My Home is Special

This week, I'm talking with Rahamaan Statik—an artist whose work I've admired long before we ever met. Though we've only crossed paths in person a couple times, he welcomed me into his world to talk about a home that's anything but traditional: the Wall. From classical fine art training to projects that cover massive graffiti walls, Statik's story bridges street and studio in a way that's uniquely powerful. What does it mean to call a wall home? You'll want to hear this one. Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

This week's mini-episode is a story I told a while back about being a Black college student in Boston—a city that, at the time, had a reputation. And yeah... my first experiences definitely lived up to it. But then something unexpected happened, and taught me a lesson. This one's about assumptions, surprises, and learning not to jump to conclusions. Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

This week's guest is the incomparable Lily Be—storyteller, teacher, host, and all-around powerhouse. I've known Lily for years, and every time I see her on the mic, I'm blown away by how she commands a room. The best part? You never know what kind of story she's going to tell. In this episode, we dig into what keeps her coming back to the stage and why storytelling means so much to her. Lily can be found at https://www.stoopstylestories.com/ and through search of “Lily Be” on YouTube.  We also mention the Risk podcast in this episode Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

In this mini episode, I'm taking you to my second home—on the mic at Grown Folks Stories—where I share what should've been a dreamy first trip to Hawaii. Spoiler: things did not go as planned. Enjoy an unforgettable (and very real) travel tale that starts in paradise but takes a wild detour. Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

Aaron is a poet, founder, investor, and artist—someone who moves effortlessly between the worlds of creativity and entrepreneurship. From the poetry slam stage to the startup pitch room, he shows how storytelling and presence can be powerful tools in any arena. We talk about unexpected overlaps between art and business, and how the skills you build in one space can prepare you for totally different challenges. Aaron's one of those friends who inspires by simply being himself, always bringing energy and intention to every room he enters. Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.  

After looking at the content I want to share in the weeks ahead, I decided to make a change to the publication schedule for the pod.  I also have some content that I want to share about *my* home.  In this episode, I'll update you on the plan and share the first of (hopefully) many stories to come. If you have feedback on this new approach, please hit me up at keith@kbevphoto.com or DM me @KBevPhoto on IG. Enjoy!

You've never heard a sound like this Gangstagrasss before and in this episode I talk with a longtime friend, Dolio, about its origins.  After years of denying that he was an artist, one night in NYC caused a chain reaction that created a multi-decade career as a musician.  I'm excited to share this one as I continue looking for interesting guests for you to enjoy! You can see more at:  https://www.dsleuth.com/   http://www.gangstagrass.com/  If you stay for the outtake at the end, this clip will make more sense: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZUEFnas43Y Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

In this episode, I catch up with longtime friend and founder of Ten to One rum, Marc Farrell. Marc isn't just building a rum brand—he's on a mission to elevate an entire category while sharing the rich story of a people and a culture. Five years in, his passion hasn't wavered, and he still lights up when he sees new fans discovering what he's created. If you love a good entrepreneurial journey with heart (and maybe a little rum talk), this one's for you! You can find out more at https://www.tentoonerum.com/ and @TenToOneRum on instagram Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

In this episode, I sit down with Rocxana to talk about her home, Guatemala. We dive into everything from our pre-trip expectations  to recapping our on-the-ground experiences.   Of course, we wrap up this episode with a story.. If you've ever been curious about Guatemala—or just enjoy learning about a new place for most people, this one's for you! Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

Kick off Super Bowl week with record-breaking football coach David Shaw. In this episode, Coach Shaw shares what makes life on the sidelines so special to him—and it's not just about the X's and O's. From leadership lessons to the emotional highs of the game, this conversation dives deep into the heart of coaching and what truly drives his passion. Since taping this episode over the holidays, Coach Shaw has left his position with the Broncos and is now on the coaching staff with the Detroit Lions! Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

In this episode, I chat with my friend and pastor, Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III, about his unique sense of "home" within the Black church tradition. While I thought we'd talk about "the pulpit" as his home, our conversation revealed something much deeper. Growing up as a preacher's kid surrounded by civil rights leaders we've all studied in school, Pastor Moss brings a perspective rooted in history, faith, and the ongoing fight for justice. Releasing this episode on Inauguration Day feels right—voices like his are more vital now than ever. Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

This episode features my friend Rahel, who I've known for over a decade and who's the co-founder of Ilava, an African fashion company. Rahel is doing more than just designing clothes—she's helping to reshape people's connection to the African continent through fashion. I'm so excited she joined me for this conversation! You can find her at https://myilava.com/ and @Myilava on instagram. Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project (including photos of Rahel), and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

