Podcast appearances and mentions of john gebretatose

Season 9 of MinneCulture drops on March 27. This season features:lots of local food historystories about life and commerce along the Mississippi Rivera Minnesota woman who developed a new form of contact tracing for tuberculosisa barber and fiddler who helped run the Underground Railroad in Minnesotaa haunting story about Minnesota's 20th century sterilization programa jingle for pickles that will get stuck in your head....and so much more!Stories by Michelle Bruch, Gina Favano, John Gwinn, Lydia Moran, Sheila Regan, Matthew Schneeman, and Alison Young. Hosted by John Gebretatose. Edited by Julie Censullo.MinneCulture is a production of KFAI - Fresh Air Community Radio in Minneapolis, MN. Support for MinneCulture is provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

In the 1970s, lesbian and feminist organizations popped up in cities across the nation. Minneapolis and Saint Paul were no exception. Here in the Twin Cities, the Amazon Feminist Book Store, Lesbian Resource Center, and Lesbian Feminist Organizing Committee all provided space and community for newly out lesbians and queer women.At the same time, a small network of transgender women started their own type of organizing, one that relied more on mutual support than a physical meeting place.But these groups weren't mutually exclusive. In the late 1970s, a trans woman named Sissy Potter tried to join a lesbian feminist group called A Woman's Coffee House. She's probably not the only one, either. On the season 8 finale of MinneCulture from producer Kira Schukar, Sissy's letter sparks a conversation about feminism, gender, and transfeminism in the Twin Cities and beyond.Content warning: This podcast contains a transphobic slur and comments.MinneCulture is hosted by John Gebretatose and edited by Julie Censullo. Support for MinneCulture is provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage fFund. Music from Blue Dot Sessions:Silver Lanyard by BittersBorough by MoleriderTwo Pound by MuffulettaEggs and Powder by MuffalettaDowdy by MuffalettaTrue Shape by MuffalettaSources:“2023 Anti-Trans Legislation.” Trans Legislation Tracker, https://translegislation.com/bills/2023. Accessed 26 Mar. 2024.2023 State Equality Index: A Review of State Legislation Affecting the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Community and a Look Ahead in 2024. Human Rights Campaign Foundation, 2024, https://reports.hrc.org/2023-state-equality-index?_ga=2.7211186.1288380725.1706647812-211073266.1705959553.Enke, Finn. “Collective Memory and the Transfeminist 1970s: Toward a Less Plausible History.” TSQ: Transgender Studies Quarterly, vol. 5, no. 1, Feb. 2018, pp. 9–29.---. Finding the Movement: Sexuality, Contested Space, and Feminist Activism. Duke University Press, 2007.---. “Smuggling Sex through the Gates: Race, Sexuality, and the Politics of Space in Second Wave Feminism.” American Quarterly, vol. 55, no. 4, Dec. 2003, pp. 635–67.Franklin, Michael David, et al., editors. Queer Twin Cities. University of Minnesota Press, 2010.Grossman, Mary Ann. “Pioneering True Colors Feminist Bookstore Expected to Close in February.” Twin Cities Pioneer Press, 27 Dec. 2011, https://www.twincities.com/2011/12/27/pioneering-true-colors-feminist-bookstore-expected-to-close-in-february/.McNaron, Toni. “About Toni.” Toni McNaron, https://tonimcnaron.com/about/. Accessed 26 Mar. 2024.Van Cleve, Stewart. Land of 10,000 Loves: A History of Queer Minnesota. University of Minnesota Press, 2012.Whitaker, Jan. “‘Way Out' Coffeehouses.” Restaurant-Ing Through History, 28 Sept. 2009, https://restaurant-ingthroughhistory.com/2009/09/28/way-out-coffeehouses/.

Take a dive into comedic history in this story about the beginnings of the Brave New Workshop. The Brave New Workshop was founded by a former circus former named Dudley Riggs. In the mid 20th century, a new kind of humor was taking the world by storm, and Riggs tapped into the zeitgeist of improvisation that had no limits. KFAI's Sheila Regan weaves together the voices of past and present company members, archival audio, and an interview with Riggs himself in this celebration of comedy that speaks to its time. MinneCulture is hosted by John Gebretatose and edited by Julie Censullo. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

KSTP-AM is one of Minnesota's oldest and formerly most successful radio stations. By the 90's, it had been mostly forgotten, as fans flocked to FM. While music fans enjoyed the stereophonic sounds on the other side of the dial, a new form of radio program began to emerge. Before long, talk radio flourished across the United States, and nowhere was it strong than at “The Talk Station.” Fueled by a desire to shake up the radio landscape, Hubbard Broadcasting's Ginny Morris took charge of the station and hired a new set of voices in the Twin Cities to break up the status quo. It was an eclectic cast of characters, and none of them were more unique than Tommy Mischke. Left to his own devices and given the keys to a late night kingdom, the renegade broadcaster blazed his own path. Hear from his colleagues and managers to get the inside story about what made The Mischke Broadcast one of Minnesota's favorite radio shows, it's legacy and why it's a show that could only happen here.Today, Tommy Mischke might be known as a podcaster and book author, but long before that he known by Twin Cities radio fans as only “The Phantom Caller.” This documentary was produced Kyle Shiely and edited by Julie Censullo. Hear more classic Mischke bits at MischkeMadness.com and keep up with Tommy at the Mischke Roadshow, available wherever you get your podcasts. Find more of Kyle's work at kyleshiely.com. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI is provided by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. MinneCulture is hosted by John Gebretatose and edited by Julie Censullo.

