As we close out season 4 of In the Telling (episode 34), we’re bringing you something extra special. Not one, but two guests. We’re joined by the inimitable Robert Garcia — the self-described “world’s favorite boy girl” — a fierce, multi-talented Afro-Latinx artist, singer-songwriter, and nightlife icon whose motto, “visibility is revolutionary,” is a thread throughout Robert's work and life. And alongside him is his chosen family and firstborn in spirit, Jeremy Francisco Cruz — a New York native, makeup artist, performer, and person of trans experience who’s using his art and presence to stand in solidarity with those fighting oppression.

This episode is a testament to chosen family, queer resilience, and the revolutionary act of loving each other out loud. Robert and Jeremy take us on a journey through found kinship, survival, tough love, and tender moments — reminding us how, in the words of Robert, “there’s no end as long as you’re walking this earth.”

So settle in because this one is for anyone who’s ever built their own family when the world couldn’t hold them. And for those who’ve ever been mothered, mentored, or reminded to shine their light.

To learn more about our guest, Robert Garcia

📺 Watch the Full Conversation on YouTube!

We’ve launched our ⁠Nomadic Archivists Project YouTube channel⁠—watch this episode in living color!

⁠Nomadic Archivists Project⁠⁠: https://www.nomadicarchivistsproject.com/in-the-telling-podcast

Original music by Sean Bempong

Designs by Christopher Stalling

In this episode (33) of In the Telling, hosts Miranda Mims and Steven G. Fullwood engage with Tyler Andrew “Six” Nelson, a New York-based photographer and visual artist. The conversation delves into themes of identity, belonging, and safety, particularly within the context of family dynamics and personal experiences as a black trans individual. Tyler shares their insights on how their artistic practice reflects their lived experiences, the evolution of their understanding of home, and the complexities of navigating relationships with family members. The discussion highlights the importance of self-identity and the ongoing journey of understanding one's place in the world. Tyler discusses the complexities of family dynamics, particularly the challenges faced in his relationship with his biological family. They emphasize the significance of chosen family and supportive relationships in navigating identity and personal growth. Tyler also stressed the importance of self-care and prioritizing oneself, highlighting that existing authentically is not a linear process. The dialogue explores themes of emotional well-being, community, and the necessity of taking up space in one's life.

To find out more about Six: 

• ⁠⁠⁠https://www.novifotos.com/⁠⁠⁠

• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/5xe9x4nd⁠⁠⁠

  
  

📺 Watch the Full Conversation on YouTube!

We’ve launched our Nomadic Archivists Project YouTube channel—watch this episode in living color! Subscribe and stay tuned for more conversations with voices from around the world.

Nomadic Archivists Project⁠: https://www.nomadicarchivistsproject.com/in-the-telling-podcast

Original music by Sean Bempong
Designs by Christopher Stalling

In this intimate episode (32) of season four of In the Telling, co-hosts Miranda Mims and Steven G Fullwood engage in a meaningful dialogue with Dr. Van Bailey, a fashion curator and advocate for LGBTQ+ representation. Together, they examine the concepts of safety, care, and intimacy beyond conventional family dynamics. The conversation addresses mental health challenges, the vital role of a support network, and how these connections contribute to our ability to endure and flourish.

Dr. Bailey recounts his experiences as a Black trans individual, highlighting the importance of his chosen family in his life and the influence of community support on mental well-being and resilience. The discussion navigates the intricacies of intimacy, accountability, and the healing required to cultivate robust, affirming relationships—particularly for Black trans individuals. The dialogue underscores the necessity of love, acceptance, and the bravery to dismantle barriers in order to nurture deeper bonds.

This episode serves as a meditation on love, trust, and the individuals who stand by us in our times of need. Whether it be a close friend, a mentor, or a community that fills the gaps left by biological relatives, chosen family acts as a unifying force in our lives.

If you would like to learn more about Dr. Bailey, visit https://www.drvanbailey.com.

📺 Watch the Full Conversation on YouTube!

We’ve launched our Nomadic Archivists Project YouTube channel—watch this episode in living color! Subscribe and stay tuned for more conversations with voices from around the world.