Hi everyone! Just a quick update—we're taking a break this Monday, but new episodes will be back starting January 6th, with a fresh one every other Monday after that. In the meantime, I want to wish you all a very happy holiday season! If you've been enjoying the podcast, please share it with your friends — I'd be hugely grateful. Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

In this episode, I chat with my friend Binkey, a masterful event host who takes his craft seriously. Binkey isn't just there to hold a mic—he's there to create unforgettable vibes from start to finish, blending his many talents to make every moment count. Anyone can host, but few can do it well, and Binkey is in a league of his own. Follow Binkey on IG at @Binkey1 Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project (and some pix from a photo session I did with Binkey during Covid) and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

In this episode, I catch up with my longtime friend Aisha, the founder and CEO of Bossy Cosmetics. After leaving her corporate career, Aisha created a company with a powerful mission: to empower women through beauty. We dive into the personal changes that inspired her journey and explore how Bossy Cosmetics is making a difference.  You can find more at www.bossybeauty.com and @BossyBeauty on Instagram. Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

This episode features one of my favorite MCs, Masta Ace, who's truly at home on the mic. We talk about how he connects with the crowd and delivers unforgettable performances, making every show feel special. Masta Ace also opens up about how being on the microphone has had a personal impact, helping him grow beyond the stage. If you want to read more about Ace, you can go to Wikipedia or his website.  Some of the song referenced in this episode are among my favorites: YBI - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSSiNOGSCO8 Son of Yvonne - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ir8OIX7vis Block Episode - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZbgqmClFlQ Falling Season (album) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQkJWYxRDL8&list=PLnCt9Bzs1NjOw9feXIac_i6ve-hggGglq Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

This week, I'm chatting with my friend Moop, a flavorphile and music sommelier.  He's also a talented chef who creates magic right in his own kitchen. Moop shares how his cooking is a tribute to his ancestors, blending family traditions with his personal touch. We also dive into how he uses music to set the perfect vibe while whipping up his favorite dishes—it's like a full sensory experience in his kitchen! You can find more from Moop at https://www.foodfidelity.com/  You can also see more on @FoodFideltiy on Instagram and https://www.youtube.com/c/FoodFidelity Please visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for the full project and follow @KBevPhoto on Instagram to see what I'm up to.

After a short break, I'm thrilled to announce that the podcast will be starting back November 4th with a goal of releasing new episodes every 2 weeks!  In this short teaser, I discuss the new concept and introduce our first 4 guests! Tell a friend.  We're going to have some fun. Peace!  KBev

Hard to believe we have gotten to our 33rd episode - the recap of the 3rd and final loop of the travels.  In this episode, Keith & Taylor discuss the trip and the lessons learned when it comes to traveling like this.  Taylor shares some big news and Keith explains where “My Home is Special” goes next.   Spotify finally has my playlist on it, with the episodes in order, here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4ahLXbnjPKfJnyjby9lBKt?si=f94b351c22954b64   You can go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for photos and other content.  As always, the photos are also on KBevPhoto.com along with other work.  

Where did everything go?  England.  That's where.  In this episode we reconnect with Jon for a few minutes.  Then Keith and Taylor discuss seeing all the missing stuff.  Keith's fitness journey takes an unexpected turn which is part of story time.  Enjoy!   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Yikes!  What happens when you go to place that you've wanted to visit “forever”?  You end up with a lot to share.  This whopper of an episode includes a conversation with Sayed and a lot of reflection with Taylor.  In retrospect, we could have done a whole podcast on the time spent in Egypt.  It is an amazing place and this episode starts to explain why.   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Yeah, it sounds like Keith got hustled on Day 1, but may have found a new home.  History?  Yes, things happened in Greece, but is the evidence still there?  Despite the cattle call and a peculiar hotel, Keith saw the place where the influencers go.  Then he got to experience Sindi's home island and _really_ experience all the wonderful things about Greece.  Taylor and Keith cover a lot in this episode.  Enjoy! Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

How much should you pay to watch a game in your hotel?  Can you ever build a monument too big for yourself?  In this episode, Keith reconnects with Joao and talks about the visit to Portugal.  Taylor joins to discuss the trip and Keith's surprising connection to the country.  Enjoy!. Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Yikes!  There was a lot to share after the first stop on our 3rd trip.  In this episode, Keith reconnects with Kwame to talk about all the special places he visited in Ghana.  Keith and Taylor talk about a “homecoming” vibe, history, and more.  As an added bonus, we have a friend of the show come on and share the story of Ethical Apparel Africa (https://www.ethicalapparelafrica.com/), which was one of the best stops we made in Ghana.  It's a long episode, but worth it! Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

One of the most important benefits of traveling is the opportunity to see history and learn about "the world"from a totally different POV than what you're taught in school.   After 6 weeks traveling through 5 countries, Keith & Taylor catch up to reflect on some eye-opening moments in the region.  The US role in the region's development, feelings about the king, and "me vs. we" are all things that's that they discuss in this episode.  Oh yeah, and let's finally reveal how Taylor got her nickname:  The Butter Bandit. Be sure to visit www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com for photos and the other episodes.

