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In this special two part RIANOUTLOUD! conversation, host Rian-Louis sits down with Shamar Amir, writer and star of the short film Sea Me, and his co star Bryson Jacobi Kai for an intimate conversation about Black queer love, tenderness, vulnerability, representation, and the importance of creating the stories we deserve to see. Shamar and Bryson unpack the inspiration behind Sea Me and the intentional decision to center two Black queer men simply connecting on a date without making trauma the driving force of their story. They discuss bringing that vision to life on screen, building authentic chemistry, filming moments of vulnerability, protecting softness as Black men, and navigating the challenges and freedom of independent filmmaking. The conversation also explores what representation can mean beyond visibility. Sea Me creates space for Black queer audiences to see love, intimacy, safety, joy, and emotional honesty reflected back at them and to imagine those possibilities within their own lives. Ultimately, Sea Me is more than a love story. It is a celebration of Black queer tenderness, artistic courage, and self reclamation. Through their work, Shamar and Bryson remind us that Black queer love is normal, beautiful, and worthy of being centered, and sometimes creating your own spotlight is how you make sure your stories are finally seen.

In Part 1 of this heartfelt conversation, Rian-Louis sits down with filmmaker and storyteller Shamar Amir and Actor,Singer and Broadway Performer , Bryson Jacobi Kai to discuss the creation of Sea Me, a tender short film written by Shamar that follows two Black queer men on an intimate first date. Shamar opens up about how Sea Me evolved from an idea into a deeply personal story shaped by identity, love, liberation, and the desire to intentionally center Black queer tenderness. Bryson reflects on stepping into a role that allowed him to explore vulnerability, trust, and emotional connection through his character. Together, they unpack the creative process behind building authentic chemistry on screen, creating emotional safety on set, and why genuine representation of Black queer love matters. The conversation also gets personal as they talk about dating as Black queer men today, from dating apps and modern romance to the lost art of courting and what it really means to make someone feel seen. Honest, funny, and vulnerable, Part 1 celebrates Black queer artistry, intentional storytelling, and the beauty of creating space for softness—in love and in life.

Three years later, JeRonelle is back on RIANOUTLOUD! — and a lot has changed. In this candid conversation, JeRonelle catches up with Rian-Louis about life, career growth, and the evolution of his artistry. He reflects on touring with Durand Bernarr, contributing to Drake’s For All the Dogs, and the experiences that have helped shape the artist and man he is today. JeRonelle also opens up about navigating grief and personal loss, learning to trust his instincts, and finding the confidence to take more creative risks. Now, he’s stepping boldly into his next chapter with his latest single, “BackRoom” featuring SevnDeep, sharing the story behind the record and what listeners can expect from this new era of music. From new music and upcoming visuals to personal growth and finding freedom in his artistry, this return to RIANOUTLOUD! is all about evolution, resilience, and becoming more of yourself.

What does it look like to completely reinvent yourself? In this episode of RIANOUTLOUD!, host Rian-Louis sits down with ROJO for an honest conversation about transformation, purpose, and the freedom that comes from choosing yourself. After building a successful career in television journalism, ROJO made the bold decision to step away from the anchor desk and fully embrace life as a creative. Together, they unpack the highs and challenges of that transition, the lessons learned from working in news, and how those experiences continue to shape the person he is today. The conversation also explores the inspiration behind TWIRLVILLE, ROJO's vibrant event series that celebrates joy, music, and community in Pittsburgh. From cultivating inclusive nightlife experiences to discussing identity, legacy, and the importance of taking up space unapologetically, this episode is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to redefine success on your own terms. Whether you're navigating a career pivot, searching for purpose, or simply looking for inspiration to live more authentically, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

What does it mean to stay true to yourself in an industry that constantly asks you to fit a mold? This week on RIANOUTLOUD!, independent artist Leo Canoza joins me to talk about creating music without limits. From growing up in Florida to finding his voice in Los Angeles, Leo shares how heartbreak, honesty, and fearless experimentation have shaped his genre-blending sound. We dive into the story behind his single "Walk on By," his biggest musical influences, the realities of being an independent artist, and why authenticity will always matter more than chasing trends. If you love honest conversations about creativity, vulnerability, and making art on your own terms, this episode is for you.

Roy Covington returns to RIANOUTLOUD! to discuss his debut EP, Limerence, and the deeply personal journey that inspired it. From heartbreak and emotional obsession to therapy, healing, and self-love, Roy opens up about the difference between love and limerence, the creative process behind the project, and why vulnerability has become his greatest strength. It's an honest conversation about growth, music, and learning to choose yourself.

On this episode of RIANOUTLOUD! R&B singer/songwriter Lia shares her journey from a D.C. to Pittsburgh and her upbringing to becoming an R&B sensation. Discover how her latest project, Lover Girl Season, reflects her growth and authenticity. Lia opens up about her creative process, the challenges of staying true to her voice, and her plans to reshape her legacy in the music industry. Perfect for fans of genuine storytelling and soulful R&B.

Most artists struggle to step into their true voice — but not Fonz. In this raw conversation, he opens up about how vulnerability, community, and self-discovery shaped his journey and unlocked his artistry. From his Brooklyn roots to his Trinidadian upbringing, Fonz shares how affirmation and storytelling helped him find his sound and confidence. His debut project, I Like the Way This Feels, isn’t just music — it’s a bold declaration of self-love and unapologetic queerness. He breaks down key tracks like “Rent Due,” “Mark My Words,” and “Angel,” while reflecting on his genre-blending style rooted in hip hop, R&B, and spoken word. This episode is a reminder: vulnerability is power, and authenticity is the key to connection.

