The RuggedAngel Cast

This week, I am thrilled to welcome Sarah Raughley, a talented author whose journey from fan fiction to published novels is nothing short of inspiring. Sarah joins me to discuss her path as a writer, the influences that have shaped her storytelling, and the powerful themes in her upcoming book, "The Queen's Spade." Our conversation uncovers Sara's early passion for storytelling, her love for role-playing games, and the significance of representation in literature, especially for Black women. We delve into the historical backdrop of her work, the emotional challenges of exploring complex identities, and the vital role of reclaiming narratives. Sarah passionately advocates for more Black stories in literature, highlighting the empowerment that comes from seeing oneself as a hero. "The Queen's Spade," set for release on January 14, 2025, is a riveting historical thriller inspired by true events. Visit Sara Raleigh's Website Order "The Queen's Spade"

This week on The RuggedAngel Cast, I have the pleasure of chatting with Tetona Jackson, a rising star in the entertainment industry and one of the leads in the new CBS sitcom "Poppa's House." Co-starring alongside comedy icons Damon Wayans and his son Damon Wayans Jr., as well as the talented Essence Atkins, Tetona brings her unique flair to the screen. Our conversation explores Tetona's vibrant journey into the world of entertainment, her time as Princess Tiana on Disney on Ice, and how these experiences have shaped her career. Join us as Tetona opens up about the significance of representation, her cherished moments with her daughter, and her aspirations in the industry. Don't miss her insights into her character, Nina, and the delightful dynamics of "Poppa's House." Watch Poppa's House on CBS Follow Tetona Jackson on Instagram

This week on The RuggedAngel Cast, I reconnect with Maggie Lynn Negrete, a talented illustrator and member of the #notwhite Collective. We explore the profound impact of motherhood on her artistic journey and the constant quest for balance. Maggie shares her return to music as a source of joy for herself and her family, emphasizing the importance of finding moments of ease amidst the demands of parenting, especially during the pandemic. Our conversation delves into shared challenges in motherhood, such as the mental load's effect on creativity, and Maggie's transition from traditional illustration to digital art, which has revolutionized her process. Join us for a candid discussion about the seasons of life, the significance of community, and the therapeutic power of art and music. Don't miss Maggie's previous appearance in episode 60, and enjoy her triumphant return as RuggedAngel number 131. Explore the #notwhite Collective Listen to Maggie's Previous Episode

This week on The RuggedAngel Cast, I sit down with multidisciplinary artist and cultural worker Sara Tang, a proud member of the #notwhite collective. We delve into Sara's journey of self-discovery and her efforts to promote racial equity in the arts. Through her unique artistic process, which intriguingly involves using coffee as a medium, Sara aims to foster authentic connections and community healing through storytelling. We discuss her experiences with the #notwhite collective, the impact of growing up in a mixed-race household, and her work with the Asian American collective, Jaded. Sara shares how art and cultural exchange can be powerful tools for social change and personal growth. Follow Sarah Tang on Instagram Visit Sarah Tang's Website

This week on The RuggedAngel Cast, I welcome back Dr. Amber Epps, a dynamic artist and member of the #notwhite Collective. Amber returns to discuss her latest projects, including her newly published book, "Mushroom Logic, Volume One: Doves Can't Cry," and her artistic collaborations with her incarcerated brother. We explore the importance of validation and support within the artistic community, as well as the humanization of incarcerated individuals. Amber shares insights into her unique creative process, the inception of her Gallery of Rejected Art, and the profound impact of the #notwhite collective on her journey as an artist. Visit Arts N Crafts PGH Learn More About Dr. Amber Epps Explore the #notwhite collective RuggedAngel Cast #71

