to keep the ideas flowing.  In short, Catherine and Steve have a great time learning about how Mary-Lou grabs her string and flies her kite.Mary-Lou's books.Playing House in Provence: How Two Americans Became a Little Bit French   iUniverseAl Jaffee's Mad Life   HarperCollinsTraveling While Married   Algonquin Books of Chapel HillMy (Middle-Aged) Baby Book   Workman PublishingIntensive Care: A Family Love Story   Random House/iUniverseTo learn more about Mary-Lou, visit her website at http://www.marylouweisman.com Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode we talk with Joseph Arthur, a renowned musician and painter.  We learn that his first love was music, that he started young, and that he was discovered and signed by Peter Gabriel on Peter Gabriel's record company, Real World.   A little research tells us that he's played with some other big names, that he's been part of the bands, Fistfull of Mercy,  and RNDM,  and that he's made quite a name for himself playing his solo music. He's also a visual artist, having been nominated for best album design for his album, Vacancy,  he's exhibited internationally and has published a book featuring is visual artwork.  Joseph shares quite a bit about his beliefs and concerns for a world where people are not nearly as free as they might think they are, and we follow the Matrix  rabbit-hole for a while as we are also reminded by Joesph himself that he was "cancelled," (for speaking out against the COVID 19 vaccine), but it has been that experience that has helped him feel free and most able to do what he wants.   To learn more about Joseph Arthur, check out his website at  http://josepharthur.com/ where you can find links to all his other social media. Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music in this episode is by our guest, Joseph Arthur.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Although we made trace nods to the holidays in our last two episodes, this is the most festive holiday episode for Kites and Strings in 2022. It features, gingerbread artist, Beatriz Muller, and make no mistake, we are not using the term "artist" lightly.  What Beatriz does in the kitchen with gingerbread is amazing, so much so that we strongly encourage folks to spend a moment checking out her links to get a sense of why Catherine and Steve have to struggle with not falling into jaw dropped fits of silent awe during this episode. Architecture, engineering, an amazingly steady hand, impeccable design, delicious baking and shear creativity. It's that amazing!In this episode we learn about where it all began for Beatriz, we learn about her kitchen, her inspirations, her process, how she had to adapt when her work was featured in a full-length Christmas movie, gingerbread competition and a bit about her other bakery creations, which are no less spectacular. Please check them out using the links below.Website:http://www.cakesbybeatriz.com/Instagram Accounts:@Gingerneers:https://www.instagram.com/gingerneers/?hl=enand @Cakes_by_Beatrizhttps://www.instagram.com/cakes_by_beatriz/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In today's episode, we talk with Rachel Lewis, who checks several boxes in the land of creative.  At the beginning of season 3, Catherine and Steve wondered aloud about bringing in not only chef, foodie type people, as we have consistently thought that being a chef required a combination of what we think is the more traditional create spirit coupled with the more precise measuring and scientific mindset. We were looking to take it a but further though, as we wanted to talk with a chef who abides by additional rules and guidelines, and expressively mentioned a vegan chef. Enter Rachel Lewis. As you will hear early in the interview, she answered and ad Steve put out seeking a lead singer for his band, Butterfield Creek.   Before she even auditioned, it was learned that she's the co-owner of Sunshine Kitchen a vegan and gluten free food truck south of Chicago, that she's been a personal chef for several families with similar food restrictions, and as a bonus, she's also a food stylist who's worked on many huge contracts and campaigns. Happy to say too that Rachel also brings it in the way of vocal chops, she won the audition and is two shows in with the band.  There are some samples of her singing with the band in this episode too. Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063635917120Instagram:  @The_Sunshine_KitchenRachel with Butterfield Creek covering Can't You See by the Marshsall Tucker Bandhttps://www.facebook.com/1576652711/videos/448799960784116/Rachel with Butterfield Creek covering Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cashhttps://www.facebook.com/1576652711/videos/5715271531927567/Rachel and Butterfield Creek playing Spinster in the Middlehttps://www.facebook.com/1576652711/videos/693131968968443/Event Page for Butterfield Creek at Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove Illinoishttps://fb.me/e/2c27fDKdlEpisode illustration credit:  Marc Allen FishmanHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music if from Purple Planet Music at Purpleplanet.com.   The Kites and Strings logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

This episode feature a lovely chat with United Kingdom-based musician, guitar builder and Godfather of the cigar box guitar, Chickenbone John.  He brings an amazing amount of passion to his art, but where others may manifest their passion in details, finish and being technically spot on, John's passion is seen in the multiple ways that he makes music accessible to others (players and guitar builders).  In short, John is in full support of and prefers your learning three chords and letting the music come from the heart, rather than engaging in flashy, technically-perfect runs up and down the fretboard.  Similarly, no need for high polish and fine woodworking when you join the cast of thousands who have entered one of his guitar making workshops. It's totally DIY baby! He's also made so many guitars himself, and of course they are beautiful instruments with style and functionality, which is what prompted show host, Steve, to make sure one was on his list for Christmas this year, and we are making sure to air this show in time for folks to maybe consider putting a very cool stomp box, a six-string cigar box guitar, and/or one of his most popular three-stringers, in a loved one's hands this holiday season.  Even those who are brand new will be able to learn the very easy open-string tuning approach to learning a whole host of holiday tunes.  Rest assured, John has ample tutorial videos  for one to soak in all that is needed to build and play cigar box guitars. Chickenbone John's Website:  https://www.chickenbonejohn.com/Chickenbone John's YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/@ChickenboneJohn/videosHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and in this episode,  we featured several musicians playing the cigar box guitar which were found on YouTube playing songs that are in the public domain (see links below).  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.In the Pines:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llIq2WtOJ58 (performed by Jos Maesen)St. Louis Blues:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKsZR086VTk(performed by Red Dog Guitars)House of the Rising Sun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4S--9ru6wlo (performed by Nando Mason)John Henry:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOUdAnM-_y0 (performed by Julien D) This episode of Kites and String's was produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.  