After a few months away, Rian-Louis is back with a very brief but honest episode of RIANOUTLOUD! catching listeners up on where he’s been and what life has looked like beyond the mic. In this quick check-in, Rian-Louis opens up about navigating burnout, personal loss, family transitions, and the emotional weight of being a Black queer creative in Pittsburgh. He reflects on the importance of stepping back, prioritizing mental health, and realizing that real growth sometimes happens during the pause. Rian also shares gratitude for his recent Pittsburgh 40 Under 40 nomination, while reminding listeners that success means nothing if you’re not taking care of yourself. This episode is a simple but powerful reminder that slowing down, setting boundaries, and reflecting can help you move forward with even more purpose. A short episode. An honest moment. And the beginning of Rian getting back to the mic. 🎙️

This week on RIANOUTLOUD! we sit down with Kemmii, the Butch Queen From Brooklyn whose Caribbean roots, church beginnings, and bold storytelling shape a sound all their own. We talk creativity, growth, and the making of “BQFRMBK” — a visual EP that celebrates Black queer life and authenticity. A powerful, inspiring conversation you don’t want to miss. 🎶✨

From Chicago’s South Side to your playlists — @itsdaveyon is stepping into the LOUD room on a brand-new episode of RIANOUTLOUD! Rapper. Producer. Songwriter. Designer. Visionary.ItsDaveyon is the kind of artist who builds worlds — gritty, honest, and full of texture — and tomorrow, we’re tapping ALL the way into it. We talk artistry, roots, growth, creative freedom, and the stories that shaped VOL 1 & the Complete Edition.If you love Black queer creativity, raw talent, and good vibes? This one is FOR YOU.

🎙️ OUTLOUDERS, the first new episode of RIANOUTLOUD! is here — featuring the vocal architect himself, Chris French! 🎶 Straight out of Dallas, TX, Chris is an R&B artist whose gifts run deep. A child of a musician, he inherited music in his blood — now he’s serving vocals, pen, and production with a touch that hits the soul just right. ✨ Master of vocal arranging, songwriting, and production, Chris pulls from legends — Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, D’Angelo, The Clark Sisters, Kim Burrell — and from his saxophonist father, who set the tone for his journey. And his mission?“I just want people to feel at ease when they’re under the sound of my voice.” 😌🔥 We’re diving into his debut single — “Out of My Mind” — the making, the VOCALS, the visuals, and the Black queer narrative he’s proudly adding to R&B. 🖤🏳️‍🌈 Tap in, turn it UP, and kick off this new chapter with us!

Couldn’t make it to the show? No worries — now you can hear the magic for yourself. Recorded live at TLC Libations in Pittsburgh, RIANOUTLOUD!: The Live Experience captures the heart, joy, and unapologetic brilliance of Black LGBTQ+ creativity, community, and storytelling — all in one unforgettable night. Hosted by Rian-Louis McNeil, this special episode brings the audience into the room with powerful conversations, laughter, vulnerability, and celebration featuring three phenomenal guests: ✨ CC Calhoun – Educator, creative, and community shifter✨ Miracle Jones – Advocate, organizer, and cultural truth-teller✨ Manny Dibiachi – Rapper, curator, and sonic visionary This live experience marks a milestone moment — 5 years of amplifying Black LGBTQ+ voices and stories. Whether you’re a longtime OUTLOUDER or stepping into this space for the first time, this episode is an invitation to feel seen, held, and inspired. Press play and relive the energy, the gems, and the legacy in motion.Season — a new era of RIANOUTLOUD! — begins November 4th, but until then, enjoy this bonus episode and witness history being made.

In this powerful and inspiring episode of RIANOUTLOUD!, Rian-Louis sits down with Derek Ford Jr., the visionary founder and CEO of Carter Wear—a multinational apparel brand revolutionizing undergarments for men and women with bold, body-positive designs. With customers in over 120 countries, features in Men’s Health, product placement in Nordstrom, and growing retail presence across the Northeast, Carter Wear is more than fashion—it’s a movement. Before building this globally recognized brand, Derek held leadership roles in project, financial, and operations management at institutions like JP Morgan Chase, the Department of Defense, and Accenture. He holds degrees in Financial Management, Economics, and Marketing, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Supply Chain Management & Logistics, with plans to expand into Real Estate Development. But beyond the resume is a heart for purpose: Derek is a classically trained musician, a devoted community advocate, and a passionate volunteer for LGBTQ+ causes and youth financial literacy.

In this bonus episode of RIANOUTLOUD!, I’m giving you an exclusive first listen to the story that’s been six years in the making—my debut novel, Flawsome. I’m reading the first two chapters of this deeply personal and powerful journey following Carter Johnson, a DJ navigating grief, love, and purpose back in his hometown of Pittsburgh. Whether you’ve followed my creative journey from the jump or you're just tuning in, this moment is for all the dreamers, the overthinkers, the heart-healers—and those finding the courage to be flawsome in a world that expects perfection. So get cozy, press play, and welcome to Flawsome.