More Than Graphics Podcast

Octane Design Studios
  • 5.0 (12)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Looking for a tribe with a vibe? More Than Graphics podcast is a virtual safe space for minorities in the tech and creative industries. Tune in as three women of color Danielle x Cicely x Priscilla put it all on the table, sharing authentic life truths from an array of women (and men) in search of their tribe. Produced by Octane Design Studios. Become a Paid Subscriber today for more bonus content!

  1. FEB 1

    Threshold

    In this episode of the More Than Graphics podcast, hosts Danielle and Priscilla engage in a deep conversation with filmmaker Tyrone Russell about the concept of thresholds in personal and creative growth. They explore the importance of alignment in creative spaces, the challenges of identity shifts, and the significance of representation. Tyrone shares his journey from yoga instructor to filmmaker, emphasizing the need to own one's space and the value of self-care. The discussion also touches on the ethics of storytelling, the magic found in ordinary moments, and the importance of dreaming differently for the future. Tyrone Russell is a filmmaker and storyteller with a background in narrative and documentary work. He spent nearly a decade in New Zealand directing short films, shaping docs, and collaborating on projects that center overlooked communities and global perspectives. His work often explores themes of identity, belonging, and transformation with a bent toward joy and a touch of the absurd. Tyrone is drawn to stories that challenge expectations, not through politics, but through perspective: reframing the ordinary, spotlighting the unseen, and finding humor or humanity in unexpected places. Since returning to Columbus OH, he’s been focused on building collaborative, story-first projects that stretch format and play with tone. Whether it’s digital shorts, live storytelling, or community-rooted docs, Tyrone is most at home where cinematic craft meets curiosity. TAKEAWAYS Alignment is crucial for survival in creative industries.Thresholds represent moments of potential change in our lives.Emotional consistency is key to maintaining a brand voice.Owning your space is essential for representation.Self-care practices can enhance creativity and productivity.Finding magic in the ordinary can inspire creativity.The importance of community support in navigating challenges.Imposter syndrome is a common hurdle for creatives.Dreaming bigger is necessary for personal growth.Stories can empower others and create connections. TIMESTAMP 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Theme of Threshold 01:53 Understanding the Concept of Threshold 04:23 Tyrone Russell's Journey and Identity Shift 07:13 Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Growth 09:48 The Importance of Representation in Creative Spaces 12:34 Self-Care and Personal Growth 15:18 Creative Purgatory and Storytelling 18:15 The Ethics of Storytelling and Community Representation 28:03 Cultural Perspectives on Aging 30:49 Rediscovering Home and Ordinary Magic 33:25 Dreaming Differently: Life Transitions 36:16 Finding Joy in the Ordinary 37:41 Creative Shenanigans and Storytelling 41:07 Unexpected Inspirations and Advice FOLLOW TYRONE https://www.instagram.com/tyronewherever https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyrone-russell/ FOLLOW MTG & CO-HOSTS mtgthepodcast.com

    48 min

  2. SEASON 8, EPISODE 1 TRAILER

    MTG Season 8 Trailer

    In this episode of the More Than Graphics podcast, hosts Danielle, Cicely, and Priscilla introduce its EIGHTH season, focusing on personal growth, aspirations for 2026, and the importance of storytelling in the tech and creative industries. The co-hosts play an improvisational game of POPCORN reading using the themes of season 8 aligning dreams with reality, encouraging listeners to embrace their own narratives and experiences. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts 01:24 Personal Growth and Aspirations for 2026 02:44 The Architect of the Unseen: A New Season Begins 04:05 Curiosity and Opportunity in the Professional Journey 07:18 Aligning Dreams with Reality: The Power of Vision 08:38 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward to Season Eight FOLLOW MTG & CO-HOSTS: mtgthepodcast.com

    8 min

  3. 11/19/2025

    Defy

    Digital marketing expert Heidi Faber joined Danielle to discuss why being authentic, prioritizing representation, and listening to your sales team is the ultimate strategy for success. Heidi's expertise: 8+ years scaling B2B, B2C, and e-commerce revenue by 30-40% using data-driven Paid Ads, Email Marketing, and Social Media strategies across North America. [00:01:21] Defy gravity and empower women. [00:05:11] Defining "defy" in marketing. [00:10:16] Challenge the status quo. [00:12:21] Marketing across cultural boundaries. [00:15:35] Unique value proposition in marketing. [00:18:54] Connection through travel experiences. [00:25:00] Advertising nostalgia in marketing. [00:27:41] Desert island tools. [00:31:18] Celebrating wins and victories. FOLLOW HIEDI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-faerber/ https://pixelatlas.myportfolio.com/

