Side by Side: Recent Episodes
Robert Kuang
Conversations with artists, creatives, healers, and warriors taking the charge on their transformational story.
Today’s guest is documentary filmmaker and founder of Cloudstreet Media, Rheanna Toy. She has worked as a producer, director, and editor on films that have screened at festivals across North America, with her debut short “Serisa 26” winning the Audience Choice Award at Cinema Spectacular. In 2025, Rheanna was chosen for Story Money Impact's pod program where she received mentorship and training on running impact campaigns for film. Her first feature, “A Place Where I Belong”, which follows six 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals with intellectual disabilities fighting for rights, visibility, and inclusion, was the first Canadian feature to win the Narrative Change Award at the Vancouver Queer Film Festival.
In this conversation, we dive inside Rheanna’s early experiences that eventually led to her path as a documentary filmmaker, juggling business with creative pursuits, and why it’s important to stay with the unknown in collaborative projects.
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In this final episode of 2025, we are discussing the Canadian hockey romance TV series Heated Rivalry, with returning guests Tara Edwards, Erika Smith, and Eri Zhang. Leading up to the season one finale, we deep dive inside the TV adaptation and book series, and explore the potential impact of their success for queer stories, and the film and TV media landscape.
Spoiler warning: Most of us have read the books and do make general comments and impressions about the series. Please keep that in mind if you plan to read the books and want to avoid spoilers.
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Today’s guest is kids’ TV writer and creator, Margaret Hoffman.
She has written for Sesame Workshop (Esme and Roy, Sesame Street Digital), Netflix (The Cuphead Show!), Sid & Marty Krofft (Mutt & Stuff), Lilypad Library, and Hellosaurus. She's also developed new shows with 9 Story Media, Sesame Workshop, and Sutoscience. When not writing for TV, Margaret creates videos for her preschool YouTube channel, Giggle Time, or writes for the theater, where her plays have been performed at the Samuel French Off-Off Broadway Festival (New York, NY), Rita Goldberg Theater (New York, NY), and CultureDC’s Source Theater (Washington, D.C.).
In this episode, Margaret and I retrace her journey arriving in New York City to study writing, her foray into TV writing and puppetry work, and unpack insights and advice for writers and creatives navigating industry transitions and professional uncertainty.
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Today’s guest is Mordy Levine, the co-author of The Beginner’s Guide to Karma: How to Live with Less Negativity and More Peace alongside Lama Lhanang Rinpoche.
Lama Lhanang Rinpoche was born in the Amdo region of historic Tibet and received a traditional monastic education and later studied under several respected Tibetan lamas. Today, he teaches Vajrayana Buddhism at the Jigme Lingpa Center in San Diego, California. Mordy is an entrepreneur, meditation teacher, and the president of the Jigme Lingpa Center. He is the creator of the Meditation Pro Series, a meditation program designed to alleviate chronic health issues.
In this episode, we discuss how karma applies to our daily lives and current affairs, the daily practices that cultivate positive karma, and answer some burning questions about the nature of karma from a Buddhist perspective.
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Today’s guest is Léa Taranto, a disabled Chinese Jewish Canadian writer who lives with OCD and comorbid disorders, and the author of the debut YA novel A Drop in the Ocean.
In this episode, we explore how she transformed her early experiences and diaristic writing into autofiction, unpack harmful tropes about mental health and treatment, and get a glimpse into her upcoming projects.
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Today’s returning guest is pop culture commentator, Twitch streamer, and cybersecurity analyst Tara Edwards. In this episode, we discuss two films that have come out this year, both of which carry a culturally specific lens centered around demons, sinners, and music: “Sinners” and “K-Pop Demon Hunters.” We dive inside both films to compare and contrast their thematic elements, usage of music and spirituality, and their impact within their respective cultural spheres.
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Today’s returning guest is Paul Silva, aka the Creative Alchemist. He is a guide, coach, and collaborator that blends intuition, creativity, and spiritual insight to help multi-passionate entrepreneurs and creatives break through barriers and create meaningful lives and businesses. Through his work, he helps people clarify their ideas, navigate creative blocks, and move from stuck to in-motion with curiosity, discipline, and presence.
When he’s not coaching, Paul is exploring the world through photography, video, writing, and storytelling, bringing a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the messy, rewarding process of creating. In this conversation, we talk about embracing change and life chapters from a place of leadership, lessons from Paul’s sobriety, and the ever-evolving journey of a creative.
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Today’s guest is the incomparable multidisciplinary theatre-maker, musician, performer, and writer Diana Oh. They were known for combining experimental theatre, art installation and ritual to create deeply communal and transformative spaces, which include signature projects like “My Lingerie Play,” “The Infinite Love Party,” “My H8 Letter to the Gr8 American Theatre,” and “Art Chxrch.” They can be heard on the audio drama “Give Me Away,” which just premiered its third season.