The Black and Funny Improv Festival is proud to welcome world-class Black improvisors from all over North America.   It all kicks off tomorrow.   Find out more from Vineeta and her guests, Jada Pulley and John Gebretatose!www.blackandfunny.com 

The Black and Funny Improv Festival is proud to welcome world-class Black improvisors from all over North America.   It all kicks off tomorrow.   Find out more from Vineeta and her guests, Jada Pulley and John Gebretatose!www.blackandfunny.com 

On this episode, Rob Dunkelberger of the Stages of Minnesota is chatting with John Gebretatose and Jada Pulley, co-directors of the Black and Funny Improv Festival, which runs March 21st through the 24th at HUGE Theater (now at 2728 Lyndale Ave). The Black and Funny Improv Festival features four days of workshops and performances featuring world-class Black improvisors from across the country and here in Minnesota. In this festival, Blackness is centered AND all are welcome. For the festival schedule, tickets, and more info, check out blackandfunny.com.Twin Cities Theater Chat is produced and hosted by Carol Jackson of Minnesota Theater Love and members of the Twin Cities Theater Bloggers collective. As always, you can find the Twin Cities Theater Bloggers on Facebook and on Instagram. Read our review round-ups and go see a show today!

Minnesota was the first state to take Big Tobacco to trial in 1998. The biggest lawsuit in the state's history forced the tobacco industry to take down cigarette billboards and release millions of internal documents that filled a Minneapolis warehouse.When vaping e-cigarettes gained popularity among youth in the late 2010s, the Minnesota Attorney General's office sued again, this time against market leader Juul Labs and the company's Big Tobacco investor Altria. The lawsuit lifted thousands of new tobacco documents into the public archive.KFAI's Michelle Bruch talked to people who worked on both trials — on both sides of the case — 25 years apart.Support for MinneCulture on KFAI is provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Season 8 of MinneCulture is hosted by John Gebretatose and edited by Julie Censullo.Music: 'Ants in my pants' - SUPERARE

Mike Sawyer fell in love with old folk music in his 20s, picking up the banjo and playing at festivals and jams around the state. But after a while, he began to wonder why nearly all the songs he and his fellow musicians were playing came from Appalachia and the South. What happened to early musical traditions from Minnesota? Now, Mike's on a mission to uncover the roots of Upper Midwest folk music and keep it alive for future generations.This documentary was produced by Britta Greene and James Napoli, and edited by Julie Censullo. Special thanks to Jim Leary and the Center for the Study of Upper Midwestern Cultures at the University of Wisconsin-Madison for sharing many of the audio recordings included in this piece, including from the Down Home Dairyland recordings. Additional thanks to Rob McGinley Myers, Nancy Rosenbaum, Sophie Nikitas, Cris Anderson and members of the Upper Midwest Folk Fiddlers. You can find more of Mike's research and recordings on his websites: Upper Midwest Old Time and the Midwest Fiddle Tunes Project. Season 8 of MinneCulture is hosted by John Gebretatose and edited by Julie Censullo. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI is provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

Every year, people on a canoe trip to Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) need to be rescued from a dangerous situation. In modern times, the call for help can come from a cell phone, a satellite phone, or an emergency beacon like a Garmin inReach. But it wasn't always this easy to help people who recreate across the canoe-country wilderness. In this story from KFAI producer Joe Friedrichs, we learn about the history of search and rescue operations inside the most visited wilderness area in the nation, the Boundary Waters. --MinneCulture is hosted by John Gebretatose and edited by Julie Censullo. MinneCulture is a production of KFAI. Support for MinneCulture has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

Peter Jesperson is a music legend. Born in Minnesota, Jesperson was a seminal figure in the Minneapolis punk and new wave scene of the 1970's and 1980's. He co-founded Twin/Tone Records, worked at Oar Folkjokeopus record store and the Jay's Longhorn bar, and is credited with discovering the Replacements. He later served as the band's manager.In "Lost in the Songs," producer Todd Melby interviews Jesperson about his love affair with music, his relationship with the Replacements, and his addictions.---Breakmaster Cylinder composed two of the songs in this documentary. Their work can be found at BreakmasterCylinder.com. Other music was by The Replacements, Patti Smith, The Safaris and the Suicide Commandos.Peter Jesperson's book is titled “Euphoric Recall.” It was published by MNHS Press.Audio mastered by Alex Simpson.For more of Todd's work, check out toddmelby.comMinneCulture is hosted by John Gebretatose and edited by Julie Censullo. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI is provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

MinneCulture is BACK for season 8! This season, we are bringing you 7 brand new audio documentaries about the people, places, and cultural phenomena that make Minnesota...well, Minnesota. Make sure you're subscribed to MinneCulture so you don't miss any of these fascinating stories about our state. Season 8 is produced by Michelle Bruch, Joe Friedrichs, Britta Greene, Todd Melby, James Napoli, Sheila Regan, Kira Schukar, and Kyle Shiely. Hosted by John Gebretatose and edited by Julie Censullo. MinneCulture is a production of KFAI. Support for MinneCulture is provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

Archives tell an important story. The people in them—and the people left out—say a lot about our politics, culture, and consciousness. In the 20th century, it wasn't uncommon for archivists to choose which artifacts made it into the official record based on what they thought defined our history. This means that a lot of people—especially queer people—were left out of the archives. Their lives were erased. But over the last few decades, historians are uncovering those queer lives. In this episode of MinneCulture, KFAI's Kira Schukar takes us into the Minnesota Historical Society archives to share a story about love, letters, and resilience. Spanning almost 100 years, this narrative follows a first lady, a philanthropist, and the queer activists who wanted their story to be told. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Season 7 of the MinneCulture podcast is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose. Photo: Rose Cleveland and Evangeline Simpson Whipple: https://www.masshist.org/collection-guides/view/fap033 Music Credits: Inamorata by Blue Dot Sessions Game Hens by Blue Dot Sessions McCarthy by Blue Dot Sessions Palms Down by Blue Dot Sessions

