The Playing Possum Podcast

playingpossumcollective

Playing Possum Collective is the brain-child of three queer-identified visual artists, Kacey Montgomery, a photographer and multimedia artist, Katherine Edmonds, a woodworker, designer, and educator, and Jamey Hudnall, a painter. The collective’s name comes from the phrase “playing possum,” which echoes our mission statement: Helping creatives be creative when you feel like playing dead. Specifically, the phrase means to pretend to be asleep or deceased when threatened, and at times, as creatives, we desire to hide our work and ourselves, to not be seen by the world out of fear and anxiety. This reflex to creative output creates roadblocks that inhibit production, connection, success, and general well-being. The three of us have bonded over this universal struggle and desire to develop a space of support and conversation to discuss these struggles openly with other creatives. As visual artists, we know how important it is to tell your story and share your work, and we believe that in supporting others, this project will also help us avoid playing dead and continue working to share our own stories.

  1. 12/17/2025

    Episode 14: Season 1 Wrap up! Is Everyone’s Mustache in Order?

    12-16-25  Episode 14: Season 1 Wrap up!  Is Everyone’s Mustache in Order?  Keywords   professional artists, support for artists, artistic development, Seth Rolland, Guild of Oregon Woodworkers Summary   The Return to Education Kacey shares her experience of going back to university after a break. She is pursuing an interdisciplinary degree with a focus on women's studies and queer theory. The transition has been both exciting and challenging for her. Kacey mentions, "It's been stressful but I'm settling in," highlighting the importance of perseverance in personal growth. Her time spent in Portland adds an urban twist to her educational experience, making it all the more lively and engaging.   Nature and Creativity Jamey reflects on his time spent in the North Georgia mountains, enjoying the fall colors as the leaves changed. This experience has not only rejuvenated him but also sparked his creativity, as he works on a Magnolia painting. Jamey’s comment, "We're so close. If we can just get this corner done, then we're done," emphasizes the idea that creativity is often a work in progress, requiring patience and dedication.   Balancing Art and Life Kat discusses her busy schedule, which includes preparing for the South Town Art Walk and working at a gym. She is also studying to become a certified functional strength coach. Kat invites listeners to join her at the gym: "If you want to work out and get huge with me, please come to Helix." Her approach to juggling various responsibilities reflects a common struggle many face in balancing personal interests with daily commitments.   Learning New Skills Kacey opens up about her attempts to learn how to crochet while watching TV in the evenings. She humorously recalls the pressure to always be productive and her need to relax. This transparent admission resonates with listeners who feel similar pressures in their lives. Kacey's candidness about trying to embrace moments of leisure while still pursuing a new hobby is a reminder to find balance in our busy lives.   Through their candid discussions, the hosts remind us of the importance of embracing change and exploring new avenues for creativity. Whether it’s returning to school, engaging in artistic pursuits, or simply learning a new skill, personal growth is a journey filled with both challenges and rewards.  Takeaways   Kacey has started school to finish her degree. Jamey enjoyed the fall in the North Georgia mountains. Kat is preparing for the South Town Art Walk. The podcast has been a space for personal growth and reflection. Productivity can be achieved in smaller chunks of time. It's important to protect time for creative work. The hosts want to focus on professional development for artists. Community support is crucial for sustaining creative practices. The podcast will take a break and return for season two. Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts and suggestions.   Chapters 00:00Introduction and Personal Updates 09:49 Reflections on Season One 11:38 Memorable Guests and Experiences 12:25 Reflecting on Creative Growth 17:06 Building Confidence Through Community 19:41 Balancing Work and Personal Projects 23:42 Sustainability in Creative Practices 27:08 Looking Ahead: Season Two Aspirations   Please share any takeaways you had from the episode! Tag us @playing.possum.collective on Instagram and @playingpossumcollective.com on Bluesky. Or email us at playingpossumcollective@gmail.com.    Follow Us on Instagram Follow Us on Bluesky Watch this episode on YouTube Visit the Playing Possum Collective Website Playing Possum Podcast Website Sign up for our newsletter!  Share this episode with friends!  We’re now on Apple Podcast!    Check out the Possums individual creative endeavours.  See Katherine Edmonds’ work!  See Kacey Montgomery’s work!  See Jamey Hudnall’s work!