Diana tragically passed away on June 17, 2025, and their loved ones, as well as the theatre community, are grieving this immeasurable loss while celebrating the joy Diana brought to our lives. The following conversation was recorded in May, 2016 at Playwrights Horizons in New York City. We talked about the highs and lows of being an artist, and different ways to sustain ourselves in a rapidly changing media landscape.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that you are not alone. In the U.S.and Canada, you can call or text '988' to connect with a trained crisis responder, 24/7, for free and confidential support with mental health, emotional distress, or suicidal thoughts. For listeners outside North America, please seek out local mental health resources or crisis lines in your area. Your life matters, and there are people ready to listen and support you.
Today’s returning guest is writer, editor, and my friend Tara Edwards. In this episode, we dive inside the hit television medical drama “The Pitt,” and analyze the storytelling elements that make the show one of the television breakout hits of 2025.
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Today’s guest is multi-disciplinary writer, producer and dramaturg Aisha Josiah, from London. She is an award-winning playwright and screenwriter who has also written for publications such as Media Diversified, The Upcoming, and Mouthlondon. She has served as the editor of the independent theatre blog Fringebiscuit since 2014.
In this conversation, we dive inside Aisha’s nomadic and multicultural upbringing, her passion for exploring postcolonial narratives, and the art of dramaturgy and criticism.
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Today’s returning guest is Sol Smith, the author of “The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery” and a certified autism specialist who is autistic, dyslexic, and living with ADHD. He spent more than two decades as a college professor before shifting his professional focus to coaching other autistic and ADHD people to gain autonomy in their lives. Sol’s speaking skills have earned him a following of hundreds of thousands on TikTok and led to educational seminars about neurodiversity with corporations around the world.
In this conversation, we dive inside the different paths for diagnosis, the scientific and social factors that impact allistic and autistic people, and different roadmaps towards self-acceptance, fulfillment, and community.
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Today’s “Side by Side” guest is Billy Wynne, the author of “The Empty Path: Finding Fulfillment through the Radical Art of Lessening.” As a student of Buddhism and mindfulness for 30 years, he received his meditation teaching certification under Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach, and his lay Zen Buddhist ordination from the Zen Center of Denver, where he teaches classes and serves on the board.
In this conversation, we unpack the practice of lessening in a world built on the pursuit of having more, and its connection to Buddhist concepts such as detachment, freedom, and suffering.
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Today’s guest is Elena Armijo, a Master Certified Coach and former professional opera singer who specializes in executive and leadership coaching for high-performing clients. She is the founder of the C-Suite Collective, an executive coaching agency offering in-depth, customized programs for high performers, and, she is the host of The Collective Corner, a podcast where badass, inspiring, and compassionate conversations get to flourish.
In this conversation, we discuss the most pressing issues with clients and business leaders in 2025, and the way communities move forward during moments of crisis and conflict.
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Today’s “Side by Side” guest is Phil Ginley, a filmmaker, programmer and writer based in Brooklyn, NY. Having produced several short films, Phil is currently a programmer at the microcinema Spectacle Theater, where they've moderated Q&A’s with filmmakers such as Dylan Mars Greenberg for her film SPIRIT RISER. They are currently promoting a posthumous retrospective for the films of experimental theater auteur Antero Alli.
In this conversation, we dive inside Phil’s formative experiences growing up around cinema and television, the value in supporting local and community-driven arts and culture projects, and the pros and cons of digital versus physical media.
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Today’s “Side by Side” guest is Kate Rose, the author of “Written in the Stars: The Astrology of Soulmate, Karmic, and Twin Flame Relationships.”
As a therapist, relationship expert, spiritual Intuitive and astrologer, Kate uses the stars to help her clients clarify their purpose and recognize the blocks that are keeping them from living the life they are destined to live.
In this conversation, we dive inside universal relationship dynamics within dating and relationships, the foundational elements of a person’s astrological chart, and ways we can develop our chart and honor our strengths.
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Today’s guest is Jane Shi, a poet, editor, and the author of her debut poetry collection echolalia echolalia. She is an alumnus of Tin House Summer Workshop, The Writer's Studio Online at Simon Fraser University, and StoryStudio Chicago. In this conversation, we explore Jane’s early connection to poetry and wordplay, the ethos behind her collection, and the illusory nature of writer’s block.
Living on the stolen and occupied lands of Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples, she wants to live in a world where love is not a limited resource, land is not mined, hearts are not filched, and bodies are not violated.
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Today’s guest is Happy Ali, the author of “The Intuition Bible: How and Why to Tap Into Your Inner Wisdom.” With a B.A.in psychology from UCLA, he is a prophetic dreamer, certified master NLP practitioner, certified master clinical hypnotherapist, and host of the “Happy Insights”podcast. Happy’s spiritual journey began in 1995 when he dedicated his life to the exploration of metaphysical disciplines after a near-death experience inspired a dramatic awakening.
In this conversation, we explore Happy’s early life growing up in a family of prophetic dreamers, the power of joy and fun in unleashing our intuition, and ways we can find our unique expression of intuition.
