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I really enjoyed this conversation with Natalie and her mother, Mary, because it reminded me how an unstoppable mindset is often built quietly, over time, through creativity, learning, and persistence. Together, they share what it has been like to navigate life across generations while facing learning disabilities, health challenges, workplace adversity, and the constant need to adapt. We talk about Natalie's journey with attention deficit disorder and anxiety, how creative outlets like baking, art, music, and storytelling helped her find focus and confidence, and why returning to school later in life became an act of self-trust rather than fear. Mary's story adds another powerful layer. She reflects on growing up with low self-esteem, navigating male-dominated workplaces, and dealing with sexual harassment long before there were systems in place to address it. As a mother, artist, and professional, she shares what it means to keep moving forward while supporting her daughter's growth. Throughout our conversation, we explore accessibility, creative entrepreneurship, lifelong learning, and why accommodations and understanding still matter. I believe you will find this episode both honest and encouraging, especially if your own path has been anything but linear. Highlights: 00:00 – Hear how creativity and resilience shaped an unstoppable mindset across two generations.08:35 – Learn how attention deficit disorder and anxiety changed the way focus, learning, and confidence developed.14:33 – Discover why stepping away from a demanding career can open the door to new growth.21:23 – Understand how workplace sexual harassment leaves lasting effects long after it happens.35:16 – See why protecting and celebrating local artists became a personal mission.59:09 – Learn why accessibility, accommodations, and empathy still matter in everyday life. About the Guest: Mary Dunn: Mary was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA.  She was the only child of Norman and Lucille Rump.  At a young age, she liked to draw and as she grew older she enjoyed painting.  Her first painting was in oil and Mary was eleven years old.  However, because of the expense of art supplies, it was difficult to pursue a continuous endeavor in that particular form of art. While in high school, nothing really exciting happened as Mary was on the shy side.  She didn't belong to any groups and she really just wanted to graduate.  She graduated in the upper third of her class.  The most momentous part of the graduation was that Jeff Goldblum was also a graduate of her class. After graduation, Mary continued her education at The Pittsburgh Beauty Academy.  There she studied cosmetology and acquired a teacher license.  Although she never taught, she did work at a few different shops and also managed a shop.  These experiences helped Mary to become less shy. At that time, she met her first husband and had two children.  The marriage lasted for eleven years, and Mary was left with two small children.  Mary realized that her background in cosmetology would not be sufficient to raise two small children. She decided to go to college. With the support of her parents, she was accepted to attend Carlow College which is now Carlow University.  There she studied business and minored in theology.  She almost minored in art, but she needed one more credit to have that as a minor.  It was important for her to graduate in order to take care of her children.  While in college she belonged to several organizations.  One organization was an honor society called Delta Epsilon Sigma.  There she became an assistant chair of the organization.  The second organization was OASIS.  The organization was for non-tradition students.  She was vice-president during her senior year at Carlow.  She graduated in 1991 cum laude. After Carlow, she found her first employment opportunity working the Equitable Gas Company as a “Technical Fieldman”.  In this position, Mary would draft pipeline installations, work up costs for those installations, and fill in for supervisors when they went on vacations.  The job was difficult as it had usually been filled by men prior to her.  She was thrust into a job that she learned on her own and was subject to sexual harassment.   At that time, sexual harassment was not spoken about.  Mary didn't even realize that her peers were doing these things to her.  When she supervised union personnel, they were nice and valued her expertise.  However, when she returned to the office, more harassment continued. During that period, Mary decided to get a Master's Degree and enrolled in Carnegie Mellon's Heinz school of Public Management.  Her classes were very valuable as she learned about leadership, information systems, and marketing communications.  She graduated in 1996 with distinction.  Even though after she graduated from CMU, she continued to be sexual harassed.  She thought it might be a good idea to document the issues that made her position difficult.  She began to take notes on these incidents.  When she went to Human Resources, Mary was told that she should confront these people and tell them how she was feeling.  Mary couldn't do that because she felt it would make matters worse.  She applied for another position within the company.  In 1997, Mary became Program Manager of Energy Technology. While there, Mary developed and implemented a marketing plan to promote the use of alternative fuels.  As a Program Manager, Mary became a member of Pittsburgh Region Clean Cities which focused on alternative fueled vehicles.  During this time, she became a board member and focused on grants and wrote the Pittsburgh Region Clean Cities Newsletter. In 1999, her position was eliminated at Equitable.  In some ways, Mary was relieved about the elimination, but in other ways, it was the first time this ever happened to her.  She was now remarried and was concerned about her children. It was very scary. Thankfully, Mary was not unemployed for long.  She was hired at Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission as a Transportation Planner.  In this position she implemented a newly designed client tracking system of their products and services that helped to increase revenue. Additionally, she worked on a communication plan to implement branding and crisis communications. Eventually, Mary became a Marketing/Communication Specialist for Southwestern Pennsylvania Communications.  She was responsible for multi-media communications connected with branding. Mary designed logos for special projects, arranged special affairs, open houses and conferences.  She remained a part of Pittsburgh Region Clean Cities.   Mary additionally prepared presentations for executive management to deliver regarding the Joseph A. James Memorial Excellence in Local Government Achievement Award that recognizes a municipal government elected or appointed official in any local government, agency, or Council of Government for a lifetime of exemplary governance or management. Unfortunately, a new Executive was hired to replace the past Executive who had passed away.  Because of this, our whole department was eliminated. After Southwestern, Mary was hired as the Manager of Administration and Human Resources for THE PROGRAM for Female Offenders.  While at THE PROGRAM, Mary was responsible for maintaining the policies and daily operations in THE PROGRAM.  She implemented a cost effective foodservice program, introduced staff ID cards and implemented the Windows NT network server and computer security using a Digital Subscriber Line which is a type of high-speed internet connection that uses existing copper telephone lines to provide internet access to three PROGRAM facilities. Additionally, Mary implemented a human resource database for directors and managers that targeted specific employment information. Mary maintained safety equipment and introduced a safe evacuation plan for her building.. Unfortunately, because THE PROGRAM was grant based and when it was time to acquire grant money much of the previous grants were not renewed and Mary lost her job.  Mary eventually was hired by Roach and Associates, Inc. as a Project Manager. In this position, she negotiated oil and gas leases for exploration and productions of future gas wells in Clearfield County Pennsylvania.  During this time, Mary was responsible for permitting activities with the state, county and federal agencies as well as prepared training seminars to meet pipeline safety regulations as per U.S. Department of Transportation, CFR49, Parts 192-193. Mary authored documentation regarding pipeline regulations for various housing authorities and gas production companies within Pennsylvania, West Virginia and New York.  Besides working at Roach, Mary became part of the Transition Team for Peduto for Mayor of Pittsburgh.  That was such a memorable experience as my team focused on some of the issues facing the newly elected Mayor. It was nice to be a part of change. After working ten years at Roach and Associates, Inc., Mary decided it was time to retire in 2015. While working at Roach, Mary began dabbling in art again.  It had been quite a while since college and painting.  But she began to work in pastels and eventually more in the line of acrylic painting.  She became president of the Pittsburgh Pastel Artist League.  She no longer is president of that group.  Mary now belongs to the Pittsburgh Society of Artists where she was juried into the group.  She has had her work display at The Galaxie in Chicago,  Pittsburgh Technical Institute, Monroeville Library, Gallery Sim, Boxheart Gallery, Southern Allegheny Museum of Art, Saville Gallery in Maryland and various other galleries around Pittsburgh.  Her Study in Pastels won an Award of Excellence from Southern Allegheny Museum of Art.  Mary also came in second place in the Jerry's Artarama Faber Castel Contest. As time went on, Mary decided to focus more on her art work and began teaching students how to paint with Acrylic.  She also began a YouTube channel, Pittsburgh Artist Studio, where she gave free art lessons in acrylic to future artists around the country.  Unfortunately, Mary developed chronic back issues, and she had to give up her teaching.  She has had two back operations to alleviate the pain, but the second operation really didn't help.  It has caused more painful issues.  Therefore, it is difficult for her to paint a long period of time.  Currently, Mary devotes her time to illustrating her oldest daughter's books for children.  The books are a series about a little boy's adventures in his life.  Her books can be found on Amazon under her name “Nicole Leckenby”.  Additionally, she has illustrated a book for her younger daughter, Natalie Sebula, entitled “The Many Colors of Natalie”. In conclusion, now that Mary is retired, she has had more time to work on different art projects a little at a time.  She lives with her husband Steve and two dogs Grumpy and Sally.  She belongs to a group of wonderful women who review Bible Psalms each week. Since my minor in theology, I do enjoy reading various books on different religious subjects.  I am thankful for each day that I have and continue to work on the gifts God has given me. Natalie Belin: I am focusing on the arts. I am a creator with an ambitious attitude. I have no problem thinking BIG and dreaming BIG. While everyone else stays inside the lines, I boldly color outside the lines. Natalie resides near Pittsburgh, PA. She is 40 years old and loves adventures. Within these 40 years Natalie has experienced highs and lows. However, during the low points she was like water: adaptable, resilient, and always finding a way through. At toddler age, it was brought to the attention that she had high pressure in her eyes. However, nothing was really done about it because of her age. Typically, high pressures occur in older adults. After many years, one eye doctor took it seriously.  He prescribed eye drops and finally recommended a laser technique to open the tear ducts.  This alleviated the high pressure and since no eye drops have been needed. In 5 grade, she was diagnosed with attention deficit disorder. Her mother, Mary Dunn advocated for her until someone listened, and her teachers realized it was a real problem. Steps were taken to help Natalie focus more.  As she grew older, it was important to do activities that helped her focus such as cheerleading and possible careers in culinary. Because of the importance of focusing, Natalie decided that culinary arts would be beneficial.  Natalie graduated in October of 2004 from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute with an associate's degree in Specialized Technology Le Cordon Bleu Program in Patisserie & Baking.  While there, she was elected class president. The Pennsylvania Culinary Institute offered externships to various prestigious areas to hone the craft.  Natalie's externship was at the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulpher Springs where she was ultimately hired. However, Natalie decided to return to Pittsburgh after a car accident. Natalie continued to work as a pastry chef for about five years. After, she decided to further her education, and Natalie graduated in December of 2023 from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities. Some of her academic achievements are National Society of Collegiate Scholars, National Society of Leadership and Success, Alpha Sigma lambda-Alpha Chi Chapter at the University of Pittsburgh, Delta Alpha PI Honor Society. During her academic life, Natalie became an Emmy nominated producer for Pitt to the Point (a class focusing on the news as well as behind the scenes of a news/magazine program that covers the City of Pittsburgh, the University of Pittsburgh regional campuses as well as national and international events.) Currently, Natalie is in a Graduate Certification Program which is also at the University of Pittsburgh. The Certification is in Sports, Entertainment, and Arts Law (SEAL). She hopes to use this program as a steppingstone to complete her master's degree in Sports, Entertainment, and Arts Law. In addition to the SEAL certification, one could say that Natalie is a woman of many colors.  She works full-time as an Administrator for the Rehabilitation Science Program in the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh. This is where she provides administrative support for general program management, advising and faculty. Another aspect of Natalie's many colors is writing.  Several years ago, she wrote a poetry book called The Many Colors of Natalie. This is a book for 18+. There are several illustrations in the book that complement the poems. Mary Dunn, Natalie's mother, created the illustrations. In August of 2020, Natalie launched The Many Colors of Natalie Blog. She started this blog to give a new perspective to Pittsburgh other than being known for sports. This allows individuals the ability to educate themselves on different variations of Pittsburgh's art or artists as well as bringing awareness to the art scene. Natalie's motto is Love Art & Support Your Local Artist! Additionally, Natalie has been a model/actor since 2012. Most of her work consists of being an extra in various music videos and movies. Furthermore, she is an ambassador for Ambassador Sunglasses and Just Strong Clothing. Just Strong Clothing's Mission “We are a clothing brand on a mission to empower those who are not just strong for a girl, they are just strong. Whether you are an experienced lifter, a new starter or have simply overcome great adversaries in your life, the JustStrong community are here to empower and motivate you to never give up.” “Ambassador was formed to extract, refine, and exhibit the marriage between what was and what will be in fashion culture. When wearing Ambassador, you break the mold of the mundane to embrace your unmatched individualism.” Besides being an ambassador, Natalie became a Creative Percussion Artist in 2020. “Creative Percussion is a family-owned business, established in 2018, and run by husband-and-wife team, Kevin and Cheri Feeney.” Her picture is on the site as a CP percussion artist. Not only is Natalie a musician, but she dabbles in various mediums in art. Her mixed media piece Peace, Love, and Woodstock is currently in the Woodstock Museum located in Saugerties, New York. “The purpose for the Woodstock Museum is: To gather, display, disseminate and develop the concept and reality of Woodstock, encompassing the culture and history of a living colony of the arts, with special emphasis placed on the exhibition of self-sustaining ecological technologies. To encourage and increase public awareness of Woodstock by providing information to the general public through cultural events, displays of artifacts, outreach programs, communication media events and personal experiences, and to contribute, as an international attraction, to the cultural life and prosperity of our region; and to engage in all lawful activities in pursuit of the foregoing purposes.” Lastly, Natalie and her mother Mary Dunn started a side hustle several years ago. Mother and Daughter Collaboration (vending show name) is a great opportunity for Natalie to showcase her entrepreneurial skills in addition to her art. Their Etsy name is Maker's Collab Studio. In conclusion, Nat is excited for the future, and to see what is in store. She considers herself to be dynamic and resilient. Even those who know Natalie would say the same.  Regardless of what she has been through, she keeps going. She realizes that the tough times eventually do end. In self-reflection, the “tough time” may have been a life lesson, or a possible steppingstone to what's next in her life. Only time will tell. Natalie will always be a supporter of the arts, and she will always create in some way. As Natalie ages, she sees the importance of advocating for the disabled. At one point in her life, she was embarrassed about sharing her learning disability because she felt that we live in a society where having a disability isn't necessarily welcomed and is frowned upon. Do not fear individuals who need special accommodations.  Instead, educate yourself. Try being that individual who needs certain accommodations, and the accommodations are not provided or easily accessible. Progress has been made in educating the ignorant. However, there is more work that needs to be done. Ways to connect with Natalie & Mary**:** Blog website: Home - The Many Colors of Natalie Personal website: Home | natalie-sebula-belin Book of poetry: The Many Colors of Natalie: Written by: Natalie Belin - Kindle edition by Dunn, Mary, Leckenby, Nicole, Merlin, Grace, Palmieri, David. Literature & Fiction Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com. Facebook: (1) Facebook Instagram: Natalie Sebula (@themanycolorsofnatalie) • Instagram photos and videos Etsy: MakersCollabStudio - Etsy About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson  00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us. Michael Hingson  01:21 Hi everyone, and welcome to another edition of unstoppable mindset. We're doing something that we've done a few times before, and we get to do it again today. We have two people as guests on unstoppable mindset this time, mother and daughter, and that'll be kind of fun they have, between them, lots of experiences in art, but in all sorts of other kinds of things as well. They live in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, and I'm not going to say a whole lot more, because I want them to tell their stories. So I want you to meet Natalie bellen and her mother, Mary Dunn. So Natalie and Mary, both of you, welcome to unstoppable mindset. We're glad you're here. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  02:03 Well, thank you for Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  02:03 having us. Yes, we're happy to be here. Thank you. Michael Hingson  02:06 Well, let's see. We'll start with mom. Why don't you tell us something about the early Mary growing up, and you know what? What life was like growing up? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  02:18 Well, growing up, I was born in Pittsburgh. I was actually born on in the south side of Pittsburgh, and it was called St Joseph Hospital, and now it's an apartment building, but we lived here. I've lived here all my life. I lived in Hazelwood until I was about the age of three. Then we moved to Whitaker, Pennsylvania, and now I'm in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. So it's like we hopped around a bit. Growing up in my family was a little bit difficult. I had been bullied quite a bit by my cousins, so it kind of like left you know how it does with bullying. You know, it's not like today. Of course, I didn't want to go out and do something terrible to myself. It's just that it left my self esteem very low, and I just kind of stayed and was by myself most of the time. So until I grew up, I graduated from high school, I went to West Midland, North High School, I graduated in the same class as Jeff Goldblum. Although I didn't know him, I knew that he was very talented. I thought he was more talented on a piano than he was with acting, but he is still he's still very good with the piano, with his jazz music, and that's basically it. I've been in West Mifflin now for she's been quite a bit Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  03:49 since I was in seventh grade, and now I'm 40 years old, so we've been here a long time. Michael Hingson  03:54 Yeah, so it's sort of like 3027 years or so, or 28 years? Yes, well, Natalie, tell us about you when it was like growing up in and all of that. Sure. