The Contrast Project Lounge: Randon. Relevant. Real.

Tracy Rigdon
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
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Welcome to The Contrast Project Lounge Podcast, hosted by Tracy Rigdon – North Florida's premier independent talk show where random paths cross, relevant conversations unfold, and real stories emerge. Join us for authentic discussions with community leaders, activists, artists, and innovators who are shaping our world. From advocacy to arts, from civic engagement to social justice, we deliver fresh perspectives and actionable insights. Our growing community values deep thinking and diverse voices. Random. Relevant. Real. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecontrastproject7242/

  1. Denise Elysa - Awakening Your Inner Healer, Coming Home to Ourselves - 2025

    JAN 26

    Denise Elysa - Awakening Your Inner Healer, Coming Home to Ourselves - 2025

    Embodiment, Trauma & Resilience - Denise Elysa’s Journey HomeIn this episode of The Contrast Project Lounge, Tracy Rigdon sits down with Denise Elysa, an energy healer, somatic inquiry practitioner, and host of Coming Home to Ourselves. Denise’s story is one of resilience forged in the shadows of chronic illness, medical dismissal, and the long, difficult process of rebuilding a life when the body collapses and the world refuses to listen.Denise opens up about her years navigating complex chronic conditions, including myalgic encephalomyelitis, mast cell activation syndrome, Lyme disease, and chronic pain, and the profound impact of being repeatedly told that her suffering was “in her head.” She shares how trauma, neurodivergence, and illness collided, reshaping her sense of self and forcing her to become her own advocate in a system that often overlooks women’s pain. If you’ve ever felt dismissed, misunderstood, or lost inside your own body, this episode offers a space of understanding, empowerment, and hope.Contact Denise:   / @deniseelysa  deniseelysa.com/link-treedeniseelysa.com/newsletterpodcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deniseelysadeniseelysa.com Don't Miss Out on Future Episodes! View the full video here: https://youtu.be/mhmf6IXwYNM?si=y1ifb0ng_TfYLMWc

    34 min
  2. Duval Destroyer - Artist - artistic identity, cultural transition - Oct 2025

    JAN 26

    Duval Destroyer - Artist - artistic identity, cultural transition - Oct 2025

    The conversation explores the challenges and experiences of an artist transitioning their identity and work from one cultural context to another, specifically focusing on the shift from the West coast to Duval. It highlights the artist's concerns about reception and validation within the new community, as well as the interactions that affirm their place in the new environment.Takeaways • The artist felt apprehensive about changing their identity. • Concerns about community reception can impact artistic expression. • Validation from peers is crucial in a new cultural setting. • The transition from Compton to Duval represents a significant shift. • Interactions with locals can provide reassurance to artists. • Artistic identity can evolve with geographical changes. • Community acceptance plays a role in an artist's confidence. • The artist's work is influenced by their surroundings. • Navigating cultural differences is part of the artistic journey. • Peer feedback can help artists gauge their acceptance. View the full video here: https://youtu.be/n21lEVDFKdA?si=azzNjNOaNYQ1GXuK

    30 min
  3. Designing Compassion: The Art and Intention of Jenica "Hen" Weyand - Oct - 2025

    JAN 26

    Designing Compassion: The Art and Intention of Jenica "Hen" Weyand - Oct - 2025

    "Designing Compassion: The Art and Intention of Jenica "Hen" Weyand"In this conversation, Tracy Rigdon and Charles Gaskins explore the themes of connection, kindness, and authenticity in a chaotic world. They are joined by Jenica “Hen” Weyand, founder of House of Hen Studios, who shares her insights on creating safe spaces, emotional spending, and the importance of leaving things better than you found them. The discussion also dives into the concept of "Angel Deliveries", the significance of community support for artists, and the impact of mental health on consumer behavior. Jenica emphasizes the need for authenticity in life and art, and the importance of crafting personalized experiences that resonate with people's emotions.House of Hen on the web: https://www.houseofhenstudios.com/“House of Hen Studios is a dynamic marketing art company dedicated to fostering a culture of global compassion through original art, design, and strategy. We specialize in crafting powerful narratives and immersive experiences that blend artistry with intention, supporting mission-driven businesses, creative professionals, and visionary brands.”Takeaways • The most powerful marketing is rooted in connection and trust. • Creating safe spaces is essential for effective marketing. • Emotional spending often drives consumer behavior. • The Noun Theory encourages leaving people and places better than found. • Acts of kindness can have a profound impact on individuals. • Authenticity is crucial in both life and art. • Building community support is vital for artists. • Mental health challenges are prevalent in today's society. • Personalized experiences can create lasting memories. • Finding joy in hard times is essential for well-being.