Today on MinneCulture, we're headed all the way back to 1900, when Minneapolis was a very different place than it is now. As the mill capital of the world, Minneapolis was packed to the brim with seasonal workers, thriving brothels, and scheming card sharks. But to Mayor Albert Alonzo Ames, it was just a piggy bank waiting to be smashed open. Over the course of a year and a half, Ames turned the Minneapolis Police Department into the most powerful crime ring the city had ever seen. KFAI's Tony Williams has the story. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Season 7 of the MinneCulture podcast is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose. Special Thanks: Erik Rivenes Diedre Hammond Adam Franti Sam Hills Julie Censullo Bibliography: The Shame of Minneapolis: The Ruin And Redemption of a City That Was Sold Out (1903) Lincoln Steffens Introduction by Mark Neuzil, Ph.D. for Minnesota Legal History Project, 2011 Proceedings of the Detroit Conference for Good City Government and the Ninth Annual Meeting of the National Municipal League (1903) William A. Frisbie, City Editor, Minneapolis Journal The Minneapolis House-Cleaning (pp. 109 – 117) City Bosses in the United States; A Study of Twenty Municipal Bosses (1930) Harold Zink Minneapolis in the Twentieth Century (2010) Iric Nathanson Chapter 2: The Shame of Minneapolis (pp. 66 – 106) Minneapolis Madams: The Lost History of Prostitution on the Riverfront (2013) Penny A. Petersen Dirty Doc Ames and the Scandal that Shook Minneapolis (2018) Erik Rivenes A.A. Ames (2022) Military History Wiki https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/A._A._Ames A.A. Ames (2022) Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A._A._Ames Ames, Albert Alonzo, “Doc, A.A.” (2022) Minnesota Legislative Reference Library https://www.lrl.mn.gov/legdb/fulldetail?id=10892 Music Sources: All music in the public domain, audio restoration by Tony Williams Library of Congress National Jukebox The Great 78 Project, Internet Archive Soundtrack, by order of appearance: Narcissus – Sousa's Band (1902) Victor Record 354 Let Me Call You Sweetheart – Columbia Quartette (1911) Columbia Record A1057 Old Comrades March – Columbia Band (1900) Columbia Record A1608 Marching Through Georgia – Columbia Band (1901) Columbia Record A107 The Holy City – Henry Burr (1900) Columbia Record A242 God Save The King – Columbia Band (1902) Columbia Record A65 Calvary – Baritone Solo (1900) Columbia Record A267 Rubenstein's Melody in F – Alexander Heindl (1901) Victor Monarch Record 3030 Come Out, Dinah, On The Green – Harry Macdonough (1901) Victor Monarch Record 1099 Poet and Peasant Overture – Sousa's Band (1902) Victor Monarch Record 1552 Trumpet Quartette – Columbia Band (1900) Columbia Record 373 A Little Bit Off The Top – Ed Favor (1900) Victor Record A195 Then You'll Remember Me – Tenor Solo (1901) Columbia Record A343

The history of the Animal Humane Society offers a jaw-dropping glimpse into Minneapolis life in the late 1800s. This was a time when horses struggled to pull loads up Lowry Hill and dogs at the pound were drowned in the Mississippi River. As part of a national movement, the humane society formed to prosecute cruelty to animals — and they prosecuted cruelty to children too. Investigating hundreds of cases, humane agents became the state's first social workers and probation officers. This story traces Minnesota's relationship to animals, from the workhorse era to the pandemic-puppy era. Produced by Michelle Bruch.Season 7 of the MinneCulture podcast is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Historic photos courtesy of the Animal Humane Society; Music “Lissa” by Blue Dot Sessions (www.sessions.blue).

reputations. Forty years ago, the two were part of the vibrant African American Cultural Center, a place where Black Art was being nurtured, rediscovered, and celebrated. In today's episode, Sheila Regan explores the Center's history and it's legacy. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Season 7 of the MinneCulture podcast is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose.

Eva Valesh was only 22 when she first went undercover to report on women workers in the 1880s, under the pseudonym Eva Gay in the St. Paul Globe. Each week, she would either sneak into a workplace to speak to the workers, or she would simply fabricate her references and apply to a job herself. She visited clothing factories, laundries, dress-shops, dry goods stores, and food factories. Often, she encountered women being exploited or working in dangerous conditions. Eva fought for the workers and helped them fight for themselves. In this episode, reporter Ben Heath explores Valesh's work, and the role of investigative journalism on the labor movement of the late 19th century. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Season 7 of the MinneCulture podcast is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose.

In the late 1800's, European immigrants — mostly German and Scandinavian — flooded Minnesota, and the population boomed like few other times in history. This new majority of people in a new land needed myths and stories to fill in the blanks about why and how they came here. Like the story of Kensington Runestone. A purportedly 'discovered' rune stone that proved that Nordic expires made it to Minnesota in the year 1362. In this episode, reporter Matthew Schneeman dives into the connection between the stone and Minnesota's white population, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of folk archeology. Support for MinneCulture on KFAI is provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Season 7 of MinneCulture is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose. For more information about KFAI's MinneCulture, check out kfai.org/minneculture.