We saw someone get beat up.  We booked a boardroom.  We had amazing nights.  We met some great people.   Yes.  It was all part of our trip to Thailand.  May Thai, food tasting, jazz, and more were fun parts of our time enjoying Oakley's home.  In this episode, Binkey joins Keith and Taylor for a discussion of one of the most amazing nights of this whole trip.  Plus, Taylor and I discuss all kinds of fun things about this stop on the journey.   Be sure to check the episode notes at www.myhomeisspecial.com to see some of the photos and people we discuss in this episode. 

Why don't you stare at people in his hometown?  How can I try to risk my life as we go around the city?   Our last stop is a familiar England, but we're hoping to get out to see more of the country on this trip.  Inspired by a longtime friend, I think we'll hit that goal this time.    Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Risking it all for photo?  A brawl on the train?  Sure... But more importantly papaya salad, great people and bumping into an old, new friend upon arrival. This recap episode has a little bit of everything.  Lao PDR was a great stop! Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing. 

Egypt has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember.  I was even more excited that Sayed agreed to talk about growing up there.  The work he did after college was unlike any gap year I've heard before.  It was all driven by his passion for making Egypt a better place.  He shares the story any more in this episode.   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

My goodness, we did a lot in Vietnam and had the best surprise on our last night in the country.  The food nearly risked the rest of the trip, since we had a hard time leaving so much deliciousness behind!  Taylor and I talk through a two week trip with 5 different stops in one of the coolest places to visit.    Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

As a photographer in the hip-hop community, I'm always in awe of how supportive it can be.  That is the community that came through with and introduction to BGirl Sindi.  I was already excited for my first visit to Greece, but this turned it up a notch.   Greece is stop #3 on Loop #3 and I'm pretty sure I'm going to eat ALLLL the food. Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing. 

The temples, the traffic flow, the food… Cambodia was a great start in Southeast Asia, although we had a somber set of visits planned at the start.  An unexpected surprise certainly lifted our spirits one our second stop.  Taylor and I discuss that and more in this episode.  A lot more, which is why it ran longer than most.   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing.

One thing a photographer always seeks it great light.  For that reason, I left my conversation with Joao really excited to get out in Portugal.  The dessert may be a problem though.  In this episode. Joao shares some really great insights, including how to get thrown out of a museum!    Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing. 

In the big city (Seoul) we saw the bright lights, smelled the great food, and felt underdressed everywhere we went. The properness of Seoul receded as the DMZ got real and the laid-back vibes of Jeju Island came into focus.  Then… we got to Loveland and saw a different side of Korea!  It's all in my discussion with Taylor. See the Loveland Post Here (https://myhomeisspecial.com/jeju-loveland/). This link is SFW, the gallery itself is NSFW.   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like wha you're hearing.

A first kiss?  Misheard lyrics?  Beer?  Yep.  This episode has it all.  Even better, we have TWO guests this time:  Kwame and Edem.  Visiting Ghana for the first time, it was great to hear about what makes it so special for this amazing couple that we consider family.    Ghana is our first stop on “Loop 3”, and with the visa saga behind us, we're already there as this episode is released.   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter (& see photos).  Also, be sure to share the word about the podcast if you like what you're hearing. 

During the gap between episodes, a lot has been happening behind the scenes!  We'll be back with new episodes in a little more than a week, but I had some big new I wanted to share!  LOL.  We've been planning this last trip for a while, but weren't sure any of it would happen...  

We got royalty on this episode!  Well, kinda.  Oakley shares a bit about what it's like growing up in Bangkok and watching it change over the years.  Going out with the “aunties”, finding new familiar-feeling restaurants, and enjoying the new parts of the city with old friends all keep Bangkok special.  More importantly, there's a lot to see outside of the city that's special too!   Thailand is the final stop on the Asia loop. Then we'll start reflecting again with Taylor   Big thanks to Christine for introducing me to Oakley and should out to Oakley for a great chat.     Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing.

