noseyAF: Conversations about Art, Activism, and Social Change

Stephanie Graham
  • 5.0 (22)
  • VISUAL ARTS
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Ever wonder what ignites the creative spark in inspiring artists, change-fighting activists, and even my neighbor who practices synchronized swimming in their inflatable pool every morning? That's me, Stephanie Graham, artist, and filmmaker, diving deep with these movers and shakers on the noseyAF Podcast. Every other week, we'll explore their journeys and the secrets to making a difference and uncover captivating narratives. Step into their creative worlds, ignite your curiosity and discover the inspiration that shapes landscapes and builds a better world. As an artist, I'm passionate about weaving these stories into my work. We'll explore the challenges and routines that fuel success, venture behind the scenes, and share updates on my artistic journey. Join the noseyAF community – every episode is an invitation to explore, learn, and grow together!

  1. MAR 20

    Liberation, Softness, and A Good Ol’ Banjo with EbonyJanice

    Ep # 69: Liberation, Softness, and A Good Ol’ Banjo “I'm brilliant because my ancestors were brilliant.” - EbonyJanice Welcome to episode 69, Liberation, Softness, and A Good Ol’ Banjo! This episode invites you to reflect on your own journey toward softness, wholeness, and unapologetic self-expression. Whether you’re an artist, activist, or simply someone looking to heal, EbonyJanice’s insights will leave you feeling inspired and ready to embrace your truth. ✨ Episode SummaryIn this robust conversation, I’m joined by the incredible EbonyJanice, author of All Black Girls Are Activists. We dive into the transformative world of Fourth Wave Womanism, where personal wellness and self-care are celebrated as radical acts of resistance and pathways to liberation. EbonyJanice’s work bridges art, activism, and academia, offering fresh perspectives on reclaiming your story and prioritizing your well-being as a Black woman or femme individual. 📝 What We Discuss:🌊 Fourth Wave Womanism: Redefining womanism beyond feminism to center the lived experiences of Black women, emphasizing healing, empowerment, and radical self-acceptance.🎨 Art as Activism: Creativity as a declaration of existence, challenging societal norms, and uplifting Black female narratives.🪶 Honoring Ancestors: The importance of connecting with heritage for spiritual and legal empowerment.🌻 Healing & Liberation: How Black American women are reclaiming their stories and moving toward freedom from historical trauma through art and community.🫶🏾 Community & Collaboration: Building networks that encourage vulnerability, authenticity, and collective growth. 👩🏾‍🏫 EbonyJanice’s Bio:EbonyJanice is the founder and CEO of The Free People Project and The Ebony Janice Project. She has authored several books, including All Black Girls Are Activists: A Fourth Wave Womanist Pursuit Of Dreams As Radical Resistance. Her Spiritual Mentorship Program, “Dream Yourself Free,” supports Black Women in healing intergenerational wounds and prioritizing pleasure. Ebony Janice’s talks embody a Hip Hop Womanist perspective. She is the visionary behind Black Girl Mixtape, a platform uplifting the intellectual authority of Black Women, and the All The Black Girls Are Bestsellers Campaign, which has raised over a million dollars to mass purchase Black femme books with the goal of getting them on The New York Times Best Sellers List. This project has contributed to Black and Indie-owned bookstores and gifted thousands of books nationwide. Ebony Janice earned her Bachelor’s in Cultural Anthropology and Political Science and a Master of Arts in Social Change with a concentration in Spiritual Leadership, Womanist Theology, and Racial Justice. Chapters:00:07 - Introduction to Ebony Janese: Activist and Artist06:11 - The Emergence of Fourth Wave Womanism13:47 - The Journey of Self-Discovery29:58 - The Role of Ancestry in Faith41:02 - Waking Up with Intention49:54 - The Power of Softness and Being Seated59:24 - The Influence of Housewife Culture 📚 A Few of the Folks EbonyJanice knows IYKYKAlice WalkerSonya Renee TaylorJames Conea...

