In this episode, we talk with Davida Rogers about the raw, vivid power of personal expression through art. Known for her bold use of color and fearless themes that blend beauty with gore, Davida shares how her work has become a way to process big emotions — from grief to joy — and to make sense of what’s hard to put into words. We also dive into the complicated relationship many creatives have with the label “artist,” especially when faced with outside pressure to monetize what they make. Davida opens up about the role of community, the influence of her Sierra Leonean roots, and how making art became a lifeline. This episode is an invitation to start where you are, trust your voice, and redefine what it means to create on your own terms.

Follow Davida on Instagram @khanya_sviesa

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Mind of Magnus

Artist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

In this episode, we sit down with collage and mixed media artist Erica Bryant to explore the mysterious terrain of dreams and how they show up in our waking lives. Erica shares how her fascination with vivid dream imagery led her to start capturing not only her own dreams, but the dreamscapes of others — turning the ephemeral into tangible works of art. We talk about what it means to honor the unconscious, how dreams shape identity, and why they often leave us with more questions than answers. This conversation is a celebration of intuition, inner worlds, and the messy beauty of translating the surreal into something you can hold in your hands.

Erica's newest exhibition, Other People's Dreams, will be on display at RoCo Upstairs at the Rochester Contemporary Art Center from June 6 - 14, 2025.

Find more info at https://www.rochestercontemporary.org/exhibitions/other-peoples-dreams/

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Dialed In: A Coffee Podcast

Get Dialed In to the world of coffee with Aaron and Wade! Tastings, coffee news and opinion and more! https://dialedincoffee.captivate.fm

In this episode, we chat with Hana Acabado—a Filipino author, illustrator, packaging designer, and mom of two—about how she brings her whole self into her work. Hana is the founder of Filipinta Beauty, a playful, imaginative makeup brand that celebrates Filipino culture and serves as a creative playground for her ideas. She shares how her experience as an immigrant shapes both her art and entrepreneurship, and how she stays rooted in authenticity while navigating the beauty industry. We also talk about her children’s book My Mama is a Work of Art, which explores tattoos, kindness, and acceptance. Named one of the Top 25 Filipino Creatives of 2024, Hana opens up about storytelling, identity, and how honoring your culture through creativity can build powerful connections.

https://filipinta.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Punches & Popcorn

The masters of Couch Potato style Mike Huntone, Jason Bills, and Dr. Dominic D’Amore take a deep dive into the best and worst of martial arts films. https://punches-and-popcorn.captivate.fm/

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Carter and Justin Ducett, the duo behind Explore Rochester, to talk about how a simple hashtag turned into a decade-long love letter to the city. As Explore Rochester just celebrated its 10th anniversary with a powerful exhibition at Rochester Contemporary Arts Center—featuring the work of over 500 local contributors—we reflect on what it means to see a city through the eyes of its people.

We talk about community, connection, and the way social media can actually bring us closer to the places we live. From photos snapped on morning walks to deeply personal portraits, this conversation is a tribute to the everyday moments that make Rochester what it is.

Explorerochester.us

Rochestercontemporary.org

Mentioned in this episode:

Punches & Popcorn

The masters of Couch Potato style Mike Huntone, Jason Bills, and Dr. Dominic D’Amore take a deep dive into the best and worst of martial arts films. https://punches-and-popcorn.captivate.fm/

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

In this episode, we dive into the impact of Studio 678, an after-school program where middle school students explore analog photography and poetry. Our guests are Markus Essien, Photography Program Coordinator at Flower City Arts Center, and Emma Rathe, Manager of Programs and Exhibition Production at the George Eastman Museum. Together, they reflect on what it means to help young people find their voices through art. We talk about how Studio 678 builds confidence, connection, and creative skills—and how powerful it is for students to see their work displayed in a professional setting. This conversation also highlights the importance of mentorship, intentionality, and creating spaces where young artists feel seen and supported.