Today, we chat with Ben Coe.  Impressively, he's a physicist who has worked with lasers and a huge super collider, where he smashes ions together, and  here we explore his tendency to see things in life as largely upgradeable. If something can be improved, made different, better, more consistent with his needs, whatever, he'll figure out a way to make it happen. We specifically explore another if his life interests, that of being a musician, paying attention to how he's managed his evolving musical tastes. Essentially, he was a heavy rock and thrash metal dude who played electric guitar, loves to solo and who had an aptitude in and desire for messing with electrical currents to create new effects pedals for his guitars. Later, he fell into electronic music and found a way to make music using his talent and skills managing midi controllers and other computery elements. Later he found that get the same buzz he gets while playing electric guitar, something had to change. Enter the Keylluitine, and instrument that Ben invented. Yes, invented. The Keylluitine is now in it's third incarnation and is, to say the least, impressive.  We discuss the evolution of the Keylluitine and the the creative process that Ben engages as he has improved the instrument over the last few years.  We're also lucky enough to hear a few samples of the Keylluitine. Pay attention to the second half of the episode. To see Ben playing the Keylluitine, check out Ben's YouTube Channel: @BenCoeMusic https://www.youtube.com/c/BenCoeMusic/videos Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comThis episode of Kites and String's was produced by Catherine Chinnock and  it was edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.  Kites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com , and in this episode, Ben Coe's music is also featured.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode we talk with June Gervais, an author who makes her home on Long Island and who, as we learned in talking with her after the episode, was familiar with Kites and Strings and had listened to a number of episodes prior to our having any contact.  It also turns out before we were turned onto June, she was mentored by our S2 E22 guest and author, Alice Mattison, and after numerous pieces of her work being published in countless publications, June has recently released her debut novel, Jobs for Girls with Artistic Flair.  Catherine and I both heap high praise on the book, but before we finished our respective reading, we sat down with June for this episode. In short, this episode was a Joy!  We had such a good time talking with June and learned so much about her avid reading as a child, her start as a writer and her process, and what was so fun in this episode were the exchanges and comparisons we had around writing and providing therapy.  Get a copy of her book and turn the pages, or listen on whatever platform you use, but rest assured you will love the story and the characters.  Feel free to check out June's website and you will find many favorable reviews from a whole host of critics, and still more from fellow authors who recognize an excellent storyteller when they see one. https://www.junegervais.com/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comThis episode of Kites and String's was produced by Catherine Chinnock and  it was edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.  Kites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's episode is with an old friend, Gregg Calpino.  In fact, earlier in the season when Catherine and I talked about the types of artists we wanted to get on the show in season 3, a landscape architect came up. A bit after that conversations, while actually editing the aforementioned episode, I was reminded that I know somebody who is one of the tops in that field.  Needless to say, it became a fairly easy box to check off as Gregg was very gracious with his time.  In addition, it was quite easy too because it was such a pleasant, informative episode.  I am confident that most people listening to this episodes will realize that the scope of a landscape architect's job goes well beyond what they imagined.Gregg's page on the Smith Group websitehttps://www.smithgroup.com/people/gregg-calpinoDetroit's Riverwalk: https://www.smithgroup.com/projects/detroit-riverwalkChicago South Lakefront:  https://www.smithgroup.com/projects/chicago-south-lakefront-framework-planHamilton County Coroner's Lab: https://www.smithgroup.com/projects/hamilton-county-coroners-office-and-crime-labMarquette Plan & Portage Lakefront: https://www.smithgroup.com/projects/marquette-plan-and-portage-lakefront-parkCarmel, Indiana: https://www.carmel.in.gov/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by me, Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.  Our theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's episode features Shea Boynton, lead singer, guitarist and songwriter for the Denver, Colorado-based country band, The Barlow, who released their third album, New Year, Old Me,  earlier this year.  In this episode we talk about how he balances his kids/wife, family, and his job in construction with his band,  band life, touring, writing,  fixing gear and fixing the band van.We learn a bit about Denver and Colorado, what it means to be country band there, as opposed to being a country band in say, Nashville or Texas, and we'll discuss his songwriting practice and a sense of responsibility toward keeping people on the dancefloor.  We're also luck enough to be able to sample some of The Barlow's music in the episode alone with the string grabbing and kite flying of one Shea Boynton.  The Barlow's Website:    https://www.thebarlowband.com/The Barlow on Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/thebarlowbandThe Barlow's Instagram:  http://www.instagram.com/thebarlowbandThe Barlow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6RKw8LDet5R7MFkN4OWtR5?si=yWZ6k8bsTTaqrp9uHL1TyAHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum and Catherine Chinnock.  Our theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com , but this episode features the music of Shea Boynton and The Barlow. Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In the spirit of Halloween, we bring another episode that explores taking on the persona of another being through dress-up. This week has more a fantasy vibe and features professional mermaid and storybook princess, Daniella Tiranno. She is co-founder/ and owner of Magical Aura Entertainment on New York's Long Island.  For her company, she also plays storybook princess characters and Marina the mermaid.In this episode we learn of how Daniella saw mermaiding as an escape from a career in social work. However, don't fret as she did come back to it, sort-of.  We explore how her current work as a child therapist is really a "side-hustle" for the totally fun mermaid and storybook princess gig.  Listeners will get a sense of what it takes to build a character, you'll learn about some of the cool things that Magical Aura Entertainment is doing, and you'll learn about the preferred professional mermaid tail, not that Daniella's isn't real. Website:  https://www.magicalauraent.com/Instagram @magicalauraentFacebook https://www.facebook.com/magicalauraentHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum and Catherine Chinnock at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.  