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  04:08 No problem. So I grew up in Whitaker for the most part, my yearly eight years, like until about fifth grade, I guess about like fifth grade, and then we moved, well, we just moved to a different house and whatever. Yeah, that when we moved for the second time, it was more in a neighborhood with kids, so that was, like, a lot more fun. And we played like tag and all that. So that my early years, I remember that like playing tags, swimming, I love, like skiing on the water, jet skis, stuff like that. Definitely. I loved running around. And I loved dance as a kid too, that was a lot of fun. Michael Hingson  05:00 Okay, and so you went to high school? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  05:05 Oh, yeah, I went, Yes. I went to West Midland area high school, and I graduated in 2003 in 2004 I graduated from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute as a pastry chef and part of the things that I had to do to graduate, I had to do, like, about a six month internship where I resided in white sulfur springs, West Virginia, and I got to do my externship at the Greenbrier, and that was pretty exciting, because it has quite the history. There. People love it there for Well, one of the things that sticks in my mind is Dorothy Draper, who decorated that resort. Her taste is very cool, because she went bold, like with flower print and stripes mixed together for wallpaper. There's stories in history behind the sulfur water there. And then most people might know the Greenbrier for their golf courses, for the golf course actually, or in history about the sulfur water Michael Hingson  06:26 now, you had high eye pressure for a while after you were born, right? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  06:31 Oh, yes, the eye pressures. That's quite the story, let me tell you so at a very young age, like different doctors and eye doctors that I went to. They knew that I had high pressures, but they didn't seem like it was a big issue. But my mom had the inkling that I needed to go to a different doctor when I was like, I guess you Middle School, Michael Hingson  06:58 yeah, yeah, you were about now, was there a lot of pain because of the pressure. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  07:02 I didn't even know was happening, so I wasn't in discomfort or anything. So they said, don't they kind of dismissed it. So I wasn't worried about it, Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  07:14 Neither was I. But you know, like eventually we did go to a doctor and he said, Oh, my goodness, you have these high pressures. And it's, it could be like glaucoma. We don't ever see that in a young person, you know, they haven't ever seen anything like that. He was just amazed by it. And go ahead, you can finish this. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  07:36 Dr Al, I have so much respect for him, because he truly took care of my eyes for a very long time. I started seeing him in middle school, and I saw him up until, like my late 30s, and he I would see him quite frequently, because he would always monitor those pressures, because he knew the importance of that and how they could damage my eyes and I can lose my sight. So he always had me do like fields test eye pressure checks, because your pressures in your eyes can fluctuate throughout the day. So I would come in in like different times of the day to make sure they're not super high and stuff like that. He would prescribe me on different eye pressure medications like eye drops, because the they like the eye drops would help my eyes to it to regulate the pressures to a certain point, and then my eyes would get used to them, it seemed like, so then we would have to go to a different prescription. I caused that doctor a lot of stress, I think, because he was always thinking about my case, because it was so rare. And he went to a conference, actually, and brought that up at a conference, and at that conference, they said for me to get the laser, laser procedure done to Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  09:10 open the tear ducts. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  09:12 Yeah, yeah. And luckily, that solved it. Michael Hingson  09:18 Wow, so you so the the tear ducts were, were small or not draining properly, correct? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  09:26 Yeah, it was points where, like, if I wanted to cry, no tears would come Michael Hingson  09:31 out, no tears would come out. Well, yeah, yeah. Then you also discovered, or somehow you you learned about being Attention Deficit Disorder. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  09:45 Yeah, so, um, when I was from like one or like, from kindergarten to third grade, I went to a Catholic school, and I didn't seem like there was anything. Being really wrong. But then when I went to a public school, I was really having a hard time grasping the material, and I would get really frustrated when I was at home trying to do the homework and I just wasn't understanding. I believe the educators there said like I was also behind, which could have been part of the issue. But my mom would like try to help me with my homework, and it was like Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  10:28 it was hard. She would, she would get so frustrated and throw the papers and just, you know it, because it was very difficult for her, and we really couldn't under I couldn't understand why. You know this was happening, because my, my other daughter, I never had issues like that with so we had, I guess we were told to go. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  10:53 I think that was Miss Lenz in fifth grade. Yeah, she had me get tested for a learning disability, and with all the testing that was done with that, they said that I had attention deficit disorder. So whenever that diagnosis was made, I was able to get like teacher teaching aids to help me through tests to help me understand the curriculum a little bit better. Tutors did the counselor Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  11:28 I well they I did take her to get tested outside of school, and that's they actually told me some things that could help her with this. And then I went to the teachers, and the teachers, some of them, didn't, like, actually take this into consideration. They, they didn't really realize attention deficit disorder at that time. It was new. And so they, they kind of said, well, we don't, we don't believe in that or whatever. And I said, Well, can you just have her, like, sit up front, because she would pay attention more and she would focus better, because that's the problem she couldn't focus on. So it took a while, and then finally, the principal in the fifth grade, he had a meeting with the teachers us, and he actually was the one who brought that to their attention, that this is a problem, that attention disorder, you know, does occur, and some of it is hyper, just hyperactive disorder. So it luckily she didn't have that part of it, but it was the focusing, and we just got her more involved in things that she could learn how to focus. They recommended cheerleading, they recommended culinary school, and I think that really helped her to learn more on focusing. But she still has anxieties and things like that. It's still Michael Hingson  13:03 it's still there. So why culinary school? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  13:07 So that is such a fun question. When my grandma used to watch me, she was very particular on what I was like watching. She didn't want me to watch anything like super crazy or out there. So I would always watch cooking shows, and I thought he was so unique, the different recipes and everything that these chefs were making. And I love some of their personalities, like emerald, he was always so hyper and loud, so fun. And it was interesting to see the different types of foods that they were creating that, like certain countries make. You know, I love Spanish food. It's so good. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  13:55 She decided not to even get into that part. That was the thing. She wanted to be a pastry chef, yeah, Michael Hingson  14:02 something to be said for chocolate chip cookies. But anyway, go ahead. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  14:07 Yeah, she makes a good one, too. At Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  14:10 this point, I don't even know why. What drew me to baking more than culinary I think the two different styles are cooking are very interesting, because like with cooking, you don't have to be so exact with the measurements and everything with certain things like the spices and stuff. If you don't like rosemary, you don't have to put it in there. But with baking, it's definitely more scientific. Have to be more accurate with the measurements of certain ingredients, like baking soda, because it's lavender and like, altitude will totally screw up your baking Yes, so many reasons that elevation is so important. So yeah, so Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  14:59 mine's to it. Or whatever, you know? Yeah, Michael Hingson  15:01 so you went and did an externship, and then what did you do? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  15:06 So with the externship, I was there for a little bit over six months, I was officially hired, and I graduated from culinary school, but, um, I got in a car accident. So that's like, why left? So I was in baking professionally for about a total five years, and then I went back to school. Sorry, that's grumpy. Can you hear him barking? 15:36 I'm sorry. I'll go. No, no, it's fine. Michael Hingson  15:41 So why did you leave culinary? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  15:43 Um, I was just ready for a change. Because I started working professionally when I was like 19, so by my mid 20s, I was just ready to go back. I mean, that is a very demanding field. You're working several hours. Um, you're working with all types of personalities, certain pressures, long days sometimes. And I was just ready to see what else was out there for me. Michael Hingson  16:12 So you went back to school to study, Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  16:15 yes, so my when I graduated in 2023 with my undergraduate degree, it was in humanities, and it focused on three areas of art, music, studio, arts and theater. The main focus was theater, okay? Michael Hingson  16:39 And so, what did you do with that? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  16:42 So with that degree, I did several different things. I wrote a poetry book, which I provided a link so people can access if they would like to purchase it. I created a blog in 2020 called the many colors of Natalie, and I created a blog to help bring a different perspective to Pittsburgh, other than just it being a city for sports, because there's a lot of talented artists out there, and plus, like during a pandemic, that caused a lot of strain on a lot of things, and I was really worried about certain venues that were iconic here closing and completely wiping out the whole art industry here, you know. So, um, with that too, I also, um, I was doing music at the time as a percussionist, and that's when I got introduced to creative percussion products, and I was using that with the different performances that I was doing. And I ended up being one of their artists featured on their page, website or website, yeah. Okay, yeah, and I also volunteered at a local dance studio called Lisa de gorrios dance, and I got to work with the younger kids, and I did that for a couple years. So that was interesting to see what it was like to teach and put on performances. It's a lot of you get to see the behind the scenes and time management and stuff like that. Also, I'm thinking here for a second, sorry. How about, oh, we, my mom and I created an Etsy shop. So we started a few years ago, called Mother Daughter collaboration, a vending that was like our vending show name, and we did that for Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  18:56 we've been doing that for a while. Yeah, we, we put different products up. I kind of tend to do my artwork, and she puts up some things also in art, we have, we have interesting things like CD, telephone, covers, cases, purses, you know. And we're working on a new product now to to put on to the Etsy shop this year. We didn't do many vending shows. I had surgery last last year on my back, and I had a hard time recovering because it was pretty expensive. So we're hoping to get that going again this year, or towards the end of the year, when the Christmas shows start happening, Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  19:47 we did, um, create an Etsy shop called makers collab studio, and we were focusing more on that this year. Um, so we do have, like, a variety of different products. Um. Um, which I also provided the link to the Etsy shop. If anybody wants to check out our products and what we have, that'd be great if you stop checked out that. Michael Hingson  20:11 Yeah, my late my late wife, was a quilter and tried to run an Etsy shop, but people didn't want to pay any kind of real prices for handmade quilts, because they just thought that quilts should be, like, 50 or $75 and that just wasn't realistic. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  20:30 But, well, that's, that's the trouble. What we're seeing also, yeah, we do, I do, like, we do t shirts and things like that too. But people it. I don't think people realize what's behind the whole process. No, or they don't care. No, you know, I mean, there's a lot involved as far as your equipment. When it was covid, I was, well, I'm retired, but I was working part time, and I was able to, you know, get what is it, you know, workers, whatever, yeah, you know, yes. And with that money, I actually bought like things to do, T shirts, like the heat press and different parts to like a cricket that we can do things with. And so, you know, like the things that you know, you still have to buy supplies, even with my artwork, it's so expensive anymore, when I first started back in, you know, when my kids grew up and they were on their own, where I really focused on it, and I can't believe the expense of it. You know, it's just, it's everything's expensive these days. So, yeah, really watch what you're doing and how you approach it too. You know, you can't spend a lot of money on things. We don't have, like, a whole backlog of products. I mean, we just do a few things and hope that the things that we make are sellers, you know, Michael Hingson  22:05 yeah, well, and I hope it, it can is more successful for you going forward. That's a useful thing. You You've done a lot Mary with with art over the years, but you've also had other, other kinds of jobs where you've worked for some pretty large companies, and you've been reading your bio, you faced some sexual harassment issues and things like that, haven't you? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  22:29 Yes, yes, that was difficult boy, and I didn't realize that at the time I went to college late in life because I was getting divorced and I needed a job that I could take care of my family, my girls, and so I decided to go to college and my my mom and dad watched my kids while I went to school, which was nice. And the first job I had was with the gas company here, and I was called a technical Fieldman. And what I would do is, like, I would draw pipeline installations and the and sometimes I would fill in as a supervisor. When I filled in first as a supervisor, it was great. I mean, the guys were decent. We always came to a conclusion. I always trusted what they're you know what they would say about pipeline? Because I knew nothing about pipeline. It was all new to me. But when I would go back to the office, it was, it was just like crazy things that would happen. I mean, I won't go into detail, and I started writing these things down because I thought this just doesn't seem right, that these people are saying these things to me or doing these things to me. I had a nice little book of all these incidents that happened, and I went to the HR department, and they wanted me to confront these people in my office, to tell them how I felt. Well, that, to me, would have made everything worse, because that's just that, you know, kind of work environment. So luckily, I was, I was promoted into a job that lasted two years, and then my job was eliminated. So that was my first, my first thing with that was the only time I really had sexual harassment that was really bad. I went on to another which was the program for female Well, I worked for a university for a while, and then I went into the program for female offenders, which was really interesting work. I enjoyed that it was like people that were out on that needed to, that were like drug addicts and and they were looking for a new way. They had been in jail and this incarcerated, and they came into this. Program they had that was part of their incarceration or parole. They had to do this, this program, and that was so interesting. I mean, it was just heartfelt, because you just saw these people that were trying so hard to make a good life for themselves and not to go back to their original way of living. And unfortunately, that was all grant money. And that job ended also so that, you know, and I was a transportation planner, I did a lot of things, and then I ended up going back into the gas industry. I worked for an engineer, and we were working in the production side of everything. So he had drove to you wells, and we had leases, and I took care of those. And I liked that job for about 10 years. I stayed there, and then I I retired. I was getting tired of it at that point. Michael Hingson  26:02 Yeah. Why was your first why was your first job at the original gas company eliminated? Or when you were promoted and you said it was eliminated, yeah? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  26:10 Well, that's what I like to know why it was eliminated. I think sometimes that job was just to keep me quiet. That's how I felt. I mean, I, I they, they knew that I was upset and that I didn't like what was happening. And I think it was just to keep me quiet, and they realized that that job wasn't going to last, but it was a marketing job. We were using different ways to use gas, alternative fuel vehicles, fuel cells, you know. So it was an interesting job, too, but it it didn't really have the supervisor we had was not really a person that pushed the product, you know. So that could have been the reason, too, that they eliminated a lot of that. Yeah, so I wasn't the only one that went I mean, there was another person in that at that time, and eventually that whole department was eliminated. Now that gas company, they sold all that off, and another gas company took it over and equitable. Still is EQT here, and they work, I think at this point, they work with the leases and things like that, and horizontal drilling, they call it. Michael Hingson  27:38 So now that you're retired, what do you do? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  27:41 Well, for a while there, Michael Hingson  27:44 in addition to Etsy, yeah, for Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  27:47 a while, I was actually doing hair. I was my first, my first, I guess, employment type, or whatever. I went to beauty school, and I became a cosmetologist, and I also became a teacher in cosmetology. So when I first became all that the money wasn't so great. I worked my first job. I was so excited I had this job because I thought I was going to be making millions. You know, they they really pump you up in in beauty school that you're going to really succeed and you're going to make this money. Well, my first job, I worked over 40 hours at that job, and I only got $15 in my first pay. It was like we had to stay there the whole time until everyone was finished working. So the girls that had their clientele that they worked the whole day and into the evening, like till eight o'clock. Maybe we had to stay till eight o'clock. Even though I didn't have anybody to do. I might have had one person that day, yeah, so that that wasn't too I just worked at that for a few years, and then I decided to leave and take care of my family. Yeah, well, that that I went back to it when I retired, and it had changed significantly, making pretty good money. I was only working three days a week, and I did pretty well. But then my back. I had the issues with my back, and I couldn't go back to it, which really upset me. I really love that job. Michael Hingson  29:29 Well, things happen. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  29:31 Yeah, it does. You know, I'm happy not to stay at home. I figured now that I'm actually 73 years old now, so I think I I should retire Michael Hingson  29:47 and enjoy my life a little. Well. So Natalie, you graduated in 2023 and so then what did you start to do? And what are you doing now? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  29:57 So what I'm doing now is I'm. Still focusing on the Etsy shop, but I also got into a graduate certificate program, and this certificate is in sports entertainment and arts law, and I really hope to use this program as a stepping stone to complete my master's degree in the sports entertainment and arts law program. Michael Hingson  30:25 What exactly is a graduate certification program, as opposed to a master's degree? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  30:32 So that's a great question. So the certificate program is like a newer program, and it's like the only one in the world, I'm pretty sure, that focuses on sports, entertainment and art. So it's like a newer, more modern type of learning program. And this certificate is a great stepping stone, and for me to check it out before I actually go in to the master's program. This is, like, my second week, and I love it so far, and all these classes that I'm doing, and if I keep my grades up and everything, will apply to the master's program if I get in. Michael Hingson  31:15 Okay, well, so Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  31:20 less credits than, like, what you would need for a master's program, and it's less I don't need a textbook. I have these things called nutshells, where I'm pretty sure, like, I'll be studying different types of cases or something like that through that. So it's like online stuff. Michael Hingson  31:43 The Okay? And how long do you think it will take you to complete that Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  31:49 the certification program should be about a year, and it's all online, okay? Michael Hingson  31:55 And how, how long have you been doing it so far? Just two weeks. Oh, so next August, yeah, yeah, yeah. And the hope is then you can use that to go forward and actually work toward getting a master's degree. Which, which sounds pretty cool, yeah, for sure. What do you want to do with it once you get a master's degree? Well, like Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  32:20 all those points like sports entertainment and arts, I think is Pittsburgh is a great city to represent all of those. And I hope to help represent like clients, maybe do like to protect their works and them as an artist. And I would like to hopefully get into paralegal work. That's what I'm focusing on right now. Michael Hingson  32:47 So is school pretty much full time for you these days? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  32:51 No, it's still part time, and that's what I like love about this program, because, like all week, you'll be doing 10 hours outside of so I still work full time as an administrator in the SHRS program, and I am the administrator for Rehabilitation Science. So yeah, it's great to have like, bosses and everything that support me in my educational journey, because that makes my life a lot easier too. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  33:26 Yeah, that's some great bosses. Michael Hingson  33:29 Well, it's good to have some people who tend to be a little bit more supportive. It helps the psyche when you get to do that. Yes, yeah. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  33:39 Because the one thing that I noticed with this program, it is definitely more manageable, because, like the undergrad program, I did enjoy the process. For most parts, some of it was really challenging. But the undergraduate program, it was really hard for me to get late night classes. Most of those classes that I had to take were I had to be in person, so like late classes were pretty hard to get, but my bosses allowed me to take earlier classes so I could help finish the program faster, but I just had to make up that time. Right? Michael Hingson  34:28 When did you discover that you had artistic talent? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  34:32 Um, I don't know if I ever really discovered that I had the talent, but I was very passionate at a young age, like when my mom was going back to school, I always loved watching her paint, because she had like the painting classes. I always thought so I like sit on the floor and watch her paint. And at a very young age, I was in the dance class. Do you remember the name? A France Dance School of Dance, France School of Dance. And I love dance class so much. I remember one time the dance school was closed because of a holiday, and I was, like, so upset, like, I didn't believe, like, the dance school was closed and I didn't understand, like, why I wasn't allowed to go. So they called the school and it went straight to, like, the answering machine so they could prove, like, it was closed and nobody was there. I was like, ready to show up. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  35:30 She wanted to go, yeah. She was just about three or four when she was taking the dance classes at that time. Yeah. But then it became on, you know that they both the kids were involved, but I couldn't afford it anymore. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  35:45 So dance is very expensive. Yeah? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  35:48 Well, you know, like, at that time too, I was going to school, and I didn't have much of a salary, and I was living with my parents, so, I mean, and they were retired, so it was, like, very tight. Yeah, right. Michael Hingson  36:04 Well, it nice to have an enthusiastic student, you know, Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  36:13 so true. Well, Michael Hingson  36:15 so you've created the many colors of Natalie blog, tell me about that. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  36:22 So I reach out to different artists that were that are located in Pittsburgh or at one time, working or living in Pittsburgh. So this is like musicians, photographers, actors and they, I I create questions for them, for them to answer in their own words, like advice that they would give, or funny stories that they had while working in the field. And that's that's the main point of the blog, because I want it to be a resource for people and for them to also see, like, why that genre is cool. And I think another reason that motivated me to create that blog is some people just don't see an importance to art, and I find that so offensive. Like, yeah, so I just wanted it to be as an educational type thing as well. Michael Hingson  37:28 How long has the blog been visible? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  37:33 So it's been visible for about five, six years now, five years, yeah, and I did over like 50 some posts. Michael Hingson  37:45 Do you do that with consistency? Or So do you have one, like, every week or every three weeks, or every month, or something like that? Or how does that work? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  37:53 So when I first started, I was consistent with the posts I don't ever leave my blog, like, not active for like a year. Like, I always try to post something, but it's a little more challenging to do a post. Like, every month, whenever I'm working, going to school, volunteering for different things, running the Etsy shopper, vending so I had to cut it back a little bit because that is just me running it. Michael Hingson  38:30 So you've also created a mixed media piece. First of all, what is a mixed media piece? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  38:35 You want to explain Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  38:36 the mixed media? Oh, well, a mixed media is like different mediums. It could be paint, it could be pictures, and it's posted on a board, a canvas, or whatever it can be in a journal. You know, you just use various types of mediums. It could be using lace, it could be using fabric, it could be using, like I said, pictures, paper, and they call it mixed media. So she decided she wanted to create a mixed media. I had a huge canvas that was given to me. It was like 36 by 36 giant. It was huge, and I knew I couldn't do anything on that, because I don't paint big. I like to paint on smaller canvas, like an eight and a half by 11, or eight and a half by 14. So she, she decided she wanted to use that Canvas for something. But you go ahead and tell them. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  39:38 So, um, whenever Woodstock had their 50th anniversary, and I believe that was around 2019 I had the opportunity to go to yaska's Farm and camp where the original campers from the very first Woodstock would stay in that. Campsite was like, right next to this yaska farms. So I took some pictures of it, like me with the yaska farm house. And so it was very inspirational to go to that because I was doing research on what Woodstock was, the original Woodstock. And what that was about, I talked to Uber drivers that were actually at the original Woodstock. Jimi Hendrix is one of my favorite musicians, and for him to not be there, I was like, so sad. Very sad. So with all the education experience. I needed to release that. And I took my mom, let me have that canvas, and like I created a mixed media giant collage, and I got that into the Woodstock Museum in Socrates, New York. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  41:01 Wow, it's actually there now, Michael Hingson  41:04 yep. How long has it been there? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  41:07 I believe got that in there? Yeah, about two years. Michael Hingson  41:13 Wow. So it's kind of almost a permanent piece there. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  41:17 I hope so. I hope they keep it there for sure. What? Michael Hingson  41:21 What prompted them to be interested in having it there. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  41:25 So I that piece was so giant, and I loved how it turned out, and I wanted that more than just in my house, my art pieces are very close to me, because that's like my soul and my work, and I want it out there to somebody who cares about it. So I reached out to Shelly nation, Nathan, because they, I believe, are the owners of the Woodstock Museum, and they were more than happy to have it. I had it shipped out there. And then, whenever the season was to reopen the museum, I went out there and visited it. And it's a very great it's a very cool place. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  42:10 Recommend, yeah, she, she was interviewed by them, also, right? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  42:14 Oh, yeah, we did go on a radio station. And that was also a cool experience, because I was never on a radio show at that time. Cool. Michael Hingson  42:25 Well, that's pretty exciting. I have not been to the Woodstock Museum, so that might be something to explore at some point when I get get back there next that'd Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  42:35 be great. Yeah, Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  42:37 all those things like, you know, like I grew up during that period, of course, I didn't go to the Woodstock. Original Woodstock wouldn't let me do that. I was only 16 at the time, and but I mean, you know, like, like looking back at that and and seeing how all those people were there, and not nothing terrible happened, you know, I mean, hundreds of 1000s of people, and nobody got hurt. Well, they might have passed out, maybe from things, but nobody was, like, shot or killed or and like today. I mean, you can't you're so afraid to do anything today, you don't know what's going to happen. And it just was a different time. And the musicians that were there. I mean, that music was is still good today. You know, it's it, it hasn't faded. And I wonder sometimes about today's music, if it will continue to be popular in years to come, or if it's just going to fade out. You know, we won't know that, and so well I won't be here, probably Michael Hingson  43:44 we won't know for a while anyway, yes, but I did hear on a radio station a rebroadcast of a lot of the Woodstock concerts that was kind of Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  43:56 fun. Yes, yes. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  44:00 Sorry I didn't mean to cut you. Go ahead. Go ahead. When I was talking to like the Uber drivers and stuff like that, and people who were at the original Woodstock, it seems like they were reliving that experience when they were telling the stories. I mean, it was great. Michael Hingson  44:15 Yeah. Well, you play creative percussion. First of all, what is pre creative percussion? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  44:23 So I actually have that written in some notes, what it actually is. So do you mind if I read off my notes? Michael Hingson  44:30 You're welcome to however you want to answer, perfect. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  44:33 So I was asked to be a creative percussion artist in 2020 and creative percussion is a family owned business established in 2018 and run by husband and wife team, Kevin and Sherry Feeney. They're great. I've had the opportunity to talk to them very much a couple of times, and my pictures also on the site. Um. Uh, under like my stage name now is a Bulla. So if you scroll down spell that it's S, E, B as a boy, u as in unicorn, L, L as in Len and a is an apple. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  45:16 Okay, what types of things, kinds Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  45:18 of there's various types of shakers that I played because of various bands that I was in, I was the percussionist, so I played tambourine and stuff. But like, they have uniquely shaped shakers, like there's the hatch shakers, which I love them. They had a baseball shaker, and these little golf ball shakers, and they all carry different sounds, and they really blended differently with the type of song that I was playing was playing, yeah, so it's cool, Michael Hingson  45:53 yeah, so interesting. So you you play them as part of being with a band, or what Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  46:01 for the most part, yeah, sometimes there was an acoustic band or just like a full band, and either way, I tried to have those pieces blend into the song. What I didn't learn when I was doing that is and an acoustic you really have to be on your game, because, like, if you mess up, like, people are gonna hear it more than if you're in a full band. So, yeah, right. Michael Hingson  46:38 So you do you still do that? Do you still play Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  46:42 at this time? I don't, um, just because I wanted to focus on other things, so I took a step back from that. Michael Hingson  46:51 Do you think you'll do more of it in the future, or Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  46:56 possibly, but like, that's how I am. I kind of just like, experience it, do it until I'm ready to move on to something else. Michael Hingson  47:04 So you flit, you flip from thing to thing, yeah, yeah, yeah. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  47:10 So, like, if you ever follow me, you might just see, like, me evolving and just trying other things. Michael Hingson  47:19 Well, you're adventurous. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  47:22 Yes, I love adventure. Michael Hingson  47:25 Nothing wrong with having an adventure in the world and getting to really look at things. So what are you doing now if you're not doing creative percussion and so on? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  47:38 Well, for the last couple months, I was helping my mom recover from like the back surgery. And then I was I was focusing on my blog, just really paying attention to that, getting certain interviews, and then schooling, getting ready to go into the certificate program. Michael Hingson  48:05 So you think you're gonna go ahead Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  48:09 and I'm setting up the Etsy shop. Michael Hingson  48:13 So you're pretty excited about seal, the sports entertainment, art and law. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  48:19 Yes, I'm very excited about that. I was very excited to get into the program. The professors are great. The whole programs like really good. The people involved in it, they seemed, they seem really organized and let me know what I need to do to get into the program. And they are really nice. If I have a question, they're happy to answer it. I love the curriculum, so I hope you go, Well, Michael Hingson  48:46 do you experience anything any more dealing with like attention deficit? Oh, 100% it still creeps up, huh? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  48:55 Well, it's more anxiety than anything. But like this program, I think, is to help calm my anxiety with just different things that are set up. And like, how responsive the professors are and how nice they are. But my goodness, when I was in my undergraduate program, like I was really pushing myself, and I would like, of like, when 2020, came around in the pandemic, I needed to talk to my doctor and get on meds, like I could no longer not do that without meds. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  49:29 Yes, she was, she was struggling. It was tough. Yeah. I mean, when I went for my Bachelor's, I I I wasn't working. She was working. When I went for my master's, I was working, but, and I know how hard that is, you know, trying to balance things, especially I was working at equitable at the time, and the things that I was going through and being, you know, filling in for supervisors was I. I was on call, like, 24 hours a day, and it, you know, like that was, I can see how difficult it is to do both. It's just, I know what she was going through there, and she goes through it, but she did well. She graduated sigma, sigma cum laude. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  50:17 Yeah, I did get some honorary, like accolades for like, whenever I graduated. So that was pretty exciting, because the hard work did pay off. Michael Hingson  50:29 What do you think about studying and attending classes virtually as opposed to physically being in the room? Hybrid learning? Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  50:38 Some people may have an issue with that, but I personally, cause I was working full time and it was hard for me to get later classes, I preferred the online learning, but I understand, like some of the classes really did need me to be there, like the theater classes, and I was okay with that. I don't mind either, either or, but it just seems like online learning is more manageable. For me, it Michael Hingson  51:08 takes more discipline to to stick with it and focus on it, as opposed to being in the classroom. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  51:14 Um, yeah, I agree, but I think which, which is not a negative thing, by the way. Oh, yeah, no, no, no, I totally understand, but I think, um, I forget what I was going with that. Michael Hingson  51:26 Sorry. Well, we were talking about the fact that more discipline dealing with, Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  51:33 Oh, yeah. Oh, that's right, thank you. It's just, um, I think if you truly want it, you're gonna put forth the effort in anything. You know, it's may not always be enjoyable, but like, if you want it, you'll put through it. You'll push through it, like with high school, my mom knows, just like from elementary to high school, like that curriculum, I was just not feeling it, but I knew I had to stick it out. I wanted to be a high school dropout. I voiced that many of times, but like, I knew if I wanted to get to culinary school, I had to really focus on my academics through then and just try to push through and just do it, do what I had to do to graduate. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  52:19 Yeah, it's such a different environment to high school, I believe, you know, like I found that I really enjoyed college. I enjoyed my subjects. They went fast. The classes went fast. It was fast paced, but it was an I learned more. I you know, I think that slowness of the way that they do things in in the high school, it takes them like three weeks to get through one chapter, you know, and so it, it just, it just made it a big difference. And I, I wished I could continue to go to school. I think I was a really good student. Michael Hingson  52:59 I think one of the things about college is, and I've talked to several people who agree, is, you certainly learn from the courses that you take, but College offers so much more with with with the extracurricular activities, with the interaction with people, with The greater responsibility. College offers so many more life lessons if you take advantage of it, that really makes it cool. And I, I always enjoyed college. I liked it a lot. Natalie Belin & Mary Dunn  53:29 Yeah, yeah, I did too, I think with some of my challenges and frustrations, not only with my learning disability, but like the fact that

