Podcast appearances and mentions of Christopher Michael

Christopher Michael from HomeBrewed Comics joins us again to discuss the continuing work of  C.R.I.T. and the many changes that have occurred since we last spoke. There is a lot! DOWNLOAD  C.R.I.T.: He Who Would Be King By Chris Sahloff.Cover By Robert … Continue reading →

Darkwind Chronicles: The First Act by Christopher Michael CifelliNearing the end of days for their world Magnelin Darkwind and Delphine Lightwind must embark on a journey of self discovery and repentance before they can stop an ancient evil that once almost brought their world to the brink of ruin from finishing the job. Their journey will take them across the land of Hearth meeting new friends and recruiting new allies and former foes of different races along the way. All the while uncovering a conspiracy that is pitted against them turning their allies against each other.It is only the beginning for them. And in the end the weak become strong the strong become stronger.My name is Christopher Michael Cifelli the only born child of Donato and Angelina Cifelli. I live in Philadelphia PA born and raised. I went to Edwin Bok Vocational High School and graduated in 2006. My hobbies are video games and writing stories. AMAZON-THE FIRST ACThttps://www.darkwind-chronicles.com/https://www.urlinkpublishing.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/42425ccurl.mp3   Darkwind Chronicles: The Second ActContinuing where the First Act left off, Magnetin and Delphine must depart ways in order to gather enough information and recruit enough allies in order to end eons of suffering brought onto the world by a parasite that was responsible for inciting the Orcish Horde, infecting Aeternum and leading to the Mad War. Meanwhile, Jacob the Betrayer has been on an ill-conceived crusade against those who participated in these events and has went off the deep end. With everything coming to a head, the final battle is at hand. AMAZON-THE SECOND ACTDarkwind Chronicles: The Third Act   Available soonhttps://www.darkwind-chronicles.com/

The Rustman is here and we couldn't be more thrilled! Not only was Jordan Christopher Michael's character the reason for utter chaos in Season 4, but he was also Jodie Sweetin's very first kiss on screen & in real life!! But, did Jordan play the part of Rusty TOO well? He tells us exactly how fans treated him after his first appearance, and let's just say, some people weren't too kind... It's another Full House reunion you don't want to miss, and it's all here on How Rude, Tanneritos! Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An International literary artist, Texas poet laureate nominee and nationally ranked slam poet who manages to turn life into written and spoken works of art. He is a regular at Austin Poetry Slam since he won his first Grand Slam title in 2005. Christopher is an MC, champion, host, writer, author, educator, publisher, pappy, professor veteran and nurse. Christopher Michael uses poetry to address mental health, relationship accountability, and Black American history. He's the resident host at Austin Slam, EncoreATX and Master Piece's For Love of Words (F.L.O.W.) Show case and F.L.O.W. International. He is the founder of 310 Brown Street publishing that seek to make poets immortal. His latest book “Black Type Poems” will take you on the poetic ride that you deserve. You can learn more by going to www.mrmichael310.com

Join us for a transformative episode of 'The Queer Quest Podcast' where I sit down with Christopher Michael, a conversational intuitive dedicated to helping people in the queer community discover their true selves.

Christopher Michael from C.R.I.T: Robo Renaissance is the featured guest this week in Episode #648! Chris returns and has a Kickstarter crowdfunding project underway for C.R.I.T: Robo Renaissance that will conclude on July 26! The project is described this way: “Join C.R.I.T. (Constantly Running Into Trouble) as they seek justice, uncover secrets, and unravel the Goblin King's deadly mystery.” We discuss how this comic came to be and what else Chris is up to, so be sure to listen to this fun interview! Major Spoilers Podcast Network Master Feed RSS Feed Show your thanks to Major Spoilers for this episode by becoming a Major Spoilers Patreon member. It will help ensure Wayne's Comics Podcast continues far into the future!

NYC Artist Christopher Michael talks to Nathan Gene and guest cohost dj__shawty about his show at POP GUN in Chinatown, making connections in Ireland, AI voices in Ecuador, the digital afterlife, his upcoming film release downtown in August, the religious impulses of virtual life and the future of augmented eternity. Full Video Episode

Join Scott "Shalom" Klein on his weekly radio show, Get Down To Business with guests: Daron Christopher Michael Chagala Chantel Roberts

Welcome to Big Papa Rob Podcast Story Rewind “The Missing”, I'm Big Papa Rob. Each of my stories are about one of the many missing people out there. I rewind the story of a missing person in hopes that someone will hear this story and can share information to help find them. There is always someone who knows something that can help find this missing person.The missing person we are going to tell you the story of is Christopher Dietterick. Christopher went missing May 30, 2019, In Elkton, Maryland.Sara was alerted by Chris is doctors on June 5th that Chris didn't show up for his appointment. June 7th Sara reported Chris missing to the Elkton police.  This is when Sara started searching for Chris. As the search and investigation into his disappearance started it was discovered that he left Sue and Bills home May 30. To go over to the health department to pick up a external battery for his cell phone he had left there. Based on google maps it would have taken him 16 min to walk .7miles. Once there he is seen with a security camera entering the heath department at 11:00am. He is seen talking to some friends as he was approaching the entrance. When he left the health department, he and his two friends walked over to the Help center.  This man is a father, son, and brother. If he had succumbed to his illnesses he would have already been found. There appears to me there could be foul play in this case. When putting this case together it caused me to recall last week's case with Bobby and the fear that something was going to happen to him if he didn't get out of Elkton, is something going on in Elkton with the homeless community?  This man deserves the same investigative attention as any other case. I hope that the Elkton PD hasn't given up on this case. Let's talk about Chris's description. Christopher Michael Dietterick was 41 years old and is now 46, 5'10” tall weighing 160lbs, White Male, Red/Auburn hair, and blue eyes.He has a scar on his left Calf from having a tumor removed, and a scar on right chest area from a chemo port.  He also has a unique tattoo on his left calf that reads Pear Jam and a stick figure. This tattoo was meant to say Pearl Jam. He has a tattoo on his left shoulder of the San Diego Chargers Logo of a storm cloud and lightning bolt.He walks with a very distinctive limp.If you have any information that can lead to the where abouts of Chris, please contact the Elkton Police Department at 410-398-4200 Case Number 19-001909Today's music was The Shield by Hot Dope from Pixabay  This was a Big Papa Rob Podcast 2024 see the show notes for links to the reference material used in this podcast. Main sources of Reference MaterialFacebook Chris's CauseNamUsSara DietterickYou can find all my social media links: https://linktr.ee/bigpaparobpodcast Let me know what you think of the podcast and submit story ideas to bigpaparobpodcast@gmail.com Don't forget to share and rate my podcast if you enjoyed it.If you would like to support my podcast, Buy me a cup of coffee : https://bmc.link/bigpaparobpodcast

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-american-studies

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/caribbean-studies

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/british-studies

Historians of early America, slavery, early African American history, the history of science, and environmental history have interrogated the complex ways in which enslaved people were thought about and treated as human but also dehumanized to be understood as private property or chattel. The comparison of enslaved people to animals, particularly dogs, cattle, or horses, was a common device deployed by enslavers. The letters, memoirs, and philosophical treatises of the enslaved and formerly enslaved reveal the complex ways in which enslaved people analyzed and fought these comparisons. Dr. Chris Blakely focuses on human-animal relationships to unpack “how, where, and when did such decisions regarding the chattel nature of human captives take place?”  In Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World (LSU Press, 2023), they argue that slaving and slavery relied on and generated complex human-animal networks and relations. Exploring these groupings leads to a deeper understanding of how enslavers worked out the process of turning people into chattel and laid the foundations of slavery by mingling enslaved people with nonhuman animals. Efforts to remake people into property akin to animals involved exchange and trade, scientific fieldwork that exploited curiosity, and forms of labor. Using the correspondence of the Royal African Company, specimen catalogs and scientific papers of the Royal Society, plantation inventories and manuals, and diaries kept by slaveholders, Dr. Blakley describes human-animal networks spanning from Britain's slave castles and outposts throughout western Africa to plantations in the Caribbean and the American Southeast. They combine approaches from environmental history, history of science, and philosophy to examine slavery from the ground up and from the perspectives of the enslaved. Dr. Chris Blakley is a visiting assistant professor in the Core Program at Occidental College and a historian interested in more-than-human relationships with a focus on racialization and empire-building. Empire of Brutality: Enslaved People and Animals in the British Atlantic World is their first book and they are just beginning a second project on science, race, and the senses in the nineteenth century.  Daniela Lavergne served as the editorial assistant for this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/book-of-the-day