    1h 2m

  2. FEB 19

    Jewelry, Tech, and Staying Authentic with Helen with the Gold Teeth

    Ep #68: Jewelry, Tech & Authenticity with Helen with the Gold Teeth Summary of the episode Helen with the Gold Teeth is here! Y’all, this episode is a treat. Helen Harris, aka Helen with the Gold Teeth, shares her incredible journey from engineering to luxury jewelry, proving that sometimes, the best career moves are the unexpected ones. We dive into her philosophy on accessible luxury, the personal storytelling behind her work, and how she’s redefining what high-end jewelry can be—especially for Black and LGBTQ+ communities. Helen’s pieces aren’t just jewelry. They’re heirlooms, cultural artifacts, and statements of self-expression. We talk about craftsmanship, pricing, community, and the business of making beautiful things while staying true to yourself. Get ready for a conversation full of wisdom, humor, and—let’s be real—a little bit of fangirling on my part. Topics discussed:Helen’s journey from engineering to high-end jewelry makingJewelry as storytelling—how her pieces become heirloomsLuxury, but make it intentional—how Helen challenges exclusivity in the art worldThe tech influence—how her background in engineering shapes her craftsmanshipBuilding community in the jewelry world—support, collaboration, and pricing with integrity Chapters:• 00:12 - Fangirling with Helen Harris • 02:56 - Helen's Journey into Jewelry Making • 11:46 - Transitioning to a Full-Time Job: Balancing Life and Business • 14:30 - Navigating Work and Personal Life • 21:23 - The Concept of Luxury • 29:02 - Navigating Self-Expression and Professionalism • 36:51 - The Jewelry Community: Insights and Relationships • 41:06 - Reflections on Growth and Identity • 43:50 - Navigating Client Relationships and Pricing • 52:08 - Exploring New Segments in Conversations Helen’s Bio - Helen with the Gold Teeth is the brainchild of Helen Harris, born during a pivotal moment as she transitioned from engineer to jeweler. Seeking the structure, security, and personal connection of corporate life—but on her own terms—she quickly incorporated the brand, setting a clear vision for growth. What started as a personal passion became a movement, drawing in New Yorkers from all walks of life. With a guerrilla spirit, intentional craftsmanship, and a deep love for her work, Helen has built something far bigger than jewelry—she’s creating legacy pieces that tell stories and hold history. 🔗 Resources mentioned Helen with the Gold Teeth Official WebsiteHelen’s New York Times ArticleHelen’s YouTube ChannelHelen on Ridculous Little Things 📲 Connect with Helen: Instagram: @helenwiththegoldteeth Website: Helen With the Gold Teeth 📲Connect with Stephanie Instagram: @stephaniegraham Email: a href="mailto:stephanie@missgraham.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    54 min
  3. From Nosey to Necessary: The Impact of Evanston Made

    FEB 4

    From Nosey to Necessary: The Impact of Evanston Made

    Welcome to episode 67: From nosey to necessary: The Impact of Evantson Made with Lisa Degliantoni "I started this work at 40, which just goes to show that it’s never too late to begin something new and impactful" - Lisa Degliantoni Summary of the episodeToday's conversation centers on the vital role of community arts education and advocacy, delivered with profound insights from Lisa Degliantoni, a dedicated advocate for artists in her community. As the founder and co-director of Evanston Made, Lisa embodies a commitment to fostering visibility and support for artists, emphasizing the necessity of kindness and engagement in a world that often feels overwhelming. Throughout our conversation, we explore how Lisa's journey into arts advocacy began later in life, reminiscent of notable figures who found their calling beyond traditional timelines. She elucidates the importance of creating community among artists, highlighting that the isolation often experienced can be alleviated through collective support and shared experiences. This episode serves not only as a reminder of the power of community but also as an invitation to engage actively in fostering the arts within our own neighborhoods. Topics Discussed: local initiatives can foster support and visibility for artists.Lisa’s journey into arts advocacy demonstrates that significant career transitions can occur later in life, inspiring individuals to pursue their passions.How Evanston Made serves as a model for community-driven arts organizations, focusing on the needs and aspirations of local artists. Meet Lisa - Lisa is a community advocate for artists and makers and is a passionate Community Arts Builder in Evanston. Working as the founder and co-director of the nonprofit arts organization, Evanston Made, Lisa’s enthusiasm for community art building drives the organization's mission-based programs and events that bring visibility and opportunity to the artists in the community. Chapters: 00:08 - Introduction to Community Arts and Kindness03:40 - The Heart of Community Engagement in Evanston19:10 - Creating Community Through Art Advocacy31:24 - Navigating Community and Self-Awareness43:23 - Community Engagement and Cultural Renaissance Resources mentioned in this episode Seriously Baddass Women Interview with Lisa DegliantoniEvanston MadeLefty’s BagelsMensch’s DeliTerrain BiennialZentli on Dempster Connect with Lisa Evanston Made on Instagram Lisa’s Instagram: @thelisadshow https://www.lisadegliantoni.com/ Connect with Stephanie Instagram: @stephaniegraham a href="https://www.instagram.com/noseyafpod/"...