    38 min
  2. 11/18/2025

    Mini-sode 10: Just Jamey - Take 2

    11-18-25 Mini-sode 10: Just Jamey - Take 2   Keywords solitude, personal growth, family, loss, memory, change, community, writing, art, Natchez Summary In this episode of Jamey's Dream House, Jamey reflects on the importance of solitude, personal growth, and the impact of family and loss. He shares insights from his life in Natchez, Mississippi, exploring themes of memory, change, and the significance of place. Through his journey of writing and art, Jamey emphasizes the beauty of embracing solitude while navigating the complexities of life and community. Takeaways Jamey finds joy in solitude and personal reflection. The importance of quiet time for personal growth. Grief and loss are recurring themes in Jamey's life. Change is a constant in life, and it's essential to embrace it. Memories of family shape Jamey's identity and creative work. Writing serves as a therapeutic outlet for Jamey. The significance of place influences Jamey's art and writing. Community connections are vital, even in solitude. Jamey reflects on the impermanence of life and relationships. The journey of creating art is intertwined with personal experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jamie's Dream House 00:45 The Journey of Writing and Storytelling 04:03 Exploring Natchez: A Sense of Place 10:30 Reflections on Change and Community 21:46 The Legacy of Family and Belonging     Please share any takeaways you had from the episode! Tag us @playing.possum.collective on Instagram and @playingpossumcollective.com on Bluesky. Or email us at playingpossumcollective@gmail.com.    Follow Us on Instagram Follow Us on Bluesky Watch this episode on YouTube Visit the Playing Possum Collective Website Playing Possum Podcast Website Sign up for our newsletter!  Share this episode with friends!  We’re now on Apple Podcast!    Check out the Possums individual creative endeavours.  See Katherine Edmonds’ work!  See Kacey Montgomery’s work!  See Jamey Hudnall’s work!

    32 min
  3. 11/06/2025

    Mini-sode 9: The Troll Earring Incident: A Spooky Sacrifice with Jamey and Kat

    11-5-25  Mini-sode 9: The Troll Earring Incident: A Spooky Sacrifice with Jamey and Kat   Keywords   solitude, relationships, Halloween, nostalgia, ghost stories, haunted house, childhood memories, creativity Summary   In this episode of Playing Possums, Kat and Jamey explore themes of solitude, relationships, and nostalgia, they share a spooky Halloween story from their childhood. They each share their version of a story about a haunted house project they created together. The big reveal is the significance of a troll earring sacrifice. The story leads to reflections on the creativity involved in Halloween and making spooky haunted houses and coming up with costumes.    Takeaways Jamey shares his newfound appreciation for solitude post-COVID. Both hosts reflect on their changing perspectives on relationships and socializing. They reminisce about their childhood Halloween experiences and the creativity involved in costumes. Jamey and Kat tell the story about the haunted house they created together in elementary school. They reveal the significance of a troll earring sacrifice in their haunted house story. Jamey shares his best Halloween costume from college. Kat expresses her love for Halloween and the creativity it inspires. They reflect on the importance of friendship and shared memories. The episode concludes with planning for future Halloweens.    Please share any takeaways you had from the episode! Tag us @playing.possum.collective on Instagram and @playingpossumcollective.com on Bluesky. Or email us at playingpossumcollective@gmail.com.    Follow Us on Instagram Follow Us on Bluesky Watch this episode on YouTube Visit the Playing Possum Collective Website Playing Possum Podcast Website Sign up for our newsletter!  Share this episode with friends!  We’re now on Apple Podcast!    Check out the Possums individual creative endeavours.  See Katherine Edmonds’ work!  See Kacey Montgomery’s work! See Jamey Hudnall’s work!

    41 min
  4. 10/21/2025

    Episode 13: You Tell the Truth & Everyone Loves You, Kerry Rose Graning!