With its haunting call, distinctive black and white plumage, and intense, almost otherworldly red eyes, the Common Loon is an icon of northern Minnesota wilderness.But some researchers believe future generations of the beloved bird in this region may be in jeopardy.A recent study in Wisconsin showed some worrying trends. Chicks are getting smaller, their survival rates are lower, and loons that migrate as juveniles are returning to their birthplace at low rates.Now, there's a concentrated research effort by the National Loon Center in Minnesota to find out whether the same declines are present there. Reporter Emily Haavik spoke with bird-lovers and scientists about their efforts to study and protect the Common Loon.Support for MinneCulture has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Season 7 of the MinneCulture podcast is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose. For more information about MinneCulture, check out kfai.org/minneculture.

Historians have argued that the history of America can be told through the history of meat. The meat industry was often the first to innovate and make use of modern technologies: from the railroad and refrigerated cars to meat packing plant's dis-assembly lines that inspired Henry Ford's assembly line. This is especially true for Minnesota. The University of Minnesota was the first university to specialize in meat studies with the opening of the Andrew Boss Meat Lab. South Saint Paul's stockyards and meat packing plants were at one point the largest in the world. In the past hundred and fifty years Minnesota, meat, and the world changed. Reporter Matthew Schneeman follows how Minnesota changed the meat industry and changed meat itself. He also examines the ways that immigrant labor has been used to power the meat industry since the 20th century. This story starts by looking at people's different responses to a slaughtered chicken. Gross? Clean? Delicious? Horrifying? Support for MinneCulture on KFAI has been provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Season 7 of the MinneCulture podcast is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose.

MinneCulture returns in 2023 with more stories of Minnesota arts, history, and culture. In season 7, we'll get to know some prominent Minnesotan activists, unravel some of our favorite myths and legends, and tell stories about the people who make up our great state. New episodes dropping every two weeks, starting Thursday January 5. Subscribe to KFAI's MinneCulture wherever you get your podcasts. MinneCulture is edited and executive produced by Julie Censullo and hosted by John Gebretatose. For more information, check out kfai.org/minneculture.

John Gebretatose is Eritrean born but American raised who at an early age had to learn coping skills in order to deal with the hands that life deals us.John opens up with me about his mother having schizophrenia and have to care for her at an early age and using laughter to help him cope with all that he had going on at a very young age. His father was around but was dealing with his own demons of alcoholism and not really understanding his wife's illness and how to deal with it was all too much for him to cope with.John found comedy as a form of escape and a way to channel his feelings and emotions through laughter. While performing stand up he found his new passion and love in the form of Improv. While doing so he realized a community was needed for Black comedians in the Improv world and so he helped create BlackOut Improv. After a long and awaited time away due to the pandemic, they will be performing again at HUGE Theater in South Minneapolis.

This week on Yes But Why Podcast, I interview comedian John Gebratatose. John Gebretatose has been dedicated to the comedy scene in Minnesota's Twin Cities for more than a decade. He performs stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy. John is an improv instructor as well as the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at HUGE Improv Theater in Minneapolis, MN. He has taught improv workshops in theaters, hospitals, corporate workspaces, K-12 schools and colleges. Over the past few years, John has become a leader in the efforts to change the face of American improv, making it a more welcoming and representative artform. He has led and facilitated diversity and inclusion programming for improv theaters all over the world through his mission to uplift all voices. John is a co-founder of renowned Twin Cities improv troupe Blackout Improv and a founding member of the sketch comedy show, Late Nights Minneapolis. He is also the co-founder of the Black and Funny Improv Festival. John has traveled the world performing, teaching and directing improv. In our conversation, John tells me about his upbringing and we bond over latchkey life. John muses on ways to “seek out joy in the darkness” when you're a kid who doesn't really get to be a kid. John speaks about the singing and dancing that he and his friends did to celebrate neighborhood victories when he was growing up. We talk about what we have learned about humanity since we began teaching improv. John shares a bit about his teaching style. We discuss the lessons we have learned about confidence, accountability, and commitment (both as human beings and as performers). I ask John about the work he is doing to make improv a more welcoming artform for Black improvisers and other performers of color. We discuss the challenging work there is to provide artists with a safe space to create in. John gushes about artists that inspire him. Support John by supporting HUGE Theater in Minneapolis, MN. Take a class with him and/or go to the BIPOC jam he has created! Last Sunday of the month, 4-6pm. Remaining 2021 dates: October 31, November 28 and December 26 Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by True Hemp Science! True Hemp Science is our Austin-based resource for vegan friendly, whole plant extract CBD oil. Go to TrueHempScience.com to peruse all the therapeutic CBD product options! Use code YesButWhy7 to get 7% off your order of $50 or more and get a free packet of 2 CBD edibles!