Our theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In the spirit of Halloween, we're interviewing the haunted house actor,  Rick Basmagy, an actor with the premier NYC haunted house, Blood Manor.  Just looking at the image selected for this episode, you'll see that the Halloweening that Rick engages in is not child's play. We added a link to an article about Rick and a colleague below and by following that link, you'll see many more frightening images. In this episode we learn of his unlikely path to haunted house actor, we learn some of of the pitfalls, and a bunch of valuable, behind-the-scene information about costume cleanliness, the user experience and finding inspirations for your next costume.  Oh, and there's a healthy shout out to cos-players who seem to have mastered some of these principles. Blood Manorhttps://www.bloodmanor.com/An article featuring Rick and his work at Blood Manor (with some great pics)https://static1.squarespace.com/static/60f85fdfd190c33556c5e84c/t/610862f11c6a61146c6df4ef/1627939570429/press_mag.pdfThe Haunting on Virginia Avenuehttps://www.thehauntingonvirginiaavenue.com/The Haunting in Virginia Avenue - Facebook Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075603590570Statesville Haunted Prisonhttps://hauntedprison.com/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.  Our theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative

In this episode we meet Molly Van Kley, a photographer who is currently located in Augusta Georgia.  Her initial dream and career protectory was in fashion editorial photography, and she found success having been published in over 20 magazines. In that process she developed mad collaboration skills  as she connected with other up-and-coming artists, including make-up artists, models, hair stylist and others who were looking to build their own portfolios.  We learn that even though she has settled down and is figuring out the young mom thing with a toddler and twins, she aspires to do more in fashion editorial work.  We also learn that she has adapted and has brought her portfolio and her skills and experience to her current clientele, made up of corporate customers,. and most-explored in this episode, fabulous high-school seniors looking for an amazing  portrait experience.  As you might have guessed, these are not your typical high-school portraits. Molly goes all out with her seniors providing them with an extensive five-hour photo-shoot experience with professional make-up, wardrobe, hair styling and extended sessions which are informed by mood-boards born our of intense pre-shoot collaborations between Molly and her high-school senior model. In addition to learning about light, shadows, the best way to take a selfie and branding one's work, we learn about Molly's creative process and the way her drive and experience as a fashion photographer has pushed her to fulfilling work away from the fashion scene and runways in Augusta, Georgia, a full two hours outside of Atlanta. We think you will enjoy this way-fun episode of Kites and Strings.  Have fun. Molly's website:   https://www.mvkphoto.com/Facebook - @MVKPhotography - https://www.facebook.com/MVKPhotographyPinterest - @mvkphoto  https://www.pinterest.com/mvkphoto/Instagram - @mvk_photoHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative

Today's episode features two fine music educators, Tim Placher, who just retired from the Plainfield School District in Plainfield Illinois and Rob Calhoon, a long-time music educator at  the Flossmoor School District about 45 miles east of Plainfield.   Tim and rob are fine teachers and have  positively impacted a countless number of students over the years, but we brought these fine human beings to the show also because  of the amazing stuff they do with their talents outside of the school setting, whether it be event planning and musican wrangling or directing a vibrant church music program or raising funds so that disadvantaged people have the same access to music resources as those that live in more privileged communities.We have a great talk about what has motivated them, about their teaching philosophies and approaches, and we learn about their approaches to the student who is lacking in the talent category, but are totally in love with the process, We hope you enjoy this episode of Kites and Strings and the string grabbing and kite flying of two usic eduactors who also  find time to satisfy their own Robs, Non-profithttps://ilcmc.org/about-us/Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative

In this episode, Steve and Catherine talk with Nashville-based musician, Phoebe Hunt, who Steve met at the artist's hospitality tent at the Frankfort Bluegrass Fest in Frankfort Illinois.  Truth be told, Steve and his band, Butterfield Creek, were there because there was a cancellation, they're kind-of local, and Steve could pull the band together within 24 hours. They found that they could hang ok, but a quick search and listen to Phoebe on all the social media and music-source sites, will tell even the most casual listener that Phoebe can more than just hang in that setting with world-renowned musicians.  We dig deep into multiple ideas in this episode, exploring the difference between fiddle and violin, flow state,  the totally-creative and amazing adaption on the part of Phoebe as a result of COVID, and how creating/sustaining a business is just as creative as art or music-making.  Phoebe shares about how she has collaborated to write songs and about other her side-projects that are amazing in their goal and mission aimed directly at the task of helping everybody bring music into their life.   Phoebe's website - https://phoebehuntmusic.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/phoebehuntmusic/Twitter - https://twitter.com/Phoebe_HuntYouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSgKSBzo1-H39tdqR-ZH0qgSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/1wE9ZF6TT2O3XyYTmPLQ5xHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.Smells Like HumansLike spending time with funny friends talking about curious human behavior. Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Today's episode features a discussion with Steve's daughter's 3rd grade teacher, Liz Smith, but it has nothing to do with his daughter, their experience in school, or really even Liz's experience as a teacher.  It is much more about Liz's transition and re-invention when she realized that her role in education did not bring the joy that it once did.  She shares her passion for people, connection and her community, and about how these factors and values motivate her.  Her history of taking small steps outside of the norm and being her own person from tattoos, to hair styles to new piercings is explored and we recognize how her passions and intuition pushed her through the difficult  chapter of  relinquishing job security and "throwing her degrees away" in order to do what feels right.  We learn about emotional intelligence and some of the ways that she teaches kids and adults about the importance of being astutely aware of their feelings, especially joy, anger, fear, and anxiety.  