After recording five recap episodes, Keith and Taylor pull up to reflect on the “First Loop” (South America) of the original trip loops that were planned.  We also get into what it takes to plan a trip like this, the vision for the project, and some “emerging lessons” after being away for so long. Taylor also makes an GREAT commitment at the end. Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to (1) see a few photos of what we talk about in this episode and (2) sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Sometimes you have to tap the network to find the right people.  In this case, the hip hop network helped connect us with Tomi (aka BBoy Tomizuka) who was born in France but lives in Laos.  In addition to discussing what makes Laos special for him, we also discuss a little bit of the history of breaking in Laos, with one of the OG's from the scene there.   Be sure to check the episode notes at www.myhomeisspecial.com to see some of the photos and people we discuss in this episode. 

The sounds of Uruguay's Carnaval accompany this conversation between Keith & Taylor about the trip to Uruguay.  Santiago and Coki shared what was special about Uruguay, and they described the country perfectly.   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to (1) see a few photos of what we talk about in this episode and (2) sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing.  

In this Episode, I share my reflections on Argentina and the experience of doing the things Emilia talked about in our episode.  Emilia joins to share a few more thoughts.  Afterwards, Taylor comes in to chat a bit more about the country and push on some areas of curiosity.  This one runs a bit longer, but it's worth it. Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to (1) see a few photos of what we talk about in this episode and (2) sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Food?  Celebrations?  Places to recharge?  Muun and I discuss what it's like being away from home a few weeks before she finally gets to return for Lunar New Year, or Tết .  She's an artist, dancer, model and so much more.  Oh yeah… for this episode...   BE SURE to visit the website, www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to see photos of Muun battling and modeling.  On the latter, I'd add that you rarely find models that can bring so many different looks to the table.  

After a great trip to Chile, it was time to reflect on the three stops we made during nearly two weeks there.  Taylor and I talk about the experience and why Chile was such a great stop.  Although Caro didn't rejoin us for this episode, she was a huge help to us while we were in Chile - especially in Santiago.     This was a fun conversation about a special place on the journey. Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to (1) see a few photos of what we talk about in this episode and (2) sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Like so many places, Cambodia has tragedy and triumph in its history.  Meta grew up in Chicago, but as the child of refugees fleeing war, his Cambodian heritage is a big part of his identity.  It was great to sit down and talk with Meta about Cambodia and the special places he visited and special experiences he's had during his trips “home”. Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing.  In the post for this episode, you can see photos related to this episode.

In this episode, Keith and Taylor discuss the “hidden gem” of South America - Bolivia.  From the city of La Paz to the remote Salt Flat in Uyuni, Bolivia was a great stop on the journey.  As always, there are experiences to share and stories to tell!   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to (1) see a few photos of what we talk about in this episode and (2) sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Korea is our first stop in Asia and Kerbie's experience growing up there helped shape her path as an artist living in the US.  After knowing Kerbie for so many years, it was great to hear her story and learn about the special aspects of her journey.   Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing. 

In this first “recap” episode, Keith hops back on the phone with Santiago to share a huge “Thank you”.  You also get to meet our new co-host - Taylor C.   Taylor and Keith discuss reflections and experiences in Peru.  Because of her talent as a storyteller, Taylor also sets some ground rules for these recaps - each one has to include a good story. Go to www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com to sign up for the newsletter and be sure to share the word on this podcast if you like what you're hearing.

Uruguay is our last stop in South America.  It wasn't a spot I knew much about, but I did know two people from there.  It was a roundabout way of meeting them, but one of them was up for the interview and that's how this episode came to be. After this episode we'll take a 2 week break before I drop a few recaps episodes.  After that, we'll be on to our next loop:  Asia. Don't forget to view the photos and other updates at www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com and check out @KBevPhoto.

Ever guess that Argentina has the best ice cream and pizza in the world?  This guest makes a strong case for it.  In this episode, we discuss a lot about Argentina and a bit about how life in the US is different.  As a result, it's a little bit longer.  There was just too much I wanted to include! We have one more episode after this to complete the South America series! Don't forget to follow along at www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com and @KBevPhoto.  

Time with friends and loved ones.  Sunsets that will make you want to cry.  The natural beauty.  These are all the things that we discuss in this episode.  This episode is all about Chile and Caro is the reason we'll be going from the top to the bottom of the country when we visit! She is the one that confirmed that the concept for this podcast would work and I'm grateful she made the time to chat about her home. Don't forget to follow along at www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com and @KBevPhoto.

Bolivia is a place I didn't know much about.  What a *did* know was that there are some unique places that I wanted to visit on this trip.  After talking with Ima, I'm even more excited to finally get there.  In this episode, you'll hear from a recent graduate living away from home in Chicago.  We're visiting a lot of highlights over the course of the week.  Can't wait. Don't forget to follow along at www.MyHomeIsSpecial.com and at @KBevPhoto.