Sadly, divorce is a part of our culture. It also sad to admit that we don't hear much from men when it comes to divorce. Thankfully, we had our homie Christopher Michael pull up on us and get unapologetically REAL with us. In this second version of When Men Finally Talk, we take it there. Dating, marriage, divorce, recovery, and even a near-death experience are all covered in this recording. In keeping with our mission of bringing authentic conversations amongst men to the forefront, we at thatippingpoint are COMMITTED to helping men be better. Not only for themselves, but for our society. We are changing the narrative, and we couldn't do it without all of your support. Want more? Check us out on Instagram and YouTube @thatippingpoint

We are thrilled to welcome back to the show for our final full length episode of 2023 Dr. Christopher Michael Roman! Dr. Roman is a Professor of English at Kent State University and he specializes in Comics Studies and the Graphic Novel, LGBTQ+ Literature and Queer Theory. The Professor is here to talk about his book Queering Wolverine in Comics and Fanfiction: A Fastball Special which discusses the ways in which Wolverine is a queer hero and examines his representation as an open, vulnerable, and kinship-oriented queer hero in both comics and fanfiction. It is an eclectic and very thought provoking discussion! After that our esteemed guest and not-so esteemed hosts sit down to a virtual comic roundtable to discuss recent reads like Unleashed, Wesley Dodds: The Sandman, Monstress and Wild's End! Hit SNIKT and enjoy!   

Meet Christopher Michael, a visionary coach who's been igniting self-discovery and empowering individuals for over 20 years. With a background as a talented hairstylist,Christopher has honed his skills in building deep, personal connections with his clients. But he felt a calling to go deeper, to help others tap into their own inner power. Christopher knows that language is a powerful tool that not only describes ourexperiences but shapes them. He's a master at using this knowledge to understand himself and now, as a certified coach, he's on a mission to help others do the same.PS. Since this interview a few months, I have been fortunate to keep in touch with him  and proud to call him a friend!https://www.instagram.com/cmichaelcoaching/https://www.cmichaelcoaching.comPlease do me a favor, subscribe, leave a positive review on iTunes, follow us on Instagram and share if you know anyone who would benefit from this or other episodes!Do you want to work with me? Reach out and let me know!https://www.instagram.com/youwinninglife/https://www.tiktok.com/@youwinninglifehttps://linktr.ee/jasonwasserlmftThank you for joining me on this ride!Jason Wasser Therapist/CoachOnline Tele-Therapy & Coaching

Gordon von Steiner is a force of youthful creativity and talent in the world of fashion film. In this episode, Christopher Michael sits down with von Steiner to discuss how the recent Grammy nominee—for directing Troye Sivan's showstopping music video “Rush”—honed his passions into a creative practice from a young age and evolved as an artist in tandem with changes to the fashion, art, and culture industries. Raised in Toronto on cinema classics by filmmakers such as David Lynch, Pedro Almodóvar, and Woody Allen, von Steiner moved to New York to attend NYU's prestigious Tisch School of the Arts. After an internship with GQ, he spoke to a friend at the artist agency Art & Commerce to seek advice on what to do next. It was through that conversation that he ultimately found a champion for his work in legendary photographer Steven Meisel, who catapulted his innovative work in fashion film at a critical cultural moment onto platforms like Vogue and W Magazine. He discusses what it's like to fulfill your childhood dreams: For him, it's been fueled more by excitement than intimidation, finding validation in the process of coming up with concepts, carrying them out to completion with friends and collaborators, and resonating with audiences who admire the emotional appeal of his visual storytelling.

London-born photographer and SHOWstudio founder Nick Knight has remained at the forefront of what's contemporary since his emergence into the fashion photography scene in the 1970s. Over the course of an illustrious career, Knight has worked closely with the likes of Alexander McQueen, Lady Gaga, Bjork and John Galliano, as well as with fashion houses such as Christian Dior, Tom Ford, Louis Vuitton, and Yves Saint Laurent, among many others. Bringing an outsider's insight into the fashion and art worlds, he began pushing boundaries in the '80s in collaborations with i-D magazine and revolutionary designer Yohji Yamamoto. He has directed the trailblazing fashion film platform SHOWstudio for over two decades, pioneering new modes of artistic expression and audience connection. In a thoughtful conversation with Christopher Michael, Knight reflects on how he maintains a sense of artistic integrity and urgency—with or without the validation of commercial success. His hunger to continue to learn has driven not only a varied career spanning music, art, and fashion through the lens of the camera, but also kept him at the forefront of technological innovation, whether with SHOWstudio or a riveting perspective on AI—comparing it to the birth of photography and the internet—and how we will evolve.

Meet Christopher Michael, a visionary coach who's been igniting self-discovery and empowering individuals for over 20 years. With a background as a talented hairstylist, Christopher has honed his skills in building deep, personal connections with his clients. But he felt a calling to go deeper, to help others tap into their own inner power. Christopher knows that language is a powerful tool that not only describes our experiences but shapes them. He's a master at using this knowledge to understand himself and now, as a certified coach, he's on a mission to help others do the same. Get ready to unleash your full potential with Coach Christopher Michael!To connect with Christopher, visit cmichaelcoaching.com

In which Jay sits down with scholar Christopher Michael Roman to discuss his recent book, Queering Wolverine in Comics and Fanfiction: A Fastball Special; alongside queer theory, porous bodies, and nontraditional mentorship.

British makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench has been challenging our perceptions of beauty and creativity for the past decade. She attributes her unconventional approach to beauty, one that escapes commonality and mainstream aesthetics and paves the way for bold innovation, to her family's background in engineering and problem-solving. Spurred by a face painting side hustle, her nontraditional rise in the industry saw her take on pivotal creative roles—such as brand ambassador, creative director, and global beauty director—for luxury brands, such as Tom Ford, YSL, Christian Louboutin, Burberry Beauty, Byredo, and today, beauty curator for Off White. In 2022, she launched her makeup brand, ISAMAYA, an evolving line of progressive beauty products entrenched in the zeitgeist. In this episode, Isamaya shares with Christopher Michael her perspectives on cultivating creative audacity and innovation in beauty. Some may consider her work subversive, yet she sees it as contextual and impulse-driven—LIPS, the brand's penis-shaped lipstick, was influenced by conversations around gender and sexuality. What's contemporary now? Isamaya believes it's time for people to acknowledge and accept that having a different opinion, preference, or approach is okay. “Just leave people alone and let them get on with their lives.” Episode Highlights: Creative audacity: Isamaya attributes her creative edge and audacity to her upbringing—having grown up in a family of engineers and creatives. Penis-shaped lipstick: Isamaya is often driven by impulse; she's very receptive to what's happening around her, so it's no surprise the discussions around gender, nudity, and sexuality have indirectly influenced her work. However, more than anything, LIPS was a logical decision. Global beauty director: Is it challenging working for brands? “It's about having different experiences,” Isamaya says. Although she values the creative freedom of having her own brand, she enjoys the collaborative aspect and various parameters of working with other brands. Side hustle: She worked her way up from face painting to semiprofessional body painting to makeup artistry. Product design: Isamaya describes her love/hate relationship with product design and how it is a part of her path to success. Favorite clients? Junya Watanabe and Tom Brown—to name a few. Isamaya looks for a strong sense of self and a willingness to push creative boundaries when partnering with designers or brands; to find new territory while maintaining a concise brand aesthetic and philosophy. Advice: “If you're passionate about something and you want to do it, do it. You only live once!” What's next? Collaborations, new makeup collections, and a documentary about global beauty aesthetics and ideals. What's contemporary now? “Just leave people alone and let them get on with their lives.” 