This week on Yes But Why Podcast, I interview comedian John Gebratatose. John Gebretatose has been dedicated to the comedy scene in Minnesota's Twin Cities for more than a decade. He performs stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy. John is an improv instructor as well as the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at HUGE Improv Theater in Minneapolis, MN. He has taught improv workshops in theaters, hospitals, corporate workspaces, K-12 schools and colleges. Over the past few years, John has become a leader in the efforts to change the face of American improv, making it a more welcoming and representative artform. He has led and facilitated diversity and inclusion programming for improv theaters all over the world through his mission to uplift all voices. John is a co-founder of renowned Twin Cities improv troupe Blackout Improv and a founding member of the sketch comedy show, Late Nights Minneapolis. He is also the co-founder of the Black and Funny Improv Festival. John has traveled the world performing, teaching and directing improv. In our conversation, John tells me about his upbringing and we bond over latchkey life. John muses on ways to “seek out joy in the darkness” when you're a kid who doesn't really get to be a kid. John speaks about the singing and dancing that he and his friends did to celebrate neighborhood victories when he was growing up. We talk about what we have learned about humanity since we began teaching improv. John shares a bit about his teaching style. We discuss the lessons we have learned about confidence, accountability, and commitment (both as human beings and as performers). I ask John about the work he is doing to make improv a more welcoming artform for Black improvisers and other performers of color. We discuss the challenging work there is to provide artists with a safe space to create in. John gushes about artists that inspire him. Support John by supporting HUGE Theater in Minneapolis, MN. Take a class with him and/or go to the BIPOC jam he has created! Last Sunday of the month, 4-6pm. Remaining 2021 dates: October 31, November 28 and December 26 Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by True Hemp Science! True Hemp Science is our Austin-based resource for vegan friendly, whole plant extract CBD oil. Go to TrueHempScience.com to peruse all the therapeutic CBD product options! Use code YesButWhy7 to get 7% off your order of $50 or more and get a free packet of 2 CBD edibles!

This week on Yes But Why Podcast, I interview comedian John Gebratatose. John Gebretatose has been dedicated to the comedy scene in Minnesota's Twin Cities for more than a decade. He performs stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy. John is an improv instructor as well as the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at HUGE Improv Theater in Minneapolis, MN. He has taught improv workshops in theaters, hospitals, corporate workspaces, K-12 schools and colleges. Over the past few years, John has become a leader in the efforts to change the face of American improv, making it a more welcoming and representative artform. He has led and facilitated diversity and inclusion programming for improv theaters all over the world through his mission to uplift all voices. John is a co-founder of renowned Twin Cities improv troupe Blackout Improv and a founding member of the sketch comedy show, Late Nights Minneapolis. He is also the co-founder of the Black and Funny Improv Festival. John has traveled the world performing, teaching and directing improv.In our conversation, John tells me about his upbringing and we bond over latchkey life. John muses on ways to “seek out joy in the darkness” when you're a kid who doesn't really get to be a kid. John speaks about the singing and dancing that he and his friends did to celebrate neighborhood victories when he was growing up. We talk about what we have learned about humanity since we began teaching improv. John shares a bit about his teaching style. We discuss the lessons we have learned about confidence, accountability, and commitment (both as human beings and as performers). I ask John about the work he is doing to make improv a more welcoming artform for Black improvisers and other performers of color. We discuss the challenging work there is to provide artists with a safe space to create in. John gushes about artists that inspire him. Support John by supporting HUGE Theater in Minneapolis, MN. Take a class with him and/or go to the BIPOC jam he has created! Last Sunday of the month, 4-6pm. Remaining 2021 dates: October 31, November 28 and December 26Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetworkThis episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy!This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by True Hemp Science! True Hemp Science is our Austin-based resource for vegan friendly, whole plant extract CBD oil. Go to TrueHempScience.com to peruse all the therapeutic CBD product options! Use code YesButWhy7 to get 7% off your order of $50 or more and get a free packet of 2 CBD edibles!

This week on Yes But Why Podcast, I interview comedian John Gebratatose. John Gebretatose has been dedicated to the comedy scene in Minnesota's Twin Cities for more than a decade. He performs stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy. John is an improv instructor as well as the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at HUGE Improv Theater in Minneapolis, MN. He has taught improv workshops in theaters, hospitals, corporate workspaces, K-12 schools and colleges. Over the past few years, John has become a leader in the efforts to change the face of American improv, making it a more welcoming and representative artform. He has led and facilitated diversity and inclusion programming for improv theaters all over the world through his mission to uplift all voices. John is a co-founder of renowned Twin Cities improv troupe Blackout Improv and a founding member of the sketch comedy show, Late Nights Minneapolis. He is also the co-founder of the Black and Funny Improv Festival. John has traveled the world performing, teaching and directing improv. In our conversation, John tells me about his upbringing and we bond over latchkey life. John muses on ways to “seek out joy in the darkness” when you're a kid who doesn't really get to be a kid. John speaks about the singing and dancing that he and his friends did to celebrate neighborhood victories when he was growing up. We talk about what we have learned about humanity since we began teaching improv. John shares a bit about his teaching style. We discuss the lessons we have learned about confidence, accountability, and commitment (both as human beings and as performers). I ask John about the work he is doing to make improv a more welcoming artform for Black improvisers and other performers of color. We discuss the challenging work there is to provide artists with a safe space to create in. John gushes about artists that inspire him. Support John by supporting HUGE Theater in Minneapolis, MN. Take a class with him and/or go to the BIPOC jam he has created! Last Sunday of the month, 4-6pm. Remaining 2021 dates: October 31, November 28 and December 26 Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. Treat Yourself. Get Audible. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com to connect with us so we can help you with your podcast! Save money by putting in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off the first service or workshop you buy! This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by True Hemp Science! True Hemp Science is our Austin-based resource for vegan friendly, whole plant extract CBD oil. Go to TrueHempScience.com to peruse all the therapeutic CBD product options! Use code YesButWhy7 to get 7% off your order of $50 or more and get a free packet of 2 CBD edibles!