In the end, this is an excellent episode in that it explores the kite and string concept so completely and possibly from the perch of an industry that is not immediately looked at as creative. https://serendipityyogaandwellness.com/Instagram - @serendipityyogaandwellness Facebook - @serendipityyogaandwellnessTwitter - @serendipityywHere's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer and  all other original music is from Purple Planet Music and PurplePlanet.com  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.The Enthusiasm ProjectDeep dives exploring the world of what it means to be an independent creator.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify We Should Talk About ThatWe get the conversation started on uncomfortable topics, b/c we SHOULD talk about that!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Today's guest is NPR Tiny Desk, punk-folk musician, Sunny War.   She is an amazing, largely self-taught guitarist who played and developed her songwriting chops to literally survive homelessness and addiction as a teen in LA.  Like the other two released through Hen House Studios, her most recent LP, Simple Syrup is gathering amazing reviews throughout the world.  It's been called "delectable,"  "significant and fluent,"  and a "perfect album for  dreary morning." (Atthebarrier.com, Americanhighways.org, BCTV.org).  Forbes review of the album was equally positive and they call Sunny a "poet with a downcast gaze and virtuosic mastery of an instrument."  And believe us, this only scratches the surface.  Kites and Strings had a wonderful time interviewing Sunny who came off a European tour with George Benson in early July and and who is back on the road, criss-crossing North American with stops in Canada and on both coasts.  We catch up with her while she is in Portland and about a week before she makes her way through the Midwest and an August 26th date at the Wexler Group Trail Mix Acoustic Concert Series that Steve founded and directs.  We had some delays in getting Sunny War on and we wanted to air this episode before the August 26th date, so Steve is joined by a guest co-host in the person of Anastasia Robieson because Catherine is in Zimbabwe til the end of the month.  What is learned in this episode is that Sunny War, despite her lived life, is a joy.  As is clear in her songs, she is very honest and tells it like it is.  Her sharing about a mean uncle, frustrations with loosing youthful omnipotence, voting, corporations, and even feeling bored of her own music after long a career is surprisingly refreshing.  Thanks for joining us and we hope you enjoy this episode of Kites and Strings:Sunny's Website - http://www.sunnywar.com/Instagram - @sunnywarmusicTwitter - @sunnywarFacebook - @sunnywarmusicYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbkvZUD6w-3QWR4qjJQpP-wFor tickets to the Wexler Group Trail Mix Acoustic Concert Series featuring Sunny War:https://www.trailmixmusic.org/reservations-donations-merch Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and  this episode's music breaks featured tracks performed by Sunny War.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.The Enthusiasm ProjectDeep dives exploring the world of what it means to be an independent creator.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify We Should Talk About ThatWe get the conversation started on uncomfortable topics, b/c we SHOULD talk about that!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

We've had a full Summer - a bunch of good and some not so good, but we're set for season three.  Steve and Catherine use this episode, which is our 75th, to discuss hopes for this season and since we are not the type of show that has a whole season of guests lined up, we used today's episode to expressly challenge ourselves and to request help from the listeners in the task of identifying and securing specific types of creatives and creative fields.  We will continue to follow a similar format and will do all that we can to  bring forth creatives who represent many different media and genres, and we will find folks who are at varying levels of managing that kite and string conundrum.    In essence, we're looking forward to another season of Kites and Strings and would love to engage the listenership even more in this season.  Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and  this episode's music breaks featured tracks performed by the Uh Oh's and Butterfield Creek.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Yeah, it's been a a bit since our last episode.  We've been winding down season 2 and it's bitter sweet that we are ending our 2nd season today. It's a blast doing this podcast, but it is a lot of work and a break is needed.   Hold tight though, there will be a season 3 in just a couple months  or so, and we're looking forward to the guests and conversations we will have.  For now though, we have a special treat for the the season 2 finale.  Kites and String's very first guest, Anastasia (Stasia) Robieson, comes back and sits in the interviewer's seat. Although, it really is much more of a fun conversation about why we create, who we create for, and we discuss a bunch about dune grass, pine trees, con-artists, New Orleans street performers and Dennis Rodman.  In short, we have a ball. In addition , today's show features musical samplings of Stasia's band with her husband, Josh, The Uh Ohs, as well as the band she is bandmates with Steve in, Butterfield Creek. Stasia's  band, The Uh Oh's website .  https://www.uhohsmusic.com/Instagram - @the_uh_ohsFacebook - @uhohsmusicAnastasia's Heart Punch Designs via facebook @HeartPunchDesignsHeart Punch Designs on Etsy https://www.etsy.com/shop/HeartPunchDesigns@heartpunchdesigns Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and  this episode's music breaks featured tracks performed by the Uh Oh's and Butterfield Creek.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In this episode, Steve and Catherine have the distinct pleasure of interviewing NLS Huncho, or  just "Huncho."  He's a rapper/musician, but he's also so much more.  What is most evident is that he is truly a nice guy who defies the image of thug rapper with a need to show out as in control, always f*cking b*itches, and flashing money and guns.  Instead he has found that when he lets his raps just flow, what comes out are much more vulnerable expressions. We learn that he has always liked his music, but through his newest truer and more expressive efforts, he has come to love it. His most recent EP is called "Anxiety, ADHD and Arrogance," and it is available on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube Music. In our talk with Huncho, we learn about his coming to rap and hip hop later than most  due to his church upbringing, his cont'd singing in choir,  his failing out of college twice while back home in California before being encouraged  to follow his dreams at Dillard University. We also learn just how similar he finds his role as a rapper is to his Pastor father's role. We meet with him while his is at Dillard, and we learn that Huncho has truly come into his own,  finding an an ideal fit in their music management degree program, and dropping some of his best work yet while at Dillard.  What we learn too that his work has taken new forms, including sewing and creating clothing.  A brief listen to this episode will convey just how much fun we had talking to this very enjoyable person, who has finding a way to just do it as a string grabber and kite flyer.  NLS Huncho's YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/c/Upn3xtEntInstagram:  @nlshunchoLink Tree: https://linktr.ee/NlshunchoKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and  this episode's music breaks featured tracks performed and provided by our guest, NLS Huncho.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