Why do people everywhere love art—music, stories, beauty, design, creativity? Pastor Doug uncovers how our attraction to art is far more than human taste or cultural trends. It's a spiritual signal pointing back to the creativity, beauty, and truth found in Jesus Himself. Discover how art reveals our longing for meaning, how Jesus fulfills that longing, and why the gospel makes sense of the human drive to create.Support the mission of the Salty Pastor podcast! Visit our donations page at https://pushpay.com/g/thesaltypastor to help us continue sharing truth with a world in need.Discussion Questions:How does the human desire for beauty and creativity point toward a Creator?What forms of art most clearly help you recognize spiritual truth?How does seeing Jesus as the source of meaning change the way you view art and culture?

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Sunset Inspirations: Love, Art, and Poetry in Santorini Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2025-10-11-22-34-02-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 秋の日差しが穏やかに降り注ぐサントリーニ島。En: The autumn sunlight gently poured over Santorini Island.Ja: 白い家々が連なる風景の中で、アイコは美しい夕焼けを背に、街を歩いていました。En: Among the landscape of white houses, Aiko was walking through the town with a beautiful sunset behind her.Ja: 彼女は旅の途中、ここで新しいインスピレーションを探していました。En: She was in search of new inspiration during her journey there.Ja: 「ここには驚くべきアートギャラリーがあるのよ」とアイコの友人、ミキが言いました。彼女は地元アーティスト、ケンタと長年の友人でした。En: "There's an amazing art gallery here," said her friend Miki, who was a longtime friend of a local artist, Kenta.Ja: 「彼の作品を見るべきよ。きっと何か感じるものがあるわ。」En: "You should see his work. I'm sure you'll feel something."Ja: アイコはギャラリーの扉を押し開け、中に入りました。En: Aiko pushed open the door of the gallery and entered inside.Ja: 部屋の中にはカラフルな絵画が並び、静かな音楽が流れていました。En: The room was filled with colorful paintings, and quiet music was playing.Ja: そこで、彼女は一枚の絵の前で立ち止まりました。En: She stopped in front of one particular painting.Ja: 絵には、海と夕日の景色が描かれ、強い感動を覚えました。En: It depicted a sea and sunset scene, and she felt a strong emotion.Ja: その時、一人の男性が彼女の隣に立ちました。「これ、僕が描いたものです」と彼は少し恥ずかしそうに言いました。En: At that moment, a man stood next to her. "I painted this," he said, looking slightly embarrassed.Ja: 彼の名前はケンタでした。彼はアートの才能を持つが、自分の作品を他人に見せることに少し不安を抱いていました。En: His name was Kenta. He was talented in art but felt a bit uneasy showing his work to others.Ja: アイコは笑顔で言いました。「この絵、とても素敵です。あなたの作品に感動しました。」En: With a smile, Aiko said, "This painting is really wonderful. I'm moved by your work."Ja: 彼女の言葉に、ケンタの顔に少し安堵の表情が浮かびました。En: Her words brought a look of slight relief to Kenta's face.Ja: 二人は話し始めました。En: They began to converse.Ja: 最初は絵の話をしていましたが、徐々にお互いの夢や考え方についても話すようになりました。En: Initially, they talked about the paintings, but gradually the conversation shifted to their dreams and ways of thinking.Ja: アイコのレンズを通して見た世界と、ケンタの絵の中の世界が重なり合い、二人の会話は尽きることがありませんでした。En: The world seen through Aiko's lens overlapped with the world in Kenta's paintings, and their conversation never seemed to end.Ja: アイコは決心しました。「あなたの他の作品も見せてくれませんか？」と優しく言いました。En: Aiko decided, "Could you show me your other works?" she asked gently.Ja: その言葉に、ケンタはしばらく考えましたが、やがて頷きました。「特別なものを見せます。」En: After a moment of thought, Kenta nodded. "I'll show you something special."Ja: 翌日、ケンタは彼女を自分のスタジオに招待しました。En: The next day, Kenta invited her to his studio.Ja: そこには、今まで公開していなかった彼の個人的な作品がたくさんありました。En: It was filled with his personal works that had never been publicly shown before.Ja: ひとつひとつ丁寧に見て回るアイコの姿を見て、ケンタも自然と笑顔になりました。En: As Aiko looked around each piece carefully, Kenta naturally began to smile.Ja: 「アイコさん、もしよかったら、僕の絵に詩を添えてくれませんか？」ケンタが突然提案しました。En: "Aiko-san, if you don't mind, would you add a poem to my paintings?" Kenta suddenly proposed.Ja: アイコは驚きながらも嬉しそうに頷きました。「もちろん。それは素晴らしいアイデアだと思うわ。」En: Surprised but pleased, Aiko nodded. "Of course. I think that's a wonderful idea."Ja: こうして、二人は一緒に新しいプロジェクトを始めることにしました。En: Thus, the two began a new project together.Ja: ケンタの絵にアイコの詩が加わり、作品はより豊かなものになりました。En: With Aiko's poetry added to Kenta's paintings, the artworks became even richer.Ja: アートを通して、二人はお互いを深く理解し合い、心が通じ合いました。En: Through art, they deeply understood each other and connected on a heartfelt level.Ja: サントリーニの美しい街並みとともに、二人の心も彩られ、アイコは新たな創造力を取り戻しました。En: Along with the beautiful scenery of Santorini, their hearts were also touched with color, and Aiko regained her creative spirit.Ja: そしてケンタは、作品を他の人に見せることに自信を持つようになりました。En: Kenta gained the confidence to show his work to others.Ja: この秋、サントリーニ島の夕焼けの中で、アイコとケンタは心の中に新しい未来を描き始めたのでした。En: That autumn, amidst the Santorini Island sunset, Aiko and Kenta began to paint a new future in their hearts. Vocabulary Words:autumn: 秋sunlight: 日差しgently: 穏やかにlandscape: 風景inspiration: インスピレーションart gallery: アートギャラリーdepicted: 描かれembarrassed: 恥ずかしそうにtalented: 才能を持つuneasy: 不安を抱いてrelief: 安堵converse: 話し始めinitially: 最初gradually: 徐々にoverlapped: 重なり合いmoment: しばらくstudio: スタジオcarefully: 丁寧にnaturally: 自然とproposed: 提案しましたpleased: 嬉しそうにproject: プロジェクトpoem: 詩add: 添えてrich: 豊かなconnected: 通じ合いましたcreative: 創造力regained: 取り戻しましたconfidence: 自信を持つfuture: 未来