    10-21-25 Episode 13: You Tell the Truth & Everyone Loves You, Kerry Rose Graning!   See Kerry's work via her website and her Instagram.      Keywords   art, writing, creativity, whodunit, performance, community, personal experiences, imposter syndrome, artistic journey, art, documentary, filmmaking, self-expression, family, creativity, authenticity, feedback, failure, networking Summary   In this engaging conversation, Kerry Rose Graning shares her artistic journey, discussing her transition from writing to visual art, the challenges of managing multiple creative projects, and the impact of perfectionism on her work. She reflects on her current writing projects, including a stage play, and the importance of community in fueling her creativity. Kerry also addresses the struggles of imposter syndrome and her aspirations for future writing endeavors, all while highlighting the unique characters and experiences that inspire her art. In this engaging conversation, Kerry shares her artistic journey, exploring the intersection of art, documentary filmmaking, and personal expression. She reflects on her experiences with vulnerability in art, the challenges of capturing real lives in documentaries, and the importance of family and community in her creative process. The discussion also delves into the significance of feedback, the role of failure in growth, and the complexities of self-promotion as an artist. Takeaways   Kerry Rose Graning is a multifaceted artist known for her collage work and writing. She embraces a collage lifestyle, balancing multiple creative projects simultaneously. Kerry's transition from writing to visual art has been a recent and exciting development. Perfectionism can hinder creativity, making it challenging to complete projects. She is currently working on a stage play that combines elements of a whodunit. Kerry's experiences in the community inspire her writing and artistic endeavors. She believes in the importance of not turning down random opportunities in her career. Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for artists, but overcoming it can lead to growth. Kerry's future writing aspirations include exploring various forms of writing, including screenplays and novels. Community plays a vital role in fueling her creativity and artistic expression. Kerry's journey in art has been deeply influenced by her experiences with vulnerability. Documentary filmmaking allows for a blend of personal stories and nonfiction. Family road trips serve as a rich source of inspiration and memory. Capturing real lives in documentaries presents unique challenges. Comfort on camera can enhance the artistic process and presentation. The evolution of artistic mediums can lead to unexpected creative paths. Authenticity in art is a continuous struggle for many artists. Networking often occurs in unexpected places, such as funerals. Self-reflection is crucial for personal satisfaction in artistic endeavors. Feedback is essential for growth, but artists must navigate it carefully. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Kerry Rose Graning 02:51 The Artistic Journey of Kerry Rose Graning 04:46 Living a Collage Lifestyle 06:12 Managing Multiple Creative Projects 07:05 Transition from Writing to Visual Art 08:56 The Impact of Perfectionism on Creativity 09:56 Current Writing Projects and Collaborations 11:50 Upcoming Performance and Play Details 12:44 Exploring the Whodunit Genre 14:38 The Role of Characters in Storytelling 18:13 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 20:02 Future Writing Aspirations 21:00 The Influence of Personal Experiences on Writing 23:46 The Importance of Community in Creativity 28:27 Reflections on Being Featured in Literature 35:05 Art and Vulnerability: The Journey of Self-Expression 36:06 Documentary Filmmaking: Blending Nonfiction and Personal Stories 37:01 Family Road Trips: A Journey Through Memory and Legacy 38:55 The Challenge of Documenting Real Lives 42:15 Comfort on Camera: The Intersection of Art and Television 43:54 The Evolution of Artistic Mediums: From Writing to Visual Art 48:12 The Struggle for Authenticity in Art 50:44 Navigating Success and Exposure in the Art World 53:34 Networking in Unlikely Places: The Power of Connections 55:26 Self-Reflection: The Importance of Personal Satisfaction 58:14 The Role of Feedback in Artistic Growth 01:01:59 Embracing Failure: A Path to Growth 01:06:01 The Journey of an Artist: From Archaeology to Art 01:08:07 The Importance of Family and Community in Art 01:12:10 Promoting Art: The Challenge of Self-Promotion     Please share any takeaways you had from the episode! Tag us @playing.possum.collective on Instagram and @playingpossumcollective.com on Bluesky. Or email us at playingpossumcollective@gmail.com.    Follow Us on Instagram Follow Us on Bluesky Watch this episode on YouTube Visit the Playing Possum Collective Website Playing Possum Podcast Website Sign up for our newsletter!  Share this episode with friends!  We’re now on Apple Podcast!    Check out the Possums individual creative endeavours.  See Katherine Edmonds’ work!  See Kacey Montgomery’s work!  See Jamey Hudnall’s work!