This week on I welcome filmmaker Dr. Augusta Palmer, fresh off her film festival circuit with her new documentary, "The Blues Society." The film delves into the history of the Memphis Country Music Festival and the vibrant community that brought it to life. Dr. Palmer shares her journey in making the film, the importance of preserving blues music history, and the challenges faced by Black artists whose contributions have often been overlooked. We also discuss the collaborative spirit behind "The Blues Society," the archival footage that brings the 1969 festival to life, and the personal connections that deepened her understanding of the era. Join us for an enlightening conversation about music, history, and the power of storytelling. Visit The Blues Society Film Website Follow The Blues Society Film on Instagram Follow The Blues Society Film on Facebook

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jordyn McIntosh, the youngest guest ever to grace the podcast. At just ten years old, Jordyn has already made a name for herself in Hollywood, starring alongside Will Smith in "Emancipation" and playing a young Sasha Obama in Showtime's "The First Lady." Currently, you can catch her in the Hulu comedy series "Unprisoned," where she plays the inner child of Kerry Washington's character, Paige. In this episode, Jordyn shares her experiences as a young actress, her passion for acting, and her future aspirations, which include dreams of Broadway. We dive into her journey from deciding to become an actress at four years old to landing her first role as young Sasha Obama. Join us for a heartwarming and insightful conversation with this multitalented young star. You won't want to miss it! Follow Jordyn McIntosh on Instagram Support The RuggedAngel Cast on Patreon

The RuggedAngel Cast is back with brand new episodes! I sit down with Carolina Loyola-Garcia, a multidisciplinary artist whose passion for capturing stories through photography, filmmaking, and flamenco dance has led her to create impactful documentaries. We delve into the significance of the #notwhite Collective, a group of women artists in Pittsburgh whose mission is to use non-individualistic, multi-disciplinary art to make their stories visible as they relate, connect, and belong to the Global Majority. Join us as we explore the importance of witnessing and being witnessed and learn about Carolina's unique and inspiring story.

Conceptual Artist and Arts Curator Tara Fey, has made a career telling stories the way she wants them to be told. Join us as we discuss the difficulties and triumphs Black artists experience, navigating through the white gaze. And Tara NOW has a website! https://www.tarafaycoleman.com/ https://linktr.ee/ruggedangel

The extroverted, introvert For All Nerds co-host gives us her story of “being the weird kid” to becoming the self-proclaimed Duchess of Tech. We also discuss the importance of feeding your passion and extending that invite to join the table. www.patreon.com/ForAllNerds https://linktr.ee/tatianaking

Sade Sellers is a podcast host/producer (Afro Horror) and Horror/Drama writer. She tells a great story about that time she set up an elaborate ruse in order not to attend film school.

Sarika Goulatia is a visual artist best known for her large-scale sensory sculptures and installations. Goulatia's work is diverse in theme, material, process, and approach, and so is her life. I talk with Sarika about her work process, feelings of belonging and not belonging in two worlds, and having permission to get to know who you are. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Missi Hasting is one-half of the band Mojo Holler. After years of working in a field that wasn't exactly feeding her creative needs, she pulled the plug to start all over.

Karen Maloney is a women's INSIDE OUT Coach, Soul Awakener, and Energy Practitioner. The podcast host (Curiosity and Consciousness Podcast) joins me to talk about her mission to help women ‘reprogram' themselves by revolutionizing their internal world and learning to "walk the talk". --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Artist Fran Flaherty and I have a talk about The Not White Collective, Anthropology of Motherhood, and breast milk art. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Numbers are everywhere. And if we study and pay attention to them, it's quite possible they can help steer us onto the path we need to be in life. LaVerne Baker Hotep just so happens to be able to educate you on that matter. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Sibyls Shrine is a new artist residency program for Black women, womxn, trans women, and femmes who are mothers and identify as artists, creatives, and/or activists in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. For these womxn, the challenges of parenting in combination with systemic racism and sexism often make the barriers to entry into the art world insurmountable. The Sibyls Shrine residency program uplifts Black creative mothers with opportunities for skill-sharing, self-care, safe space, and financial support in an effort to further develop their craft and presence in the art world. Hosts: Kahmeela Adams, Ashley Comens and Anqwenique Kinsel --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Jul 1, 2020 Jessica Gaynelle Moss is a recognized leader and an arts producer with over a decade of professional experience. In this episode, we specifically talk about her most recent projects, The Roll Up and Sibyl's Shrine. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Jun 25, 2020 If you are a fan of horror films, this will be a fun listen! Zena Dixon aka The Real Queen of Horror joins me to talk about DIY filmmaking, blogging and all things horror. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Jun 13, 2020 You may know actress Keili Lefkovitz from the movies Pain and Gain or Malibu's Most Wanted. But soon, you will get to know her for so much more, because she refuses to stand by and wait for opportunities to come to her. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