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Today’s guest is award-winning writer and editor Erika W. Smith, who has been working in the media industry for over a decade, covering the latest in sex and relationships, entertainment, travel, and astrology. She’d previously held staff positions at Cosmopolitan, Refinery29, BUST magazine, with additional writing published at VICE, Allure, and Vulture.
In this conversation, Erika shares some of her insights and experiences as a contemporary working writer, from pitching in the newsroom, to traditional publishing and ghostwriting.
Photo by Kim Hoyos
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Today’s guest is Wendy Baird, the owner and Creative Director of Insight180, a brand consulting and design firm for b2b businesses, non-profits, and those who “sell the invisible.” She has been advising companies on positioning strategy, name development, brand identity, design, differentiation, and strategies for growth for more than 25 years.
Wendy has written and spoken on topics such as social responsibility, authentic branding, fostering high-performance b2b culture, conscious business practices, finding your voice, Human Design in business, and more. She is a board member of Conscious Capitalism of Central Maryland. As a Reiki practitioner, singer and vocal coach in her spare time, she is known to break into song unexpectedly.
In this conversation, we explore Wendy’s musical upbringing, the art of branding and seeing people’s essence, and the delight of being a multi-passionate creative.
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Today’s guest is Becca Powers, the author of "A Return to Radiance" and "Harness Your Inner CEO." A Fortune 500 high-tech sales executive, keynote speaker, and CEO of Powers Peak Potential, she has worked with industry giants Cisco, Dell, Royal Caribbean International, and Office Depot. With an impressive record of leading large teams and hitting $500 million in annual revenue, Powers has earned the coveted President’s Club award seven times. She is also a certified Kundalini yoga teacher and Reiki master.
In this conversation, we dive inside Becca’s comeback journey after burnout, the connection between awareness and safety, and the power of recognizing and changing generational patterns.
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Today’s conversation was held as part of the multidisciplinary writing workshop led by me and former “Side by Side” guest, Ashley Griggs. We invited special guests into the space, where workshop participants got to ask questions about the industry and the craft of writing. Today’s conversation spotlights television writer Ashley Sims.
Born and raised in Marietta, Georgia. She received her Bachelors in Journalism from the University of Georgia before moving to New York and completing her MFA at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. She got her professional start working as a Staff Writer for the Peabody Award winning series "UnREAL." After "UnREAL," Ashley spent the next 3 years on the ABC drama "A Million Little Things" before landing at CW's "4400" as a producer.
In this conversation, Ashley shares her insights on claiming your voice and cultivating relationships within the industry, and the benefits of being an evolving artist.
The Fall session for "Embracing the Multidisiplinary Writer" will commence September 29. Click here to learn more.
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Today’s conversation was held as part of the multidisciplinary writing workshop led by me and former “Side by Side” guest, Ashley Griggs. We invited special guests into the space, where workshop participants got to ask questions about the industry and the craft of writing. Today’s conversation spotlights playwright, screenwriter, television writer, and actor Chloé Hung.
Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, Chloé has been called a “writer to watch” by The Globe and Mail. A graduate of NYU’s MFA dramatic writing program, her theater work has been seen on stages like the The Kennedy Center, the Banff Playwrights Centre, the Geffen Theatre, and the New Jersey Repertory Company. In the film and TV world, Chloé has written for “Queen Sugar” and “Cherish The Day” on OWN, and “The Watchful Eye” on Freeform. She is a Film Independent Screenwriters Lab fellow, and her screenplays have been shortlisted by the The Black List and the Fusion Film Festival.
In this conversation, Chloé shares some of her early memories that sparked her imagination, the journey of balancing personal with paid writing, and the skills that writers should cultivate in addition to writing itself.
The Fall session for "Embracing the Multidisiplinary Writer" will commence September 29. Click here to learn more.
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Today’s guest is Sam Bennett, the author of “Get It Done,” “Start Right Where You Are,” and most recently, “The 15-Minute Method: The Surprisingly Simple Art of Getting It Done.” A writer, speaker, actor, and creativity/productivity specialist, she is the founder of TheRealSamBennett.com, a company committed to helping overwhelmed creatives and frustrated overachievers get unstuck. Sam is also a popular course instructor on LinkedIn Learning with over a million class participants worldwide.
In this conversation, we talk about her journey of modeling the 15-minute method while completing the book, the way arts and humanities can disrupt disengagement in the workplace, and the myth of laziness and overwhelm.
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Today’s guests are Lauren Borden and Katherine Folk-Sullivan. By merging their expertise in coaching, leadership training, and intuitive energy work, they are the co-founders of Whole Human Coaching, an intuitive mashup of mentor-coaching, skills training, and mastermind groups.
In this conversation, we dive inside Lauren and Katherine’s experiences as coaches and facilitators, we look at some of the biggest challenges coaches face beyond being sufficiently trained, and we discuss ways we can embrace collective effort over rugged individualism.
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Today’s guest is Eve Crusto, a writer, director, and producer who is on a mission to bring her ancestral Louisiana Creole stories to life. Her upcoming short film “Blood and Milk” takes place a few years after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and examines the “legacy of isolation and confusion” after events like Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic.
