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What happens when you do everything "right"—build a successful brand, hit your business milestones, and fulfill all your societal labels—but still wake up feeling like something essential is missing? In this episode of More Than Graphics, Danielle is flying solo (with a silent but present Priscilla backing her up in the tribe!) to dig deep with TedX speaker, strategic advisor, and host of the Get Out of the Damn Jar podcast, Sarah Khan. Sarah shares her powerful framework on friction—not as something to run away from, but as the exact heat, resistance, and support you need to ignite your true self. The duo breaks down how high-achieving women, particularly minority women in tech and creative industries, often mute their inner voices to fit corporate or cultural molds, and how to safely navigate the discomfort of choosing a strategic reset. From intentional business boundaries to the realization that "you are not what you do," this conversation is a blazing fire built to help you come home to yourself. Key Takeaways from This Episode: The Definition of Friction: Friction isn't just discomfort; it is the necessary surface tension that allows us to climb higher. The Traps of Conformity: Why we filter our authentic truths in pursuit of approval, safety, or control—and how true perfectionism is an illusion that sanitizes our spark. Separate Your Worth from Your Work: Breaking down why we respond to "Who are you?" with our roles (mother, CEO, teacher) rather than our intrinsic identities. Protecting Your Peace vs. Extinguishing Your Environment: Practical strategies for implementing business boundaries (like scheduling time delays on communications) to honor your personal life truths. The Evolution of Self: Giving yourself the ultimate freedom to change your mind, pivot your strategy, and evolve. 0:00 – Welcome to Season 8 of More Than Graphics! 0:18 – Show Intro: Danielle sets the stage for today's theme—Friction. 1:31 – Introducing Strategic Advisor & Flame Thrower Sarah Khan. 3:42 – Sarah's Climbing Wall Analogy: Redefining Friction as Support. 6:52 – How Filters and "Homogeneity" Nueter Our Personal Brands. 13:16 – Uncovering Your Reality: The Core Question Most Women Fail to Answer. 15:00 – The Exhaustion of Successful Women & Fitting into Corporate Boxes. 20:21 – Quick-Fire Guest Q&A: A 6-Week Renovation That Took 6 Months. 23:18 – Recharging the Creative Battery: Sarah's Secret Sauce (Coloring and Sticker Books!). 24:00 – Coming Home: What It Means to Be 16 Again, But Actually Love Yourself. FOLLOW SARAH KHAN: https://instagram.com/sarahkhanoutloudhttps://facebook.com/sarahkhanoutloudhttps://getouttathedamnjar.buzzsprout.com FOLLOW MTG & CO-HOSTS IG ⁠mtgthepodcast.com⁠ ⁠⁠https://instagram.com/mtgthepodcast ⁠⁠https://facebook.com/mtgthepodcast ⁠https://instagram.com/simplycicely⁠ ⁠https://instagram.com/themeetcuteco⁠ ⁠https://instagram.com/octanedesigns

In this episode of More Than Graphics, Danielle Meadows-Stinnett sits down with special guests from the Kentucky Creatives Collective—Kristen (a content creator and mom of two) and "Big Mama Red" (an entertainer, promoter, and mom of an adult child with disabilities).Together, they dismantle the myth of the "solo quest" in motherhood and business. From the "Nap Time Blueprint" (designing an 8-hour output in a 4-hour window) to the "Friction" of time management, this raw and honest roundtable explores how the constraints of motherhood actually lead to superior business architecture. Whether you're a "Mom-preneur" or simply a creative juggling the grit and grind, this episode offers a virtual safe space to level up, talk truth, and find your guild.Tribe, what’s one "shaky process" in your business that you’re currently upgrading from "survival build" to "high-level efficiency"? Let us know in the comments below![00:18] Introduction: Welcome to Season 8! Meet the "tribe" and the "retro pixel sorceress" herself, Danielle.[00:50] The "Guild" Concept: Why motherhood isn't a solo quest and how it acts as your business's architecture.[02:54] The Nap Time Blueprint: Kristen and Danielle discuss the 4-hour work window. How does "mom time" force a more superior, strategic design for your business?[05:41] Crisis Management: Managing domestic chaos (toddler meltdowns) vs. professional chaos (tech glitches). Why "mom grit" makes you more level-headed in a business crisis.[09:18] The Multi-Player Strategy: Why the solo quest fails. The importance of the "village" and how the Kentucky Creatives Collective fills the structural gaps for busy moms.[11:34] Legacy Specs vs. Quarterly Wins: Building with the next generation in mind. Kristen talks about modeling integrity and hard work for her kids.[15:35] "Sip or Skip" / Hot or Not Segment[20:20] The Perfect Aesthetic Grid: Why raw, unpolished "trench footage" of real life often performs better than a 3-hour polished reel.[22:25] Outsourcing the Domestic Load: Is hiring help a "must"? A candid look at knowing when you’re in a season to delegate.[25:21] Conclusion: A parting gift—Danielle shares a Wonder Woman quote and a final reminder: "You are more than your output." FOLLOW KRISTEN:instagram.com/kristen.ruhl FOLLOW BBMR:instagram.com/bodaciousbigmamaredFOLLOW MTG:⁠⁠mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠facebook.com/mtgthepodcasttwitter.com/mtgthepodcast1instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠

In this episode of the More Than Graphics podcast, hosts Danielle and Cicely celebrate Black History Month by exploring the theme of "Prism," symbolizing clarity and the spectrum of the future. Their guest, Saiya.Ran, is a gaming and tech content creator renowned for his insightful commentary that transcends typical hot takes. Saiya.Ran discusses the business, culture, and long-term impacts of the digital worlds we inhabit, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the gaming industry. Join us as we delve into meaningful conversations that highlight the importance of representation and innovation in tech and creative spaces. [00:02:20] Defining Prism in gaming. [00:05:08] Educating black creators in gaming. [00:07:23] Unapologetically Black and Educate. [00:10:06] Impact outside traditional spaces. [00:12:27] Simplifying complex information. [00:15:18] Character customization in gaming. [00:18:21] Black women in gaming. [00:22:32] Gaming culture and its evolution. [00:25:20] Critical thinking through gaming. [00:28:12] Black perspective in gaming. [00:30:21] Character creation and inclusivity. [00:33:30] Self-care routines for parents. [00:36:38] Community building through gaming. [00:40:04] Project that went hilariously wrong. [00:42:23] Creative content inspiration techniques. [00:47:16] Advice to younger self. [00:49:30] Unconventional places to create content. [00:51:46] Importance of checking emails. [00:54:03] More than your output. FOLLOW SAIYA.RAN https://x.com/saiya_ranhttps://www.instagram.com/saiya.ran/https://www.youtube.com/@SaiyaRanGaminghttps://www.tiktok.com/@saiya.ran FOLLOW MTG & CO-HOSTS IG mtgthepodcast.com https://instagram.com/simplycicely https://instagram.com/themeetcuteco https://instagram.com/octanedesigns

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

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

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/

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

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

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

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

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

In a recent podcast episode featuring Jennifer Henczel , the significance of uplifting others and fostering community emerges with the ladies of the More Than Graphics Podcast as a vital component for both personal and professional growth. Jennifer's journey serves as a compelling testament to how connection and support can empower individuals to overcome significant challenges and thrive in their endeavors. Tune in with Danielle, Cicely and Priscilla for an engaging and inspirational conversation. [00:01:05] Uplifting women's voices and stories. [00:06:04] Uplifting women in business. [00:08:00] Community building and support. [00:12:04] Courage over confidence. [00:15:54] The leap of faith. [00:18:54] Pursuing passion over profit. [00:22:59] Monetizing women's stories in podcasting. [00:25:28] Women in podcasting community. [00:30:39] Overcoming stumbling in podcasting. [00:34:12] Community in podcasting. [00:37:07] Community building challenges. [00:40:26] Building an email list. [00:45:37] Missed opportunities in life. [00:49:04] Neurographic drawing for inspiration. [00:52:12] Florida's calming effects. FOLLOW JENNIFER: Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.henczel/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/jennifer.henczel Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/womeninpodcasting Twitter: www.twitter.com/jhenczel Linkedin: ca.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhenczel Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@jenniferhenczel FOLLOW MTG: ⁠ mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠ CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠

In the realm of creativity, the bonds we forge with others can be as significant as the artistic expressions we create. The recent episode of the More Than Graphics podcast, hosted by Danielle, Priscilla, and their guest Francesca, delved into the theme of sisterhood—a topic that resonates deeply within the tech and creative industries, particularly for women and minorities. Through their discussion, it became evident that sisterhood not only fosters a sense of belonging but also serves as a catalyst for creativity and meaningful connections. Sisterhood, as articulated by the hosts, is more than just a supportive network; it is a powerful force that nurtures individual and collective creativity. The hosts shared their personal reflections on sisterhood, drawing inspiration from cultural references such as the "Yaya Sisterhood." This connection to shared experiences and cultural narratives underscores the importance of community in the creative process. When women come together, they create a safe space where ideas can flourish, and vulnerabilities can be shared without fear of judgment. This environment encourages experimentation and innovation, essential components of creativity. [00:01:03] Sisterhood in the Yaya Sisterhood. [00:07:21] Female support systems in life. [00:09:08] Healing relationships with women. [00:14:30] Dominican-American sisterhood and identity. [00:20:22] Female relationships and their challenges. [00:22:31] Exploring femininity and connection. [00:28:16] Sisterhood and female friendships. [00:31:14] Exploring non-binary identities. [00:39:04] Balance between home and work. [00:43:42] Healthy masculinity and femininity. [00:44:24] Healthy masculinity and femininity. [00:52:06] Creating beyond traditional boundaries. Follow Francesca: http://www.escoto.art http://www.instagram.com/escoto.art http://www.linkedin.com/in/francescaescoto FOLLOW MTG: ⁠⁠mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠ CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@themeetcuteco