May 21, 2020 For over 30 years, Felicia has continued to joyfully practice Raja Yoga, which encompasses all aspects of her life: behavioral restraints, behavioral observances, movement, breathing techniques, sensory withdrawal, concentration, meditation, and self-realization through an intimate reflective practice. Personally, I like to think of Felicia a self care guru. I hope you can receive some healing light and inspiration from this conversation. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Jun 9, 2019 "Recognized as one of The Top Women Making Noise, Lauren Goshinski is a curator and event producer who works at the intersection of music, performance, digital art and the moving image". Lauren stops by to break all of this down as she describes carving out her own path, both literally and figuratively. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Apr 14, 2019 Writer and Yoga Practitioner Heather Manning, a self proclaimed "Black Hillbilly", chats with me about finding herself, the benefits of growing up "wild" and emotional healing. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Feb 7, 2019 Maya Henry joins me to talk about kicking fear in the teeth, finally making those life changes and why meal prep is so friggin daunting. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Jan 23, 2019 You know her as the materialistic Hilary Banks from The Fresh Prince of Bel Air. Now it's time to get to know Karyn Parsons as an educator, author, filmmaker and woman looking to change the way African-American history is taught, through Sweet Blackberry Foundation. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Dec 26, 2018 This woman has been my teacher, cheerleader, mentor, caregiver, and most of all my friend. It's time for you all to learn who my mom is. Please give a listen as we get a just a peek into her life and accomplishments. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Nov 1, 2018 Listen to the story of how a scrappy "Steeltown girl" turned herself into the Pittsburgh Maven of the Arts. Joy Sato joins me to talk about being one of the first of very few black arts administrators in Pittsburgh, her life at Motown, and doing the will of God. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Oct 8, 2018 Co-owner of Black Forge Coffee, Ashley Bianca Corts, opens up about holistic healing, fighting back against sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace and the business of starting a business. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Sep 18, 2018 Mary Ann McBride came in to the studio to discuss her career in film and being a doula. But midway through our conversation, I found out that she has been a surrogate, more than once, so I had to ask all of the questions that I have ever wanted to ask a woman who could give so much of herself. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Aug 29, 2018 Founder and VP of the Lincoln Lemington Neighborhood Revitalization Group came by to talk about her life of growing up "ghetto rich", improv acting, building community, revitalizing neighborhoods and so much more. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Aug 9, 2018 Jatolloa Davis is a midwife is here to talk all about catching babies and what it's like to be a part of such a spiritual and intimate moment in a family's life. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Aug 1, 2018 Singer/Songwriter Jill Sobule, takes a break from workshopping her new one woman show #FThe7thGrade to talk to me about junior high crushes, surviving the music industry and the intimacy of house concerts. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Jul 19, 2018 It's my 100th episode! My husband thought a great way to celebrate would be for me to be interviewed on my own show. In this episode, I unveil my creative processes, awkward teen years and love for the people in my life. Ok...here we go! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Jun 17, 2018 Playwright/Songwriter/Experience Designer, Molly Rice and I discuss some female serial killers because Molly has written and produced a show called Angelmakers: Songs for Female Serial Killers. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Jun 5, 2018 Artist Christine Bethea has been through some dark times, but has managed to come out on the other end with grace, joy and faith. Listen as she tells her story of finding strength. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: May 22, 2018 It's not always easy to admit to yourself that you aren't fully following your passions. Linsey McDaniel is on a journey of self discovery. And that journey has led her to starting her own business. Linsey joins me chop it up about taking the leap, African dance, black women's hair care and not being a very good Engineer. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: May 9, 2018 The Movie Scene Queen joins me to discuss film and finding time to following your passion as you hold down a family. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: May 2, 2018 Jenn Saffron, PR/Marketing Guru and owner of Sprezzatura Catering takes a moment to sit down with me to talk about her life, the importance of community, and her love for feeding people. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Apr 18, 2018 Listen to this super episode with Jameelah Lewis aka The Wine Lady of Fruit of the Vine. Walk away with tips on loving yourself, being kind to your wine and get "Wine Woke". --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Apr 11, 2018 This week I got to chat with the "DIY Maker Maven" and the Director and Founder of Assemble, Nina Barbuto. Nina has a passion for art, new media, social learning, architecture, film, urban acupuncture, and would like to use the word "rainbow" to describe herself. We talk about it all of it. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Apr 2, 2018 This week's guest is Kristine Irwin. An extremely brave woman who survived a sexual assault and has chosen to use what happened to her to help give a voice to other survivors. Please check out her non-profit, Voices of Hope, as well as her book of the same name, that focuses on not just how the attack affected her, but how it also affected her loved ones. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Mar 23, 2018 The Kelly Strayhorn Theater in Pittsburgh, was so kind as to include The RuggedAngel Cast in the Sunstar Festival line up. Internationally based fashion designer, Tereneh Idia joins me to talk about sustainable fashion and her experiences gaining trust and collaborating with the women of Oneida Indian Nation and Kenya. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Mar 13, 2018 This week's guest is multi disciplinary artist, Lindsey Scherloum. Lindsey is currently and Artist in Residence with the Office of Public Art, working with the United Somali bantu Group of Pittsburgh. We have a great conversation about self discovery that involves the time that she decided to walk from Ashville NC to Columbus OH. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Feb 17, 2018 You may know Tina Alexis Allen as Shurn from the wildly popular TV show Outsiders. Now, get to know her as an author. Her new memoir, HIDING OUT: A Memoir of Drugs,Deception, and Double Lives, is wilder than fiction. Settle in for Tina's truth. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Jan 22, 2018 If you are in the public art game, more than likely you know Renee Piechocki. For the past 13 years, Renee has been the founding Director of the Office of Public Art here in Pittsburgh. She has recently decided to hand the crown over to Sallyann Kluz and spend her time traveling the world and concentrating on her own art. We have a very open conversation about her childhood, what brought her to Pittsburgh and how she got to be so damn awesome. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Dec 13, 2017 I got to know President and CEO of 1Hood Media, Celeste Smith. This strong and beautiful soul talked about reclaiming her time, finding her footing in a new city, and setting a good example. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Dec 2, 2017 Liz Labacz, the C is silent, joins me to talk about Arcade Comedy Theater, Frankly Scarlett Comedy, the benefits of attending an all girls school, and finding her birth mother. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Nov 22, 2017 Photographer and Owner of Lioness Photography, Richena Brockinson joined me to talk about her career. Whether she is giving thanks to those who have helped her on her creative path or explaining what keeps her going as a teaching artist, it becomes apparent, that mentoring is very important to Richena. She is a true inspiration. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Nov 8, 2017 Jordan Corcoran suffers from generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Upon being diagnosed, Jordan decided to make sure that negative didn't define her and she turned it into a positive, which is known as Listen, Lucy. The website encourages people to let out and let go of what is holding them down. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Nov 8, 2017 Filmmaker, Carrie Collins came by to fill us in on her new TV project, Mulligan. Carrie talks more about that, indie filmmaking, the Carnegie Screenwriters and more. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support

Original Air Date: Oct 22, 2017 “Yeah, I definitely laughed in someone's face when they tried to make-out with me.” - Allison Powell Writer, Actor, awkward lover --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ruggedangel-cast/support