Nomadic Archivists Project⁠: https://www.nomadicarchivistsproject.com/in-the-telling-podcast

Original music by Sean Bempong
Designs by Christopher Stalling

In this episode (31) of Season four of In the Telling, co-hosts Miranda and Steven sit down with movement artist, environmental justice advocate, and multi-disciplinary collaborator Ayan Felix to explore Black Southern family traditions and the power of intergenerational storytelling. Ayan shares their journey of discovering a second father in 2018, navigating the positive emotional complexities of identity, and embracing a broader, more fluid understanding of family. From Texas Zydecos to burlesque stages, from voter suppression stories to embodied resistance, this conversation weaves together themes of ancestry, queerness, and the narratives that shape us.

Born to the swamps of Beaumont, TX, Ayan moved to Durham for the Duke Dance MFA program, completed in 2021. The land heavily informs their artistic practice which takes root in collaborative process with other cultural organizers, body workers, agitators, and spirits. 

Their research examines pleasurable terror and Black American markers of social class with a focus on burlesque and cabaret performers.  Felix was a NCDF Artist-in-Residence and makes screendance and performances in NC, TX, and NY. Learn more about their work at ⁠movingaf.com⁠.

📺 Watch the Full Conversation on YouTube!

We’ve launched our Nomadic Archivists Project YouTube channel—watch this episode in living color! Subscribe and stay tuned for more conversations with voices from around the world.

Nomadic Archivists Project⁠: https://www.nomadicarchivistsproject.com/in-the-telling-podcast

Original music by Sean Bempong
Designs by Christopher Stalling

In this episode (30) of Season four of In the Telling, co-hosts Miranda and Steven sit down with Amir, founder of ArtsXCulture—a Black trans artist, poet, and advocate. Amir shares his compelling journey of growing up in the foster care system, navigating gender and sexuality, and ultimately finding belonging through chosen family and creative expression.

Through art and poetry, he has carved out a space for healing and self-discovery while reflecting on the impact of biological and chosen family on his identity and resilience. Amir also discusses the importance of queer genealogy, his interest in uncovering LGBTQ+ ancestors, and how community spaces in Chicago and Boston have shaped his path. From his early years in the Midwest and South to building a creative and affirming network, Amir’s story is a testament to perseverance, love, and the transformative power of art.

You can learn more about Amir and ArtsXCulture on his IG page: https://www.instagram.com/artsxculture/.

Original music by Sean Bempong

Designs by Christopher Stalling.

📺 Watch the Full Conversation on YouTube!

We’ve launched our Nomadic Archivists Project YouTube channel—watch this episode in living color! Subscribe and stay tuned for more conversations with voices from around the world.

Nomadic Archivists Project⁠: https://www.nomadicarchivistsproject.com/in-the-telling-podcast

In this premiere episode (29) of Season Four of In the Telling, hosts Miranda Mims and Steven G. Fullwood engage in a conversation with art consultant Pacheanne Anderson. They explore themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the dynamics of family—both biological and chosen. 

Pacheanne shares personal stories about their Caribbean and South Asian roots, the impact of intra-POC politics, and the importance of community in navigating their identity as a non-binary, trans-masculine individual. The discussion also delves into the significance of home, belonging, and the role of chosen family in recovery from mental health challenges, culminating in a vision for a future that embraces love, respect, and inclusivity.

Pacheanne Anderson is an art consultant and art writer collaborating with art galleries & institutions, organizations, and publications that support the development and promotion of low-income, queer, Black, and PoC British artists. Pacheanne Anderson Gallery & Advisory offers a channel of access between the non-profit and commercial art sector through providing opportunities to artists directly through exhibitions, residencies, sales, and commissions.

Original music by Sean Bempong

Designs by Christopher Stalling

📺 Watch the Full Conversation on YouTube!

We’ve launched our ⁠Nomadic Archivists Project YouTube channel⁠—watch this episode in living color! Subscribe and stay tuned for more conversations with voices from around the world.

Nomadic Archivists Project: https://www.nomadicarchivistsproject.com/in-the-telling-podcast

In this episode, genealogist Bernice Alexander Bennett shares information about the Homestead Act of 1862, and why it's critical that African Americans know about the Homestead Act when researching their ancestry. If your family was listed as a farmer, Bennett says, it's important to check the Homestead Act records to see if your ancestors participated in this program. Bennett advises that, "you have to understand [that] while we identify the land, and we tell the story, there is also more to the story and that’s what happened to the land." 