    33 min

  4. 10/28/2025

    Guts

    This month, our theme is GUTS, and we're talking to the incredible Monèt Noelle Marshall! Monèt Noelle Marshall is a visionary artist, cultural strategist, and storyteller whose work spans theater, film, public art, and even meditation. Monèt is the Founding Artistic Director of MOJOAA Performing Arts Company, where she amplifies Black playwrights and creates immersive works that challenge us to think deeply about identity, race, and belonging. Her work has gained national attention, including a feature in Gucci’s Chime for Change zine in collaboration with the African American Policy Forum, where she used storytelling to elevate critical social justice issues. She’s also the writer behind a deeply resonant meditation for Black women that has garnered over 100,000 views on YouTube, creating a healing space for listeners to reconnect with themselves and their power. Whether through directing award-winning projects like Escape to Freedom or co-founding initiatives like Grounded Possibilities, Monèt’s work is a masterclass in using art to inspire change. She’s here to share her insights, her journey, and how she’s shaping a world where art and justice go hand in hand. 00:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome00:00:19 - Hosts Introduction00:00:30 - MTG Podcast Overview00:00:41 - Today's Topic: Guts00:00:59 - Priscilla's New Collaboration00:01:29 - Defining Guts00:02:20 - Guest Introduction: Monáe Noel Marshall00:03:47 - Monáe's Artistic Journey00:04:27 - Art as a Tool for Social Change00:05:41 - Balancing Beauty and Impact in Art00:06:13 - Monáe's Personal Truths and Storytelling00:08:07 - Creating Art for Community00:09:42 - Founding M-O-J-O-A-A Performing Arts Company00:11:22 - Living and Creating Art in the South00:12:40 - Meditation for Black Women00:15:04 - Impact of Monáe's Meditation00:18:06 - Desired Impact of Art00:21:04 - Art as Matchmaking and Connection00:22:07 - Art as Evidence of Culture00:24:10 - Immersive Art Experiences00:28:41 - Audience Impact Stories00:30:31 - Capitalism and Art00:31:01 - Intergenerational Conversations00:33:18 - Influence on Younger Generations00:36:04 - Middle School Challenges00:37:03 - Challenging and Pushing Boundaries00:37:45 - Seasonal Nature of Courage00:38:55 - Optimism for the Future00:40:25 - Where to Find Monáe Noel Marshall00:41:23 - Closing Remarks and Call to Action FOLLOW MONET: www.monetisart.com IG & Threads: @monetisart Linkedin: Monet Noelle Marshall FOLLOW MTG:⁠⁠ www.mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠ CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠

    42 min

  5. 09/24/2025

    Tarnish

    In this episode of the More Than Graphics podcast, hosts Danielle, Cicely, and Priscilla dive into the thought-provoking topic of "tarnish." They explore the dual meaning of tarnish as both something aged and worn, and the process of refining and polishing to reveal its true shine. The conversation touches on sensitive and raw experiences, emphasizing the importance of discussing these issues within the tech and creative industries, particularly for women and minorities. Join the hosts as they invite a special guest to share insights and personal stories, fostering an open dialogue about the challenges and triumphs in their journeys. Tune in for an enlightening and transparent discussion that encourages growth and resilience. Didi Hairston, the creator of the DWD experience, is a talented writer, public speaker, podcaster, and devoted mother. She also serves as the host of The Breaking the Mask Podcast. [00:01:02] The concept of tarnish. [00:04:05] The value of resilience. [00:11:10] Death to the superwoman. [00:12:55] Healthcare disparities in maternal care. [00:17:57] Cultural nuances in therapy. [00:20:11] Parental issues and mental health. [00:27:44] Mental illness and personal image. [00:30:00] Trauma and memory triggers. [00:36:19] The dangers of masking. [00:41:23] No winning in wearing a mask. [00:43:11] Hard conversations in parenting. [00:50:17] Change the language around mental health. [00:51:50] Setting boundaries in parenting. [00:56:35] Autonomy in parenting. [00:58:24] Polishing self-confidence through style. [01:03:14] Journey toward healing and support. [01:06:46] It wasn't your fault. FOLLOW MTG:⁠⁠ www.mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠ CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠

    1h 6m

  6. 08/19/2025

    Ground

    Join podcast sisters Cicely and Danielle as they uncover in true fashion intriguing conversations that unite the tribe. Today's themed conversation is truly grounding! Meet Kwame Terra, the Founder and CEO of bEHR Health Systems, Inc., a health tech company working to close the life expectancy gap in Black communities. In 2025, he made headlines by walking over 2 million steps in 30 days to highlight the launch of the bEHR Health app. Through his work, Kwame is on a mission to recapture the 268 million years of life lost in the Black community and make health as celebrated and accessible as culture itself. [00:02:24] Health tech in Black communities. [00:04:01] Name change for self-identity. [00:08:49] Barriers to healthcare access. [00:12:44] Healthy eating initiative during COVID. [00:16:30] Health as part of culture. [00:19:43] Community-driven health integration. [00:22:44] Building health-promoting communities. [00:25:05] Community and fitness connections. [00:28:08] Strategic planning for ambitious missions. [00:34:00] Life expectancy disparities in communities. [00:36:57] Tracking community health trends. [00:39:15] Community-based participatory research. [00:42:23] Community health needs assessment. [00:46:36] Membership-based health community experience. [00:52:34] Keep trying harder advice. [00:54:33] Creating work in space. FOLLOW KWAME: @kwameterra @behrhealth FOLLOW MTG: ⁠⁠mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠ CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠

    56 min

  7. 06/15/2025

    Bridges Bonus

    Are you an overworked #business owner drowning in tech, constantly buying new software without seeing a true return on your #investment? Then this #podcast episode of the More Than Graphics podcast is for you! Join us as we sit down with the incredible Kronda Adair, a Black lesbian dog mom who is on a mission to empower more Black women (and all business owners!) to rest and let the robots handle the repetitive tasks.In this insightful conversation, Kronda shares her journey from web developer to tech strategist, explaining how she helps businesses "stop buying technology and start hiring technology." Discover how her Million Dollar Systems retainer and Automation Club Membership empower business owners to build a "software team" that truly supports their growth. We'll explore the power of strategic automation, streamlining your operations, and making technology work for you, not against you. Get ready to learn actionable strategies to reclaim your time, reduce overwhelm, and create systems that drive real impact. Kronda Adair is a Black lesbian dog mom who wants more Black women to rest and let the robots handle their repetitive tasks. Through her Million Dollar Systems retainer and her Automation Club Membership, she uses her knowledge and skills gained as a web developer, content marketing coach, automation service provider, and tech strategist to help overworked business owners stop buying technology and start hiring technology to build a software team that supports their business. When she’s not working, she can be found enjoying time at home with her wife, and cat, hiking or doing dog sports with her two Vizsla's, reading, cooking delicious food, or enjoying the postcard vistas of the state of Oregon. FOLLOW KRONDA: Website: https://karveldigital.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krondaadair Instagram: https://instagram.com/karveldigital Threads: https://www.threads.net/karveldigital TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@krondakarvel FOLLOW MTG: ⁠⁠mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠ CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠

    56 min

  8. 05/28/2025

    Bridge

    For AAPI month, the More Than Graphics Podcast recently interviewed a close friend of our own podcast team and this sister convo gets ALL the way real sharing Asian American thoughts and experiences 🔥🔥🔥.    Tanya is a healthcare management consultant with ProspHire LLC, based in Pittsburgh, PA. With 25 years in the Healthcare industry, she has carved a niche for herself in data analytics and strategic planning. When asked what she does for a living, she says, "basically, people give me their data and I tell them what it means". When she's not in a data mine, she enjoys crafty pursuits like crochet, embroidery and origami. She's also a firearms enthusiast, and would spend more time on a gun range if she had it. She's the proud mother of 3 beautiful children, and the "chosen" sister of our very own Priscilla Aguila.  [00:03:05] Bridging culture, identity, experience. [00:05:28] Bridges as connection and threshold. [00:09:23] Healthcare disparities in AAPI communities. [00:12:34] Empathy in communication challenges. [00:18:43] Childhood cultural experiences. [00:21:20] Racial identity and perception. [00:27:12] Active listening and cultural exposure. [00:32:31] Empathy in understanding identities. [00:36:25] Cultural assimilation experiences. [00:39:06] Sisterhood as a support bridge. [00:44:32] Critical friendships and cultural bridges. [00:49:46] Bridging women's health disparities. [00:52:12] AI's impact on communication skills. [00:56:27] Performance expectations in leadership. [01:01:37] Creative pursuits as self-care. [01:06:02] Building bridges in corporate spaces. [01:09:11] Imposter syndrome among women. [01:14:39] Building bridges between cultures. [01:18:03] Importance of corporate culture. [01:22:42] Desert island survival tools. FOLLOW TANYA: www.prosphire.com  FOLLOW MTG: ⁠ mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠ CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠

    1h 26m
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About

Looking for a tribe with a vibe? More Than Graphics podcast is a virtual safe space for minorities in the tech and creative industries. Tune in as three women of color Danielle x Cicely x Priscilla put it all on the table, sharing authentic life truths from an array of women (and men) in search of their tribe. Produced by Octane Design Studios. Become a Paid Subscriber today for more bonus content!

Information

  • Creator
    Octane Design Studios
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Octane Design Studios
  • Show Website
    More Than Graphics Podcast