We had a blast talking with Emily Dolan Davies. She's a London, UK-based drummer who has certainly found her way to some of the biggest stages and in some of the coolest studios touring and recording with the likes of Brian Ferry, Thomas Dolby, The Darkness, and Kim Wilde, with whom she is about to go on the road with.  We caught up to her after Steve saw her on the Netflix music documentary, "Count Me In"  where Emily was one of the featured drummers right there alongside, Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stuart Copeland of the Police, and Roger Taylor of Queen, among others.  All creatives who play a unique role of keeping time and order for their musical partners. Kind-of like being a sonic string. What Steve saw in Emily in the film, "Count Me In," was on display in this episode of Kites and Strings, and that is that Emily is so much fun and so loves her job as a band's time-piece, all while getting totally lost in the sheer glee of beating a drum with a stick.  We certainly hear about her work, her drummer origin story, her high-points and some of her low points.  Emily is quite candid about how she has used drums as a vessel in which to throw her most difficult situations and feelings, and she finds that her chosen instrument never fails to give back. In addition to drumming, we hear about other creative ventures, such as having her own podcast and a mobile recording business, as well as her generous want to assist and support young musicians who are trying to break into music industry and/or drumming.  So settle into your drummer throne and enjoy listening to how Emily Dolan Davies grabs her string and flies he kite. Emily's website:  https://www.emilydolandavies.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilydolandaviesIMdb page for Count Me In, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6889042/Twitter: @EmilydrumsInstagram: @emilydrumscomPodcast:  Emily Is LiveKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and  this episode's music breaks featured tracks performed and provided by our guest, Emily Dolan Davies.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's guest, Dom Flemons, co-founded the Carolina Chocolate Drops in 2005, and on their third studio album, Genuine Negro Jig   they won the 2010 Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Album.  His 2018 album, Black Cowboys,  recorded on the Smithsonian Folkways label, was nominated for a 2019 Grammy in the same category, and he has been nominated for two Emmys. Most recently he was awarded the prestigious 2020 United States Artist Fellowship and his 2014 album , Prospect Hill   with Omnibus Records, has been re-issued.He has adopted the moniker "American Songster," and this was not him just claiming a title that sounded cool. Nope, its earned.  not only by way of the awards and high-praise he has received for his contributions to 20+ album collaborations, along with his seven solo albums, but also because he puts in the work researching what he plays. We learn so much from Don in this episode, not the least being that he has let his interest in his heritage and the music he has identified with over the years pull him into some very fruitful rabbit holes.  So yes, he's a historian, but he's also allowed his ongoing education about cultures in which he's identified,  as well as about the music, it's origins stories and about the instruments used to create such music. And of course, he's become a master on many of those instruments over the years.  Check of the links below to learn more about Dom Flemons, but in the mean time, settle in for some string grabbing and kite flying with Dom Flemons.Dom's website  -  https://theamericansongster.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DomFlemonsMusic/Instagram - @domflemonsTo purchase tickets at the June 10, 2022, Wexler Group Trail Mix Concert Series (the series founded by Steve) featuring Don Flemons    https://www.trailmixmusic.org/Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Amber Roper is a fibers artists, considered by Saatchi Arts to a "Rising Star" in their elite group of 35 under 35 international artists in 2020.  She is founder of the Bluhen Studio in London, England, which translates to "Flourish and Blossom," and you will soon learn how perfect this name is for Amber. Amber grew up in London, and despite initial wanting's to break free, like many a restless young-adult, she stayed-put given her being accepted to the prestigious Central Saint Martins University.  She found the philosophy of that institution to be a perfect fit, especially given her needing a bit of a hand-up.   Her background is modest, being first-generation-college from  working class family, and with many siblings.  Frankly speaking, many (including Amber)  would not have called her university material. Complicating things more, she learned  that she was carrying a diagnosis of Dyslexia, which answered many questions for Amber.  Amber Roper is amazing in her recognition that support in the form of having her creativity be not only be recognized and seen, but to also be "championed" by her parents, and more recently her musically-inclined partner. Amber has since graduated from Central St. Martins, she has exhibited internationally, garnered critical acclaim, awards and notable, a tremendous sense of balance and appreciation for her role as a a new mom, and an artist.  That is what drew us to her and it was a total pleasure to talk with Amber Rober.  Amber's website:  https://thebluhenstudio.london/Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebluhenstudio/  or @theBluhenstudioKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In bygone days you had a closet full of board games, or you kept them on a shelf in the basement, and every now and again you'd gather folks around the table to play.  And aside that one story we had about the broke dude in Atlantic City inventing the game Monopoly, until the last decade or two, there was no attention paid to the idea that somebody created those games, that experience, or the gaming environment, which is the term oft-used in our discussion today.  Our guest is Jason Schneider.  He is one of the creatives who has helped bring board games back to the fore.  