This week I have the pleasure of interviewing Christopher Michael, a visionary coach who has been igniting self-discovery & empowering individuals for over 20 years! Christopher's background as a talented hairstylist has allowed him to build strong personal connections with his clients. This connection led him to discover his true calling– helping others tap into their own inner power. Christopher believes that LANGUAGE is a powerful tool that not only describes our experiences but shapes them. He has used this knowledge to understand himself better, and as a certified coach, he is on a mission to help others do the same. Join us as we dive into Christopher's journey and learn how he ignites self-discovery in others! Connect with Christopher: Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook   Connect with Mike: Linktree Mike'D Up! Merch   Resource: Dr. Masaru Emoto - Water Experiments https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qQUFvufXp4   Produced By: Social Chameleon Recorded via: Riverside.fm

Fashion journalist, writer, and broadcaster Tim Blanks has had a front-row seat to many defining, pivotal moments in the fashion industry since 1985. Throughout his prolific career, he has witnessed countless transformational trends, with his byline appearing in international magazines and newspapers, including Vogue, GQ, Financial Times, Fantastic Man, and Interview. Previously, host of the globally syndicated television show Fashion File for a 20-year stint, he was as well editor-at-large at style.com. Today, he is editor-at-large of Business of Fashion and a celebrated author and contributor to various monographs and volumes on fashion royalty, such as Anna Sui, Dolce & Gabbana, Alexander McQueen, and Michael Roberts. In this lively conversation with Christopher Michael, he contextualizes trends related to everything from branding and sustainability to creative talents and human needs, which attract people to the art of fashion. Tim's insights reflect a unique perspective on the industry's evolution and a deep, intuitive understanding of the vulnerabilities and desire for validation that drive even the most successful industry icons. Although Tim celebrates the fault lines he sees redefining today's fashion landscape with new inclusive language and geographic diversity, he also spotlights global issues such as social and environmental justice, prompting a reckoning of sorts within the fashion industry—and the world at large. Ultimately, it's all about keeping creatives relevant in an era of turbocharged change and adaptation. Episode Highlights: Starting out: Starting university at age 15 helped him evade bullying and launched his experience of making “all those mistakes that change your life.” Connecting with fashion: Tim's limited exposure to fashion while coming into adulthood in New Zealand when he realized images had the power to shock or amaze. First rung: A detour into filmmaking in Canada eventually morphed into freelance writing and, ultimately, a full-time gig at a fashion magazine and a high-visibility role hosting the global TV show Fashion File. Staying fresh: Keeping something of an outsider's perspective has helped blunt any cynicism about the fashion industry. Inside-outsider: The curiosity—and an eye inspired by filmmaking—has defined Tim's unique approach to fashion's personalities and untold stories. Reflecting and projecting: Fashion has a dual role as a mirror of culture and a harbinger of social trends on the horizon. Community of misfits: Tim believes fashion has historically drawn outsiders, agitators, and visionaries into a tribe bound by creative energy. A circus. A roving family! Human longing: The “hole in our soul” Tim believes we are constantly trying to fill or offset with validation from our peers—an impulse at odds with how social media actually makes us feel. Stand-out moments: Witnessing an interview in which LouLou de la Falaise was the translator for a reluctant Yves St. Laurent; 90s runway shows that were cultural high points, including spectacular shows featuring Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Christian Lacroix; and getting the opportunity to talk to Helmut Lang for the first time. Assessing AI: Tim believes that ChatGPT and other machine learning could create informational bridges and—with good intent—positive, beneficial results. At odds: The challenge to reconcile environmentally wasteful “gigantism” and corporate sustainability in the billion-dollar corporate branding and production world. What's contemporary now? Simmering rage, confusion, chaos, fear, an urge to fight, and a puzzlingly benign (rather than punk) attitude in fashion in contrast to the climate crisis, political unrest, and pandemic fallout. What should be contemporary now? A revolutionary spirit to fuel change, even at great lengths. It's time for idealism coupled with pragmatism, expressing itself in action—with fashion playing a part.

Bestselling author and podcast host Gabby Bernstein believes unresolved trauma negatively impacts our lives and deprives us of the ability to connect. Gabby, one of the "soulful thinkers" featured on Oprah's Super Soul Sunday, explores the importance of doing the work to be present to each other—and foremost ourselves—amidst the noise and alienation found everywhere in today's world. In this episode, she explains to Christopher Michael wounding left untended is at the root of toxic emotions like alienation, anger, and judgment. She shares her own experiences with traumatic dissociation and drug addiction and her practices and path to wholeness. Highlighting ways to combat hypervigilance, diffuse "impostor syndrome," and lean into reconnection with our bodies, she stresses that even the most mindful among us will always be a work in progress. What's contemporary now? "A trend toward well-being and a concerted effort to get out of our bubbles, seeking stability through connection." Episode Highlights: Friendly vs. hostile: Gabby believes that the problems in the world arise from poor choices made from a place of unresolved childhood trauma. Common ground: Shared core beliefs founded in love and compassion enable us to work and live with people with different views. Objective reality: Unresolved childhood wounding often appears in projection forms that invite our curiosity and self-compassion (along with boundaries). See it, be it: Manifestation is about clearing beliefs, fears, or insecurities that hold us back from assuming the energy of what we truly desire. Analysis paralysis: A closer look at Gabby's journey to transparency, vulnerability, and authentic truth as a vehicle for connection.  Gabby's path: She turned away from a life as a nightlife publicist, numbed her painful trauma with drugs and alcohol, and went on to embrace sobriety and honesty. Walking the talk: Holding space for and witnessing the transformation of others—particularly women she has sponsored— has been healing for Gabby.  Doing the work: Gabby uses therapy and other tools to combat impostor syndrome or feelings of emptiness that crop up—no matter how successful we are. The control trap: Living in safety is the best way to heal hypervigilant nervous systems, including through modalities. Being present: Gabby finally feels fully alive and attuned to her body and is no longer shut off to mental and physical connection. Creating connection: For those who have experienced complex trauma, creating connection is a long, slow process of gently thawing dissociative reflexes without triggering panic. (recommended reading: "Happy Days: The Guided Path from Trauma to Profound Freedom and Inner Peace.") ; For those struggling with everyday life's stresses, grounding practices, movement practices, and meditation to center, calm, and help visualize healing and well-being. Words of wisdom: "When we learn how to explore and change our minds about the world we see, then our experience (and our experience of our experience) of the world changes accordingly. And that mental shift is miraculous!"

New York–based photographer Ethan James Green is renowned for his distinct eye and the intimacy and openness portrayed in his work. An early career in modeling and exposure to some of the great photography visionaries of the times paved the path to a whirlwind career in fashion. Today his work, which has appeared in prominent publications and campaigns—including Dazed, i-D, M le Monde, Perfect, Vogue Italia, Vogue, and W, as well as Alexander McQueen, Dior, Fendi, and Louis Vuitton—spotlights elemental themes, such as contemporary identity, sexuality, and style. A published author, his books reflect on and display the scope of queer identity of the past decade, feminine performance, erotic costume, and beauty. Hailing from Michigan and raised in a religious household, he chats about his spiritual journey, as well as discovering and integrating with the queer community. In this episode, he relays to Christopher Michael how he shifts between his two worlds, of fashion as a photographer and art as a gallerist, highlighting the need to create bridges among generational aesthetics and perspectives. What's Contemporary Now? Being authentic, breaking rules, and moving forward even when it's uncomfortable. Episode Highlights: Point of entry: New York (via Tokyo) was the initial inspiration for the 17-year-old model. Working with the greats: Ethan learned a lot while modeling for some of the preeminent fashion photographers of the time, such as Steven Meisel (how to communicate a commanding, confident voice without aggression), Mikael Jansson, and David Sims (how to streamline the process of capturing iconic images and the tricks that facilitate success). Out of Michigan: Ethan staked his claim as a model—and ultimately a photographer—by leveraging determination and a homegrown portfolio that attracted notice. Turning point: Ethan's mentor is the artist and photographer behind the 2011 book "David Armstrong: 615 Jefferson Avenue"—he embodied and modeled integrity. Moving beyond: Ethan's fundamentalist upbringing proved a beautiful challenge, allowing a personal spiritual journey that led him to understand what was true for him. Doing the work: Integrating with the queer community opened Ethan to an entirely new community that replaced his childhood church community. Trans awareness: Understanding his struggle as a gay man in a broader context. Making it: The moment Ethan knew he'd made it: covers for Vanity Fair, Vogue, and an Alexander McQueen campaign. Then Rihanna! That was a moment. A perfect superstorm: Ethan became sober just before the pandemic and found himself subsequently challenged in his ability to connect as an artist and individual. Gravitating towards art: Ethan embraced an artistic ethic that opened up a transgenerational conversation across artists, galleries, and social media. Bridging spaces: To span modeling, photography, and now gallery art seamlessly, Ethan had to find brilliant collaborators; pursue other work before focusing on fashion photography; assist where he could; find a mentor; and break some rules! What's Contemporary Now? What's authentic to the moment, but also what's synthetic to the moment? It is mixing collaboration and multiple perspectives to advance the conversation, taking the next step, even if uncomfortable, and breaking the rules to move forward.