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of chatting with Velvet Duke, Toronto-based entertainer and improv instructor. Velvet Duke is a world-beloved Black, autistic, queer, velvet voiced, multi-faceted creator, facilitator, and community leader. As an entertainer, Velvet engages with audiences as a musical improviser, a storyteller, a stand-up, and a host. Velvet studied at and graduated from The Improv Place (Masterclass in Teaching) as well as Second City Toronto Training Centre (Musical Improvisation Conservatory). He has also taken master classes in improvisation with Jill Bernard, Stephen Davison, John Gebretatose, Natasha Boomer, Ken Hall, Mick Napier, Katy Schutte and Chris Mead. Velvet is also an improv workshop facilitator. Based in Canada with a strong internet connection, Velvet is available to lead workshops virtually to groups around the world. Velvet facilitates virtual classes through international improvisational theatres such as Edinburgh International Improv Festival, The Nursery Theatre, Vintage Improv Festival, and Highwire Improv. He also runs online improv workshops through Guelph Black Heritage Society and Black Improv Alliance. Velvet has facilitated in-person workshops at the Black and Funny Festival, Theatre on the Edge, and with the original Toronto Theatresports. In our conversation, Velvet and I talk about how much we miss performing in front of an audience and how much we crave big crowds. We are kindred spirits and we talk about a superpower we both have connecting with and comforting strangers. Velvet tells me about his Star Trek fandom improv troupe, “The Dandies,” and about his deeply personal solo show series, “Personal Demon Hunter.” We were excited to chat with each other and we can't wait for you to listen to it now! Support Velvet Duke by watching his online improv shows including: “Y'Up”, “Crooner,” and “Crushin It.” Hire Velvet Duke to facilitate an improv workshop at your theatre! Highly skilled and extremely motivated, Velvet is the improv teacher you have been looking for! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com and put in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off your first consultation!

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of chatting with Velvet Duke, Toronto-based entertainer and improv instructor. Velvet Duke is a world-beloved Black, autistic, queer, velvet voiced, multi-faceted creator, facilitator, and community leader. As an entertainer, Velvet engages with audiences as a musical improviser, a storyteller, a stand-up, and a host. Velvet studied at and graduated from The Improv Place (Masterclass in Teaching) as well as Second City Toronto Training Centre (Musical Improvisation Conservatory). He has also taken master classes in improvisation with Jill Bernard, Stephen Davison, John Gebretatose, Natasha Boomer, Ken Hall, Mick Napier, Katy Schutte and Chris Mead. Velvet is also an improv workshop facilitator. Based in Canada with a strong internet connection, Velvet is available to lead workshops virtually to groups around the world. Velvet facilitates virtual classes through international improvisational theatres such as Edinburgh International Improv Festival, The Nursery Theatre, Vintage Improv Festival, and Highwire Improv. He also runs online improv workshops through Guelph Black Heritage Society and Black Improv Alliance. Velvet has facilitated in-person workshops at the Black and Funny Festival, Theatre on the Edge, and with the original Toronto Theatresports. In our conversation, Velvet and I talk about how much we miss performing in front of an audience and how much we crave big crowds. We are kindred spirits and we talk about a superpower we both have connecting with and comforting strangers. Velvet tells me about his Star Trek fandom improv troupe, “The Dandies,” and about his deeply personal solo show series, “Personal Demon Hunter.” We were excited to chat with each other and we can’t wait for you to listen to it now! Support Velvet Duke by watching his online improv shows including: “Y’Up”, “Crooner,” and “Crushin It.” Hire Velvet Duke to facilitate an improv workshop at your theatre! Highly skilled and extremely motivated, Velvet is the improv teacher you have been looking for! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com and put in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off your first consultation!

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of chatting with Velvet Duke, Toronto-based entertainer and improv instructor. Velvet Duke is a world-beloved Black, autistic, queer, velvet voiced, multi-faceted creator, facilitator, and community leader. As an entertainer, Velvet engages with audiences as a musical improviser, a storyteller, a stand-up, and a host. Velvet studied at and graduated from The Improv Place (Masterclass in Teaching) as well as Second City Toronto Training Centre (Musical Improvisation Conservatory). He has also taken master classes in improvisation with Jill Bernard, Stephen Davison, John Gebretatose, Natasha Boomer, Ken Hall, Mick Napier, Katy Schutte and Chris Mead. Velvet is also an improv workshop facilitator. Based in Canada with a strong internet connection, Velvet is available to lead workshops virtually to groups around the world. Velvet facilitates virtual classes through international improvisational theatres such as Edinburgh International Improv Festival, The Nursery Theatre, Vintage Improv Festival, and Highwire Improv. He also runs online improv workshops through Guelph Black Heritage Society and Black Improv Alliance. Velvet has facilitated in-person workshops at the Black and Funny Festival, Theatre on the Edge, and with the original Toronto Theatresports. In our conversation, Velvet and I talk about how much we miss performing in front of an audience and how much we crave big crowds. We are kindred spirits and we talk about a superpower we both have connecting with and comforting strangers. Velvet tells me about his Star Trek fandom improv troupe, “The Dandies,” and about his deeply personal solo show series, “Personal Demon Hunter.” We were excited to chat with each other and we can’t wait for you to listen to it now! Support Velvet Duke by watching his online improv shows including: “Y’Up”, “Crooner,” and “Crushin It.” Hire Velvet Duke to facilitate an improv workshop at your theatre! Highly skilled and extremely motivated, Velvet is the improv teacher you have been looking for! Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com and put in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off your first consultation!