Bernice Alexander Bennett is an award-winning author, genealogist, nationally recognized guest speaker, storyteller, and producer-host of the popular Research at the National Archives and Beyond BlogTalkRadio program. She is also the first recipient of the Ida B. Wells Service Award given by the Sons and Daughters of the United States Middle Passage for her dedication to broadcast stories about enslaved and indentured ancestors of African descent. She also received the Elizabeth Clark-Lewis Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society (AAHGS) Genealogy Award in 2019 for original research in support of African American Genealogy. Bennett is on the Board of Directors for the National Genealogical Society and one of the founder’s of the Midwest African American Genealogy Institute,

Links: 

Land Entry Case Files and Related Records at the National Archives

https://www.archives.gov/research/land/land-records

African American Homesteaders in the Great Plains

https://www.nps.gov/articles/african-american-homesteaders-in-the-great-plains.htm

U.S. Department of the Interior - Bureau of Land Management

https://www.blm.gov

Music by Sean Bempong

In this episode, genealogist Guy Weston falls in love with genealogy while researching 19th-century plot records purchased by his great, great, great, great grandfather on his mother's side. He learned the names of his ancestors and their descendants, fueling his obsession with genealogy. Guy’s mother initially thought she inherited this property when a cousin gave her the deed. However, they quickly learned it also belonged to several distant cousins, as new deeds were not executed over the years as one generation died and passed it on to the next. Guy’s introduction to genealogy was searching microfilm to look for these potential heirs.

Guy has been engaged in genealogy research for 30 years, with a substantial focus on his maternal ancestors in Timbuctoo, NJ, where his fourth great-grandfather bought his family's plot in 1829. He says today’s online databases and DNA testing have changed the landscape of what Black folks can find. He encourages all his friends to find their roots. At present, Guy manages the Timbuctoo Historical Society, is a Visiting Scholar at Rutgers University, and serves as editor of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society Journal. He maintains a website at www.timbuctoonj.com.

Original music by Sean Bempong.

In this episode, genealogist Melvin Collier talks about how he became involved in researching his family's history. From the age of 4, Melvin enjoyed listening to stories about his family. By 1993, he was actively searching archives for family records. Learn about how a DNA test and a trip to Ghana resulted in a surprise transcontinental family reunion. 

Melvin has been conducting historical and genealogical research for over 25 years. He’s a former civil engineer, who later earned a Master of Arts degree in African American Studies at Clark Atlanta University, in 2008, with additional graduate coursework in Archival Studies from Clayton State University. For seven years, Melvin worked as a Library Associate/Archivist at the Robert W. Woodruff Library – Atlanta University Center. He now works for the Department of Defense in the Washington, D.C. area. Melvin has appeared on the NBC show, Who Do You Think You Are, as one of the expert genealogists on the Spike Lee episode in 2010. He has given numerous presentations on genealogy, slave ancestral research, and genetic genealogy at numerous events and conferences. Melvin is the author of three books: Mississippi to Africa: A Journey of Discovery (2008), 150 Years Later: Broken Ties Mended (2011) and Early Family Heritage: Documenting Our Legacy (2016).

Music by Sean Bempong 

In her In the Telling conversation, LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson talks about the mystical aspect of doing genealogy: how the ancestors seem to guide you in uncovering their stories. 

LaBrenda is a trustee and President of the Board for Certification of Genealogists. She also serves as the Registrar General of the Sons and Daughters of the United States Middle Passage, a lineage society that honors ancestors who were enslaved in the United States. LaBrenda earned a BA from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, and both a Law degree and a Master of Laws degree from the New York University School of Law. After working as a corporate tax attorney for thirty-five years, she retired in 2013 and turned her attention to her longtime avocation of Genealogy. She is now a full-time genealogist focused on writing and teaching at National institutes and conferences. Her 2016 guide to researching in her SC home county was hailed by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as a model for research in SC and other states. 

Suggested links:

LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson's website

Sons and Daughters of the United States Middle Passage

The Source of Our Pride by LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson

A Guide to Researching African American Ancestors in Laurens County, South Carolina and Selected Finding Aids

Genealogy: Ethnic Heritage Links - National Archives

Original music by Sean Bempong.