Fashion stylist, editor, and entrepreneur Clare Richardson is a champion of environmentally conscious fashion. Previously the Fashion Director at Holiday Magazine, Clare is a contributing fashion editor at British Vogue, and her work has been featured in M le Monde, Vogue Paris, Vogue Italia, and many more. In 2020, she launched a highly curated resale platform Reluxe Fashion, which promotes fashion sustainability and circularity. In this episode, Clare chats with Christopher Michael about her journey: from a shy young teen and Central Saint Martins College to fashion editorials, working with legacy brands—such as Hermes, Balenciaga, and Calvin Klein, and advocating for slow fashion practices. She highlights her concerns about fashion greenwashing and how it affects modern consumers' choices. With Reluxe, she's aiming to create the antithesis of fast fashion, build an informed community around sustainable fashion, and underscore that all small steps matter in making a difference. What's contemporary now? "Expressing yourself truthfully." Episode Highlights: Escapism and inspiration: Clare grew up as a shy and nerdy girl, but once she discovered fashion magazines, she found a sense of escapism, inspiration, and a whole new world where she could express herself.  Central Saint Martins College: Total freedom can be overwhelming, so you have to throw yourself into it and manage your time correctly, and In the end, it makes you stronger. Follow your gut: decide which avenue to go down in your fashion career. A passion for styling: Clare discovered her love for styling through trial and error; it came naturally to her. She felt inspired by the teams she worked with and loved the research. Married to fashion: Clare is married to a fashion photographer, so she needs to set boundaries and prioritize getaways to find a balance between the fashion world and her world. Sustainability and fashion: Clare constantly educates herself on climate change, how the fashion industry contributes to it, and how her values align—or do not align—with what the industry is doing. Reluxe Fashion: Clare's daughter influenced her decision to start and develop the brand. She details Reluxe Fashion's impact on the world and how she wants to shift how people think about fashion. Resale vs. circular fashion: What is the difference between resale and circular fashion, and why is greenwashing affecting consumer choices? Boosting fashion sustainability: Money talks! As a consumer, ask yourself, "Where do you spend your money? Do you need it? Does it need to be new? What brands are you supporting? What are their values?" Collaborations: They play a significant role in fashion because they inspire, engage, and excite customers. They create a broader reach for brands and products. Roles: Clare spotlights the differences between her role as a fashion stylist and her role as a curator for Reluxe. Clare's advice: Environmentally conscious fashion stylists and editors should be true to themselves. "If you believe in it and it matters to you, make it part of your job. Find a tribe of people that inspires you."

Christopher Michael, a visionary coach who's been igniting self-discovery and empowering individuals for over 20 years. With a background as a talented hairstylist, Christopher has honed his skills in building deep, personal connections with his clients. But he felt a calling to go deeper, to help others tap into their own inner power. Christopher knows that language is a powerful tool that not only describes our experiences but shapes them. He's a master at using this knowledge to understand himself, and now, as a certified coach, he's on a mission to help others do the same. Get ready to unleash your full potential with Coach Christopher Michael! https://www.cmichaelcoaching.com https://www.instagram.com/cmichaelcoaching/ linktr.ee/cmichaelcoaching

Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, the dynamic design duo behind New York–based womenswear brand Proenza Schouler, share their thoughts on the evolving fashion marketplace with Christopher Michael and how they've seen their work mature and scale with it. Their illustrious journey started 20 years ago at Parsons School of Design when they completed a joint senior thesis collection, which grabbed the attention of retail heavyweight Barneys New York. In their triumphant rise to a successful, prominent luxury label, they navigated social media noise and kept up with the breakneck pace of a never-ending, fast-paced global production cycle. Working in tandem has been vital to them, extending the emotional, creative, and practical support that buttressed Proenza Schouler's growth and longevity.  What's Contemporary Now? A celebration of individuality, keeping the work authentic to the brand's core values, and a broad embrace of all kinds of perspectives while also sticking to your vision and not just being a follower. Episode Highlights: Getting the name right: Pronounced Pro'ensa Skool'er, the name represents the combination of the designers' mothers' maiden names.  Origin stories: Born and raised in Miami, Lazaro fell in love with magazines and design early, ultimately abandoning pre-med to attend Parsons School of Design. Jack spent his early childhood in Japan before relocating to New Jersey as a teen, a "culture shock" that preceded his move to Parsons School of Design. Aha moments: The early influences that shaped Lazaro's interest in the fashion industry and Jack's focus shifting away from the visual arts in college. Becoming a brand: Pulling all-night design sessions as college students cemented the bond between Jack and Lazaro, in terms of style and approach to work.  Turning point: What ensued after the fashion duo was introduced to Julie Gilhart, who was running Barneys New York and became a champion of their first collection—conceived and designed as an award-winning joint thesis project. Early days bootstrapping: The team figured out all the design, manufacturing, pricing, marketing, and other functions that came to be known as Proenza Schouler. (A name they came up with within two days.) What has changed: Jack reflects on today's increased "noise" level in the fashion marketplace, the "endless list" of would-be designers online, and the need to differentiate. Lazaro contrasts today's hardcore business and branding orientation to the more artistic, playful environment that prevailed when they started. Big money, fast timelines: The accelerating breakneck pace of marketing, pre-collections, social media management, and merchandising strategy. Staying creative: Jack and Lazaro evolved a balance between their business and design functions, merging them without letting one take over the other. Then and now: The evolution of Proenza Schouler's editorial/design focus on surprise and innovation toward a sense of continuity and investment in telling the same story but in fresh, new ways. The sweet spot: Curiosity and clear-eyed self-criticism have driven Jack and Lazaro past stumbles from better to best, season to season.  Love-hate: The beautiful opportunity fashion offers to reinvent and extend constantly versus the stress of that never-ending grind of performing. Duo dynamics: Working as a pair has conferred emotional support, creative challenge, and the ability to scale, multitask, and adapt to today's fashion industry. Identity shift: A look at how Proenza Schouler has continued providing "urban clothes for intelligent women" as their customers' lives have morphed and matured.  Celebrating practicality, individuality, and diversity: New York's fast pace and changeability are woven into the Proenza Schouler brand's voice and identity.

My interview with the creator, writer and artist of the comic series, Celestial Knight, Dennis Valencia. Here to promote Issue 2: Hell On Earth on Kickstarter. Original theme music The City Above composed by Tim Roven on www.tabletopaudio.com. All rights reserved to Dennis Valencia, Farrell Paules, Christopher Michael, Mohamed Lubis, Mary Maphis, Slate Comics and Savage Sand Box. - Celestial Knight 2: Hell On Earth Kickstarter: http://kck.st/3oryJLE - Dennis Valencia Socials: IG - @DR.Valencia.Designs // @SlateComicsOfficial // @Savage.Sand.Box // FB - @DRValencia Designs - Collaborators Socials: Farrell (Editor) - IG - @feralcollection Christopher (Letterer) - IG - @homebrewedcomics Mohamed (Variant Cover Artist) - IG - @lubisan.art Mary (Variant Cover Colorist) - IG - @m.maphisart - ** https://ko-fi.com/solonerdbird0640 ** Enjoy the content from the Solo Nerd Bird Podcast? If so, please consider supporting the show so we can continue conducting interviews in and out of the studio. - - - Socials: IG: solonerdbirdpodcast Twitter: solonerdbirdpod FB: solonerdbirdpod Tumblr: solonerdbird YouTube: Solo Nerd Bird Fanbase: solonerdbird Hive Social: solonerdbird Anchor.Fm: solo-nerd-bird WordPress: solonerdbird.wordpress.com Twitch: solo_nerd_bird Email: solonerdbird@gmail.com