Welcome to another enriching episode of the More Than Graphics podcast, a virtual safe space for women and minorities in the tech and creative industries. Today, we dive deep into the theme of "Alignment" with our special guest, Barney Abramson, a seasoned creative leader with over two decades of experience.Barney Abramson is a seasoned creative leader with over two decades of experience across gaming, entertainment, and energy. As the Creative Director at Southwest Gas Corporation, he leads the visual identity and creative strategy for an energy provider serving 2.5 million customers across California, Nevada, and Arizona.With a background in graphic design, branding, and marketing, Barney is passionate about storytelling that connects with people. He’s also a dedicated mentor on ADPList, helping the next generation of designers navigate their careers.Beyond the corporate world, Barney shares insights as an Afro-Latino creative in corporate America, using social media to spark conversations about design, leadership, and career growth. [00:01:24] Importance of alignment in creativity. [00:06:04] Mentorship and personal growth.[00:09:59] Alignment in creative leadership. [00:12:49] Authentic self in corporate America. [00:15:30] Authentic self in the workplace. [00:19:25] Balancing authenticity and professionalism. [00:22:55] Passion projects and team autonomy. [00:27:21] Career burnout and misalignment [00:31:48] Stress manifesting in physical form. [00:35:05] Immersing in the creative industry. [00:37:09] Mental health and creative alignment. [00:41:11] Importance of mental health. [00:44:10] Brand alignment and inclusivity. [00:49:10] Mentorship and professional growth. [00:51:16] Self-awareness and creativity. [00:55:12] Setting boundaries for wellness. [00:58:14] Mentoring through personal experience. [01:02:07] Small gestures for humanity. [01:08:35] Advice to younger self. [01:09:46] Muralist aspirations and joy. FOLLOW MTG: ⁠⁠mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast⁠ CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠

Welcome to the More Than Graphics podcast! We're thrilled to kick off the year with an amazing episode featuring a special guest who embodies our theme of "shine"—Kia Perry. Kia Perry is an AI Spatial Visionary & Cultural Innovator bringing wild ideas to life through AI-powered visionary design and immersive spatial experiences. After 10+ years of bringing brands to life, she found her sweet spot: transforming abstract concepts into breathtaking digital environments that challenge what's possible. Kia specializes in crafting AI-generated spaces that exist at the intersection of imagination and technology - whether that's conceptualizing spaces that tell your story in ways traditional design never could. She blends machine learning with human intuition to push the boundaries of spatial design. Taking those brilliant-but-fuzzy concepts floating around in your head and transforming them into striking visual experiences that leave people speechless excites her. Kia is a nerd for emerging AI design tools and techniques, but what truly drives her is her passion for empowering Black women entrepreneurs and creators to dream bigger and bolder. She uses her expertise in AI and spatial design to help transform her clients' visionary ideas into tangible, awe-inspiring realities. [00:03:44] Shiny and immersive design. [00:05:53] Visualizing physical business spaces. [00:09:30] Bridging creative vision and execution. [00:12:50] Conceptual visualization and inspiration. [00:16:59] Empowering Black women entrepreneurs. [00:18:40] AI training and responsibility. [00:23:32] Shiniest AI tools and techniques. [00:29:03] Collaboration and AI integration. [00:30:29] AI integration in everyday life. [00:34:34] Mom's assistant using ChatGPT. [00:38:25] Black women's sexual wellness clinic. [00:40:39] Journey from interior design to AI. [00:47:25] Be yourself in design. [00:49:11] Selling land on Mars. FOLLOW MTG: ⁠⁠mtgthepodcast.com⁠⁠ facebook.com/mtgthepodcast instagram.com/mtgthepodcast CO-HOSTS IG: ⁠⁠@octanedesigns⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@bougienursebabe⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠@getsillycreative⁠