22 Sides

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Ever wonder what happens when podcast hosts dish about their favorite guests? Alexis and Robin take you behind the scenes of their nearly 20-episode journey, revealing the moments that made them laugh, learn, and occasionally gasp in surprise.

From Amber's hunting adventures in Texas (where everything's done at long range and requires "a really big gun") to Mel's horror media enthusiasm that kicks off the conversation about spooky season, the hosts reminisce about the diverse voices that have shaped their podcast. They celebrate Amore's nail artistry that inspired Alexis's two-toned manicure, John Rosenthal's insights into Texas redistricting, and Amanda Edwards' campaign for the historically significant District 18 seat.

The conversation flows through Houston's flourishing poetry scene with Kathy Crawford, where "what skill you have will be celebrated," to Jovan Taylor's political aspirations while maintaining his day job. Listeners get intimate glimpses of memorable moments like when Falcon and Sushi reunited on air to discuss LGBT bar history in Houston, including the mysterious disappeared disco ball that once hung at the Montrose and Westheimer intersection.

The hosts highlight Dr. Maria Gonzalez's efforts to maintain inclusivity in education, Jennifer Marie's boundary-setting "honey badger" style, Sharon Franti's documentary filmmaking journey, and Francine's work with Nova Ukraine. They touch on conversations about artificial intelligence with Jacob, trauma healing through poetry, and Frost Murphy's diverse fitness approaches from home saunas to jiu-jitsu.

This retrospective episode captures the essence of meaningful conversations that extend beyond headlines and social media snippets. Want to suggest a topic or be a guest? Reach out through the website or email – Alexis and Robin are eager to continue building their podcast community with your help.

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

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Artificial intelligence isn't just changing our world—it's redefining what we consider "intelligence" itself. In this fascinating conversation with AI consultant Jha Allen, we explore how the definition of artificial intelligence has constantly shifted throughout computing history. Every time technologists accomplish what was previously labeled as "AI," we move the goalposts and declare it's not "real intelligence" after all.

The true revolution of today's AI tools like ChatGPT isn't just their power but their accessibility through natural language. As Jha explains, "The biggest thing that makes this revolutionary is language. Before, only tech specialists could understand it, but now the common person can access that same technology—which also makes it a little scary." This democratization has profound implications for businesses, privacy, and how we understand intelligence itself.

Our conversation takes unexpected turns as we examine AI's impact on jobs (if AI handles half your workload, should your salary change?), data privacy concerns (why are people willing to share intimate details with ChatGPT when they wouldn't with Alexa?), and the ethical considerations of AI decision-making in critical situations. We also explore practical approaches to learning AI technology, with Jha recommending focusing deeply on mastering one tool rather than spreading yourself thin across multiple platforms.

Whether you're a business owner looking to integrate AI, a professional concerned about technological disruption, or simply curious about where this technology is heading, this episode provides both historical context and practical insights for navigating our increasingly AI-enhanced world. Join us as we explore not just what AI can do, but what it means for how we work, communicate, and understand intelligence itself.

To find more about Jha Allen see https://endless8marketing.com/

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

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In this powerful conversation with Francine Goundry from Nova Ukraine, we uncover the stark reality facing Ukrainians today.

Founded in 2014, Nova Ukraine has emerged as an efficient humanitarian organization responding to the crisis, with comprehensive yet targeted supplies, establishing warming stations near railway hubs, providing portable medical equipment to field hospitals, and creating bomb shelters where government infrastructure has failed.

The conversation takes us beyond statistics to the human stories that often go untold. We hear about recent visitors to once-vibrant Ukrainian cities now standing in empty streets weeping at the total devastation. 

For listeners wondering how to help, Francine offers numerous pathways to meaningful action – from virtual English teaching and mentorship programs to church partnerships and corporate matching gifts. She emphasizes the importance of researching charities through resources like Charity Navigator and Candid to ensure transparency and effectiveness.

As winter approaches, bringing new hardships to a war-torn population, this episode serves as both a wake-up call and a roadmap for compassionate action. The war in Ukraine may have faded from daily headlines, but through organizations like Nova Ukraine, we can ensure the Ukrainian people aren't forgotten and that vital support continues to reach those who need it most.