As the youngest and first black fashion director in Vogue's history, Julia Sarr-Jamois is a powerful driving force for change within the fashion industry. She started her illustrious career by modeling at 17 and then interning at i-D magazine. Her love of textiles and fashion accessories since childhood fueled her prolific rise to consultant, stylist, and fashion director of British Vogue. Today, her eclectic style and elegance make her one of the most photographed fashion directors—ruling best-dressed lists. Julia's exceptional, lauded talent is highlighted through her dynamic editorials, social media presence, and consulting work with brands worldwide. In this episode, she shares with Christopher Michael how fashion markets have broadened, making it difficult for brands to focus on a single thing. As well, she reflects on how establishing her studio has allowed her more autonomy over her career choices and how magazines have played an iconic and influential role in both her fashion career and the fashion industry at large. What's contemporary now? It's an attitude. People are more open to different types of people, kinder to each other, and more inclusive. Episode Highlights: What started as a two-week internship at i-D magazine became a year-long internship, catapulting Julia into the fashion industry. She has always been much more interested in what was happening behind the camera than being a model in front of it, leading her to a career in styling and editing. The modern-day fashion editor's role has changed. How? Historically, there's been a line between talent and editor. Now, you see a more integrated partnership. Julia describes how fashion and style, particularly Celine's, permeate and influence her entire life, including her living space. Magazines, primarily, have shaped Julia's interest in fashion. She highlights Edward Enniful's changes to British Vogue—compared to other magazines. What role does a magazine cover play in our culture today? Julia believes that since social media has become prominent, magazines play a lesser role. Celebrities don't need magazine covers as much as they once did. However, a British Vogue cover is always iconic and impactful—everyone wants one.  A style consultant working with brands, Julia shares her approach to strategizing content and marketing. How significant of a contribution does relatability make when building an image for a magazine, advertiser, etc.? Is it easier now for people to break into the fashion industry? Thankfully, it's different than it used to be; working for free doesn't exist anymore. Julia recommends working with Mentoring Matters for free mentoring in the fashion industry. Artist representation is starting to look different. Julia reveals how she's structured her in-house business as a stylist and consultant.

This week, two special guests who have built highly successful companies talk about what they ultimately plan to do with those companies. Ari Weinzweig is co-founder of Zingerman's Community of Businesses, a collection of mostly food-related companies that are an iconic part of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Brad Herrmann is co-founder of Text-Em-All, a software firm based near Dallas that helps organizations deliver personalized, informational, and emergency messages by text and by phone. Both Zingerman's and Text-Em-All consider themselves purpose-driven. Both practice open-book management. And so, not surprisingly, the founders of both companies took a hard look at selling to an employee stock ownership plan, or ESOP, in the hope that the cultures they've created might live on. But both companies, independently, soured on the notion of creating an ESOP, one after spending more than $200,000 and coming within a week of closing the deal. And now, both have settled on a little known alternative, what's called a perpetual purpose trust. So far, only a handful of companies have tried to create a purpose trust for this purpose, but Zingerman's and Text-Em-All are taking the leap. As both Ari and Brad acknowledge, they're kind of figuring it out as they go.Show Notes:In our conversation, Brad and Ari mention several places where businesses can learn more about perpetual purpose trusts, including Alternative Ownership Advisors, Common Trust, and an attorney, Christopher Michael.Ari has written about the Zingerman's perpetual trust in his own newsletter.

With an impressive amount of experience in luxury lifestyle branding, Youssef Marquis has been one of the key players in shaping the image and narrative of some of the most iconic fashion houses, such as Givenchy and Louis Vuitton. His Paris-based agency Marquis, with a content-centric, digitally savvy vision, offers innovative services that bridge traditional branding strategies into the brave new world of social media. With a distinct strategic vision, creative flair, and strong relationships with media and influencers, Youssef is a trusted partner and a visionary leader helping his clients to navigate the ever-changing and challenging landscape to achieve their goals and elevate their image in the competitive and dynamic market. Today, designers are no longer defined by outside, third-party media; rather, they are empowered—and expected—to communicate by broadcasting directly and thoughtfully to their target audiences. Marquis crafts and determines its clients' brand messaging: honest, targeting the right audience, and with visual and verbal identities that uphold their core values. In this episode, Youssef shares his thoughts with Christopher Michael on the fashion sector's stance on sustainability, ethical practices, and technological and social challenges. To him, brands are responsible for the messages they put out in the world. What's contemporary now? “Shaping brand messages that leave no one behind." Episode Highlights: Pop culture monster: Youssef's obsession with image-making and creating awareness drew him to fashion communication. Getting specific: A general approach to communication and image can fall short in capturing what designers bring to the table in a particular era at a particular house. Bottling the magic: The importance of communicating the core values, identity, and messages that define the interplay between a house and a designer. Stepping beyond: Youssef launched his agency to broaden his perspectives and develop his rhythm beyond corporate frameworks. A voice emerges: Youssef's signature style organically evolved, and he sought expression beyond any single brand or designer—project diversity. The LVMH relationship: A 15-year journey has sparked magical campaigns, and Youssef's commitment to the brand now shapes his daily workflow. Radical clarity: For young designers pulled in multiple directions, Youssef offers a roadmap to establish that all-important identity and fearless differentiation. Critical components: Visuals. Community. 360º Comms Strategy. Creating a young designer's messaging means figuring out “Who am I, and why am I different?” Changing landscape: Youssef straddles, remembers, and leverages his experience with both the traditional media space and today's fluid social media and digital platforms. Where to focus: Given the range of options, Youssef encourages clients to commit to community and social networking platforms as a contemporary driver for messaging. Playing the channels: Young and established brands must be deliberate about who they are speaking to, in what voice, and with what emphasis. The golden ticket: A cohesive brand voice creates connections and consistency, advancing visibility and identification. Not optional: Youssef's commitment (one he sees increasingly mirrored in the fashion sector) to sustainability, ethical practices, and core values of respect, inclusivity, diversity, and kindness. Racing toward the new: Technology can be a double-edged sword, with the allure of immediacy and the “wow” factor often followed by disappointing results. Pro advice: When it comes to highly sensitive decision-making around elements like technology, Youssef knows what he knows—and when to seek outside expertise. Looking ahead: Youssef proposes innovative, partnership-based services focused primarily on raising brand awareness through community-building strategies.

Charles Levai and Kevin Tekinel, creative directors and cofounders of the Paris-based creative agency Maybe, chat with Christopher Michael about their inspiring journey to success. Before launching their sought-after agency, they honed their skills separately in various creative fields. Their complementary expertise in graphic design, fashion imagery, and film and video editing allowed them to work collaboratively on brilliant concepts and projects, building a prestigious clientele roster, which includes top fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton, Versace, Gucci, Hermès, Coperni and The Row. In this episode, the duo highlights the importance of technology in the fashion industry and the exciting new ways it's been incorporated—such as the impressive Coperni spray dress—especially during the pandemic. With the demand to produce more content higher than ever, they weigh in on the role of Instagram and various social media platforms in today's content creation, underscoring the significant shift toward video content to engage audiences better. To Charles and Kevin, their thriving creative path comprises essential building blocks: collaboration, positivity, and a willingness to explore possibilities. What is contemporary now? Creating something relevant and in context with the present moment. Episode Highlights: On the name Maybe: Maybe was born out of the duo's love for fashion and the creative fields and cemented by a long-lasting friendship. "Maybe," a reply often uttered by both, represents their boundless optimism and the belief that nothing is impossible or a definitive "no." On their differing backgrounds: Charles, a master of graphic design, has a deep passion for fashion and imagery, while Kevin honed his skills in film before transitioning to the fashion world. Together they make a dynamic duo, working collaboratively on all aspects of their projects. Charles and Kevin find that being a team of two helps facilitate the creative process, and they value each other's input even when they don't initially agree. On constraints sparking creativity: Maybe achieved quick success after its founding, defying the odds despite the pandemic—though challenging, spurred innovation in the fashion industry and creative problem-solving. The founders credit this success to their tireless efforts and a dash of good fortune. Repurposing existing images and creating new works without photo shoots became necessary, leading to groundbreaking new techniques in fashion photography and graphic design. On technology: While technology has not advanced significantly in the fashion industry over the past decade, it definitely plays a crucial role in some of Maybe's projects. On their approach: When working with a fashion house, Maybe likes to play with its codes and look at the world through its eyes, creating something unique and special. The duo prefers to do as much of the work—rather than working with large teams—to stay true to their artistic vision and creative independence.  On art versus commerce: While they balance their projects' commercial and artistic aspects harmoniously and profitably, they acknowledge that everything they do has a commercial start and end—with some projects being more commercial or image-driven than others. On change: The fashion industry can be slow to embrace change, but brands have become more open to working with a newer generation. The agency believes its success is due to being at the right place at the right time, a newer generation of designers, and Paris reclaiming its rightful place as the epicenter of fashion and acting as a hub for creative people.