    39 min
  4. Brenda Kato on Art, Music and Emotional Wellness - Oct 2025

    JAN 26

    Brenda Kato on Art, Music and Emotional Wellness - Oct 2025

    Brenda Kato on Art, Music and Emotional WellnessIn this episode of the Contrast Project Lounge Podcast, Wednesday Nite Live Edition, hosts Tracy Rigdon and Jim Alabiso welcome artist Brenda Kato to discuss a variety of topics including Taylor Swift's new album, the evolution of Jacksonville's art scene, and the upcoming Jacksonville Mural Festival. They explore the intersection of art and AI, the importance of community in creative endeavors, and personal growth techniques like emotional freedom tapping. The conversation is filled with insights on creativity, marketing, and the power of art to connect people.Takeaways• Brenda Kato emphasizes the difficulty of writing hit songs, acknowledging Taylor Swift's talent.• The hosts discuss the impact of market saturation on artists' reception.• Brenda shares her excitement about participating in the Jacksonville Mural Festival.• The conversation highlights the growth of Jacksonville's art scene over the years.• Brenda reflects on the importance of community support among artists.• AI tools are changing the way artists create and market their work.• Emotional freedom tapping is introduced as a self-soothing technique.• The hosts express gratitude for their aging parents and their resilience.The idea of creating a 'Wednesday Night Therapy' podcast is proposed.• Brenda's upcoming monster-making workshop is highlighted as a fun community event. View the full video here: https://youtu.be/dpfOWB9ZtDU?si=bT4xGcAWq0ffd98f

    47 min
  5. Why Community Matters: Jorge Rivera’s Take on Culture and Connection

    JAN 26

    Why Community Matters: Jorge Rivera’s Take on Culture and Connection

    In this episode of Wednesday Nite Live, host Tracy Rigdon sits down with Jorge Rivera, creator and host of St. Augustine Tonight, to dive into the heartbeat of Florida’s oldest city. Rivera opens up about his journey in building a late-night style variety show rooted in community, storytelling, and cultural pride. From the rich history of St. Augustine to the evolution of podcasting and AI’s growing role in media, this conversation explores how local entertainment connects people across divides and why kindness and understanding remain essential in today’s fractured world.Rivera shares personal anecdotes, the challenges and joys of producing a community-driven show, and his vision for the future of cultural engagement. Together, they highlight the importance of art, heritage, and human connection in shaping a more compassionate, globally connected society.  / staugustinetonight     / @staugustinetonightshow9422      / @floridafirstcoast  Takeaways • St. Augustine is rich in history and culture. • Jorge Rivera produces a variety show similar to late-night formats. • Community engagement is vital for local entertainment. • AI is rapidly evolving and impacting many industries. • The importance of personal connections in building community. • Cultural events in St. Augustine attract diverse audiences. • Podcasting allows for creative expression and connection. • AI can be a powerful tool when used effectively. • The future of entertainment will involve more global connections. • Kindness and understanding are essential in today's society. View the full video here: https://youtu.be/Cy_ySzNNbVo?si=Azk12yR6cgKZ2na3

    33 min
  6. Erasing the Rainbow - Art, Power and Public space with Danielle Cleary - WNL -2025

    JAN 26

    Erasing the Rainbow - Art, Power and Public space with Danielle Cleary - WNL -2025