For more information please see Nova Ukraine:

https://novaukraine.org/

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

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The 18th Congressional District of Texas stands at a critical crossroads. After the passing of two representatives in rapid succession, this historic seat once held by trailblazers like Barbara Jordan and Mickey Leland has been without a voice in Washington for what will amount to 18 months by election day.

Amanda Edwards, former Houston City Council member and current frontrunner in the race, joins us to unpack the unique challenges facing voters in this special election scheduled for November 4th, 2025. With approximately 30 candidates vying for the position, Edwards explains why her grassroots campaign has her leading by six points in recent polling.

We dive deep into the complicated web of Texas redistricting politics, as Edwards shares her firsthand experience testifying at hearings where maps weren't even available for review. She clarifies the confusing timeline: while the special election will use existing boundaries, newly drawn maps will take effect for the March 2026 primary—creating a situation where the winner will initially serve under one map before transitioning to another.

Edwards articulates what's at stake when a district lacks representation: no one to vote on critical legislation, secure federal resources, or address constituent concerns about everything from passport issues to veterans' benefits. She distinguishes herself from the crowded field through her extensive community work, from mobilizing volunteers after Hurricane Harvey to creating economic opportunities for small businesses and spearheading Houston's innovation district.

Most compelling is Edwards' people-centered approach to governance. "These seats belong to the people," she reminds us, framing the election not simply as a vote for a candidate but as a decision about the community's future. In a race where voter turnout will likely determine the outcome, her message is clear: "Whoever shows up gets to decide."

Ready to make your voice heard? Learn more about Amanda Edwards and her vision for the 18th Congressional District by following her on social media @AKEdwardsTX or visiting https://www.edwardsforhouston.com/

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Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

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Amore Monet isn't just a makeup artist—she's a creator of transformative experiences who's built her career on making people feel their absolute best. From her beginnings as a self-described "weird kid" to becoming a sought-after beauty professional whose client list includes Beyoncé, Amore shares the remarkable journey that led her to develop a multifaceted career spanning bridal makeup, film production, mortuary services, and her own vegan makeup line.

What stands out most in our conversation is Amore's commitment to creating affirming spaces where clients can explore their authentic selves. "When you start losing sight of yourself, it completely diminishes everything of who you are as a person," she tells us, explaining how this philosophy shapes her approach to beauty work. This dedication extends beyond typical salon services—she offers free hair care for children experiencing depression or whose parents are struggling, recognizing how these small acts of kindness can have profound impacts.

The Houston native takes us behind the scenes of her work on productions like Netflix's "Mo" and her unexpected opportunity to work with Beyoncé (which she initially turned down to honor family commitments!). Her stories reveal not just the glamour of celebrity clients but the dedication, versatility, and professionalism required to succeed in diverse beauty environments. From horror film special effects to officiating weddings while dressed as Beetlejuice, Amore demonstrates how embracing creative opportunities can lead to a uniquely fulfilling career path.

Whether you're a beauty professional looking for inspiration or someone interested in the transformative power of self-expression, Amore's experiences offer valuable insights into creating spaces where everyone can feel confident, affirmed, and beautiful on their own terms. Discover more about her services and upcoming salon opening at AmoreMonet.com, and join us in celebrating a beauty professional who truly understands that looking good means feeling good.

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

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We hope you will listen often.

For more information, visit our website 22sides.com

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What happens when the systems meant to support us become the places that cause the most harm? In this deeply moving conversation, Jacob shares his journey from surviving personal trauma to creating spaces where others can reclaim their narratives.

Jacob's story begins with his own experience of feeling silenced after a difficult breakup, when he found himself without a platform to share his truth while his ex controlled the social narrative. This personal pain transformed into purpose when he launched his podcast "Power of the Narrative," creating space for people whose stories might otherwise go unheard. From working with families of missing persons to supporting those recovering from abuse, Jacob has developed a powerful approach to narrative justice that centers the voices of those who've been marginalized.