In this conversation, we discuss Eve’s passion for the arts, humanities and her New Orleans roots, the lessons she learned in school and on the job in the writer’s room, and the balancing act of being a parent while modeling what it takes to cultivate passion and drive.
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Today’s guest is Vanessa Esparza, a leadership coach who's also a partner at Gladstone Place Partners, overseeing people and administration. In this conversation, we explore her roots as a first generation Mexican-American, her passion for service, and the importance of empathy and presence in collaboration and talent retention.
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Today’s returning guest is my friend Tara Edwards, a writer, editor, and Twitch streamer based in Ohio, known for her work in the digital media landscape. In this conversation, we’re deep-diving into our upcoming 10-week online writer’s workshop, called “Good Grief: A Writing Workshop on Trauma & Healing.”
Inspired by our training and experience in psychology, coaching, and writing, this queer, Asian, BIPOC-led workshop combines general teachings around grief, creative expression, and healing with writing practice and community support. It's a great space to cultivate transmuting grief outside of professional, romantic/familial, and competitive arenas.
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Today’s guest is Kim Chestney, the author of “The Illumination Code,” “Radical Intuition,” and “The Psychic Workshop.” As the founder of IntuitionLab and the CREATE! Festival, her work raises awareness about the importance of insight in the evolution of individual and world consciousness. Working for nearly twenty years in the tech sector, Chestney has led initiatives with some of the top thought leaders, technology companies, and universities around the world.
In this conversation, we look at the suppressed narratives and scientific theory around intuition, the mind bending implications of quantum mechanics, and some practical ways to engage with these concepts in everyday life.
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Today’s guest is Chloe Panta, the author of "Untapped Magic" and a highly sought-after mindset expert and transformational coach who helps people achieve their ultimate life goals. She uses an evidence-based, proven system with scientific data to support its effectiveness to help her clients overcome obstacles that are keeping them stuck in life.
In this conversation, we explore some of the magical components of her book, from personal experiences to exercises and tools to support readers’ manifestation journey. She lives in Seattle and you can find her online at https://chloepanta.co.
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Today’s guest is Effie Cao, a life coach, entrepreneur, and community leader who brings experience and soul to her work and her personal journey. You can find her writing as well as her own deepdive conversations with thought leaders such as Michael Singer through her online community spaces.
In this conversation, we discuss the purpose of “being healthy,” Effie’s journey from northern China to working and living as a digital nomad, and the nuances of communicating across multiple languages.
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Today's guest is Meredith Heller, author of "Writing by Heart," "Write a Poem, Save Your Life," and several poetry collections. A poet, singer-songwriter, avid nature lover, and educator with degrees in writing and education, she leads writing workshops online and in-person at schools, juvenile detention centers, women’s prisons, and wellness retreats.
In this conversation, we dive inside the origins and highlights of Meredith's latest release, “Writing By Heart,” and her lifelong journey with creativity and self-expression as a healing force in her life.
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Today’s guest is writer, performer, educational consultant Coda Wei (they/them), who is pursuing their Masters in Intercultural Communication Studies at the Shanghai Theatre Academy.
In this conversation, we explore Coda’s early life traveling and living between America and China, and how their experience of the world has influenced their perspective around queer identity, creative expression, and education.
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Today’s guest is coach and facilitator Austin Walker, who focuses on leadership and men’s personal development, inside and out. In addition to one-on-one partnerships, Austin leads several men’s groups, including the “Man Cave,” a space dedicated to BIPOC Men to connect and share their perspectives.
In this conversation, we explore Austin’s journey from boyhood to man, the connection between leadership and intimacy, and the essence of finding and doing meaningful work.
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In honor of Lunar New Year on February 10 this year, today's special guest paved the way for me, and my passion for language and communication: My mom, Gia Zhang.
Before immigrating to America, she was a language teacher and published author in China. She was around the age I am now when she made the decision to start a new life, learn a new language, and take a risk by doing something no one in our family had before.
In this conversation, we dive inside her early life growing up in China, the cultural differences and similarities between American and Chinese culture, and some tips and tricks for language learning at any age.
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Today’s guest is Wendy Xu, a bestselling illustrator, comics artist, designer, and writer based in Brooklyn, NY. She is the creator of graphic novels "Infinity Particle," "Tidesong," and co-creator of "Mooncakes."
In this conversation, Wendy shares the origins of her passion for artmaking and storytelling, her way of balancing commercial success and artistic freedom, and she shares some handy advice for those looking to explore the graphic novel medium.
Registration: Spring '24 Online Writer's Workshop
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Today’s guest is screenwriter and higher education professional Ashley Griggs. She earned her BA in Film Studies and French at the College of William & Mary, and later received her MFA in Dramatic Writing from the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University, where she was awarded a Future Screenwriters Fellowship. She has written for the narrative podcast "The Host," directed plays in New York City and Los Angeles, and is a mentor for the nonprofit WriteGirl LA.