Visionary founder of @stylenotcom, Beka Gvishiani, grew up in the former Soviet republic of Georgia with little-to-no access to pop culture—or even basic electricity. In this episode, Beka shares his seemingly overnight success story in the fashion industry with Christopher Michael. However, his digital platform and unique voice are rooted in years of hands-on experience promoting up-and-coming international brands. With its distinctive blue and white all-caps format and its wittiness and substance, @stylenotcom instantly caught the eye of industry heavyweights; its posts reflect not only what's contemporary now but also the historical trends that have shaped fashion and culture. He still finds his stratospheric rise hard to believe, including the success of his creative agency, Ariel Bold, counting Colette co-founder Sarah Andelman and fashion editor Katie Grand among his champions, and co-creating his first Vogue covers featuring the Ukrainian flag. "I still sometimes feel it's a big dream that has happened to me." Episode Highlights: Turning Technicolor: Beka's life was turned upside down when his interest in pop culture and music collided with the revolution in his native Tbilisi, Georgia, and the “gold, shiny light” that went on the first time he saw a Vogue magazine cover. Beka built a platform for his passion first by becoming a regular on forums like The Fashion Spot and then launching the Glossy Newsstand blog on Tumblr in 2010. Faster than Light: The splash Beka made—and the attention he got—using social media tags to highlight insider information about magazine covers and content ahead of the pack. Beka's longtime collaboration with the celebrated magazine editor Katie Grand. Like a Dream: Beka's love of headlines scintillated and evolved into his distinctive, eye-catching @stylenotcom all caps, words-only title format in 2021—rapidly building a viral following, especially among industry insiders.  The Power of Formal Education: Beka doesn't attribute his success to the BA he earned in Finance and Business Administration so much as the early hands-on skills he acquired working with international brands in his native Georgia.   Arial Bold: The creative consulting agency Beka co-created based on his experience with every aspect of fashion design promotion, shoot production, and branding for up-and-coming labels. Hero Moments: Getting a hug from Tim Blanks at the Bottega Veneta show last year. One of only 200 invited to Saint Laurent's menswear show in the Marrakech Desert; being featured in a Business of Fashion article; doing his first Vogue cover; meeting many personal heroes and fashion icons.  Looking Ahead: No merchandise planned … yet! Additional content featured on extensions that build upon the Style Not Com brand and format. What Endures: Despite his digital fluency, Beka is a huge proponent of the traditional runway, media, and publications. (Hint: The physical feel, smell, and textures will never go out of style and are a snapshot in time.) Embracing the Romance: The past is a powerful inspiration for Beka, who believes without nostalgia—understanding the past—there is no future. The Fashion Icons Beka Still Dreams of Meeting: Karl Lagerfeld (unfortunately no longer a possibility), Anna Wintour, Carine Roitfeld, Kate Moss, and Miuccia Prada. What's Contemporary Now? Whatever comes authentically from the heart and mind currently but at the same time draws on and respects fashion's rich archival past.

Irish stylist Alastair McKimm joins Christopher Michael to discuss his trailblazing path to becoming i-D Magazine's global editor-in-chief. Growing up in Belfast in the '80s and '90s, Alastair was captivated by the distinct street style and elements of skateboarding, hip hop, and punk cultures. He encountered the fashion world through the pages of i-D Magazine, which introduced him to renowned designers like Raf Simons, Ann Demeulemeester, Martin Margiela, and Helmut Lang. Working with iconic designers and photographers has helped mold his career, alongside his perseverance and exuberant passion for the work. At i-D, he has built a solid team, injecting the publication with a reenergized vision, always keeping open to new ideas and perspectives, and keen on fostering collaborative exchange. So, what is contemporary now? To Alastair, it is honesty, authenticity, and a community of people who bring out the best in others. Episode Highlights: Elements of education: Early exposure to street fashion in Alastair's native Belfast and studying fashion design at Nottingham Art School. Early influences: skateboarding, surfing, hip-hop, and punk; Raf Simons, Ann Demeulemeester, Martin Margiela, and Helmut Lang; i-D Magazine and Self Service, and their "advertising that wasn't even selling clothes, but a brand."  In the '90s, the internet was in its infancy, and magazine images were the outsized primary influence. Designs, casting, styling, and photography: Alastair landed his first job in London by showing up with his portfolio and networking his way into an assistant's job with Edward Enninful, then the fashion director at i-D Magazine.  Living the dream: Alastair relished every aspect of his introduction to fashion styling, though it was a steep learning curve—intense, terrifying, and exhilarating. Playing to strength: As administrative work was not his strong suit, Alastair focused on researching and scanning images from fashion archives, vintage, costume, and antique shops. Full circle: As i-D Magazine's global editor-in-chief, Alastair has the institutional memory to reflect on the evolution of covers, collaborators, and the industry's interplay. Do the work: Alastair underscores the importance of working every rung of the fashion ladder to gain fluency, perspective, and core-level competencies. Building out the team: Camaraderie and collaboration, which Alastair believes are the most contemporary (and work-life enhancing) of all things. Church and state: The false divisions between art and commerce, and why growth and financial engagement are essential to building brands. Making old school more commercial: social media mastery; video content; and digitization. Post-pandemic workplace creative processes and communication: finding the balance between in-person and virtual; deploying platforms, such as Facetime, Zoom, WhatsApp, sms, and email. Capturing the moment: How do Alastair and his team look at covers, themed issues, and other editorial decisions shaping the look and priorities at i-D Magazine. Content versus collections: The curation processes differ. Editor versus stylist: open-mindedness and growth invariably evolve out of collaboration essential to publishing effective, compelling magazine content. How New York has become home—with touchstone influences like Gap, Calvin Klein, DKNY, Tiffany's, and many more. The World is Flat: About the globalization (and overlap) in today's fashion landscape. Saying No to the Fashion Vacuum: Alastair shares thoughts on how his longstanding affinity for street culture (and an open mind) keep ideas fresh and inspiration expansive in an often insular, self-referential industry. On having it all: How a blend of gratitude and a distinct personality have helped Alastair maintain a healthy work-life balance. Checking imposter syndrome: Giving back and being of service helps Alastair stay grounded.

What does self care look like for you? The Healing Space returns with our first episode of 2023 and we want to Heal Through Self Care. Sensei Raven talks with Coach Christopher, Michael Ward and Josh Jenkins about what self care looks like for them. He also welcomes Araya Baker back to "The Couch" to answer questions from The Misfit Universe. Healing Markers: The Check In -(4:09) Coach Christopher -(7:27) Josh & Mike -(34:43) The Couch -(56:24) Good News -(1:11:45) ******************************************** Lets Get Healed... Find us @ www.weareTLM.com, Audible, SoundCloud, iHeart Radio, Apple Podcast, Google Play Music, Overcast, Stitcher, YouTube and more. Make sure to Subscribe, Comment, Like and Share each episode. Submit Questions for "The Couch" to ths@ravolutionmultimedia.com. Use hashtags: #LetsGetHealed and #THSPodcast Walk with THS Podcast on: Facebook: facebook.com/thspodcast Twitter: twitter.com/_thspodcast Instagram: instagram.com/thspodcast Subscribe to us on YouTube: www.youtube.com/ravolutionllc Walk with Sensei Raven: Official Website: www.scorpiyogi.com Twitter: twitter.com/scorpiyogi Instagram: instagram.com/scorpiyogi Walk with Coach Christopher: Official Website: www.christopherthecoach.com Twitter: @coach_cpd Instagram: @coach.christopher Black,Gay, stuck at home: Official Website: www.bgsah.com Twitter: _bgsah Instagram: @_bgsah Araya Baker: Official Website: www.arayabaker.com Twitter: @arayabaker Instagram: @arayabaker