    1h 10m
  5. 10/08/2025

    Episode 12: I Am Gonna Sound Like an Old Person Yelling at a Cloud with Amy Clem

    10-8-2025 Episode 12: I Am Gonna Sound Like an Old Person Yelling at a Cloud with Amy Clem Find Amy Clem's work at https://dirtyprettyartwear.com/ Keywords artist, jewelry, creativity, business, community, queer visibility, success, inventory management, artistic process, resilience   Summary   In this engaging conversation, Kat Edmonds and Amy Clem explore the multifaceted journey of being a working artist, particularly with Amy’s jewelry business, Dirty Pretty Artwear. They discuss the challenges and joys of navigating creativity, the importance of community support, and how sometimes you have to “grind it out”, when the work needs to get done. The dialogue emphasizes redefining success, embracing all facets of identity, and finding joy in the creative process while managing the practicalities of running a business. The conversation culminates in a call to action for listeners to create something 'dirty and pretty' as a form of resistance and self-expression.   Takeaways   Amy's journey into creativity began with Modern Dance and has evolved into jewelry making. Understanding customer needs is crucial for a successful business. Inventory management is a significant challenge for artists, or at least Kat. Diversity in income sources can alleviate pressure on artists. Community support is vital for creative individuals. Redefining success is essential for personal fulfillment. Visibility for queer artists is important in the current climate. Embracing all facets of identity enriches the artistic process. Finding joy in creativity is key to sustaining artistic work. Tools and techniques can enhance the creative process and efficiency.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Background of Amy Clem 02:54 The Evolution of Amy's Jewelry Business 05:29 Navigating Inventory and Customer Expectations 08:39 Balancing Art and Business 11:17 The Importance of Diverse Income Streams 13:54 Redefining Success in the Art World 16:57 Finding Joy in Creative Work 19:35 The Influence of Community and Mentorship 22:31 Integrating Different Art Forms and Practices 34:41 Navigating Identity and Societal Expectations 41:15 The Intersection of Art and Business 47:00 Finding Joy in Creative Processes 53:48 Embracing Queer Identity in Art 01:01:56 Living Authentically as Resistance   Please share any takeaways you had from the episode! Tag us @playing.possum.collective on Instagram and @playingpossumcollective.com on Bluesky. Or email us at playingpossumcollective@gmail.com.    Follow Us on Instagram Follow Us on Bluesky Watch this episode on YouTube Visit the Playing Possum Collective Website Playing Possum Podcast Website Sign up for our newsletter!  Share this episode with friends!  We’re now on Apple Podcast!    Check out the Possums individual creative endeavours.  See Katherine Edmonds’ work!  See Kacey Montgomery’s work! See Jamey Hudnall’s work!

    1h 5m
  6. 09/23/2025

    Mini-Sode 8: It Will Melt Your Face Off and Make You Stink Forever

    September 22, 205  Mini-Sode 8: It Will Melt Your Face Off and Make You Stink Forever Keywords storytelling, childhood memories, creative projects, small business, snow day, adventures   Summary In this engaging conversation, Kat and Jamey reflect on their childhood memories, particularly focusing on a memorable snow day adventure. They discuss the creative projects they are currently working on and explore the importance of storytelling from different perspectives. The conversation is filled with humor, nostalgia, and valuable insights about creativity and childhood adventures. Takeaways The joy of storytelling can lead to unexpected rewards. Creative projects often come with challenges and delays. Childhood memories shape our perspectives and creativity. Snow days provide unique opportunities for adventure. Different perspectives can lead to varied interpretations of the same event. Nature plays a significant role in childhood experiences. The importance of community and support in creative endeavors. Nostalgia can influence how we remember our past. Embracing risk and adventure can lead to memorable experiences. Please share any takeaways you had from the episode! Tag us @playing.possum.collective on Instagram and @playingpossumcollective.com on Bluesky. Or email us at playingpossumcollective@gmail.com.    Follow Us on Instagram Follow Us on Bluesky Watch this episode on YouTube Visit the Playing Possum Collective Website Playing Possum Podcast Website Sign up for our newsletter!  Share this episode with friends!  We’re now on Apple Podcast!    Check out the Possums individual creative endeavours.  See Katherine Edmonds’ work!  See Kacey Montgomery’s work! See Jamey Hudnall’s work!   Toodles Possums!