In this conversation, we dive inside Ashley’s early influences as a cinephile and storyteller, the challenge of balancing personal fulfillment with professional output, and lastly, we talk about our upcoming online writer’s workshop, called “Embracing the Multidisciplinary Writer: Lessons Across Genre & Form.”
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Today’s guest is Varsha Mathur, J.D., PCC, a certified dating and relationship coach with over seven years of experience who guides clients worldwide to find and sustain lasting love with their ideal partners. A former practicing lawyer and mediator, Varsha draws on her personal journey, including divorce and remarriage, to help others make decisions untainted by negative influences, propelling them toward their dreams.
In this conversation, we dive inside her childhood influences in relationship matters, the evolution of dating culture since the pandemic, and what to look for when starting and ending a relationship.
Registration: Spring '24 Online Writer's Workshop
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Today’s guest is Hanna Thomas Uose, a writer, activist, and co-founder and Principal Consultant at Align, a consulting firm dedicated to supporting organizations in the progressive movement. Her debut novel, “Who Wants to Live Forever,” will be published in early 2025.
In this conversation, we dive inside Hanna’s somewhat unexpected turn as a speculative fiction writer, her interdisciplinary work with organizations, and the connection between time and worldbuilding in her vision for a better future for all.
Registration: Spring '24 Online Writer's Workshop
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Today’s guest is Scott Stabile, the author of “Enough as You Are” and “Big Love: The Power of Living with a Wide-Open Heart.” He is a passionate love advocate who believes there is no force more powerful than love to create real connection and healing in our world. Scott guides transformational breathwork journeys and leads personal empowerment workshops internationally. His inspirational posts have attracted a huge and devoted social media following, including more than 350,000 Facebook fans.
In this conversation, Scott and I explore his creative process for “Enough as You Are,” his journey and offerings around breathwork, and the importance of leaning into love and acceptance even during the darkest of times.
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Today’s guest is Anthime Miller, an internationally sought-after performer and composer who maintains a rigorous international creative presence. They began studying cello at the age of eight, and later focused on Early Music Performance, Musicology, as well as modern and Baroque cello at McGill University in Montreal.
In this conversation, we dive inside Anthime’s early discovery of classical music, their approach to composition and arrangement, and some of the harsh realities (and blessings) of pursuing a career in music.
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Today’s guest is Michelle Madrid, the author of “Let Us Be Greater: A Gentle, Guided Path to Healing for Adoptees” and host of the “Electricity of You” Podcast.
Michelle is an international adoptee, former foster child in the U.K., and an adoptee empowerment life coach who has been recognized as an Angels in Adoption® Honoree by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) and inducted into the New Mexico Women’s Hall of Fame for her work in adoption.
In honor of Adoptee Remembrance Day (Oct. 30) and November's National Adoption Month, Michelle and I dive inside her adoption story, the common points of pain for adoptees, as well as guidance for families considering adoption.
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In this episode, I’m joined by returning guest Tara Edwards, a writer, editor, and Twitch streamer based in Ohio, known for her work in the digital media landscape. Today’s deepdive focuses on "The Matrix" franchise.
In this conversation, we unpack the creative ramifications of transforming a story into a franchise, our personal highlights and critiques of the films, and the timely nature of its central themes in the era of artificial intelligence.
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Today’s guest is Bethany Mabee, a visual artist and designer who has transformed her creative expression into a body of work seen on paper, canvas, textiles and wallpaper. From interior design to gallery commissions, she explores the parallels between art and everyday life while balancing the practical and creative needs of an artist and business owner.
In this conversation, we reminisce over Bethany’s transition from figurative to abstract painting, the polarities and contrast within us and our creative acts, and artmaking for the buyer versus for ourselves. You can find more of Bethany’s content on Instagram.
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Today’s guest is Kristoffer “KC” Carter, the CEO and Founder of Epic Leadership, a coaching and training organization for conscious leadership, and the author of “Permission to Glow: A Spiritual Guide to Epic Leadership.” In addition to his coaching and leadership work, KC is also a professional songwriter, kirtan artist, TEDx speaker, and international retreat leader. He is currently working on his second book and preparing to lead the upcoming Winter Glow Yoga Retreat at Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health.
In this conversation, KC chronicles his early success in music, his purpose in integrating spirit with leadership work, and his ability to honor his inner child alongside his professional commitments.
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Today’s guest is Hayden Humphrey, a digital creator and life coach who helps people break out of the scripts and stories that keep them stuck, so they can become the creators of their own lives.
In this conversation, we commiserate over our work and training experience as coaches, the journey that comes with going back home again, and the value of empowering laughter alongside healing and understanding.
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Today’s guest is Sol Smith, a writer, professor, life coach and neurodivergent consultant specializing in mindset, happiness, and self-liberation courses. In sharing his journey with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, Sol highlights the challenges and gifts of being neurodivergent in a neurotypical society.
In this conversation, we reflect on Sol’s journey being diagnosed in adulthood, finding neuro-affirming support, and different ways neurodivergent people can play to their strengths and interests.