Links referenced in this episode:

• flowercityartscenter.org
• georgeeastmanmuseum.org
• studio678.org

Mentioned in this episode:

Behind the Glass

Podcast and gallery focusing on underrepresented artists utilize the space to amplify their work. Curated by @Richardbcolon @qua.jay. Check out the podcast or join them in person first Fridays at 240 E Main St, Rochester, NY! https://behind-the-glass-gallery.captivate.fm

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Creativity thrives in uncertainty, and for artist Magnus, that uncertainty is part of the magic. In this episode, we explore his journey as an artist, thinker, and wanderer—someone who has fully embraced the unpredictability of a creative life.

Magnus shares how his early experiences shaped his artistic sensibilities and why he chooses to live without a backup plan, fully committing to his craft. We discuss the challenges of navigating societal expectations, the psychological weight of being an artist, and the power of spontaneity in both life and art.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Magnus reflects on his travels to India, where encounters with local artists and vibrant cultures expanded his perspective on creativity and self-expression. His insights serve as both an invitation and a challenge—to step outside of comfort zones, embrace the unknown, and allow art to be a guiding force.

This episode is a deep dive into the beauty and chaos of a life dedicated to art, reminding us that true creative freedom comes from leaning into the journey, wherever it may lead.

Mentioned in this episode:

Behind the Glass

Behind the Glass, hosted by Richard B Colón and Quajay Donnell, is a monthly talk with the current month’s BTG Roster. Artists are interviewed about their submissions and we dive deep into their process, inspiration and thought process centralized around their artwork in the Behind the Glass Gallery located in the heart of Downtown Rochester NY. https://behind-the-glass-gallery.captivate.fm/

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Lunchador Podcast Network

Lunchador Podcast Network is a network of podcasts originating in Rochester, NY. Our goal is bringing creative people together to be a positive force in the arts community. The shows that make up Lunchador are owned by the creators and cover a wide range of topics and backgrounds. http://lunchador.org/

Masculinity is evolving, and so is the conversation around it. In this episode, we’re exploring Positive Masculinity with curators Abby Lupi and Derek Dirizio, who have been asking open questions about what masculinity can look like through their exhibition, Positive Masculinity at Muck Duck Studio.

Abby shares the inspiration behind the show, which challenges outdated narratives and highlights masculinity in all its complexity. We discuss the expectations placed on men, the tension between societal norms and personal identity, and how embracing vulnerability can redefine strength.

Derek brings insights from his experience leading men’s circles, emphasizing the importance of spaces where men can express themselves openly without fear of judgment. Through art and conversation, this episode explores how shifting perspectives on masculinity can create deeper connections and a more inclusive future.

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Lunchador Podcast Network

Lunchador Podcast Network is a network of podcasts originating in Rochester, NY. Our goal is bringing creative people together to be a positive force in the arts community. The shows that make up Lunchador are owned by the creators and cover a wide range of topics and backgrounds. http://lunchador.org/

Mind of Magnus

Artist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

In this episode, we chat with artists Nala Ward and Emily Collins about their collaborative exhibition, Conjunction. Their partnership started with a strong friendship and a shared respect for each other's work. We dive into the themes of growth, self-acceptance, and how poetry and collage come together in their creative process. Nala’s poetry and Emily’s visuals create a unique conversation between words and imagery. They also share what it was like to showcase their work in an unconventional space, the challenges they faced, and the sense of community that came out of it. Enjoy!

Follow Emily @energy.em and Nala @grungeleslieknope to see more of their work!

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Punches & Popcorn

The masters of Couch Potato style Mike Huntone, Jason Bills, and Dr. Dominic D’Amore take a deep dive into the best and worst of martial arts films. https://punches-and-popcorn.captivate.fm/

Lunchador Podcast Network

Lunchador Podcast Network is a network of podcasts originating in Rochester, NY. Our goal is bringing creative people together to be a positive force in the arts community. The shows that make up Lunchador are owned by the creators and cover a wide range of topics and backgrounds. http://lunchador.org/