"I was labeled as too much throughout my life," Jacob explains, "and now I can hold space for stories that are deemed too much." This profound shift from being silenced to becoming a witness for others' truths forms the foundation of his developing nonprofit work, which aims to make mental health resources accessible regardless of financial status or identity. Through narrative healing circles and community-based support, he's reimagining what mental health care can look like when it's designed for those traditionally excluded from therapeutic spaces.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as we explore the complexities of support groups that sometimes cause harm, the power dynamics in storytelling, and the political dimensions of whose narratives get centered in public discourse. Jacob's insights into narrative domination - how some people control the stories told about relationships, communities, and even historical events - offers listeners valuable tools for recognizing and challenging these patterns in their own lives.

What emerges is a powerful reminder that reclaiming our stories is essential not just for personal healing but for creating more just communities. As Jacob powerfully notes, "If they can choose their narratives, why can't people who want to heal do that too?" His work stands as an invitation for all of us to consider how we might better support others in telling their truths and how we might more authentically tell our own.

Find Power of the Narrative: https://open.spotify.com/show/1AhVcR2NBwstdm4C4qPrUQ

To connect with Jacob check here: https://www.powerofthenarrative.com/

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

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We hope you will listen often.

For more information, visit our website 22sides.com

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When Texas State Representative Jon Rosenthal sits down for a conversation, you're instantly struck by the fascinating contradiction he embodies. "I still identify in my head as an oil field engineer," he admits, despite seven years serving in the Texas legislature. This duality—practical engineer meets progressive politician—powers his unique approach to tackling Texas's most divisive issues.

Representative Rosenthal takes us behind the political curtain, revealing how the Texas legislature actually functions beyond the headlines. The numbers alone are staggering—8,719 bills filed last session with just 1,213 passing both chambers. For minority party members like himself, success is measured differently: "I had 10 bills heard in committee of the 50 that I filed and I passed three off the House floor. One was signed by the governor."

The conversation doesn't shy away from troubling realities. "Gun violence wasn't among the top five leading causes of death for children in Texas when I was first sworn in," Rosenthal reveals, "and now it's the leading cause of death for our citizens between 0 and 18 years old." This stark statistic underscores his frustration with continued weakening of gun regulations despite mounting evidence of harm.

As Vice Chairman of the Redistricting Committee, Rosenthal offers rare insight into gerrymandering's impact on Texas politics. The current system creates increasingly polarized representatives who only worry about primary challenges, not general elections. His solution? Nonpartisan commissions using open-source software to draw districts based on constitutional principles, not preserving incumbency.

Perhaps most compelling is Rosenthal's philosophy on perseverance: "You're only defeated if you have given up." Despite setbacks—like his bill to end child marriage passing the House but dying in the Senate—he remains determined. "It's not a failure," he explains, "it's just a step in the process."

Want to follow Representative Rosenthal's work? Find him on social media at @jon_rosenthalTX or through his campaign website to learn more about his continued fight for public education, healthcare access, and combating bigotry in all its forms.

https://house.texas.gov/members/3635

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

Support the show

We hope you will listen often.

For more information, visit our website 22sides.com

Let us know what you think by clicking here to send us a text.

Step into a living time capsule as we sit down with elders of Houston's LGBTQ+ community who share raw, firsthand accounts of the city's queer history spanning five decades. These aren't stories you'll find in textbooks—they're personal testimonies of survival, resistance, and community-building during times when simply existing as yourself could be dangerous.

Our guests take us back to the tense atmosphere of Houston's first Pride parade, where participants wore black armbands after police killed a gay man the night before. You'll hear about the elaborate warning systems gay bars created during police raids, with owners calling each other down Westheimer Road to protect their patrons. They reveal the origins of the Royal Court system, which became crucial when the AIDS crisis struck and the government turned its back on the community.

The conversation doesn't shy away from difficult truths. From being thrown out of bathrooms to losing housing after the failure of Houston's Equal Rights Ordinance, these stories provide crucial context for today's battles over transgender rights. Our guests candidly discuss the divisions within the LGBTQ+ community itself—how trans people were sometimes left behind in political compromises, and how lesbians stepped up to care for gay men during the AIDS crisis when their families abandoned them.

What makes this episode especially powerful is the intergenerational wisdom exchanged. Older activists offer perspective on navigating pronouns and gender identity with patience, while emphasizing that today's youth deserve better than what they endured. They share practical strategies for political effectiveness beyond protest, drawn from decades of experience.