Today’s guest is Richard Dixey, the author of “Three Minutes a Day: A Fourteen Week Course to Learn Meditation and Transform Your Life,” and a senior faculty member at Dharma College in Berkeley, California.
A research scientist and a lifelong student of Buddhism who holds advanced degrees in biophysics and the history and philosophy of science, Mr. Dixey directed a bioelectronic research unit at a London hospital before becoming CEO of his own biotech company. He moved to the US in 2007 to devote himself to teaching meditation, deepening his own practice, and running the Light of Buddhadharma Foundation in India with his wife Wangmo, the eldest daughter of the Tibetan lama Tarthang Tulku.
In this conversation, we dive into the fundamentals of meditation, the relationship between science and mysticism, and the value of meditation practice in contemporary living, three minutes at a time.
Today’s guest is writer and producer Steve DiUbaldo. His work as a playwright has appeared across the country, often drawing on his experience as a Division-1 college basketball player. His play, "Exposure," was a selection for The Eugene O'Neill National Playwrights Conference.
In this conversation, we journey back to his theater roots, his time playing and coaching basketball, and changes that are needed to support the labor and sacrifice behind the entertainment industry.
Today’s guest is Alex Chester-Iwata, an actor and founder of the online publication, Mixed Asian Media. Born out of a lack of representation across TV, film, and theater, Mixed Asian Media is a collective created by multiracial, mixed Asian/Pacific Islanders (API) that seeks to build community through conversations of what it means to be of mixed API descent.
In this conversation, we journey back to Alex’s days as a young performer, and the early pitfalls of the entertainment industry that later turned into motivation for her work as a founder and editor-in-chief.
Today’s guest is Tasshin Fogleman, an extremely online pilgrim wandering this precious world for the benefit of all beings.
In this conversation, we explore Tasshin’s Buddhist journey and ongoing pilgrimage, and the service and creative projects led by his curiosity, loving kindness, and aspiration to empower others.
Today’s guest is coach and community leader Cory Daise, who specializes in working with entrepreneurs and leaders of color. Those who are driven to create a more just world and looking to find joy in the process.
In this conversation, we journey back to Cory’s athletic journey and life changing experience at Morehouse College, and explore his ethos of showing your work behind the highlight reels.
Today’s guest is musician and actor J. Aaron Boykin, who “blends Hip-Hop, Pop and R&B-styles effortlessly" while living his motto of “healing through music.” In this conversation, we discuss his musical roots, his purpose in finding “black boy joy,” and the value of knowing yourself in creative endeavors and personal growth.
Today’s guest is Tara Edwards, a writer, editor, podcaster, and Twitch streamer based in Ohio, known for her work in the digital media landscape. Driven by a deep-rooted passion for storytelling, Tara utilizes her diverse background and expertise to create thought-provoking content that captivates and resonates with readers.
In this conversation, we put on our writer hats and spotlight the value of media literacy and storytelling by unpacking some of our favorite shows such as "Grey's Anatomy," “The Idol,” “The Glory,” and “The Bear.”
Piano: "Liz on Top of the World"
Today’s guest is theatre, film, and television writer Stacey Rose. Throughout her career, Stacey has been awarded with honors such as the Mcknight Fellowship, the Sundance Theatre Lab Fellowship, Playwrights’ Center Many Voices Fellowship, and the Dramatist Guild Fellowship.
In this conversation, we discuss the ongoing WGA writer’s strike, the differences between writing for the stage versus film and television, as well as Stacey’s journey with sobriety, spirituality, and the exploration of black identity.
Today’s guests are technologist and disability activist Katelyn Lemay, and indie game developer Nolan Filter. Together, they are the creators of Tarotbot, a tool for Discord, Slack, Cohost, and Tumblr users to draw tarot cards with to-the-point simplicity, alongside carefully curated descriptions and definitions for each card.
In this conversation, we unpack the dynamic between humanity and technology in 2023, their perspectives on automation and AI, and the power of technology to empower arenas such as education, entertainment, and accessibility for everyday living.
Today's guest is business and leadership coach Paul Silva, who draws on both his work with culinary students and those in addiction recovery, to help clients get out of the sidelines of their lives. In our conversation, Paul unpacks his relationship to spirit and sobriety, and how they empower his authenticity and full self-expression.
Today’s guest is communication and media scholar Erique Zhang, whose work focuses the intersection of beauty, race, and transgender identity. As a PhD candidate in the Media, Technology, and Society program at Northwestern, Erique’s research seeks to interrogate how normative beauty ideals are produced through media representations and how trans women and femmes navigate these norms in their everyday lives.
In our conversation, we discuss their journey and transition as a trans feminine person, the tension between visibility and anonymity, and the things we take for granted in a cis, heteronormative culture.
Today’s guest is Master Certified Coach Bob Conlin, the author of “Why My Relationships Suck: How to Create Strong Relationships with Courage and Heart.” In our conversation, Bob shares the lessons forged through previous chapters and relationships, and the way purpose and intention show up in his relationship work with individuals, couples, and groups.