This week on Yes But Why, I had the pleasure of chatting with Velvet Duke, Toronto-based entertainer and improv instructor.Velvet Duke is a world-beloved Black, autistic, queer, velvet voiced, multi-faceted creator, facilitator, and community leader. As an entertainer, Velvet engages with audiences as a musical improviser, a storyteller, a stand-up, and a host. Velvet studied at and graduated from The Improv Place (Masterclass in Teaching) as well as Second City Toronto Training Centre (Musical Improvisation Conservatory). He has also taken master classes in improvisation with Jill Bernard, Stephen Davison, John Gebretatose, Natasha Boomer, Ken Hall, Mick Napier, Katy Schutte and Chris Mead.Velvet is also an improv workshop facilitator. Based in Canada with a strong internet connection, Velvet is available to lead workshops virtually to groups around the world. Velvet facilitates virtual classes through international improvisational theatres such as Edinburgh International Improv Festival, The Nursery Theatre, Vintage Improv Festival, and Highwire Improv. He also runs online improv workshops through Guelph Black Heritage Society and Black Improv Alliance. Velvet has facilitated in-person workshops at the Black and Funny Festival, Theatre on the Edge, and with the original Toronto Theatresports.In our conversation, Velvet and I talk about how much we miss performing in front of an audience and how much we crave big crowds. We are kindred spirits and we talk about a superpower we both have connecting with and comforting strangers. Velvet tells me about his Star Trek fandom improv troupe, “The Dandies,” and about his deeply personal solo show series, “Personal Demon Hunter.” We were excited to chat with each other and we can’t wait for you to listen to it now!Support Velvet Duke by watching his online improv shows including: “Y’Up”, “Crooner,” and “Crushin It.” Hire Velvet Duke to facilitate an improv workshop at your theatre! Highly skilled and extremely motivated, Velvet is the improv teacher you have been looking for!Yes But Why Podcast is a proud member of the HC Universal Network family of podcasts. Visit us at HCUniversalNetwork.com to join in on the fun. #YesButWhy #Podcast #HCUniversalNetwork This episode of Yes But Why podcast is sponsored by audible - get your FREE audiobook download and your 30 day free trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/YESBUTWHY. This episode of Yes But Why is also sponsored by PodcastCadet.com. Go to PodcastCadet.com and put in offer code YBY20 to get 20% off your first consultation!

A rare two-person interview with Minneapolis-based improvisers Alyssa DiVirgilio and John Gebretatose, members of Blackout Improv! In this whirlwind chit-chat, John & Alyssa talk about their beginnings in improv, their travels to Sweden as well as their experiences as Black improvisers. John is a performer, instructor, co-creator of the Black and Funny Improv Festival and Director of Diversity and Inclusion of HUGE Theater. Alyssa, a top notch improvise and trained actor is a graduate of the Saint Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists with continued studies at American Academy of Dramatic Arts and Ivana Chubbuck studios in LA. When not touring the world, both of them perform at Mixed Blood and HUGE Theater. Learn more about Blackout Improv Visit HUGE Theater Visit Mixed Blood Theatre

A wild, award-worthy night lands two men in a paternally complicated situation and when America isn't ready to accept their medical miracle(s), they'll go to great lengths to prove that two fathers are better than one. Featuring John Gebretatose

Many people advise that to be a good improviser, you need to have an interesting life… so what are the things have people done, what hobbies have they taken up or professions have they worked in or life habits they've taken on - that have helped them in their improv.Love this podcast? Help it keep going here: https://supporter.acast.com/the-improv-chronicle-podcastThis episode's guests:Jodi Pfleghar - find out more about the groups Jodi is part of -https://www.facebook.com/MunichBakeThishttps://www.facebook.com/impromunichorn And the festival she runs which is online this weekend:https://improvember.de/ Jade Fearnley from Murder Inc - The Improvised Murder Mysterywww.murderincimprov.com Andy Johnston from The Mop and Bucket Company:https://www.mopco.org/ Pat Robinson from Squares in the Round in NottinghamElise Rodriguez from Florida Studio Theatre in Sarasota - check out her new podcast with John Gebretatose here: https://anchor.fm/eliseandjohnshow?fbclid=IwAR1uYP80xwwlYf7V12__A50cwHO5MTRUNMQhxCiwvDtC2x7TOF_DG4m4EPI The Improv Chronicle Podcast is produced and hosted by Nottingham improviser Lloydie James LloydTheme music - Sam PlummerLogo design - Hélène DollieSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/the-improv-chronicle-podcast. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

AJ DUNK spelled *all caps* host another episode of ICMTU live on instagram with @gebretatose. “I Can’t Make This Up” is the show about bringing people together from different backgrounds by sharing TRUE stories that have happened in their life. “Laughter is always in style.” AJ DUNK www.AJDUNK.com *all caps* (episode audio version below)

ICMTU ep 221 Live on Instagram feat John Gebretatose @ajdunk spelled *all caps* host another episode of @icmtu live on instagram with @gebretatose . “I Can’t Make This Up” is the show about bringing people together from different backgrounds by sharing TRUE stories that have happened in their life. “Laughter is always in style.” AJ DUNK www.AJDUNK.com *all caps*

Ecologist Tom Hollenhorst, of Duluth, Minn., recommends the art exhibit “The Mirrors” by Adam Swanson, on display at the Great Lakes Aquarium and online through the month of August. He calls it a science-meets-art collection. Each of the paintings features a federally listed threatened and endangered animal of Minnesota. The colors of the paintings are bright and joyful, and the pairings of wild animals with humans or scientific equipment can be thought-provoking or humorous. The Minnesota Fringe Virtual Festival runs through Sunday, and comedian John Gebretatose suggests tuning into the half diary-reading, half improv show, “OMG.” He says the show centers on guests reading from their actual teen diaries, after which improv actors create scenes inspired by the material. Gebretatose called the show “angsty and hilarious … and healing.” “OMG” runs Thursday, Saturday and Sunday nights at 7 p.m. as part of the Fringe Festival. Freelance theater director Shalee Cole Mauleón is excited about the Fringe show “Instructions for a Habitat Inventory” from Playable Artworks. Through your smartphone, you choose a personal habitat to explore, such as your home or neighborhood. Actors give instructions and ask questions, making you an active member of the performance. Mauleón says Margo Gray has assembled a talented cast of actors of color. Between the pandemic and the uprisings following the killing of George Floyd, Mauleón called “Instructions for a Habitat Inventory,”a timely show that left her looking at her home in a new way. Find more on Art Hounds® Become an Art Hound today Join the hunt for arts and culture