What if a quilt could hold more than stitches—what if it could hold love, memory, and joy? Meet award-winning quilter Kathleen Littfin, whose creations have comforted families, celebrated milestones, and turned grief into something beautiful. From engineering precision to six-year masterpieces, Kathleen's work tells stories in fabric. Catch her inspiring journey and see why quilts are more than blankets—they're pieces of life itself. The Flathead Quilters' Guild show will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 and from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 in the Expo Building at the Flathead County Fairgrounds, 265 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell. For more information, visit flatheadquilters.org.Read Haily Smalley's full article on dailyinterlake.com. A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com. In Season 3 of Daily Inter Lake's Deep Dive podcast, we explore the devastating fire that struck the small town of Noxon, Montana. By the end of the day on February 27, 2024, three-quarters of the town's business community were wiped out. Listen to the two-part story on any audio platform you prefer, or watch the series on our YouTube channel.Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us! Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

Love Art? Traveling soon? Then check out HAPPENZ, a guide to all the art-related events in cities you're likely to be visiting The post YOUR ART EVENTS GUIDE! appeared first on sound*bytes.

In this textured conversation, author Eimear McBride joins Adam Biles at Shakespeare and Company to discuss her latest novel The City Changes Its Face. Set in Camden Town in the 1990s, the book revisits characters from The Lesser Bohemians as they navigate the complexities of love, art, aging, trauma, and parenthood. McBride explores the enduring impact of childhood abuse, the fraught territory of families, and the search for creative meaning as her protagonists transition from actors to writers and filmmakers. She also reflects on the changing face of London, her writing process, and how voice, rhythm, and instinct drive her work. With warmth, candour, and a touch of wry humour, McBride shares insights into the emotional and formal risks of fiction, the influence of modernism, and why survival—not just suffering—deserves narrative space.Buy The City Changes Its Face: https://www.shakespeareandcompany.com/books/the-city-changes-its-faceEimear McBride is the author of four novels: A Girl is a Half-formed Thing, The Lesser Bohemians, Strange Hotel and The City Changes Its Face. She held the inaugural Creative Fellowship at the Beckett Research Centre, University of Reading and is the recipient of the Women's Prize for Fiction, Goldsmiths Prize, Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year, and the James Tait Black Memorial Prize.Adam Biles is Literary Director at Shakespeare and Company.Listen to Alex Freiman's latest EP, In The Beginning: https://open.spotify.com/album/5iZYPMCUnG7xiCtsFCBlVa?si=h5x3FK1URq6SwH9Kb_SO3w Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Crazy Little Thing Called Love 1 Corinthians 13:13

When a mystical optimist and a self-proclaimed cynic start a podcast, sparks fly—and sometimes combust. In this lively, revealing conversation, Ojai-based artists Daren Thomas Magee (the Instagram juggernaut Real Fun, Wow) and musician Jaymee Carpenter (Love Is the Author) open up about the origin story of their podcast Mystical-Cynical, how each season seems to end in a breakup, and why they keep coming back for more.We dive into the rhythm of creative collaboration, the friction and forgiveness that fuel their friendship, and how life in a small town like Ojai shapes their artistic lives and inner journeys. Along the way, we talk about purpose, pain, laughter, healing — and why Mystical-Cynical resonates so deeply with its devoted listeners.Whether you're a seeker, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, this episode is a real fun… wow.Note: We did not talk about gout, dental procedures or Jeffrey Epstein. Check out Daren's artistry and comic musings on Instagram @realfunwow and Jaymee's @loveistheauthor.

Joni's blind spot raises it's ugly head as her loyalty to her “son in love” overshadows her loyalty to Marcus Lamb's wishes regarding their own Jonathan Lamb. Then, Tristen Gammie shares on Art Lucier kissing the girls on the lips. Daystar Petition: https://tinyurl.com/ycxwe4ye Sign up for my newsletter here: https://lauralynns-newsletter.beehiiv.com/subscribe Jonathan & Suzy Lamb GiveSendGo: https://www.givesendgo.com/GEBG9 Richardson Nutritional Center: https://tinyurl.com/mudzzy3n Zstack Protocol: https://zstacklife.com/?ref=LAURALYNN Antibiotics at: Sales@larxmedical.com Promo code: LLTT Need some Ivermectin or Hydroxychloroquine? Fast shipping with guaranteed delivery in Canada and the US. Contact Mia for more information. SozoHealth@proton.me ☆ We no longer can trust our mainstream media, which is why independent journalists such as myself are the new way to receive accurate information about our world. Thank you for supporting us – your generosity and kindness to help us keep information like this coming! ☆ ~ L I N K S ~ ➞ DONATE AT: https://www.lauralynn.tv/ or lauralynnlive@protonmail.com ➞ TWITTER: @LauraLynnTT ➞ FACEBOOK: Laura-Lynn Tyler Thompson ➞ RUMBLE: https://rumble.com/c/LauraLynnTylerThompson ➞ BITCHUTE: https://www.bitchute.com/channel/BodlXs2IF22h/ ➞ YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/LauraLynnTyler

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Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Beth and Lisa welcome bestselling author and illustrator Brian Selznick to discuss his latest YA novel Run Away With Me. Brian shares how personal history, queer identity, and the haunting beauty of an empty Rome during the pandemic shaped this deeply moving love story.Guest Bio: Brian Selznick is the Caldecott Medal-winning author of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which became Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film Hugo. His innovative storytelling style blends narrative and illustration, captivating readers of all ages. Selznick's books have sold millions of copies, been translated into over 35 languages, and include the bestsellers Wonderstruck and The Marvels. He lives in Brooklyn and La Jolla with his husband, Dr. David Serlin.Key Discussion Points:Origins of Run Away With Me: Inspired by time spent in a deserted Rome during the pandemic and Brian's husband's Rome Prize fellowship.Setting the Story in 1986: Chosen for its pre-digital intimacy, connection to Fellini's Intervista, and poignant resonance with the emerging AIDS crisis.YA Shift: This novel marks a shift to older characters and more intimate, emotional themes, including first love and sexual awakening.Illustration vs. Text: Originally intended as a text-only novel, illustrations were later added to immerse readers in Rome and enhance storytelling rhythmically.Building Empathy: Through vulnerability and layered character flaws, Brian explores how readers connect with characters even through their mistakes.Worldbuilding & Pacing: Brian discusses how his illustrations function as visual memory aids, reducing exposition and preserving narrative flow.Film Adaptation Insight: Brian details how Hugo was faithfully adapted by Martin Scorsese, who honored the visual storytelling of the book.Conclusion: Brian Selznick offers a masterclass in layered storytelling, blending history, personal experience, and imaginative worldbuilding. Run Away With Me is a love letter to young queer love, art, and the haunting beauty of solitude and discovery. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors and fans of emotionally resonant fiction.Mentioned Links:Run Away With Me by Brian Selznick: Publisher's PageBrian Selznick's website Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

Join us in this thought-provoking conversation with Uttam Babu Shrestha as we dive deep into some of today's most critical topics — from air pollution in Kathmandu 2025 to the global contributors of air pollution. Learn how construction affects air quality and why climate change impact in Nepal is a serious threat to the future of Nepal's hydropower potential over the next 50–100 years. We also explore the surprising story of invasive plant species biodiversity, including how native flowers like Guraans became problematic in places like Scotland. Uttam Babu shares insights from his groundbreaking research on the social factors of Yarsa Gumba harvesting and its ecological impact, revealing a complex relationship between local communities and environmental sustainability. Moving beyond environmental science, we delve into evolutionary psychology explained, touching on the human evolution and psychology that shape our behaviors today. Discover how Darwin's theory of sexual selection builds upon The Origin of Species, and understand the evolution of human mate selection based on male vs female evolutionary differences. We discuss the role of beauty and symmetry in evolution, uncover why humans recognize art, and explore how evolution shaped human art and aesthetics. Learn why male behavior in evolutionary psychology often leans towards showing off and how survival mechanisms in human evolution continue to influence our lives. We also talk about the evolutionary basis of sexual preferences in modern society. Don't miss this deep dive into environment, science, and the evolutionary roots of love, art, and survival! GET CONNECTED WITH Uttam Babu Shrestha: X: https://x.com/uttambabu https://uttambabu.com/  