    50 min
  4. Embrace the Real You: Ditch the 'New Year, New You' Myth

    12/31/2024

    Embrace the Real You: Ditch the 'New Year, New You' Myth

    Ep 66: Embrace the Real You: Ditch the 'New Year, New You' Myth Summary of the episode The latest episode of noseyAF dives into the concept of self-acceptance versus the pervasive "New Year, New You" mentality that often pressures individuals to completely reinvent themselves each January. Host Stephanie Graham reflects on her own experiences and goals from the past year, emphasizing the importance of self-trust and embracing who we already are. Guest Valerie Friedlander expands on this idea, discussing how societal expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy and the harmful messaging that something is inherently wrong with us. Instead of striving to become someone new, the conversation encourages listeners to reclaim their true selves and recognize the value of their unique identities. This thought-provoking dialogue invites everyone to step into 2025 with self-acceptance and a commitment to honoring their authentic selves. Takeaways: The New Year, new you mantra is often toxic, pushing unrealistic expectations on individuals.Instead of trying to reinvent ourselves, we should focus on reclaiming our true selves.Reflecting on the past year can help us set more authentic intentions for the future.Building self-trust is key to personal development, rather than conforming to external pressures.Embracing who we are allows for more genuine connections with ourselves and others.Recognizing that our perceived flaws can actually be strengths is essential for growth. Chapters: 00:01 - Welcome to Nosy: Conversations About Art and Activism04:16 - Embracing the New Year as Your True Self14:38 - Reclaiming Yourself: The Journey to Authenticity17:59 - Embracing Your True Self26:30 - Understanding Self Through Personality Assessments34:15 - Building Self Trust and Relationships All about ValerieValerie is a compassionate and creative coach dedicated to helping individuals, particularly women, break free from internalized patterns that limit their potential. With a deep understanding of societal pressures and the unique challenges faced by empathetic individuals, Valerie empowers clients to align with their most powerful selves and channel their energy toward meaningful work. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes that transforming internalized patterns not only amplifies one’s impact on the world but also fosters intentional, joyful relationships in all areas of life. Known for her empathetic and engaging style, Valerie guides clients through a creative and fun process that honors their humanity and intuition, uncovering personalized solutions that lead to lasting change. Resources mentioned in this episode Flow Mastery Group Coaching Create Your Flow Course You Were Born For This by Chani Nicholas 🚨Lofi Beats for you to lay on the couch!🚨 Fun Personality Tests: Myers Brigg Enneagram (read up on this one though folks...

    39 min
  5. Saint Nick Sets The Record Straight

    12/24/2024 · BONUS

    Saint Nick Sets The Record Straight

    Ep 65: Saint Nick Sets The Record Straight Summary of the episodeGet ready for a magical holiday treat as our friends of Modern Dadhood, Adam and Mark, sit down for an exclusive interview with Santa Claus himself!! I know so wild! This special episode is designed for the entire family, making it a perfect way to spark joy and excitement in the hearts of children and parents alike. Adam dives into some of the kids' biggest questions about Santa, covering everything from how he manages to visit every home in one night to the secrets behind the elves and the Christmas spirit. With Santa's warm and humorous responses, listeners will be enchanted by the magic of the season and the importance of belief. Join Adam and Mark as they explore the world of Santa Claus and share heartfelt moments that embody the true spirit of Christmas. Listeners are in for a treat as they dive into a special holiday episode of Nosy AF, where the magic of Christmas comes alive with an exclusive interview featuring Santa Claus. Stephanie sets the festive tone, inviting families to gather their little ones for a delightful experience that blends wonder with heartfelt insights. The episode unfolds through a lively dialogue between Adam and Santa, exploring an array of whimsical topics such as how Santa manages to visit every child in one night, the significance of believing in Santa, and the role of his helpers around the world. With humor and charm, Santa shares stories from the North Pole, vividly depicting his preparations and the joy he spreads each year. As the conversation progresses, listeners are treated to Santa's perspective on the importance of kindness and belief, not just during the holiday season but throughout the entire year. The hosts engage in thoughtful reflections about what it means to be part of a supportive community, especially during the holidays, as Mark shares his gratitude towards Adam for assisting him in preparing for Christmas while he was under the weather. This genuine moment of friendship resonates deeply, serving as a reminder of the true spirit of the season—supporting one another and cherishing connections. With Santa's comforting presence and the hosts' personal anecdotes, this episode encapsulates the essence of Christmas, leaving listeners inspired and filled with holiday cheer as they embark on their own holiday traditions. Takeaways:This holiday episode features a special interview with Santa Claus, perfect for family listening.Santa emphasizes the importance of belief and kindness, encouraging children to keep the magic alive.Listeners learn about the busy life of Santa Claus and his workshop during December.The conversation highlights the joy of holiday traditions, such as Elf on the Shelf.Adam and Mark discuss how Santa manages to visit homes without chimneys using magic.The episode also touches on the significance of community support during the holiday season. Chapters:00:10 - Introducing a Special Episode05:31 - Interview with Santa Claus09:46 - The Secrets of Santa Claus19:30 - The Origins of Santa Claus28:44 - The Holiday Spirit and Support About Modern Dadhood Podcast :Adam Flaherty and Marc Checket are two dads from suburban New England. And while they might think they’re pretty funny and cool, the world clearly does NOT need another white dude ramble-cast. That’s why Modern Dadhood explores what it really means to be a "dad" in 2024 through candid, authentic, and often hilarious conversations with diverse dads of all walks of life… including famous dads, NOT famous dads, dads-to-be, step dads, grand dads, trans dads, and more. By celebrating present, engaged parenting and commiserating over common fatherhood challenges, listeners will gain