We have a great discussion about the phenomenon of gaming, the types of games, the different elements of a game and how, despite the growing presence of video games, table-top games remain  the real deal. This is especially true for people wanting actual human connection, like that which is experienced playing a rambunctious party game, a strategic thinker with your nerdy friends, or a cooperative game on family game night. As the VP of Product Development at Gamewright, a game company with over 200 titles that focuses on family friendly games, Jason knows the business, and he provides a tremendous peak inside the process of creating games; from the initial idea to development to testing to marketing and finally to that game being on your dining room table. Maybe that game being played tonight in your home is one of Gamewright's super creative games, like Slamwich, Sushi Go, Super Mega Lucky Box, Gubs, Forbidden Planet , Abandon All Artichokes  or any other game  in Gamewright's massive, highly acclaimed catalogue. So it's your move, press play and enjoy your journey through the Kites and Strings environment with Jason Schneider. Gamewright Games     https://gamewright.com/Facebook - @gamewrightKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Áine Rose Daly is a young actress who's career would be squarely in the "taking flight" category.  Early on she was in an episode of Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan,  she's been in a music video or two and she was in the critically acclaimed film, Boiling Point, which can be streamed on Amazon Prime. Also available on Amazon Prime is the three-season action/thriller Hanna, which is where Kites and Strings (well, Steve) first saw her.  Áine was amazing in her role - first as girl 242 in season one and all over the screen in seasons two and three when 242 becomes Sandy Phillips. And speaking of transitions, Áine is also in the werewolf film, Eight for Silver, which was renamed The  Cursed in the States, where it opened in February 2022.  One would think  that acting is her passion.  But you might be wrong.  In this episode you will learn that she enjoys her job as an actor, where she gets to be other people,  but you will also find that she taps her most creative and expressive parts when creating music.  We learn about her start as an actor, what its like being on the set, especially in the productions of Boiling Point and Hanna, and we'll learn about her process as an actor and as a musician.  We're happy to share a couple of her songs in this episode and we hope you have a great time as we explore string grabbing and kite flying with London-based Áine Rose Daly. Áine's IMDb     https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10441597/Instagram - @ainerosedalyYouTube: "Places"  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATex3-Ug8VAKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music is by Purple Planet at Purpleplanet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

In today's episode, Steve and Catherine talk with acclaimed, Fretsore Recording Artist, John Jenkins. He's been at it since the 80's and has done a whole lot to not only improve in his craft, taking direction and guidance from some of the best in the industry, but he continues to put out a sizeable amount of work in a hyper competitive market.  We learn about his journey to being considered one of the UK's most promising singer/songwriters in the folk, country and Americana markets, while also getting a chance to hear some of his music in the episode. You'll hear a few from his most recent album, If You Can't Forgive You Can't Love as well as some tasty morsels from pervious John Jenkins solo albums or from his work with his band, John Jenkins and the James Street Band.  Thanks for listening and please enjoy learning about how John Jenkins grabs his string and flies his kitehttps://johnjenkinsmusic.com/john-jenkins-singer-songwriterFacebook @JohnjenkinsmusicliverpoolInstagram:  @johnjenkinsliverpoolTwitter:  @JohnJenkins2020Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music is by Purple Planet at Purpleplanet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's episode is with Barbara Bonfiglio, who is better known as Misstress Barbara.  She has created/produced techno music/beats and DJ'ing for 26 years and has circled the globe dozens of times performing at the biggest clubs.  She has put out too many EPS to count, the same is true of the compilations that she has been a part of,  and she has written and sang two pop albums to date, I'm No Human  and Many Shades of Grey .  In this episode, Barbara candidly shares about the struggles of feeling tied up, being boxed-in and having multiple publics who expect different things from her. These entities include venues and booking agents who book her, promoters and fans of her DJ, techno work, and the growing number of  fans who want to hear her melodies on vehicles like the aforementioned pop albums.   The fact that so much of this takes place within a fandom sporting a shelf life of a mere two or three years compounds the problem even more. It is not a wonder that she has sought balance in sailing, flying small airplanes and gliders, snow boarding, motorcycles and competitive tennis.  Most importantly, it seems, Barbara brings a knowledge and a wisdom to the task of keeping her ego in check.   In this episode, we have a great conversation about this and we're confident that listeners will root for Barbara's finding a boat to sail and some instruments to create some melodies. Misstress Barbara's website;                 http://www.misstressbarbara.com/Facebook:   @MisstressBarbara          https://www.facebook.com/MisstressBarbaraMisstress Barbara on Bandcamp        https://misstressbarbaraofficial.bandcamp.com/musicMisstress Barbara's YouTube                https://www.youtube.com/user/MisstressBarbaraTVInstagram    @mistressbarbara Twitter           @misstressbKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other music in this epoisode (The Right Time  - Roger's Cup Epic Mix and K-10 )  is courtesy of Misstress Barbara and Third Side Music.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's guest is Sylvia. If you were anywhere near the radio, and especially country radio in the 80's, you have heard at least one of her million+ selling hits including Tumbleweed,  The Matador, and Snapshot. Her hits, The Drifter and Nobody hit No.1 in Billboard's country music category.  She sold millions of copies and certainly made good on her goal to be a star and gathering some prestigious country music awards including a Grammy nomination after leaving her home town of Kokomo, Indiana for Nashville. After her run with RCA Records between 1979 and 1987, she explored other interests but never strayed far from using her voice.  She became a certified life and career coach, working with executives and artists of all genres, she's sat on multiple not-for-profit boards supporting people with mental illness and substance use disorders, and has stepped more into writing and releasing albums, including Nature Child, A Dreamer's Journey. which will be released on Tuesday, 2.2.2022.  The day after this episode is published.  You'll a sneak peak of music from the album in this episode. We have a great time talking with Sylvia about her journey, including details about her songwriting process, the lessons learned while being part of the music machine in the 80's, how she looks to inspire a different population of listeners  and life in general.  In essence, we do a lot of exploring Sylvia's string grabbing and kite flying. Sylvia's website:  https://sylviamusic.