Vedic wisdom and meditation teacher Jonni Pollard reflects on today's growing wave of people seeking to create space and internal alignment in a noisy world. The co-founder of 1 Giant Mind explains to Christopher Michael why having a practice is more important than ever and how "internal reckonings" produce meaningful, reliable, and profound shifts in mindset and outcomes. "What's happening right now is a wonderful opportunity in the making for humanity to evolve," says Jonni. Creativity is rooted in authenticity that is accessible only when we are fully present to ourselves, and our purpose is in the now. In this episode, the master of mindfulness discusses the fractures generated by today's polarized social, political, and economic environment. How can we challenge ourselves to get engaged, reject disconnection, and focus on weaving together a more inclusive culture, reflecting our common energetic field and responsibility to one another? Episode Highlights: What's Contemporary Now? Jonni's state of consciousness and the way he nurtures his relationship with what's happening in the present moment. The dismantling of ideas and expectations that have shrouded our responsibility to one another and the world at large. Today's psychology and neurology are inseparable from the mandate to open consciousness and shift away from denial. The great "What's next?": Pandemic disorientation has taught us that listening to our internal compasses is paramount. Attachment explained: Jonni contemplates universal intelligence, a vast spectrum of possibilities across one energetic field. Binary thinking: How rigid thought patterns entrap us in conflict and isolation. Consideration and self-reflection: the keys to open conversation and collaboration. Polarization manifests as fear of the "other," a gross misconception that falsely negates our fundamental oneness of being. Jonni weighs in on the burgeoning market for meditation in a society managing massive anxiety, depression, and constant stress on nervous systems. The relationship between meditation and creativity: When we restore and realign our minds and bodies, we see our true natures emerge and authentically flourish. Meditation shifts us from a hyper awareness of the external world to an inner experience that resonates more meaningfully, deeply, consistently, and reliably. Underlying the feelings that seem terrifying or stubborn is a place that is resolved, deeply aware, intelligent, confident, and powerful inside each of us. The call to action: If we're not fully engaged, we are susceptible to negative influences and ongoing disconnection. Meditation is a platform for taking ownership of—and reversing—this state of being. Transmuting stress: Sensations can bedevil us if we don't develop tools to witness, rather than identify with, them. Meditation opens up immense space and freedom to ride through anxiety and observe thought patterns without being engulfed by self-judgment or getting overwhelmed. What can a meditation practice yield? Agility through awareness and a deep understanding of priorities and values. Challenge yourself: Is what I'm doing coming genuinely creative, purposeful, or relevant? Or am I in survival mode, hustling to get by?

Ferdinando Verderi understands that to impact the fashion landscape we need to delve into the diversity of a lived experience—what we don't yet know about ourselves and our world. The lauded creative force and former Vogue Italia creative director today has pioneered a new type of creativity, one that is focused on inclusivity and community. Whether envisioning an iconic magazine cover or conceiving a groundbreaking Prada campaign, Ferdinando aims to challenge boundaries—not merely advance marketing agendas. In this episode, he shares with Christopher Michael his thoughts on what it means to be "contemporary" and why it is not enough for him to be an interpreter of the zeitgeist. Ferdinando believes the timeless and multidimensional moments creatives choose to examine, elevate, and share are far more transformational and stimulating than the "new." Episode Highlights: Ferdinando's minimalist personal website is a reflection of his strong desire to stay in the present, unfettered by the noise. Whether working with a magazine, institution, or company, Ferdinando infuses it with his hallmark irreverence and disregard for status quo expectations. Words of wisdom: “Try to avoid having to explain why you're relevant!” Brand logos as vessels for energy, ideas, and originality—not marketing exercises. Community-building, values, and ideals are the defining elements of a brand, as opposed to strategic marketing conventions. Magazines have, in his view, an obligation to create a type of “clash” between superficial and more profound levels at which fashion can operate as a force for change. A single cover image can combine provocation and emotion—actions that imply a sense of risk-taking and the courage to go out and break bounds. Breaking bounds can open the way to new forms of expression and inclusivity without intimidation. It's about challenging things that have felt unchallengeable. Magazines in today's culture: A forum for revisualizing what irrelevance looks like. Fernando sees his platform—and the work of fashion generally—as a vehicle for highlighting social issues and challenging damaging tropes. Publishing, branding, seasonal platforms, products: Ferdinando sees each project as a discrete opportunity to explore layers and complexity without a single point of view. Coming to fashion without a rich background and extensive training enabled him to deploy a fresh perspective and challenge received wisdom. Multiple points of view: Ferdinando's signature superpower is his ability to create community through multiplicity and fragmentation The idea of a mistake, a chance, or a variation, inspires recognition that we live in a multiverse of perspectives and experiences. For Ferdinando, “What's Contemporary Now ?” is what exists among us at a particular moment in time—not something old or new, but what's seen in the present. “New” is not an idea, and trying to get there can become artificial—the opposite of fresh. The concept of “new” versus “old” limits us to a linear understanding of time and reduces access to the regenerative arc of wisdom and ancient knowledge. Interpreter of the zeitgeist? No! Ferdinando thinks of himself as a contributor, which is to say a more active participant in shaping what's contemporary now.

Global PR Director Kevin McIntosh Jr. sees fashion magic happening for brands that embrace a broad range of creative voices, deploying a 360° strategy to promote their vision. A full-spectrum approach is nonnegotiable in today's hyper-connected fashion landscape. As the chief executive officer at KMJR.World, Kevin shares with Christopher Michael his front-row perspective on why PR today encompasses everything from dressing celebrities and athletes to staging runway events and publishing a blog post or an interview in print or online. While social media and digital platforms have vast worldwide reach, Kevin still sees brick-and-mortar and real-life interactions as critical to cultivating honest consumer connections and building brand loyalty. He also weighs in on where the industry stands in terms of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and how, now more than ever, contemporary culture is both shaped by and reflective of a melting pot of influences. For Kevin, bringing diverse voices together is the way to shift culture, make noise, and have fun. Episode Highlights: The mastheads of fashion magazines are limited and without much turnover, which prompted Kevin to cultivate his career in the vaster world of communications. The dynamism and exposure to global travel were a large part of what made Karla Otto a happy home for Kevin until he ultimately made the entrepreneurial leap to launch his namesake fashion consulting firm, KMJR.World Working with Virgil Abloh influenced Kevin and opened doors for him, putting him “in a position … to be taken seriously and respected.” Creating Space: As a Black man, Kevin had no illusions about the landscape he joined, but he's encouraged by the growing community of color influencing the fashion industry. Fashion is built on fantasy and selling the dream, which Kevin allows space for even when working with authenticity and positive impact as his driving pillars. Nice guys do finish first! Kevin credits his reputation as a positive team player to a loving upbringing and an open, easy attitude. He sees increasing demand among brands for smaller, more agile communications partners who offer intimacy, personalization, and hands-on, accessible collaboration. He sees contemporary culture as reflecting a robust mash-up of influences, ranging from music, art and fashion to athletics and a life experience on any given city block. Branding today requires a 360° approach: Dressing celebrities, fashion sites and publications, working with partners to stage exceptional events—all of it. Runway shows as a global marketing tool that—while expensive—pay huge dividends in terms of exposure and reach. Digital has its selling points, but real-life events and brick-and-mortar offer irreplaceable energy. The metaverse is emerging, but Kevin is not ready to weigh in. Is it possible to build a heritage brand in today's environment? “Yes,” says Kevin, “if you've got a compelling product and the storytelling to perpetuate it.” Defining PR: What does it really mean to publicize a brand—all kinds of packages and a variety of means designers and brands often don't fully register. A global marketing strategy today requires a nuanced conversation that considers regional influences and how social media amplifies messages and shapes cultures globally. Kevin closes with thoughts on where Black creatives are in the industry today and the need to transcend performative gestures and optics to offer opportunity to the richest, most diverse possible tapestry of talent and lived experiences.

Zinnia Kumar is anything but unseen, but would that have been the case had she not fought so hard on so many fronts? An ecologist, activist, writer, and model, this Australian multihyphenate shares her unique journey to claiming an undeniable presence. In this episode, she discusses with Christopher Michael the stereotypes that have trapped South Asians—especially women—ultimately shaping how they see themselves. More than anything, these discriminating notions are related to consumer psychology and the images sold by the beauty, fashion, and media industries. She details some drivers of bias and unequal representation and highlights the blinding privilege of those in positions to affect change. Zinnia calls out stubborn systemic barriers and, as an optimist, offers thoughts on actionable steps toward creating a multicultural and multiethnic landscape. Her vision is one of representation of the full spectrum of human colors, shapes, and features—not as an act of tokenism—but as a reflection of our current global reality. As both a commercial face and a face for change, Zinnia profoundly understands what it means to young women everywhere to identify with visual representations. And that accurate cultural and ethnic representation is empowering and the way of the future. Episode Highlights: Why Zinnia believes consumer psychology is a driver in the commercial targeting and feedback loop around politics and unconscious biases that define the concept of beauty. Zinnia highlights two types of beauty: The homogenized ideal people see daily on social media and elsewhere; New ideals and norms in the making, which are controlled by casting directors and tastemakers. The commercial definition of beauty has expanded and has become more inclusive in terms of color, size, shape, features, and ethnic diversity; Zinnia believes in general that the beauty standard still reflects norms that existed 20–30 years ago. Enduring “Hierarchies of Visibility” projected in the media Despite inroads in colorism, the practice (and marketing) of skin bleaching remains popular globally, along with genuine social, psychological, and economic ramifications. Actionable steps for change: Ban marketing and sales of bleaching products of any type; Reject the use of color as a performative marketing strategy, which is fundamentally superficial and indifferent to deeper social and psychological issues of colorism; Increase visibility for people of color and a full range of features. Zinnia's view from behind the camera, as a social science researcher, and in front of the camera, as a model, has afforded her a glimpse of privilege and its impacts socially and psychologically, especially for young girls. A tumultuous and disadvantaged family history challenged Zinnia to intentionally practice optimism (rather than negativity and defeat). Is it truly inclusivity and belonging if culture, religion, or ethnicity define the roles in which models and others in the media are cast? Zinnia reflects on the issues shaping representations of South Asians The change that Zinnia seeks: An expanded conversation that enfranchises all under-represented minority, ethnicity, or cultural groups; Global inclusivity across all sectors—leaving no group invisible; Raising up—and bringing fresh perspective to—voices that have been historically unheard; Education through openness and candid conversations that raise awareness.