    31 min
  6. From Art to Aid: Eric von Haynes on Creating Community Connections

    12/18/2024

    From Art to Aid: Eric von Haynes on Creating Community Connections

    Ep 64: From Art to Aid: Eric von Haynes on Creating Community Connections Summary of the episode: Today’s conversation centers on the critical distinction between mutual aid and charity, as articulated by our guest, Eric von Haynes. Eric emphasizes that mutual aid is rooted in reciprocity and community connection, contrasting it with the more transactional nature of charity. He shares insights from his extensive work in mutual aid initiatives, including the Love Fridge project, which provides community fridges stocked with food and resources, emphasizing the importance of anonymity and equality in these efforts. Throughout the discussion, Eric reflects on his artistic journey, particularly his passion for printmaking as a means of disseminating ideas and fostering community dialogue. With a focus on the values of horizontality and support, this episode encourages listeners to think critically about how we share resources and uplift one another in our communities. Takeaways: Mutual aid emphasizes reciprocity and community support, distinguishing it from mere charity.The Love Fridge initiative in Chicago showcases how community fridges can foster mutual aid.Eric advocates for slow media, valuing thoughtful engagement over rapid consumption.Art practices, like printmaking, provide a platform for voices that challenge societal norms. Chapters: • 00:01 - Introduction to Nosy AF Conversations • 03:10 - Understanding Mutual Aid and Reciprocity • 12:04 - The Concept of Mutual Aid • 17:46 - Community Fridges and Mutual Aid • 26:42 - Community Engagement and Food Rescue • 36:52 - Understanding Mutual Aid vs Charity • 40:45 - Values and Practices in Community Engagement • 46:25 - The Importance of Print in Art and Society • 55:13 - The Philosophy of Anarchy and Community • 01:01:40 - The Importance of Slow Media • 01:06:45 - The Legacy of Robert Blackburn About Eric:Eric Von Haynes operates under the imprint Flatlands Press and co-founded Love Fridge Chicago, a mutual aid initiative supporting community fridges. He is a visiting senior instructor of graphic design at the UIC School of Design and currently serves as the president of the Chicago Printers Guild. Resources mentioned in this episode Eric Von Haynes: Drawn Through Restraint Dean Spade Mutual Aid Book *link to this book is with an affiliate link* Community Centered Design Love Fridge Btw Happy Anniversary, Love Fridge! 💕🎊 Food Not Bombs Chicagoland Food Sovereignty Coalition Getting Grown Collective Narcan Robert Blackburn a href="https://www.hoofprintchicago.com/about" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 13m
  7. First-Time Vendor: My Experience at a Holiday Market

    12/10/2024

    First-Time Vendor: My Experience at a Holiday Market

    Ep 63: First-Time Vendor: My Experience at a Holiday Market Summary of the episode: Hey friends, welcome back to noseyAF! In this solo episode, Stephanie Graham reflects on the whirlwind of 2024 as December kicks off. Stephanie shares her experience as a first-time vendor at the 476 2nd Annual Holiday Market, hosted by her film union, IATSE. From setting up a cute booth with her cousin Brandy of Poor Little Rich Girl to selling her tiny, inspired pins, Stephanie dives into what it was like to step into the world of holiday markets. She recounts highlights like Santa Claus, a Tony Bennett impersonator, and DJ-spun tunes, as well as valuable lessons learned from seasoned market vendors like Nyla from Homegirls Hummus. Stephanie also touches on the joy of connecting with buyers face-to-face and shares tips for anyone looking to try their hand at vending. Looking ahead, Stephanie teases an exciting lineup for the remainder of the year, including a conversation with Eric Von Haynes , a talented printmaker, and part of The Love Fridge project. She hints at taking a well-deserved break before returning fresh in 2025. Tune in for a heartfelt recap, lessons learned, and a sneak peek at what’s to come. Stay curious, and take care! Links Mentioned in this Episode Episode 59: Holiday Market Adventure Pictures from the Holiday Market Connect with Stephanie Instagram: @stephaniegraham Email: stephanie@missgraham.com Check out my art and projects Enjoy my work? Join my studio newsletter More Episodes at noseyaf.com Please leave me feedback or send me a message: Support the Show Rate and Review the show: Share noseyAF with your friends: Buy a pin Buy a print Join the noseyAF Dispatch. Episode Credits: Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!) Lyrics: Queen Lex Instrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

