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Episode 09

Floral Fresh: Arranging Joy One Stem at a Time with John Caleb Pendleton | Part II
The conversation continues in this two-part series with artist and Planks & Pistils founder John Caleb Pendleton. John digs deeper into the philosophy behind his work, from the quiet strength of flowers to the discipline of design. He opens up about lessons from entrepreneurship, the challenges of visibility in creative industries, and the joy of building something lasting. With humor and honesty, John invites us into the ongoing journey of crafting beauty with intention.

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Episode 08

Floral Fresh: Arranging Joy One Stem at a Time with John Caleb Pendleton | Part I
In this two-part series, artist and Planks & Pistils founder John Caleb Pendleton shares how floral and wood design became his language for beauty, balance, and Black artistry. He reflects on Southern and Chicago roots, the symbolism in his materials, and why creativity, self-care, and growth are central to his work. John also speaks candidly about pushing back against industry bias—and the power of knowing your worth.

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Episode 07

She Got Game: Pressing Start with Ashlyn Sparrow
In this episode, we hit play with Ashlyn Sparrow—game designer, educator, and Assistant Director of the Weston Game Lab at the University of Chicago. We talk about what makes a game “good,” who the gaming industry is (and isn’t) built for, and why thoughtful design and pure fun don’t have to be at odds. Ashlyn takes us from alternate realities to real-world change—showing how play can be powerful, political, and personal.

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Episode 06

Comics, Collectors, & Connoisseurs: Terry Gant & the Medium of Graphic Narratives
In this episode, we head to Rogers Park to visit Third Coast Comics, a beloved Chicago storefront nestled on Loyola University’s Lakeshore Campus and a three-time nominee for the Will Eisner “Spirit of Comic Book Retailing” award. We browse the aisles with shop owner Terry Gant—collector, cultural commentator, and die-hard comics evangelist—for a lively exploration of the many facets of the industry.

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Episode 05

Juneteenth: A Reflection on Freedom Day
Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865—the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned they were free. In this episode, Beuloria and Juelle explore the history of Juneteenth, the legacy of slavery, Black liberation, rest as resistance, and their personal connections to the holiday.

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Episode 04

Roast, Grind, Repeat: Greg Stivers, the Life of a Chicago Coffee Alchemist
We’re sitting down with legendary Chicago coffee roaster Greg Stivers, owner of Stivers Coffee. A beloved Chicago staple for over four decades, this roastery serves up rich, global flavors with every cup. Greg shares the story behind his life’s work—one steeped in community, craft, and the pursuit of the perfect brew.

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Episode 03

Threads, Tunes, & Tales: The Many Worlds of Bryant McLemore Smith
Step into a world of style, sound, and storytelling with Bryant Mclemore Smith—set wardrobe designer, singer, and author. From touring with Mary J. Blige to designing "Bronzeville: The Musical," and writing stories that stir the soul, Bryant brings magic to every medium he touches.

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Episode 02

Hops, Dreams, & Heritage: Brewing Magic at Moor’s Brewing Co.
Pull up a stool and grab a frosty glass—today we're stepping into the world of Moor's Brewing Co., where hops meet heart and tradition bubbles over with bold new flavor!

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Episode 01

Strings & Strokes: Where Music Meets the Muse
Look who we found! We’ve unearthed Shane-Jahi Jackson, a self-taught visual artist, painter, luthier and overall Renaissance man.

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