    In this episode of the Contrast Project Lounge Podcast, hosts Tracy Rigdon and Charles Gaskins engage with artist Danielle Cleary to discuss the significance of public art, particularly in the context of recent controversies surrounding the removal of colorful crosswalks in Jacksonville. The conversation explores the impact of art on community identity, the challenges faced by artists in the face of censorship, and the importance of creativity in social movements. Danielle shares insights about her organization, HeartSpace Art, and their mission to promote unity and pride through public art initiatives. The episode concludes with a call to action for community engagement and support for local artists and businesses.Heartspace Art: "A full-service art company bringing public spaces and brands to life through murals, accent walls, and live art experiences."https://www.heartspaceart.com/Takeaways • Public art plays a crucial role in community identity. • Censorship of art can have a negative impact on creativity. • Community engagement is essential for the success of public art projects. • Art can serve as a form of resistance against political agendas. • HeartSpace Art aims to promote unity and pride through creativity. • Colorful public spaces can enhance safety and community well-being. • The removal of art can be seen as an attack on marginalized communities. • Support for local artists is vital for cultural expression. • Art has the power to bring people together across divides. • Community initiatives can foster resilience in the face of adversity.

    42 min
  7. Stephen Ezell on Coffee Truths, Defects, and Doing It Right - WNL - Sept - 2025

    JAN 26

    Stephen Ezell on Coffee Truths, Defects, and Doing It Right - WNL - Sept - 2025

    Stephen Ezell, roaster, educator, and Yemen project consultant, joins Wednesday Nite Live with Tracy Rigdon, Jim Alabiso, and Charles Gaskins to strip coffee down to truth and technique. We map his path from Boot Coffee and mentorship to teaching hundreds of roasters, unpack the Yemeni Coffee Project’s real logistics and risks, and show how to spot meaningful defects (and ignore the internet noise). We track where money leaks out of the chain, and how cafés and consumers can push more value back to origin, then close on Stephen’s punk-rock, DIY teaching ethos and what he’s building next.We pair that with a ground-level look at Solune Coffee as a living community hub, part roastery, part creative venue. The conversation hits how roast decisions shape sweetness and clarity, why black coffee reveals the work, and how local events, music, and maker energy keep a shop vibrant. Bottom line: sourcing and paying for quality matters, varietals carry place in the cup, and local support is the difference between a real scene and corporate beige.Takeaways:• Boot Coffee origins & the “confident curiosity” classroom• Yemeni Coffee Project: risks, choke points, and who captures value• Defects you can taste (and the ones you should ignore)• Practical brew fixes at home (grind, water, storage)• Why varietal + origin matter, and how Solune builds culture around the cup• Actionable ways to support farmers and your local shopHosted by Tracy Rigdon with cohosts Jim Alabiso and Charles Gaskins. Drop your origin/brew questions in the comments and tell us your go-to local café. View the full video here: https://youtu.be/28g5-RuDxsc?si=4612Hq20Rsi0pX4Z

    41 min
  8. Michelle Calloway discusses her journey in filmmaking - WNL Aug 2025

    JAN 26

    Michelle Calloway discusses her journey in filmmaking - WNL Aug 2025

    In this conversation, Michelle Calloway shares her journey from photography to filmmaking, highlighting her latest project, Tallulah Park. She discusses the importance of community support, the role of music in film, and the therapeutic nature of writing. Michelle emphasizes vulnerability and authenticity in storytelling, reflecting on her personal growth through auditioning and filmmaking. As she looks to the future, she reveals her aspirations for feature-length films and the balance between art and business.Takeaways • Michelle Calloway discusses her journey in filmmaking. • Tallulah Park is her second short film, showcasing local talent. • Music plays a significant role in enhancing the film's narrative. • Community support is crucial in independent filmmaking. • Transitioning from photography to film has been a significant change for her. • Her films often explore personal experiences and healing. • Writing is a therapeutic process for her. • Vulnerability in storytelling resonates with audiences. • Auditioning experiences have contributed to her personal growth. • She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in her work.

    52 min
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Welcome to The Contrast Project Lounge Podcast, hosted by Tracy Rigdon – North Florida's premier independent talk show where random paths cross, relevant conversations unfold, and real stories emerge. Join us for authentic discussions with community leaders, activists, artists, and innovators who are shaping our world. From advocacy to arts, from civic engagement to social justice, we deliver fresh perspectives and actionable insights. Our growing community values deep thinking and diverse voices. Random. Relevant. Real. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecontrastproject7242/

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