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sylviacountrymusic  Twitter- https://twitter.com/syhuttonInstagram - @shuttonKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music in today's episode is courtesy of Sylvia at Red Pony Records.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Our introduction to Alice Mattison was learning that she wrote a book entitled, The Kite and String, How To Write With Spontaneity and Control - And Live to Tell the Tale (Penguin Books).  In pretty short order we were able to bring Alice onto the show and are so happy that we did.  Not to mention,  we breathed a sigh of relieve when we realized that we we're not  gonna get sued for using the name Kites and Strings.    Alice was a joy to talk with.  The string part of her Kite and String involves the process of proofreading, editing and basically cleaning up after you're allowed you kite to run amuck so as to create.  Catherine and Steve can get behind that whole-heartedly, and in this episode of Kites and Strings, also learn of how being a young mom, with young mom responsibilities, ironically helped Alice find the head-space and the time to write.  And write she did. On top of her career teaching college-level students for 20+ years, Alice has made a career of writing.  Although she claims to have come to writing late, she quickly make up time.  Thus far, Alice has published seven novels, in addition to the aforementioned guide for writers, a book or poems and short stories and at least a dozen short stories that have been published in the New Yorker and similar publications.  We learn too that there are at least two more publications on the horizon.  Whew. Per Wikipedia, Alice Mattison's publications..."Conscience," (novel), Pegasus, 2018"The Kite and the String", (craft), Viking, 2016"When We Argued All Night", (novel), Harper Perennial, 2012."Nothing Is Quite Forgotten in Brooklyn" (novel) Harper Perennial, September, 2008."In Case We're Separated: Connected Stories" William Morrow/Harper Collins, October, 2005; "The Wedding of the Two-Headed Woman" (novel) William Morrow/HarperCollins, August, 2004. Paperback, Harper Perennial, 2005."The Book Borrower" (novel) 1999, William Morrow and Co. Paperback, Harper Perennial, 2000. Reissued, Harper Perennial, 2008; "Men Giving Money, Women Yelling" (intersecting stories), Morrow, 1997. Paperback, Quill, 1998; New York Times Notable Book, 1997."Hilda and Pearl" (novel) Morrow, 1995; large print edition, Thorndike Press, 1995. Paperback, Harper Perennial, 2001."The Flight of Andy Burns" (short stories), Morrow, 1993."Field of Stars" (novel) Morrow, 1992."Great Wits" (stories) Morrow, 1988. Paperback, Penguin Books,1990."Animals" (poems) Alice James Books, 1980.Alice's website:  https://www.alicemattison.com/Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's episode features Central-London-based digital Sculptor, Rayvenn Shaleigha D'Clark.  Her website  also lists her as a writer, researcher and curator, but we learn that she is so much more, including a pet owner, university professor, social being, food connoisseur, and all around enjoyable person. Her artwork is featured in some high-profile shows and she included on multiple lists cataloging people to watch in the artworld. Steve and Catherine have such a good time interviewing this introspective young artists who seems to be leading the way for artist of her generation.  A great approach and something that we learn more about in the episode is that she is not doing it alone. She forms connections, she collaborates and she seems to understand where she sits in the world. You'll learn more about that in this episode as well as about her managing the narrative because in the world today and  social media throwing things into warp speed, things can get out of hand.   Please look up today's guest, Rayvenn Shaleigha D'Clark via the following means:website: https://www.rayvenn-dclark.com/Instagram:  @rayvenndclark_artTwitter: @RayvennDClarkKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today's guest is Brendan Lorber,  Brendan is a visual artist, poet, prose writer and editor, and his most recent book is entitled If this is paradise why are we still driving?  It is published by the Subpress Collective.   Recently, and as we discuss in this episode, the pandemic and in the process of seeking relationship, Brendan has found himself creating a series of hand drawn maps of the known poetic and musical universe.  Imagine what a map of Gertrude Stein, David Bowie, Gwendolyn Brooks and Madonna might look like.  The maps have found homes at the Museum of Modern Art, The Free Black Women's Library, Opus 40 Gallery, Artists Space, The Free Library of Philadelphia, The Woodland Pattern Center, The Scottish Poetry Library, and private collections in nine countries. He also teaches map-making classes online through  Uncommon Goods, and some of these classes help students explore and relationships, and in case you have yet to find that perfect gift for your valentine, see the links below in order to sign up for one of his classes. In this episode, we hear so much more about Brendan, his creativity origin story, amazing stories about his family, and we have a blast learning about how Brendan grabs his string and flies his kite. Enjoy.Brendan's Website - https://brendanlorber.com/index.htmlBrendan's classes at Uncommon Goods  - https://www.uncommongoods.com/artist/34798Instagram - @brendanlorberTwitter - @brendanlorberIf this is Paradise, Why are We Still Driving?     for purchase via Amazon Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

Today we talk with Corrie Legge.  Corrie has certainly found success in the arts, as she has directed/starred in several short films that have garnered very positive reviews, and she has maintained a healthy diet of voice over work in commercials, animations, video games and audio books.. Concurrently she is a present mom and a creative partner with her husband, while finding a way to marry two passions, which includes the love of acting and the art of film (producing, writing, directing).  That other love is that of teacher, which Corrie is also certified to do.  In essence, her acting/film passion joined with her love of teaching to form the identity of Creative Coach.  Aside from the aforementioned, we have a very enjoyable chat with Corrie  about her being mom to a one-year-old, her career choice, her ongoing growth and her maintaining her focus on several goals that are are varied but harmonious. She shares here creativity origins story, she provides fascinating information on the potential for burnout in her field. the need to set limits and to maintain healthy boundaries,  and she shared how she has learned to adapt and re-arrange her goals even though there have been times that she knew what she wanted differed from field expectations.We hope you enjoy our conversation with Corrie Legge, as we discuss her string grabbing and kite flying. Website - https://corrielegge.com/IMBd - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6683652/https://linktr.ee/creatingwithcorrieInstagram- @creatingwithcorrieFaebook - @celegge Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com.  Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.