In this episode, Jeff and Laura are joined in the studio by Russ Ramsey—author, pastor, and storyteller—who reminds us of the deep significance of seeing and honoring people's life stories. Together, they explore how we engage with others as whole people, teaching and relating in ways that reflect the beauty of their unfolding narratives. Russ challenges us to embrace transparency, recognizing our own need for a Savior as we share the hope we have in Christ. Through authenticity and vulnerability, we embody the true mission of the Church—living as a community that extends grace, compassion, and truth. Listen to this powerful conversation on faith, storytelling, and what it means to be the body of Christ in the world today. Additional Resources: - Learn more about Russ Ramsey on his website, Russ Ramseyruss-ramsey.com. - Read Russ' book, Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith. - Get Russ' latest book, Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart: What Art Teaches Us About the Wonder and Struggle of Being Alive. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Blossoms of Courage: Love, Art, and New Beginnings in Tokyo Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2025-03-09-22-34-01-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 春の日差しが心地よく差し込む、東京の静かなカフェ「フリーランサーズホームカフェ」。En: The spring sunlight gently poured into the quiet Tokyo café, "Freelancers' Home Café."Ja: 小さなテーブルには色とりどりの花が飾られ、ジャズが静かに流れる。En: Vibrant flowers adorned the small tables, and jazz softly played in the background.Ja: リナは普段通り、このカフェで仕事をしていた。En: Rina was working as usual in this café.Ja: 彼女はグラフィックデザイナーで、自分の芸術に情熱を注いでいたが、最近は何だか行き詰まった気がしていた。En: She was a graphic designer, passionate about her art, but recently she felt somewhat stuck.Ja: 彼女の向かいにはカズオが座っていた。En: Sitting across from her was Kazuo.Ja: 彼もまたフリーランサーで、二人は昔からの友達だった。En: He was also a freelancer, and the two had been friends for a long time.Ja: カズオはリナのことが好きだったが、それを告白する勇気が出なかった。En: Kazuo had feelings for Rina, but he lacked the courage to confess.Ja: ある日、リナの携帯にメールの着信があった。En: One day, Rina received an email on her phone.Ja: 「おめでとうございます！あなたは海外の有名な美術レジデンシーに選ばれました。」En: "Congratulations! You have been selected for an overseas prestigious art residency."Ja: リナは信じられない気持ちでメールを読んだ。En: Rina read the email in disbelief.Ja: しかし、そこには「開始は一か月後です」とも書かれていた。En: However, it also stated, "It starts in one month."Ja: リナは嬉しかったが、どうしていいか分からなかった。En: Rina was happy, but she didn't know what to do.Ja: このチャンスを逃すのはもったいない。でも、この東京を離れるのは怖かった。En: It was a wonderful opportunity not to be missed, but she was scared to leave Tokyo.Ja: 特にカズオとは今以上に心の距離を近づけたかったからだ。En: Especially because she wanted to get closer to Kazuo than they were now.Ja: ホワイトデーの前日、カズオは決心した。En: On the day before White Day, Kazuo made a decision.Ja: リナに自分の気持ちを伝えようと。En: He would express his feelings to Rina.Ja: 「リナ、僕は君のことが好きだ。ずっと。」カズオは少し緊張しながら言った。En: "Rina, I've always liked you," Kazuo said, a bit nervous.Ja: リナは驚いたが、どこか嬉しかった。En: Rina was surprised, but somehow happy.Ja: だが、心の中で葛藤があった。En: However, there was a conflict in her heart.Ja: このチャンスを選ぶのか、カズオとの未来を優先するのか。En: Should she choose this opportunity or prioritize a future with Kazuo?Ja: ホワイトデーの夜、リナはカズオに伝えることに決めた。En: On White Day night, Rina decided to tell Kazuo.Ja: 「カズオ、私はレジデンシーに行くことにした。En: "Kazuo, I've decided to go to the residency.Ja: でも、心の中にはいつも君がいる。En: But you'll always be in my heart.Ja: 距離があっても、お互いに成長できると思うんだ。」En: I believe we can both grow, even with the distance."Ja: カズオは悲しそうだったが、微笑んで言った。「君の夢を応援するよ。En: Kazuo looked sad but smiled and said, "I support your dream.Ja: そして、いつかまた会えると信じている。」En: And I believe we will meet again someday."Ja: リナは自分の夢を追う決心をし、カズオも新たな一歩を踏み出す勇気を得た。En: Rina resolved to pursue her dream, and Kazuo found the courage to take a new step forward.Ja: 彼らの物語はまだ続いていく。En: Their story continues.Ja: 東京の桜は美しく咲き誇り、カフェの窓から見える景色は二人の新たな一歩を祝福しているようだった。En: The Tokyo cherry blossoms bloomed beautifully, and the view from the café window seemed to bless their new beginnings.Ja: 春の訪れは、すべての始まりを告げる。En: The arrival of spring heralds all new beginnings. Vocabulary Words:adorned: 飾られgentle: 心地よくvibrant: 色とりどりのpoured: 差し込むstuck: 行き詰まったconfess: 告白するprestigious: 有名なdisbelief: 信じられない気持ちresidency: レジデンシーconflict: 葛藤prioritize: 優先するresolved: 決心heralds: 告げるblossoms: 桜courage: 勇気view: 景色opportunity: チャンスpursue: 追うbless: 祝福しているfreelancer: フリーランサーcongratulations: おめでとうございますbelief: 信じているnervous: 緊張overseas: 海外someday: いつかannounce: 伝えるpassionate: 情熱を注いでいたheart: 心distance: 距離growth: 成長

In the latest Season 4 episode of the Rock is Lit Reading Series, author Thomas Calder takes us into the heart of his poignant novel, ‘The Wind Under the Door'. Set against the vibrant backdrop of contemporary Asheville and the majestic North Carolina mountains, the story follows Ford Carson as he navigates love, family, and artistic reinvention. At forty, Ford has forged a new life as a visual artist in the mountains of North Carolina. A chance meeting with Grace Burnett leads to a burgeoning love affair. But the romance is complicated by Grace's estranged husband and the unexpected arrival of Ford's own estranged son. Asheville's cultural and physical landscapes shape the narrative, with the music of Arcade Fire as an emotional and thematic thread woven throughout the story. Tune in to hear an excerpt from this beautifully nuanced story and gain insight into the creation of a book that, as Wiley Cash says, “is a love letter to our reckless hopeful moments and dangerous impulses.” Thomas Calder earned his MFA in creative writing from the University of Houston. His work has appeared in ‘Gulf Coast', ‘Miracle Monocle', ‘The Collagist', and elsewhere. He lives in Asheville, North Carolina with his wife, daughter, and dog. ‘The Wind Under the Door' is his debut novel.   MUSIC IN THE EPISODE IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE: Rock is Lit theme music [Guitar Instrumental Beat] Sad Rock [Free Use Music] Punch Deck—“I Can't Stop” Arcade Fire “Rococo” Arcade Fire “The Suburbs” Arcade Fire “Reflektor” Arcade Fire “Empty Room” [Guitar Instrumental Beat] Sad Rock [Free Use Music] Punch Deck—“I Can't Stop” Rock is Lit theme music   LINKS: Leave a rating and comment for Rock is Lit on Goodpods: https://goodpods.com/podcasts/rock-is-lit-212451 Leave a rating and comment for Rock is Lit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rock-is-lit/id1642987350 Thomas Calder's website: https://www.thomas-calder.com/ Thomas Calder's playlist for ‘The Wind the Door': https://www.thomas-calder.com/new-page-3 Thomas Calder on Facebook: @ThomasCalder Thomas Calder on Instagram: @t.calder Christy Alexander Hallberg's website: www.christyalexanderhallberg.com Christy Alexander Hallberg on Twitter, Instagram & YouTube: @ChristyHallberg Rock is Lit on Instagram: @rockislitpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Russ Ramsey talks about the power of art, beauty, and storytelling - and how they can help us make sense of the brokenness in our world. Russ is the author of books like "Rembrandt is in the Wind" and "Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart," where he dives into the lives and works of these iconic artists. And what he uncovers is so much more than just the paintings themselves. It's about the human experience - the joy, the suffering, the hope that these artists poured into their art. We talk about how engaging with beauty and art, can actually be a window into understanding the glory of God. And how even in the midst of tragedy and heartbreak, art can help us find language for our own struggles and emotions. Russ also shares some incredible stories behind famous works of art - like the Mona Lisa and why it became so famous. Spoiler alert: it's not because of the painting itself! So get ready for a rich, thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of faith, art, and the human experience. Russ has so much wisdom to share, so join us. Russ Ramsey grew up in the wheatfields of Indiana. He studied at Taylor University and Covenant Theological Seminary (MDiv, ThM) before becoming a pastor. He and his family live in Franklin, Tennessee. Russ is the author of Van Gogh has a Broken Heart: What Art Teaches Us About the Wonder and Struggle of Being Alive (Zondervan 2024) and Rembrandt is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith (Zondervan, 2022).Russ' Book:Van Gogh Has a Broken HeartRuss' Recommendation:Mary OliverJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowLight in the DarknessA supernatural & paranormal podcast with Christian perspectiveListen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Friar TimeThrough meaningful interviews and heartfelt conversations, Friar Time, hosted by Fr....Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Collin Martin has hit two USL milestones this season - 150 games and more than 10,000 minutes played. In his own words, he's a "steady" midfield performer... yet the path he took was very uncertain back in 2018 when he came out publicly as gay. In this episode, Collin joins host Jon Holmes for a chat at a time when he and his North Carolina FC teammates are bidding to seal a spot in the USL Championship playoffs. Beyond that topic, however, this is a wide-ranging and timeless conversation in which he looks back at his soccer journey so far, discusses his off-field cultural passions, and explains how he's making an impact by sharing his story creatively and purposefully. Collin also talks about his relationship with boyfriend Zach, his hopes for the FIFA 2026 World Cup and Pride Houses at the tournament, and the importance of taking a clear stand against LGBTQ+-phobia. Links Collin Martin on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cm7md Thank you for listening to the Football v Homophobia Podcast - if you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review and share on socials. We're at @football_v_homophobia on Instagram and Threads; @FvHtweets on X; and you can like us on Facebook too. Our website is https://www.footballvhomophobia.com - email jon@footballvhomophobia.com  Me & You by MusicbyAden | https://soundcloud.com/musicbyaden  Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com  Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en_US

Russ Ramsey is an author and pastor with a passion for uniting art and faith. He has been in vocational ministry for more than twenty years and currently serves as the lead pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church's Cool Springs location. He holds an MDiv and ThM from Covenant Theological Seminary, and is the author of six books, including Rembrandt is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith (Zondervan 2022), and Behold the King of Glory, recipient of the 2016 Christian Book Award for New Author. Russ was also a founding contributor and member of The Rabbit Room and is a featured speaker each year at The Rabbit Room's annual conference, Hutchmoot. In today's episode Russ discusses his new book, Van Gogh has a Broken Heart. The conversation explores how Van Gogh's life and art reveal universal themes of struggle and wonder and what Van Gogh reveals about the human condition.Patrons of the podcast can enjoy an additional interview segment on why the arts are important to communities of faith. Visit Patreon.com/makersandmystics to learn more. Name Drops: Van Gogh, Norman Rockwell, Paul Simon, Rembrandt, Books: The Sunflowers Are Mine, Van Gogh Has A Broken Heart Topics: Suffering, Van Gogh, Wonder, Faith, Honesty in art, mental health, emotional well-beingVan Gogh LettersJoin our creative collectiveGive a one-time donation

Jenifer Pepen Aquino, also known as SirenAi, is a first-generation American of Dominican descent. She is an artist, poet, photographer, public speaker, and co-founder of the One Love Art DAO. Growing up in a multicultural environment, SirenAi developed a deep appreciation for history and the arts. Through her artworks, she expresses universal stories on spirituality, mythology, history, relationships, and her experience as a Latina woman. Her passion for the arts extends to her roles as a collector, curator, and community builder. Connect More:  kaleido.art/card/sirenai - artwork by SirenAi ONE LOVE ART DAO https://linktr.ee/oneloveart   https://twitter.com/Jeni_Pepen https://twitter.com/_sarkism https://twitter.com/lukoart_ https://twitter.com/chazwesley99 https://twitter.com/Jancarlo316 https://twitter.com/CoinCoffee_Life https://twitter.com/YuZapata3SC https://twitter.com/judasaca_art   Katie Chonacas Socials Website: https://www.chonacas.com/ X: https://twitter.com/katiechonacas IG: https://www.instagram.com/chonacas/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiechonacas/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/KyriakiChonacas  

Unlock the secrets to bolstering your child's development through the joyous realm of play, as we share insights that traverse from rolling balls to screen time's intricate dance with young minds. This episode encapsulates the essence of nurturing cognitive growth and problem-solving skills, all while balancing the digital world with the irreplaceable benefits of physical activity. Together, we tackle the all-too-familiar parental challenge of managing playtime during school breaks, like the Easter holidays, and offer personal anecdotes that illustrate how play shapes learning and social interactions.  Step into a candid discussion on the diverse personalities of children and how our responses to their competitive and creative spirits pave the way for their future selves. Our special guest, the ever-inspiring Audrey Hamilton, adds a vibrant stroke to our conversation, recounting her evolution from an actor in Ireland and Hollywood to an abstract artist and fashion designer. Audrey's tale is a colourful illustration of how motherhood intertwines with creative pursuits, adding depth and perspective to her life and work.  Concluding our journey, we delve into the delicate art of balancing career aspirations with the demands of motherhood, from the challenges of late-in-life pregnancies to debunking breastfeeding myths. We advocate for an environment that honours and supports women's choices, whether it's returning to work for personal fulfilment or establishing a career before starting a family. As we close this chapter, we stand united in the belief that armed with perseverance and a splash of creativity, parents can indeed weave their professional and personal lives into a beautiful tapestry of success and fulfilment.  

