Content Advisory: This episode contains sensitive themes, including discussion of suicide and suicide awareness. Please listen with care -  mahalo.

In this season of gratitude, I’m excited to share an episode recorded with a close college friend of mine, Coco, an artist in every sense of the word. During a reunion at our alma mater in St. Paul, Minnesota, we revisit our college years and the beautiful, ever-evolving creative path they’ve carved through dance, theater, and - of course - the influence of Beyoncé(!).

Coco opens up about their journey of self-discovery and healing through art, including a pivotal memory of organizing a Suicide Awareness Show in honor of a close friend. Our conversation explores the power of performance, how confidence can be a choice, and what it means to find a sense of home within the arts community as a queer Black person.

Along with plenty of giggling, you’ll hear about our dramatic 19-year-old selves, our carefully curated Cowboy Carter concert outfits, and how Coco’s long-held creative ambitions are taking shape. Mahalo for listening with love.

Episode Highlights

00:47 College memories take center stage

01:18 From Sierra Leone to St. Paul

02:43 We had the walkie talkies

04:24 When creativity calls

04:47 A performance from the heart

06:31 Art as medicine

14:14 Reunion magic

17:51 Friendship forever

18:34 Titanic Dreams, because main character energy

19:48 Beyoncé love

20:38 Enter the Beyhive

25:58 Find home in the Twin Cities dance community

31:13 Confidence as a choice

33:32 Final bow

Instagram & TikTok: @unapologetically_coco
YouTube: youtube.com/@unapologeticallycoco

Photo Credit: Coco

Episode Art: Molly Mamaril

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Credits
🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril
🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik

A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.