Love this podcast? Help it keep going here: https://supporter.acast.com/the-improv-chronicle-podcastAs the world struggles to find connection during a pandemic, does being part of an improv community give you a head start on connection - and is there a difference to the sort of friendships we make through improv?In this podcast you will hear from:Steven Morgan who improvises with Easylaughs in Amsterdam. Details on their shows and workshops here: https://www.easylaughs.nlElise Rodriguez from Florida Studio Theatre in Sarasota. Check out their shows and workshops here: http://www.floridastudiotheatre.org and follow Elise here: https://www.instagram.com/draggingthirty/John Gebretatose from HUGE Theater in Minneapolis. Check out their shows and workshops here: https://www.hugetheater.com/Hellena Jang from Seoul City Improv in Seoul. Check out their shows and workshops here: https://www.seoulcityimprov.com/The Improv Chronicle Podcast is produced and hosted by Nottingham improviser Lloydie James LloydTheme music - Sam PlummerLogo design - Hélène DollieSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/the-improv-chronicle-podcast. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Actor and comedian John Gebretatose joins Tawny live from Minneapolis to discuss the Black and Funny Improv Festival, a father’s advice to be careful driving with a person of color, excluding friends in skincare discussions, and more. As always, leave us a message about anything you think is racist at (323) 389-RACE. Check out John Gebretatose campaign here link to the campaign http://www.hugetheater.com/donate/hugemove/ This episode is brought to you by Bombas (www.bombas.com/YITR).

John Gebretatose is a comedian and so I asked him to talk about a bunch of stuff that ISN'T funny! But he still made it fun. Wait ... maybe that's just what comedy is anyway? He tells us about growing up with one parent with schizophrenia and the other with alcohol abuse. John performs standup all of the twin cities (minnesota) and teaches and performs at HUGE Improv theater in Minneapolis. (I even performed with him once on the open night ... which went alright, kinda.) and also he's a founding member of BLACKOUT, a black and poc centered improv group. https://www.blackoutcomedy.org/

Episode 41: Our guest is John Gebretatose! John rose from the ranks of a HUGE Improv Theater student, to a HUGE Improv instructor. He trained and worked at Brave New Workshop. He has performed stand-up comedy in the Twin Cities for over nine years. He is currently part of one of the hottest new improv groups, Blackout, and also a founding member of Late Nights Minneapolis With Joe Rapp. John has taught improv workshops internationally, coached improv groups and currently teaches at HUGE in addition to heading up diversity and inclusion programs. He is the founder and creator of the Black and Funny Improv Festival

John Gebretatose and Alyssa DiVirgilio from Blackout Improv join Will Frazier for the second part of the tales from Kevin Parks.

Bennett Christensen, winner of the 2016 HUGE Hangout Auction, brings along Denzel Belin and John Gebretatose (of Sultans of Silly) for his episode. He poses the question, “what have you gotten out of improv?” which leads us to a discussion about making friends, developing community, overcoming social anxiety, and dealing with neurological disorders, schizophrenia, and […] The post Bennett Christensen | Next At Bat: Episode 101 appeared first on NoisePicnic Podcast Network.

In episode 20 (!), Melody and Raechel had the pleasure of sitting down with John Gebretatose, a charming man of many titles: he's a comedian with Blackout Improv, the Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Huge Improv Theater, and the Founder of the Twin Cities Black and Funny Improv Festival. We asked John about the goals of his all-Black comedy troupe, how to make jokes about race and racism, what comedians inspire him, and much much more. And we got him to join us for our RWLing of the week! ❤❤❤ Subscribe on iTunes & leave a review! Follow us on Instagram! And Facebook! And Twitter! Check out our Feminist Killjoys, PhD Mixtape on Spotify! Have some extra dollars and want to support feminist media-makers? Consider donating to our Patreon or as a one-time thing at our website. And of course, feel free to email Melody back in 2004 at fkj.phd@gmail.com ❤❤❤

Joy Dolo, Kory LaQuess Pullam, and Alsa Bruno of Blackout (unfortunately Andy Hilbrands and John Gebretatose couldn’t join us) talk about marketing, privilege, balancing serious and comedic conversation, having a dialogue with the audience, being inclusive of diverse points of views, bringing your individual talents to a group, the responsibility to address difficult topics, and […] The post Blackout | Next At Bat: Episode Ninety Three appeared first on NoisePicnic Podcast Network.

Andy Katzung, Michael DallaValle, Philip Skretvedt, and Katy McGrath of Wonderful Wonderful (unfortunately Justina Cegelski, Courtney Chesher, Chad Divine, Ali Fisch, John Gebretatose and Ingrid Nuttall couldn’t join us) divulge the identities of secret service personnel in what is surely worse than any wiki-leak. They talk about how they have evolved from a Brave New […] The post Wonderful Wonderful | Next At Bat: Episode Seventy Eight appeared first on NoisePicnic Podcast Network.