We had a great time talking with Scientific Illustrator and Children's Book Author/Illustrator, Alice Chen-Kitterman.  We learned so much about her field, including why and how Alice is a Scientific Illustrator as opposed to a Medical Illustrator, and we learn about the legal, courtroom role that scientific illustrators may play.  So interesting and it blew both Steve and Catherine's mind, as we get an inside glimpse at how one illustrator played an important role and helped make history via a hugely important and highly publicized trial.  In addition to learning a great deal about scientific illustration, we learn of Alice's path to the field, her supporters along the way, sound guidance from a woke older sister, and we learn too about Alice's character, Centipede Dragon, who is featured in multiple books and who illustrates so much of what we discuss in this episode... that is multiple personalities or, as we come to understand it, multiple passions.For more info on Alice:Her website:https://www.aliceychen.com/ FaceBook  https://www.facebook.com/AYCIADLink'd In https://www.linkedin.com/in/alice-chen-kittermanVimeo - https://vimeo.com/user13507144/videosPinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/ACKdraws/_created/Twitter @ACKdrawsKites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com

Jim Byrne is a Scottish Singer/Songwriter who was signed to his first record deal with Fox Star Records, at the age of 59.  He has been playing, writing and performing though since he was 13 years old and although his most recent effort is situated somewhere in  the land of country and folk, we learn of his punk rock past.  Jim shares about past moments when the light was shining on him as he was courted by record companies, and his penchant for DIY music, recording, marketing and booking tours. In short, it is quite evident  that Jim is totally steeped in music and we're so so happy that he spend some time with us talking about his musical string grabbing and kite flying.  Review for his EP, 4 Country and Folk Songs by Jim Byrne“…it feels like his soul is communicating directly with your soul. Duglas T Stewart (BMX Bandits)“…dives headlong into Americana territory. Magic.” Dave Acari – Touring musician & songwriter“a great songwriter. reminds you of the greats like Johnny Cash, Leonard Cohen.” Michaela Foster Marsh, Singer & musician, finalist of Scotswoman of the Year“an undeniably ‘classic' sound.. same time somehow sounding like a fresh take.” Jamie Flett, folk/folk rock musician, singer songwriterJim's website:  https://www.songsbyjimbyrne.comTen Writers Telling Lies: http://www.tenwriterstellinglies.comJim's Facebook is @musicbyjimbyrnehttps://www.facebook.com/musicbyjimbyrne/Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: @kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music in this episode are written and performed by Jim Byrne

Today's guest is Sheryl Murray. She's been an illustrator for close to 30 years and had always dreamed of being a children's book illustrator, but due to available jobs out of school, re-locating, engaging in a different medium (clay) and being a parent, realizing her dream was delayed until just a few years ago.  Since, she has worked with the likes of Penguin Random House, and Harper Collins on five different children's books.  Two books, Hand in Hand . and  Lulu and the Hunger Monster  have already been released  (see links below) and the next three roll out starting in January 2022 with Still Mine.    So, yes, Sheryl has been very busy and one look at her work should help explain this.  It's beautiful!In this episode we hear of her work prior to computers presence in the illustration field, her move from Chicago to Portland, her discovery of and work in ceramics, her resilience in managing illustration assignments depicting stories that were uncannily similar to personal life events, like losing her parents and grandmother, and becoming an empty nester with daughters in school on the other side of the country, among others.  One thing that is quite evident, is that Sheryl seems to think in visual story telling and a great deal of evidence is discussed/revealed in this very entertaining episode, complete with beeped out names, fake IDs and a discussion about The Smiths.   Additionally, Steve and Sheryl attended undergraduate  art school together and were in the same social group.  As such, there is some time discussing their shared art school experiences at the onset of the episode and near the end. Snake sweaters.  Simon & Shuster - Hand in Hand  https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Hand-in-Hand/Alyssa-Satin-Capucilli/New-Books-for-Newborns/9781534441729Free Spirit Publishing - LuLu and the Hunger Monster https://www.freespirit.com/social-and-emotional-learning-for-kids-and-teens/lulu-and-the-hunger-monster-erik-talkin-sheryl-murray?c=173Sheryl's website - https://www.sherylmurray.com/Sheryl-Murray-Illustration on Facebook Twitter - @Sheryl_MurrayInstagram - @sheryl_murray_illustration Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: @kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com

Yes, Kim-Joy Hewlett, of Great British Bake-Off fame, is the guest on this episode of Kites and Strings, and, well, she was a great joy to talk with. In this episode, we learned about how The Great British Bake-Off helped her build confidence and although only jumping full-force into baking a couple years prior to her 2018 Great British Bake-Off experience, we learned that she has been making and creating from when she was very young, starting by creating her own games.  We learn of the role her mother and father played in her creative origin's story and we learn about her long-time love board and card games.  She discusses the importance of space and she shares how she lets her emotions drive her bakes. In fact, we learn the details of what would be needed to create even a "sad biscuit"  (or cookie, for us Americans). Kim Joy has published several baking books, her most recent being Christmas with Kim-Joy and she has even has a cooperative card game called Kim-Joy's Magic Bakery - you can find them almost anywhere that you'd but books, but check out her website, as it is there that you can get a signed copy.  Kim_Joy's website: www.kimjoyskitchen.comTwitter:  @kimjoyskitchenInstagram: @KimJoyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Kim-JoyLinktree: https://www.kimjoyskitchen.com/linktree/Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​​Facebook: @kitesandstringspodcastTwitter:   @KitesandstringsInstagram:  @Kites_and_stringsemail: Kitesandstringspodcast@gmail.comKites and String's is produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.Our theme music is by Harrison Amer, and all other original music by purple planet music at https://www.purple-planet.com