Artist Unframed

Aaron Ross
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Design
  • Updated Biweekly

Artist Unframed is a podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of artistic life and personal mental health. Hosted by Aaron Ross, a professor and theologian at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA), and co-creator Bernice Miller, the show aims to change the conversation about the challenges and inner lives of artists. The podcast features in-depth interviews with a diverse range of creatives, including dancers, musicians, visual artists, and performers. Guests share personal stories about their creative processes, struggles with mental health, and the ways in which art serves as both a refuge and a form of self-expression. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. 09/06/2025

    Episode 007 with Clint Ross

    In this special episode of Artist Unframed, host Aaron Ross brings on his brother, Dr. Clint Ross, a behavioral health expert, to discuss the often-overlooked aspects of mental health in both the artistic community and society at large. This episode covers a broad range of topics including the challenges of discussing mental health, the stigma attached to mental illness, the impact of social media, and the importance of being proactive about mental health through self-education and therapy. Using their unique perspectives—Aaron’s artistic view and Clint’s clinical expertise—they aim to normalize conversations around mental health, highlight the importance of quality of life, and share valuable resources for those struggling with mental health issues. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:21 Meet Dr. Ross: Clinical and Artistic Insights 02:37 Challenges in Discussing Mental Health 06:35 The Importance of Language and Cultural Awareness 14:32 Therapy as Preventative Care 24:10 Navigating Social Media and Mental Health 37:21 The Artist's Struggle with Identity and Success 44:29 The Challenge of Personal Expression 45:48 The Journey of JPEG Mafia 47:05 Staying True to Your Vision 50:31 Balancing Art and Life 55:25 The Importance of Quality of Life 01:02:30 Navigating Grief and Mental Health 01:16:13 Resources and Final Thoughts This podcast produced Bernice Miller at Robinhood Studios in Winston Salem North Carolina and Colin J Harden with Hermit House Production, it is Executive Produced and hosted by Aaron Ross Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 21m

  2. 08/08/2025

    Episode 006 with Kiana Sosa

    From Classroom to Camera: Kiana's Journey in the Arts In this episode of Artists Unframed, we delve into the life and career of Kiana, an actress and educator. Kiana shares her unconventional path from performing on tabletops as a child to attending a performing arts school and later grappling with the decision between a career in acting or academia. Despite choosing the academic route initially and obtaining a minor in theater and a major in Africana studies, Kiana's passion for acting never waned. Her journey took her from teaching in Africa to an unexpected acting opportunity that reignited her dreams. Throughout the conversation, Kiana discusses the importance of representation, the challenges of navigating the film industry as a Latina, and the need for self-care as an actor. She also touches on the humanizing aspect of her roles and the significance of collaboration and empathy on set. Join us as Kiana reflects on her experiences, the impact of her education on her acting career, and her aspirations to break stereotypes in the industry. 00:00 Introduction to Artists Unframed 00:59 Kiana's Early Artistic Aspirations 01:37 High School and College Decisions 03:42 Balancing Academics and Art 07:12 The Bristol Fellowship Experience 09:07 Discovering Hip Hop Theater 26:42 Teaching and the Pandemic 28:30 First Major Acting Role 32:37 Representation and Career Choices 43:05 The Importance of Boundaries in Acting 44:38 Navigating Collaboration with Directors 47:08 Exploring Directing Aspirations 48:23 Representation and Breaking Stereotypes 57:17 Upcoming Roles and Projects 58:52 Emotional Impact of Acting 01:01:05 Maintaining Professionalism and Mental Health 01:07:44 Mentorship and Community in Acting 01:20:44 Final Thoughts on Empathy and Self-Care This podcast produced Bernice Miller at Robinhood Studios in Winston Salem North Carolina and Colin J Harden with Hermit House Production, it is Executive Produced and hosted by Aaron Ross Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 22m