What keeps creatives relevant in an industry that's constantly evolving? Ezra Petronio has done it decade after decade by staying curious and riding the waves of technological and cultural change. In this episode, the Petronio Associates founder and creative director explains to Christopher Michael how he has been very intentional about the early adoption of digital innovation and media trends. He shares his journey as a magazine editor, photographer, and marketing visionary in New York and Paris, presenting a unique perspective on three decades of fashion and culture. Ezra and his team inspire trust by setting the stage for successful—very often highly experimental—collaborations by meeting clients (including renowned top luxury brands) where they are, with a commitment to communication and clarity. The episode wraps with thoughts on how the metaverse will likely impact the fashion industry and a compelling rundown of “what's contemporary right now” for this thoughtful, multidisciplinary, and influential image maker. Episode Highlights: Ezra attributes his career's longevity to several factors: The early adoption of artistic innovation and the awareness of the power of the written word—as a student and as the son of creatives; A nimble response to evolving technologies, from manual typography to an early Mac with (wait for it!) three fonts to today's instant desktop publishing; Access to a series of mentors and branding experts over a period of exploration, apprenticeship, and youthful development. It was clear to Ezra early on that digital communication would become a significant influence, which is why he eagerly immersed himself in the technology and its platforms. Self Service is about stretching the bounds of what a magazine can be, including experimenting with a pandemic-inspired video format with huge commercial potential. Lessons learned in a fluid commercial and communications landscape: Fashion shows and presentations often fall flat visually online; More is not better when it comes to social media if it has no strategic vision; Engagement must now occur through numerous media channels; The pace (and quantity) of deliverables has quickened (and grown) exponentially. The most successful brand collaborations are experimental and symbiotic, and they leverage complementary skill sets to execute a common creative vision. The most successful campaigns invariably have: Clarity around the brand's vision; Stakeholder alignment around executing that strategic mission. Defining Terms: Building a coherent brand message means identifying goals (whether artistic, profit-driven, or both), then deploying the right vehicle. Mindset is Key: Forward-thinking brands like Yves St. Laurent or Prada embrace surprise, but that's not always the case. Innovation requires trust and fearlessness. What will the metaverse mean for the fashion industry? It is too soon to tell about the timeline for adoption or commercial prospects; however,t Web 3.0 will undoubtedly drive more digital consumption. It's a time to be curious, experiment, and pay attention! What's contemporary right now: Our ability to determine what brings us maximum joy; Radical engagement and change; Supporting the things we believe in, in any medium; Modulating social media use and interacting with live opportunities; Seeking purpose and passion; Maintaining a sense of humility and continuing to question ourselves.

When it comes to the concept of “flow,” the fashion PR Lucien Pagès is Exhibit A. He has carved out a dynamic career in communications by following his instincts, keeping an eye on the big picture, and always staying true to himself. He explains to Christopher Michael in this episode that his Lucien Pagès Communications team is laser-focused on two things: identifying what makes a designer unique and then excavating that treasure for others to see. An avalanche of new communications channels has profoundly changed the media landscape since Lucien started as an aspiring designer working for legendary houses like Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent in the 1990s and since he founded his PR agency in 2006. Yet, his personalized made-to-measure style of messaging is evergreen. No matter the platform, Lucien's branding is all about capturing the unique humanity and vision embodied by his notable and up-and-coming clients: “The way we express fashion at its best is when we bring emotion.” Highlights: The impact of early apprenticeships with heritage couture houses like Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent in the 1990s—a colorful fashion epoch pre-dating social media. The importance of staying current and curious, as Lucien's mentors modeled for him, and he now models for—and derives from—the young people in his team. The role of communications in linking brand, designer, and media remains constant, even if social media has transformed the landscape. Today's marketing, PR, and brand management is all about working a spectrum of channels, from Instagram influencers and mainstream magazines to TikTok and live runway shows. Is the fashion show dead? “To the contrary,” says Lucien. It's lights, cameras, action—an expression of the industry that energizes creatives at all levels, of all ages. They've also been democratized by the advent of live streaming for an audience of millions. Web 3.0: Is it a thing? The wave may be coming, but it will break first in more tech-centric worlds and undoubtedly find adoption in the fashion industry, which took a minute to adapt to Web 2.0. Are heritage brands a thing of the past? Lucien wondered whether it was possible to establish a flagship fashion brand like Armani or Givenchy in today's environment; he sees new talents like Simone Porte Jacquemus building a self-sustaining house. Is brick-and-mortar still a thing? Lucien believes storefronts are critical to creating an immersive experience that animates design and compels customers. Why Lucien Pagès Communications keeps focused on what it does best: Harnessing the power of media influencers across all channels to bring designers and brands to life.

Beginning his career at the age of twelve, Sam Visser has become one of the most renowned makeup artists today, lauded for his sense of style, understanding of the camera, and the ability to find a unique beauty in any face. Sam boasts an impressive list of esteemed clients and creative collaborators, including the likes of Kendall Jenner, Amber Valletta, and Bella Hadid amongst many others. In this episode, he joins host Christopher Michael to shine a spotlight on the evolution of fashion and makeup, his definition of modern standards, and the muses that fueled his success in the beauty industry. Highlights: Sam reflects on the moment he realized beauty was his passion and speaks of the time he took over his school's art class when the teacher was absent. One photo you take and post to social media can change your life. Sam talks about why he dropped out of high school, how he started working for Kris Jenner, and the importance of mentorship for an artist. Makeup artistry enables self-expression, creativity, self-discovery, and the ability to inspire others throughout the process. If you don't label something or someone, you can see the unique beauty in everything. Looking back on his school years, Sam reflects on the power of finding someone beautiful for who they are and how that translated into his beauty career. How do you differentiate fashion and editorial beauty from. commercial beauty? Beauty is ever-evolving, yet we continue to draw inspiration from past looks. Sam shares his candid thoughts on his inspiration from past fashion aesthetics, like the 80s. He also shares some of his greatest muses. Sam's perspective on beauty, fashion, and glamor is shaped by cinema, fantasy, and unrealism. Is makeup for the everyday the same as makeup for the camera? Listen in to hear Sam's opinion.

In this episode, Christopher Michael speaks to Glen Luchford, legendary fashion photographer and filmmaker whose images are often referred to as iconic and cinematic. The conversation flows from discussing the future role of a photographer and the emerging marketplace of the metaverse to new technologies, how Glen has adapted to them, and broaching his failures, and what he has learned from them along the way. Episode Highlights “We are only just out of the pandemic, but obviously it's expedited a great deal of change that otherwise seemed as though would have taken years.”—Christopher “Post-Covid the industry definitely has changed.” says Glen. His personal central focus is essentially metaverse and how that's going to change all of our lives in a dramatic way. He actually spends most of his time educating himself in Web 3.0, anticipating all of the changes that are coming. Glen was working with film in the late 90s and 2000s, then he abandoned it. He was going to be a photographer and focus on doing it as well as he possibly could, rather than trying to do three things at once. Exploring the different ways he found to keep himself on his toes and not become complacent. Glen's belief is that the metaverse will be a revolutionary thing, changing the way we see and think about everything. We have had several years of exploring the idea of digital versus print, but we are now in a time where culture is driving so much in terms of fashion and trends. With that fragmentation or democratization, Christopher wonders what the role of a magazine cover is today. “Does a Vogue cover have the same power as five seconds of footage of a supermodel falling about laughing with her friend on Instagram? Probably not.” says Glen.