    13 min
  8. From Disappointment to Determination: A New Path Forward

    11/12/2024 · BONUS

    From Disappointment to Determination: A New Path Forward

    Ep 62: From Disappointment to Determination: A New Path Forward with Brian Pughsley Summary of the episode This episode of noseyAF centers around disappointment and reflection following the 2024 election results, highlighting the importance of community, faith, and resilience. Host Stephanie Graham expresses her pride in the efforts made by individuals who supported Vice President Harris, emphasizing that their hard work should not feel wasted. Reverend Brian Pughsley joins the conversation, offering a powerful message about faith and perseverance during challenging times. He encourages listeners to strengthen their convictions and unite in their causes, reminding everyone that the fight for rights and justice continues. Together, they inspire a sense of hope and determination to push forward, regardless of the obstacles ahead. Takeaways: In times of disappointment, it is essential to reflect on the effort we put into the election process.Reverend Brian Pusley emphasizes the importance of strengthening faith and community in challenging times.The podcast highlights the necessity of activism and unity within the community for future rights.Brian encourages listeners to stay ready and equipped to fight for their rights and the rights of others.Stephanie expresses gratitude for the support and dedication of those who worked for change during the election.The message is one of hope and resilience, reminding us that God is still in control. About Rev Brian C. Pughsley: Rev. Brian C. Pughsley is a multifaceted preacher, actor, rapper, writer, and podcaster dedicated to connecting with people through faith and creativity. Baptized at an early age, he answered his call to ministry on July 4, 2001, and was licensed and ordained on November 21, 2004, at Living Water Missionary Baptist Church in Hammond, Indiana, under Rev. Dr. Homer Walker, Jr. Throughout his ministry, Rev. Brian has served in various pastoral roles, including Associate Pastor for Youth and Media Ministries at Living Water Missionary Baptist Church and Pioneer Missionary Baptist Church in South Holland, IL. His involvement has extended to youth leadership roles at Covenant United Church of Christ and New Faith Baptist Church International, where he supported ministries in prayer, media, and men’s fellowship. Currently, Rev. Brian serves as Associate Pastor at Trinity United Church of Christ-Gary, where he also contributes as a digital pastor. In early 2023, he joined Immanuel Church Unusual in Chicago as a Digital Pastor, assisting the church's digital outreach as they launched in the area. In 2018, Rev. Brian started a podcast, which evolved during the pandemic from entertainment-focused content to a ministry without walls, reaching people with messages of hope. A trained actor, violinist, rapper, and singer, he brings his diverse talents to each endeavor, blending artistry and ministry in meaningful ways. In his spare time, he enjoys writing, drawing, and inspiring others. Currently, he resides in the suburbs of Chicago, IL. Resources mentioned in this episode Check out Brian’s podcast, Safe Haven Organ music Terry Brandford Walk with Me performed by Gregg ”Happy Guitar” Hayes” check out the full performance here Worship Music: Peace - Deep Instrumental Worship full video here Connect with Brian Instagram: a href="https://www.instagram.com/revbrianpughsley/"...

    11 min
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About

Ever wonder what ignites the creative spark in inspiring artists, change-fighting activists, and even my neighbor who practices synchronized swimming in their inflatable pool every morning? That's me, Stephanie Graham, artist, and filmmaker, diving deep with these movers and shakers on the noseyAF Podcast. Every other week, we'll explore their journeys and the secrets to making a difference and uncover captivating narratives. Step into their creative worlds, ignite your curiosity and discover the inspiration that shapes landscapes and builds a better world. As an artist, I'm passionate about weaving these stories into my work. We'll explore the challenges and routines that fuel success, venture behind the scenes, and share updates on my artistic journey. Join the noseyAF community – every episode is an invitation to explore, learn, and grow together!

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