  3. 07/18/2025

    Episode 005 with Jenny Phang

    This episode of 'Artists Unframed' features Jenny Phang, a producer primarily working in reality TV and docuseries. The conversation delves into her career journey, emphasizing her fascination with documentary production due to the in-depth research required. Pang discusses the challenges and unpredictability of reality TV, the technical and logistical aspects of producing, and the critical role of maintaining a human connection on set. She also shares personal anecdotes about growing up in a business-oriented family, her transition to Los Angeles, and her early struggles in the industry. The discussion highlights the importance of creating a supportive work environment, setting boundaries to prevent burnout, and the significance of collaboration and community in the film industry. This podcast produced Bernice Miller at Robinhood Studios in Winston Salem North Carolina and Colin J Harden with Hermit House Production, it is Executive Produced and hosted by Aaron Ross Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 8m

  4. 06/27/2025

    Episode 004 with Big Mooky

    Welcome to "Artist Unframed," where creativity meets candid conversation. Join host Aaron Ross, UNCSA professor and seasoned storyteller, as he delves into the unfiltered world of artistry. In this episode, Aaron sits down with the incomparable Big Mooky, exploring the intersections of art, culture, and personal expression. Get ready for a raw and insightful journey through the mind of a visionary. Tune in and uncover the stories behind the art, only on "Artist Unframed." This podcast produced Bernice Miller at Robinhood Studios in Winston Salem North Carolina and Colin J Harden with Hermit House Production, it is Executive Produced and hosted by Aaron Ross Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 21m

  5. 06/14/2025

    Episode 003 w/ David Speaks

    In Episode 003 of 'Artists Unframed,' host, Aaron Ross walks through the remarkable journey of David Williamson aka David Speaks, detailing his lifelong connection to art starting from third grade. David shares anecdotes of early recognition for his writing, his experiences growing up in Greensboro, his dedication and service in the Marine Corps, and the emotional challenges including bouts of homelessness and struggles with addiction. The discussion captures David's transition from dreams to serious artistic pursuits, highlighting the impact of mentors, the importance of community, and the integration of his life experiences into his writing. David emphasizes the importance of determination, self-belief, and building relationships for any developing artist. This podcast produced Bernice Miller at Robinhood Studios in Winston Salem North Carolina and Colin J Harden with Hermit House Production, it is Executive Produced and hosted by Aaron Ross Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 6m

  6. 05/23/2025

    Episode 002 with Aaron Ross

    In episode 002 of 'Artist Unframed,' host Aaron Ross steps into the interviewee's seat as Bernice leads a compelling discussion. Discover Aaron's journey and insights as the tables turn in this engaging episode. The conversation delves into Aaron's personal experiences with the intersection of the arts and mental health. Tune in for a revealing look at the challenges and triumphs that shape his work This podcast produced Bernice Miller at Robinhood Studios in Winston Salem North Carolina and Colin J Harden with Hermit House Production, it is Executive Produced and hosted by Aaron Ross Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 13m

  7. 05/02/2025

    Episode 001 with Bernice Miller

    In this interview with TV producer, screenwriter, and filmmaker, Bernice Miller opens up to Aaron Ross about adolescence, religion, and her film career. She shares her early journey and roots of creativity and how those formative years influenced her film career. This podcast produced Bernice Miller at Robinhood Studios in Winston Salem North Carolina and Colin J Harden with Hermit House Production, it is Executive Produced and hosted by Aaron Ross Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 13m
  • 7 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Artist Unframed is a podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of artistic life and personal mental health. Hosted by Aaron Ross, a professor and theologian at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA), and co-creator Bernice Miller, the show aims to change the conversation about the challenges and inner lives of artists. The podcast features in-depth interviews with a diverse range of creatives, including dancers, musicians, visual artists, and performers. Guests share personal stories about their creative processes, struggles with mental health, and the ways in which art serves as both a refuge and a form of self-expression. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Aaron Ross
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Aaron Ross
  • Show Website
    Artist Unframed