This June, Bob will be co-leading The Alchemy of Men retreat in Fairview, Utah, for those looking to build lasting community, overcome challenges, lean into your biggest goals, and discover your untapped potential. Check out the link to learn more about this all-inclusive experience.
Today’s guest is Christine Sachs, a Master Certified and Associate Certified Diversity Coach who’s committed to creating the change and disrupting the comfortable. She is the creator of the multi-lingual micro-podcast “I Feel Awful: Chronicles of Leadership,” and a coach trainer for the New York and European programs of Accomplishment Coaching.
In this conversation, we discuss some of the turning points in her journey, and Christine shares some guidance for coaches and personal development enthusiasts drawing on decades of experience in the industry.
Today’s guest is Rodolfo Carrillo, a conscious leadership shaman who combines his experience in business with the wisdom found in meditation and practice. He is the creator of the SER model, a lens for achieving leadership of the fullest potential, deep-sustainable personal mastery and organizational growth.
In this conversation, we dive inside his discovery of meditation at 7-years-old, his leadership work with family businesses and organizations, and his mission to raise the consciousness of humanity and thrive through a greater state of well-being.
Today’s guest is Rowan Hisayo Buchanan, the author of "Harmless Like You" and "Starling Days." She is also the editor of "Go Home!", an anthology of Asian diasporic writers' musing on the notion of "home," and "Dog Hearted : Essays on Our Fierce and Familiar Companions."
In this conversation, we unpack writing as a practice of contextualizing our generational ties, while Rowan provides some guidance and tools for writers struggling in their journey.
Rowan has graciously allowed me to include a short excerpt from “The Sleep Watcher,” her forthcoming third novel arriving on April 20. Please pre-order your copy today.
For today’s episode, I’m sharing a guided exercise originally performed for the Keepsake House show in February. With the theme of “foresight” in mind, this exercise asks us to connect with our being and acknowledge what we need in the near future.
You can discover more of my content as a coach and pianist on Instagram, and connect with the Keepsake House to learn more about our upcoming shows.
Today's episode features Steven Washington, the author of Recovering You: Soul Care and Mindful Movement for Overcoming Addiction, and the creator of SWE Studio, an affordable online community offering movement medicine, meditation and more.
In this conversation, we dive inside Steven’s early passion for dance, his journey towards sobriety, and the medicine he offers through his book and online community. If you’re on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube, be sure to connect with Steven to see his latest offerings.
Today's episode features Iyvon E., a creative producer, theater maker, and the Director of Artistic Programs at the Signature Theater. Before audio and podcast plays became popular due to social distancing, Iyvon had been at the forefront of this medium as the founder of The Parsnip Ship, a theater company and platform that re-imagines the radio play through stories that differ in form, content, and plot by underproduced and underrepresented voices.
In this conversation, we talk about the changing landscape of the theater industry, finding balance between your profession and your personhood, and the need to acknowledge theater makers who work tirelessly behind the curtain and out of the spotlight.
Today’s episode features activist, artist, and educational trainer and facilitator Valarie Walker. In this conversation, we dive into the inspiration that is her mother, Rosemary, the peaceful march she spearheaded called "Break the Chains With Love," and ways listeners can participate in advocacy across cultures, geography, and abilities.
This year, Valarie and I are artists-in-residence with the independent artist collective the Keepsake House. We will be performing at different shows throughout 2023, and the next show will be on Thursday, February 16, at the Rockwood Music Hall. You can attend in-person, and watch us via livestream, so be sure to grab your tickets and support the artists.
Today’s episode features Master Certified Coach, business leader, and vocalist Elena Armijo. In this conversation, we commiserate over our artistic and musical roots, and explore Elena’s journey from the world of opera to working with leaders and teams as a coach and facilitator.
Elena is the founder of the C-Suite Collective, an executive coaching agency offering in-depth, customized programs for high performers, and the host of The Collective Corner, a podcast where badass, inspiring, and compassionate conversations get to flourish.
Today’s episode features Julie Pham, a self-proclaimed karma breaker who blends the spiritual with practical application, the ethereal with the tangible. In this conversation, we dive inside her journey balancing familial expectations with her innate gifts, her transition from mathematics to energy work, and the importance of recognizing generational patterns in order to create the future we want.
You can follow Julie on Instagram and E-mail her at julie@juliepham.co.
Today's episode features leadership and empowerment coach Dr. Lauren Borden, who blends practical application with spiritual growth in her work with clients and organizations. In this conversation, we dive inside her mission to cultivate leadership as a means towards integrated health, her advocacy for emotional fluency, and why the word “veriditas” captures the essence of her work.
Lauren holds a Ph.D in industrial-organizational psychology, and has been trained in Internal Family Systems and Neurolinguistic Programming. You can find Lauren on Instagram, and through her podcast, the Veriditas Leadership Podcast.