Whether you're a longtime community member or an ally seeking deeper understanding, these stories will transform how you view LGBTQ+ history and the ongoing struggle for equality. 

We invite you to connect with us, share your stories, and support the podcast through our website. Your experiences matter, and together we can ensure this important history is preserved for future generations.

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

Support the show

We hope you will listen often.

For more information, visit our website 22sides.com

Let us know what you think by clicking here to send us a text.

Have you ever wondered what might happen if you followed your creative impulses, even later in life? In this episode, we sit down with Kathi Crawford, a former HR executive who reinvented herself as a career coach and eventually discovered her voice as a poet and writer.

Kathi's story begins in blue-collar Northeast Ohio, where she grew up as the only girl among four brothers. From early on, she knew she wanted a non-traditional path. After years of climbing the corporate ladder to become VP of Human Resources, she reached a pivotal moment: "Is this it? I don't like these people." This realization sparked her journey toward entrepreneurship, launching her coaching business People Possibilities in 2008.

What makes Kathi's journey fascinating is how she continued evolving well after establishing her successful coaching practice. She discovered poetry as a creative outlet and a way to process her experiences differently. "Poetry is like a puzzle," she explains, offering her a way to "tap into my life story that I couldn't do otherwise." Through organizations like Women in the Visual and Literary Arts (WIVLA), she found community with fellow creatives and developed her craft.

The conversation explores the balance between business ownership and creative pursuits, the challenges of putting yourself out there, and the joy of finding new forms of self-expression at any age. Kathi's forthcoming poetry collection, "Consider the Light," represents years of dedication to her craft and the patience required in the publishing process.

Whether you're contemplating a career change, exploring a creative hobby, or simply curious about how others navigate the different chapters of life, Kathi's story offers inspiration for finding your own voice and connecting with what truly matters to you.

Join us for this enlightening conversation about reinvention, creative expression, and the courage to follow your instincts toward a more fulfilling life.

https://theworldinsideyou.com/about/

Check out her book here:

https://kathicrawford.com/2024/07/01/debut-chapbook-consider-the-light-by-kathi-crawford-selected-as-best-entry-by-finishing-line-press/

Writers spaces:

https://www.wivla.org/

https://inprinthouston.org/

https://www.archwaygallery.com/

https://www.witshouston.org/

Bookstores:

https://www.basket-books.com/

https://www.brazosbookstore.com/

Also check out Kris Winter a Poet and first Sponsor of 22Sides! Thank you!

https://kwinterslatinxpoet.substack.com/

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

Support the show

We hope you will listen often.

For more information, visit our website 22sides.com

Let us know what you think by clicking here to send us a text.

Dr. Maria Gonzalez takes us on a captivating journey from her childhood in El Paso to becoming a pioneering academic and political activist in Houston. Growing up in a traditional Mexican-American family with undiagnosed dyslexia, she couldn't read until age nine and was relegated to "slow classes." Yet this early struggle with educational inequality shaped her future path toward revolutionary change.

Her story unfolds with delightful details— as she navigated academia, Gonzalez made a bold decision that altered her trajectory: rather than studying canonized white male authors, she created an entirely new field focusing on Mexican-American literature, particularly by women writers.

Moving to Houston in 1991, Gonzalez arrived at a pivotal political moment. When anti-choice activists threatened to close women's health clinics during the 1992 Republican Convention, she joined a coalition of 4,000-5,000 volunteers who successfully protected these essential services. This experience cemented her commitment to progressive politics and community organization.

Throughout our conversation, Gonzalez offers profound insights on political engagement, voter participation, and the long struggle for equality. She discusses the gradual "socialization" of LGBTQ+ acceptance versus the need for permanent legal protections, advocating for constitutional amendments at both state and federal levels. Her practical wisdom on grassroots organizing—from block walking to engaging reluctant voters—provides valuable guidance for anyone interested in political action.

Gonzalez reminds us that "politics is not a spectator sport" and emphasizes the importance of planning for decades, not just the next election cycle. Her life embodies the transformative potential of education and activism, demonstrating how personal experience can fuel academic innovation and create meaningful social change.

Colin from Season 2 Episode 7 Poetry Event.

Support the show

We hope you will listen often.

For more information, visit our website 22sides.com