Devoted to Prayer

Is art the secret to everlasting love? It's no secret that some of the most powerful art has been inspired by love, that singular, indescribable feeling that, as it turns out, we are all capable of experiencing. “We all have the 12 brain areas that are critical for love,” says Dr. Stephanie Cacioppo, a leading figure in the neuroscience of social connections. It doesn't matter if that love we feel is for our friends, our community, or our romantic partners, the only thing that changes between these relationships is the intensity we feel and see in the brain. What's more, when we embrace that love, amazing things can happen and our brains become stronger. In this Valentine's Day episode of the Magazine Podcast, we're exploring the science of love and how art can help foster it. We'll hear from Dr. Cacioppo about her research, and from a couple who met at MoMA more than 50 years ago. Together, they'll teach us that we don't need to look far for love—sometimes we'll find it where we least expect. Access a transcript of the conversation here: moma.org/magazine/articles/1027

Op 28 februari 2022 overhandigt de gemeente Amsterdam een topstuk uit het Stedelijk Museum aan de erven van de laatste Joodse bezitter. Het schilderij, een Kandinsky ter waarde van zestig miljoen euro, zou in 1940 door nazi's zijn geroofd, of onder druk zijn verkocht. Maar is dat wel zo?  Na langdurig onderzoek is de conclusie van een commissie met kenners dat het schilderij, dat de gemeente in 1940 voor 176 gulden heeft gekocht, gewoon in het Stedelijk mag blijven hangen.  Maar dan, vier jaar later: geeft de gemeente het schilderij alsnog terug. Of weg.   Dat is de vraag. En die onderzoeken Emmie Kollau en Pieter van Os in de serie "Hier hing een schilderij. In deze Parel hoor je aflevering 1 "I love art" en een interview met de makers. En een uitnodiging voor een 'napraat-salon'.   Parel Radio Podcast brengt twee-wekelijks de mooiste verzamelde radioverhalen. Host: Stef Visjager. Laat je reactie of sterren achter in je podcast app. Mailadres: radioparel@gmail.com. Ook als je je wilt aanmelden voor de napraat salon met toastjes brie!  

Op een dag in februari van 2022 is het zover: een topstuk uit het Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam gaat naar de erfgenamen van de laatste Joodse bezitter. Toch heerst er geen feeststemming. Waarom niet? En waarom heeft eigenlijk niemand het over de kunstenaar, Wassily Kandinsky? Of gaat het hier echt alleen over geld en bezit?Iedere woensdag verschijnt een nieuwe aflevering. Meer informatie: nrc.nl/schilderijPresentatie: Pieter van Os en Emmie Kollau Redactie: Pieter van Os Regie: Emmie Kollau Muziek: Darius Timmer Montage: Emmie Kollau Montage-assistentie: Kars van den Heuvel Mixage: Arno Peeters Productie: Aldus' Producties Eindredactie: Iddo Havinga Illustratie: Martien ter Veen Vormgeving: Yannick MortierHeeft u vragen, suggesties of ideeën over onze journalistiek? Mail dan naar onze ombudsman via ombudsman@nrc.nlZie het privacybeleid op https://art19.com/privacy en de privacyverklaring van Californië op https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dear Black Girl Creative, You are creative and I'll prove it. Let's talk about it. much love, joy and creativity, Alecia

We are sharing a conversation with one of our past business mentor's turned artist, Ella Cook, about how she closed down her multi 6-figure business to pursue love and her lifelong dream of making art.The juicy topics we cover together include:Finding the courage to pivot, let go of other's expectations and ideas of success and define it for yourselfElla's advice to women who feel like they've boxed themselves into a life they don't loveHow she navigates her relationship with her ego after walking away from her six-figure businessThe overachieving patterns Ella had to overcome on her way to creating a life that felt truly fulfilling How she allowed herself to fall wholeheartedly in love How her partnership has supported her in pursuing her dreams Owning that your desires are valid and you are allowed to want themFinding liberation when throwing the “rule box” outLinks:Connect with Ella on Instagram @_ellatheartist. Find her art at ellatheartist.com and claim your free art print of the Feminine Archetypes here!Join us on retreat in Colorado this October: Including 3 nights & 4 days of workshops, breathwork, yoga, sisterhood, cacao and fire rituals, acres of land to explore and connect with, sensual movement, delicious meals and lots of laughs. To book: all you have to do is submit your deposit and intake form, and we'll follow up to set up your payment plan. We also offer a clarity call if you have questions or just want to make sure this is the right experience for you.Support the show + free gift for our listeners:Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts or a 5-star review on Spotify and email a screenshot to hello@sistersthatstray.com for 1 month FREE inside Sisters That Stray Collective.Support the show

Fena Gitu Talks Love Art Lust on #JammingOnTheJam with June Gachui and Martin Kariuki

Actress Jill Wagner (Teen Wolf, Wipeout, numerous romance films), was raised in a military family, and reunited with an old boyfriend, Major David Lemanowicz, while on a USO Tour in Afghanistan in 2015. It was just one of multiple meet-cutes for the couple, eventually leading to their marriage, and upcoming spy thriller Paramount+ TV series, Lioness, co-created by MAJ Lemanowicz, Jill Wagner, and Taylor Sheridan. Hosts LTG (Ret.) Leslie. C. Smith and SMA (Ret.) Dan Dailey sit down with the couple to discuss their romance, how service has defined their lives, the upcoming series… and the story behind the unique (and patriotic) name they gave their first-born child.   Guests: Jill Wagner, Actress and T.V. personality MAJ David Lemanowicz, U.S. Army   If you are interested in supporting AUSA's educational programs, such as this podcast, please visit www.ausa.org/donate. Recommendations for future topics are welcome via email at podcast@ausa.org. Disclaimer: AUSA's Army Matters podcast primary purpose is to entertain. The podcast does not constitute advice or services. While guests are invited to listen, listeners please note that you are not being provided professional advice from the podcast or the guests. The views and opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of AUSA.

It's Self-Brain Surgery Saturday!Today's guest is author and pastor Russ Ramsey from Nashville, Tennessee. We had a great talk about learning the importance of learning to see differently, taking time to ponder the beautiful things, loving art through the lens of faith, and how brokenness can refine and clarify our lives.This was a fascinating and important conversation, and you'll be inspired, encouraged, and blessed by Russ. I highly recommend his books. Check them out, and visit Russ's website by clicking the button below.Russ's books mentioned in the show: Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of FaithStruck: One Christian's Reflections on Encountering DeathSelf-Brain Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren is a reader-supported publication. If you like this post, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber to receive more.My new book is Hope is the First Dose: A Treatment Plan for Recovering from Trauma, Tragedy, and Other Massive Things, which will release on July 25, 2023! It's available for pre-order now. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit drleewarren.substack.com/subscribe

The Life I Now Live

Russ Ramsey is a pastor at Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and is the author of several books, including Struck: One Christian's Reflections on Encountering Death. We speak today about his latest book, Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith, published in 2022 by Zondervan Press. I'm Matthew Wickman …

Guest: Rebecca Wragg Sykes is an archaeologist, author and Honorary Fellow in the School of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology at the University of Liverpool.  Her new book, KINDRED: Neanderthal Life, Love, Death and Art  won the 2021 PEN Hessell-Tiltman prize for history; awarded Book of the Year by Current Archaeology; selected as one of 2021's 100 Notable Books by The New York Times.  She is co-founder of the influential TrowelBlazers project, highlighting women in archaeology and the earth sciences. The post The Neanderthal: Love, Art & Culture (Re-broadcast) appeared first on KPFA.

#ReevesStudio #InTheGreenRoom #InTheGreenRoomPodcast #ContemporarySculpture #SculptureArt #Woodworking #Metal Working #Freestyle

Host Nika Paziuk speaks with fellow Indigenous 150+ podcaster Kassidy Bernard, a Two-Spirit L'Nu from We'koqma'q, Unama'ki about their love and connection to their home community. Kassidy, a graduate of Nova Scotia College of Art and Design shares her journey as a graphic design artist and entrepreneur, the responsibility that comes with Indigenous representation and centring Mi'kmaq values.  To follow Kassidy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassidyraine/ To learn more about Kassidy's design company Patuokn visit: https://patuokn.com/ This episode was developed in the Intro to Digital Storytelling Program led by Good Influence Films in partnership with RBC Emerging Artists Project, Inspirit Foundation and the Mastercard Foundation. To join our community and learn more about our events, training programs and learning resources: https://goodinfluencefilms.com/podsubscribe    

Hi Navigators! Catherine and Francis are excited to welcome Angelo Thomas to the podcast. Angelo is a filmmaker and mental health advocate, and has directed, produced, and edited two feature films, The Incredible Jake Parker and DeRosa: Life, Love & Art in Transition. Currently, he serves as the Digital & Social Media Director with Mental Health America, where he oversees the organization's overall voice and messaging across all social media platforms. Previously, Angelo worked with the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) as the Associate Manager of Communications. In this episode, Angelo welcomes listeners into his recovery journey from anorexia nervosa, including how admitting to treatment, developing his ever-evolving story, and writing and film all played significant parts in his healing. Angelo's passion for mental health advocacy stems from his own lived experience. Since recovering in 2018, he has been proud to give a voice to men, Latin Americans, and LGBTQ+ folks affected by eating disorders and other mental health concerns. We were thrilled to have him and hope you have a chance to check out his work and advocacy. CW: eating disorder behaviors, strained parental relationships, eating disorder treatment, talk of weight

Russ Ramsey loves art and he wants more and more Christians to love art. Not just for art’s sake; but for the sake of loving our God who made our world with so much beauty. Recommended Resources: Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith by Russ Ramsey (2022) Russ Ramsey's website Art Wednesday: Weekly Reflections on beauty in art. If Vincent Van Gogh Could Have Met C. S. Lewis by Randy Newman

TRACKLIST: 1. Lord's Prayer - Sir Charles Jones 2. Closer - Goapele 3. Moments in Love - Art of Noise 4. Blackberry Molasses - Mista 5. Soulmate (Heartstrings) - MMYYKK 6. 1 On 1 - Leven Kali & MXXWLL 7. Closer - Kenyon Dixon 8. Down for You (feat. Alina Baraz) - Ta-ku 9. Girl (ft. Kaytranada) - The Internet 10. The Party & the After Party - The Weeknd 11. Under - Pleasure P 12. Tadow (feat. FKJ) [Extended Version] - Masego 13. Never - Mario 14. Always In My Heart - Tevin Campbell 15. 'Til You Do Me Right - After 7 16. Forever, for Always, for Love - Luther Vandross 17. Yearning for Your Love - The Gap Band 18. Be With You - Beyoncé 19. I Miss You (Part 1) - David Ruffin 20. Soul Serenade - Aretha Franklin 21. Whatever It Takes - Anita Baker 22. Afterglow - Flores 23. The Resume (feat. Big K.R.I.T.) - BJ the Chicago Kid 24. The Trip (Downtown) - Wale 25. Take a Little Trip - Minnie Riperton 26. This Gift of Life - Teddy Pendergrass 27. Angel Of Mine - Monica 28. Honey - Ohio Players 29. Cry For You - Jodeci 30. It's Gonna Take a Miracle - Deniece Williams 31. Over The Rainbow - Patti LaBelle 32. Waiting for the Last Goodbye - The Ebonys 33. Down To Ride - Gary Clark Jr. 34. Score - JMSN 35. On the Ocean - K'Jon 36. Joy - FKJ