Today's episode features a short mindfulness exercise I, Robert Kuang, created as an artist-in-residence at the Keepsake House. I am sharing this guided exercise with listeners. I hope it supports you, wherever you are.
If you’re looking for support around your own creative and professional goals, or if you’d like me to create personalized guided tools such as what you’ll experience today, you can reach me on Instagram, or E-mail me at robert@robertkuangcoaching.com.
Today's episode features performer, composer and improviser Cindy Lan. In our conversation, Cindy talks about the power of community and healing in her artistic journey, her musical process behind "Breath and Bow Meditations," and practicing surrender in moments of creation.
She is the Executive Director of the Greenwich Village Orchestra, and is commissioned by the Flagstaff Arts Council to compose a concerto, to be performed this December.
For the final episode of 2022, I invited a previous guest, intuitive tarot reader Liz Zamorski, back into the space to share a 2023 forecast for "Side by Side" listeners. Through her cards and intuitive downloads, you'll hear a month-to-month breakdown of themes, patterns, and energies to be mindful of, just in time for your New Year's planning and goal-setting.
If you’d like to get a personal forecast from Liz, please reach out to her for a reading.
Today’s guests are Hailey Savage and Jasmine Jang, the co-founders of the Keepsake House, a community that offers a safe, supportive space for independent artists in New York, not only to share the art itself, but to inspire storytelling and nurture meaningful artist-audience connections. In this episode, we talk about the genesis of this community, and the cultural and artistic power of owning our voice and sharing our experiences, on our terms.
You can support the Keepsake House through the fundraising campaign that will directly benefit the artists involved, and check out Jasmine’s latest EP, “In Circles Now,” as well as her Patreon.
Today’s episode features Jose Alejandro, a men’s leadership coach who combines trauma-informed somatic techniques with personal development. He is the co-founder of Modern Renaissance Man, a community where like-minded individuals can find connection and support. In our conversation, we talk about the state of masculinity today, and the support men need so we can contribute to a better future for all.
Next February, Jose will be co-hosting a men’s retreat experience in the Amazon Jungle called “Rewilding the Man." Check out this unique immersive training while spots are available.
Today's episode features Daniel Ryan, who has maintained a full-time private practice in Hypnosis and Regression Therapy for over a decade. In this conversation, we chat about inheriting his father’s legacy in the field of regression therapy, and explore his artistic and creative work as a writer and musician.
You can listen to his band The Daniels on your music streaming platforms, and his music for the Oscar-nominated short film “Feeling Through” can be streamed under the artist name The Hypnotist. Additionally, Daniel teaches the course Death Positivity in Past Life Regression in collaboration with Morbid Anatomy.
Today's episode is opera singer and writer Eric McKeever. In this conversation, we dive inside his music roots, his audio drama “The Coach,” and the complexity of navigating the artistic and performance world as a person of color.
Eric will be making his Carnegie Hall debut on Nov. 21 in Victor Ullman's “Der Kaiser von Atlantis.” You can find more information as well as his upcoming engagements across the country at ericmckeeverbaritone.com.
Today's episode features Sam Cartagena, the founder of Ambition & Mischief, a community of ambitious women looking for connection, coaching, and space to do their inner work. In this conversation, Sam and I dive inside her transition from 10-hr a day corporate life, to coaching and supporting women on her terms.
If you’re curious about the Ambition & Mischief community, check out their podcast to hear insights from Sam, as well as community members. Be sure to visit their website and connect with them on Instagram.
Music: “Neo City” by Dhyani feat. Robert Kuang
Today's episode features Juanita Molano Parra, a coach who works with individuals and teams to find the catalyst for their transformation. In this episode, we explore her journey from Corporate Finance to personal development, from Colombia to Indiana, and what it’s like being in between worlds and cultures.
You can connect with Juanita through her website, and through social media platforms such as Instagram and LinkedIn.
Today's episode features Catharina Schneegass, a professional certified leadership coach (PCC), trainer and HR development leader. She’s one of the co-hosts of the multilingual leadership podcast, “I Feel Awful,” and is an Accomplishment Coaching training leader for its European program. If you’re curious about coaching and coaching training, take a listen to the episode and please connect with Catharina to learn more.
Today's episode features Liz Zamorski, a former lawyer who's now sharing her gifts as a tarot reader, teacher, and your new favorite Chief Happiness Officer!
We dive into her turn from lawyer to intuitive reader, and unpack some fundamentals of intuitive reading through the tarot. Please consider booking a reading with her, and be sure to connect with Liz on Instagram.
Today's episode features Lana Dingwall, who is generous enough to let us feature their poetry alongside our conversation. Lana is a business coach, entrepreneur, and a poet who uses the medium to explore the queer and non-binary experience.
You can find a collection of Lana’s poetry here, as an offering to welcome donations to support their upcoming top surgery.
Today’s episode features Tracie Smith, who’s celebrating the launch of her brand new oracle deck, combining her experience in design, art therapy, and coaching. We dive into her former clinical work as an art therapist, along with her journey in creating this deck to support others in their creative process.