    31 min
  7. 09/09/2025

    Episode 11: The Ruses and Wiles of Nature Photography with Conspiracy of Cartographers

    In this episode of the Playing Possum Podcast, hosts Kacey and Jamey engage in a lively conversation with Eric J. Meow, a photographer known for his work with large format cameras and his unique approach to capturing the world around him. They discuss the origins of his brand, Conspiracy of Photographers, his passion for vinyl collecting, and the tactile nature of his artistic process. Eric shares stories from his annual road trips, the challenges of shooting in remote locations, and the importance of immersing oneself in different environments to inspire creativity. The conversation also delves into the significance of abandoned spaces, the pressure of artistic creation, and the connection between humans and their environment. Eric reflects on the stories left behind in forgotten places and the legacy we leave for future generations. The episode concludes with Eric sharing insights into his creative process and upcoming projects. Eric J. Meow’s Links: Find Eric’s work here! https://linktr.ee/consofcart Follow him on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/conspiracy.of.cartographers/ Takeaways   The name 'Conspiracy of Photographers' has a unique origin. Large format photography allows for a tactile and involved creative process. Traveling for photography can be both rewarding and challenging. Abandoned spaces tell stories of the past and evoke curiosity. Creativity often requires stepping out of one's comfort zone. Annual road trips are essential for Eric's creative process. The pressure to create can be self-imposed and unnecessary. Human connections are often reflected in the landscapes we photograph. The importance of documenting the remnants of human life. Art is a way to explore and understand the world around us.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Conspiracy of Photographers 02:39 The Art of Large Format Photography 05:34 Adventures in the Desert: A Learning Experience 08:24 The Importance of Annual Road Trips 11:05 Exploring America: The Journey and Its Impact 14:06 The Connection Between Travel and Creativity 16:38 Finding Solitude in Nature 19:35 The Balance of Community and Isolation 22:22 Reflections on Travel and Photography 26:26 Navigating Life's Paths: Choices and Values 27:35 The Intersection of Nature and Humanity 30:00 Time Capsules: Stories of Abandonment 32:03 Reflections on Life's Seasons 35:30 The Solitude of the Creative Journey 37:20 Dark Kansas: Embracing the Unexpected 39:25 The Pressure of Creation: Balancing Passion and Expectation 42:18 The Art of Making: Finding Joy in Creation 47:16 Community and Connection: The Artist's Experience   Please share any takeaways you had from the episode! Tag us @playing.possum.collective on Instagram and @playingpossumcollective.com on Bluesky. Or email us at playingpossumcollective@gmail.com.    Follow Us on Instagram Follow Us on Bluesky Watch this episode on YouTube Visit the Playing Possum Collective Website Playing Possum Podcast Website Sign up for our newsletter!  Share this episode with friends!  We’re now on Apple Podcast!    Check out the Possums individual creative endeavours.  See Katherine Edmonds’ work!  See Kacey Montgomery’s work!  See Jamey Hudnall’s work!

    55 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Playing Possum Collective is the brain-child of three queer-identified visual artists, Kacey Montgomery, a photographer and multimedia artist, Katherine Edmonds, a woodworker, designer, and educator, and Jamey Hudnall, a painter. The collective’s name comes from the phrase “playing possum,” which echoes our mission statement: Helping creatives be creative when you feel like playing dead. Specifically, the phrase means to pretend to be asleep or deceased when threatened, and at times, as creatives, we desire to hide our work and ourselves, to not be seen by the world out of fear and anxiety. This reflex to creative output creates roadblocks that inhibit production, connection, success, and general well-being. The three of us have bonded over this universal struggle and desire to develop a space of support and conversation to discuss these struggles openly with other creatives. As visual artists, we know how important it is to tell your story and share your work, and we believe that in supporting others, this project will also help us avoid playing dead and continue working to share our own stories.