DONATE TO OUR IFW CAMPAIGN: https://ifundwomen.com/projects/stuk-designs-be-go-giver Please subscribe, follow our Nonprofit journey and screenshot any episodes you love! BECOME A STUK DONOR ~ STUKDEIGNS.ORG/GIVE #COLORFORACAUSE ~ STUKDESIGNS.ORG/ARTSAVESLIVES SHOP FOR A CAUSE ~ STUKDESIGNS.ORG/SHOP FOLLOW US ON IG & TWITTER ~ @STUKDESIGNS FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK ~ @STUKDESIGNS_ VISIT OUR WEBSITE ~ STUKDESIGNS.ORG STUK MEDITATIONS ~ STUKDESIGNS.ORG/MEDITATIONS STUK BLOG ~ STUKDESIGNS.BLOG #STUKGIRL STUK NFTS ~ NFTS ON OPENSEA STUK PLAYLIST ~ SPOTIFY PLAYS JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ~ PATREON.COM/STUKDESIGNS --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stukdesigns/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stukdesigns/support

Author Shawn Levy discusses his book The Castle on Sunset: Life, Death, Love, Art, and Scandal at Hollywood's Chateau Marmont. Author Website: http://shawnlevy.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CLICK HERE ~ to watch Madina's handshake video CLICK HERE ~ to watch our #stukgirls coloring in Ghana! Please subscribe, follow our Nonprofit journey and screenshot any episodes you love! BECOME A STUK DONOR ~ STUKDEIGNS.ORG/GIVE #COLORFORACAUSE ~ STUKDESIGNS.ORG/ARTSAVESLIVES SHOP FOR A CAUSE ~ STUKDESIGNS.ORG/SHOP FOLLOW US ON IG & TWITTER ~ @STUKDESIGNS FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK ~ @STUKDESIGNS_ VISIT OUR WEBSITE ~ STUKDESIGNS.ORG STUK MEDITATIONS ~ STUKDESIGNS.ORG/MEDITATIONS STUK BLOG ~ STUKDESIGNS.BLOG #STUKGIRL STUK NFTS ~ NFTS ON OPENSEA STUK PLAYLIST ~ SPOTIFY PLAYS JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ~ PATREON.COM/STUKDESIGNS You are so Loved. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stukdesigns/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stukdesigns/support

In his book, Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith, Russ Ramsey  helps his readers learn how to appreciate art without needing to be an expert.  “If you have not yet learned to love beauty,” he writes, “learn to love it late.” We're made to achieve perfection, at least on the other side of glory, he says. Beauty is glimpsing a preview of that perfection in what we make here and now of goodness and truth. God didn't need to make this world beautiful. He didn't need to make humans in his image, concerned with goodness and truth. But he did, so that beauty might awaken us from spiritual stupor. On this episode of Gospelbound, Russ Ramsey and Collin Hansen discuss Rembrandt and Van Gogh, Kincaid and Caravaggio, and how appreciating art mirrors the Christian life. 

Romanian Artist, designer and musician Mihai (Mike) Bancila never expected to put down his paintbrush for a few weeks to help neighboring Ukrainian refugees find shelter, anywhere they could, in his hometown but that's exactly what happened. In this week‘s episode, he shares his frustration with the war, his love of art and how punk rock is giving his life some context.   We talk about the choice to be an artist and what it means to follow faithfully wherever that path takes you. How closing our studios and losing everything in 2020 taught us about creative courage and who we really are. How necessary is courage for creativity to live at the forefront of our lives? Can we overcome our collective hesitancy, as a result of the pandemic, through creative practice? We get into the importance of presence and why enjoying the process matters. He says “Art is the process of me being with me, enjoying what I am doing without thinking of the outcome”.  Mihai is high energy, inspiring and a part of a weekly artist's collective I facilitate, and today we deconstruct the most recent creative challenge he led our group in and share an inside look at our own creative process, emotional upsets and tools for problem solving that work. What we further explore in this conversation - How creative courage teaches us to correct our mistakes because we can't control- alt- delete them but instead must create solutions.- Why showing up consistently as an artist and to the work is critical.- How art teaches you the value of being present. - Why our art is our personal message to the world.  Enjoy this episode. I hope it makes you go out and make art! You can connect with Mihai (Mike) Bancilla, here: Website:: www.bcatelier.roYouTube::  https://youtu.be/N8d6fX7RYH4Insta:: https://www.instagram.com/mbancila/ Quick note, I just want to say thank you for listening to this episode. I know it means a lot to myself and my guests.  If you enjoyed this episode, you will also like: Episode #10: Catherine Just: Using Art as Medicine to Heal Your Life Episode #13: Evan La Ruffa: Building Community Through Art and Activism Episode #29: Cynthia Morris: Creativity Embodied Here, you'll discover even more deep wisdom and practical tools to be more present to your life and create what's next. Learn more about me, Robyn Ivy: https://www.robynivy.com/https://www.instagram.com/robynivy/https://www.facebook.com/robynivy/ What can you do to support this channel? Subscribe, every new listener counts to us!Engage, we are a community who supports each otherLeave a review, let us know what you thinkShare, know others who may get some value - then share out channel MORE ABOUT MIHAI: Mihai Bancila is a professional multidisciplinary artist. Graduate of The National University of Arts in Bucharest, Romania.  He works on several media, including  illustration, painting, sculpture, blown glass and graphic design. He came into contact with art from an early age, being practically raised in the studios of well known plastic artists (his father Dan Bancila is a well known Romanian artist).  After graduating, he worked in several companies as a designer or art director then opened an advertising agency where he was creative director.  In parallel, he exhibited works of glass or painting in various group or solo exhibitions. For the last 5 years he shared a design studio “BC Atelier” together with a photographer friend.  The studio focused mainly on brand design and illustration, working a lot with theaters. Mihai bancila drew and illustrated over 50 posters for plays from Shakespeare to Fyodor Dostoevsky. He is no stranger to music either. He plays bass in a rock band from Bucharest with countless concerts - Gray Matters (band) and the story is yet to tell :))

This week on The Habit Podcast, Jonathan Rogers talks with author and pastor Russ Ramsey. Russ is a pastor in the Nashville area, a masterful storyteller, and Jonathan's go-to resource for all art-related questions. His love of art and story come together in his new book, Rembrandt Is In the Wind: Learning to Love Art Through the Eyes of Faith. It's an art history book, but more importantly, it's a book about the beauty that comes out of stories of human brokenness. Beauty matters; nobody makes that case better than Russ Ramsey. Support the show: https://therabbitroom.givingfuel.com/member See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Anne Ishii! Anne is a writer based in Philadelphia and New York, as well as the Executive Director of Asian Arts Initiative. Anne also owns and runs MASSIVE GOODS, a fashion brand and manga publisher. Together we talk about queerness, love, art, leadership, and so much more!

Russ is a pastor and author living in Nashville, Tennessee. His books include Struck, and the Retelling the Story Series. He joins me today to talk about his soon-to-be-released new book, Rembrandt is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith.Aside from his books, Russ has written for The Rabbit Room, The Gospel Coalition, Crossway, among other blogs, podcasts, and printed media.

*** IAYAALIS  offers a brief overview on Oshun / Oxun ***So we've already talked about Oshun before - Right?Well... The beautiful Oshun / Oxun - Goddess of Love Art, Magic, etc. just wanted us to share a lil' more about her with everyone.She is a very powerful Life Principle that we can all summon to elevate our way every day. Oshun is an energy that can help us magickally manifest a true embodiment of self-love. Her energies can be easily called upon  - with or without altars,  candles, incense, bells, and all that stuff. Get to know Osun as a divine feminine forcesimply by way of your own intentions.All you need is YOU. In this episode IAYAALIS  shares insight on Oshun from a previous cast - only this time without any additional commentary from Zaahruq.   So it's just straight INFO.Get The 411 all about your favorite Goddess of Love and Magick: OSHUN! Okay - now Zaahruq's energy IS manifest by way of a gorgeous video he made in reverence to Oshun.It's a great vid to vibe out with and meditate upon.And it Really is amazing, y'all... Don't Miss It.WATCH THE VIDEO TO THIS CAST!Just CLICK THIS LINK.You will be taken to  our YT Channel to check it out. There you can enjoy the full video version of this cast. Ready?Wonderful!CLICK HERE to watch the video now.See y'all on the other side...!* Eternal Supernal * ALSO...If you have anyquestions or suggestions - comments or critiques -regarding this show - just contact us directly =Esoteric@SupernalRoots.comBuzzsprout podcasting is pretty awesome - so...feeling froggy?LEAP!!!Check Out Buzzsprout - and be sure to tell 'em I sent ya!Here's my official Buzzsprout Referral link:https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1026391EsotericPodcast.comSupport the show (https://cash.app/$IAYAALIS)

Amy and Monte are a spiritual and creative power couple. They have been for decades. How many of us have at least one of their creations on our shelves, in our hands, and in our hearts? In this conversation, Christiana, Amy, and Monte take a deep dive into the fascinating history, process, and practices of the Enchanted Worlds creators. --- Internationally known self-help author Monte Farber's inspiring guidance and empathic insights impact everyone he encounters. Amy Zerner's exquisite and unique creations exude her profound intuition and deep connection with archetypal stories and healing energies. For over thirty years they've combined their deep love for one another with the work of inner-exploration and self-discovery to build The Enchanted World of Amy Zerner and Monte Farber: books, card decks, and oracles that have helped millions answer questions, find deeper meaning, and follow their own spiritual paths. Together they've made their love for one another a work of art and their art the work of their lives. Their best-selling titles include The Enchanted Tarot, The Psychic Circle, Karma Cards, Chakra Meditation Kit, The Truth Fairy, The Enchanted Spellboard, Quantum Affirmations, Sun Sign Secrets, Enchanted Birthday Book, and Little Reminders: Law of Attraction. --- If you would like to see more of Staarcast, check us out on YouTube! Sign up for our newsletter so you don't miss a single episode of Staarcast! Hosted by Christiana Gaudet Artwork and video production by Ciro Marchetti Podcast production and social media by Amie Mouser Video editing by Isaac Mouser

= *** IAYAALIS & Zaahruq celebrate and offer insight regarding  Oshun *** Ye-Ye-Ye-Oh...Hail the Cosmic Goddess of Love - OSHUN.September 8 is the Feast Day in America for the creative life principle known as Oshun.In this podcast we share a bit about this beautiful and powerful deity. We lovingly offer supernal spell songs and science in honor of our Cosmic Mama.Oshun is a powerful aspect of The Divine Feminine  to offer the joy of life.May she guide us ALL to the magic Calabash of infinite potentiality and may we enjoy the ideal and beautiful manifestations of her universal Love this Harvest Season! Ye Ye O, Y'all...!- IAYAALIS & ZaahruqALSO...If you have anyquestions or suggestions - comments or critiques -regarding this show - just contact us directly =Esoteric@SupernalRoots.comBuzzsprout podcasting is pretty awesome - so...feeling froggy?LEAP!!!Check Out Buzzsprout - and be sure to tell 'em I sent ya!Here's my official Buzzsprout Referral link:https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1026391EsotericPodcast.comSupport the show (https://cash.app/$IAYAALIS)

Hakim Callwood and Ted Cadillac are artists based in Columbus, Ohio. Hakim is a painter, Ted is a videographer, and together, they are bringing art to towns around the United States and even globally with their project "Tour De Mural".Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.**This episode was recorded on July 5, 2021**https://ericwhte.com/podcast-049-hakim-callwood--ted-cadillac-and-not-a-mural-tour-but-a-tour-de-mural/TOUR DE MURAL LINKShttps://www.tourdemural.comYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ8JbZEHViNdjEtbl6mL39gHakim on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HakimsArtNStuffHakim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hakimsartnstuff/Ted on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tedcadillacTed on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tedcadillac/theEWpodcasthttps://ericwhte.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw27qaF6r_XdQrzREV21QSATwitter: https://twitter.com/ericwhteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eric.whte/Newsletter: https://ericwhte.com/newsletter/TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introducing Hakim, Ted and "Tour De Mural"14:30 How Ted Cadillac exploded his new drone23:01 Serendipity in New York City25:14 Hakim's positive attitude in life31:25 Working with a Columbus brewery and vision validation36:49 Video, murals and the collaborative process48:58 Greezer49:48 Pay it forward55:24 Favorite "Tour De Mural" story1:00:26 Memories and closing thoughts