Show Notes
Podcast Title: Let’s Talk: Passion & Purpose with Nicole Thomas
Episode Title: Exploring Creativity and Relentless Passion with J.R. ("Jamie") Potter
Air Date: Tonight at 8 PM EST
Available On-Demand On: Spreaker, Spotify, iHeart Radio, and Apple PodcastsEpisode 

Overview:
In this exciting episode of Let’s Talk: Passion & Purpose, host Nicole Thomas sits down with the multi-talented J.R. ("Jamie") Potter. An award-winning author, illustrator, and musician, Jamie delves into the heart of creativity and the relentless pursuit of passion. From his celebrated supernatural mystery series Thomas Creeper—praised by Booklist as "marvelously macabre!"—to his impactful work in educational publishing, Jamie inspires with his journey of storytelling and artistic mastery.

Discover how Jamie’s work boosts literacy, empathy, and wonder in schools worldwide, and learn the secrets behind crafting stories that resonate with readers of all ages. He also shares behind-the-scenes insights into his Thomas Creeper series, including the success of Thomas Creeper and the Purple Corpse, shortlisted for the 2023 Stoker Award. Whether you’re a budding creative or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen!

Guest Bio:
J.R. ("Jamie") Potter is a renowned author, illustrator, and musician. Best known for his supernatural mystery series Thomas Creeper, his works have been featured on Good Morning America/ABC News and celebrated by critics and readers alike. The second installment of his series, Thomas Creeper and the Purple Corpse, earned a shortlist nomination for the prestigious 2023 Stoker Award. Beyond his novels, Jamie writes and illustrates for educational publishers like Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and Heinemann Publishing, helping to foster literacy and empathy in schools globally. Jamie’s stories often celebrate relentless underdogs who rise above their circumstances to become legendary figures.

Tune In To:

• Explore Jamie Potter’s creative journey and his unique storytelling process.
• Gain inspiration from his approach to overcoming challenges and embracing passion.
• Learn about the significance of storytelling in fostering education and empathy.

Don’t Miss This Engaging Conversation!
Be sure to listen tonight at 8 PM EST or catch the episode on-demand on Spreaker, Spotify, iHeart Radio, and Apple Podcasts.

Hashtags: #PassionAndPurpose #CreativeJourney #Storytelling #ThomasCreeper #Podcast

Show Notes for Let's Talk: Passion & Purpose with Nicole Thomas
Episode Title: Finding Joy Through Art with Stacey BillupsEpisode Description:

Join Nicole Thomas as she sits down with Brooklyn-based painter Stacey Billups, an artist celebrated for her ability to capture the essence of joy, connection, reflection, and rest in her vibrant paintings. Stacey shares how her art brings to life the moments when people are thriving rather than just surviving.

A self-taught artist and seasoned social worker with over twenty years of experience, Stacey discusses the intersection of her art and her career, her journey of discovering her passion for painting, and how she balances it all. From her Brooklyn studio, Stacey creates stunning works using oil, watercolor, and gouache, drawing inspiration from family, friends, strangers, and cultural figures she encounters daily.In this episode, we delve into:

• The story behind Stacey's transition from social work to becoming a celebrated artist.
• How she uses a vibrant palette to reflect joy and connection in her subjects.
• The importance of centering joy and rest in art and life.
• Her experiences showcasing her art at notable exhibitions, including the 2024 Every Woman Biennial and MoCADA Abolition House.
• Insights into her creative process and the cultural significance of her work.

Featured Guest:
Stacey Billups

• Painter based in Brooklyn, NY
• Exhibited at renowned venues such as LaMama Galleria and Kente Royal Gallery.
• Featured in Uptown Magazine and USA Today: Best Years Magazine.
• Passionate about highlighting moments of joy and reflection through art.

Exhibitions and Features:

• 2024: Every Woman Biennial, LaMama Galleria, NY.
• 2023: 'M’dear: Exploring The Black Maternal,’ MoCADA Abolition House, Governors Island, NY.
• 2023: 'Healing and Hope,’ Kente Royal Gallery, NY.
• 2022: Public art with Arts Gowanus in Red Hook, Brooklyn, and citizenM Hotel, Miami, FL.
• Publications: Uptown Magazine Martha’s Vineyard Edition (2023) and USA Today: Best Years Magazine (2020).

Tune In:
This inspiring conversation will leave you reflecting on your passions and how you can create moments of joy and purpose in your life.

Don’t miss this episode of Let’s Talk: Passion & Purpose with Nicole Thomas!

Where to Listen:
Available on-demand on all major digital platforms.

Show Notes for "Let's Talk: Passion & Purpose" - Episode 7
Host: Nicole Thomas
Special Guest: Garry Grant
Airing: Tonight at 8 PM EST
Where to Listen: Spreaker Podcast Live, Spotify, and iHeart Media

Episode Overview:
In Episode 7 of Let’s Talk: Passion & Purpose, host Nicole Thomas welcomes Garry Grant, an exceptional New York City-based artist known for his large-scale abstract works. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Garry’s career spans over two decades and bridges fine art and master gilding.

Listeners will hear about:

• Garry’s early days restoring antique frames and how this shaped his artistry.
• His formal training at the College for Creative Studies and Wayne State University.
• How ancient history inspires his unique fusion of abstraction, sculpture, and gilding techniques.
• Insights into his creative process and how he establishes a dialogue between the contemporary and the historical.
• The legacy Garry aims to leave in the art world, honoring both past civilizations and the evolving art landscape.
• Highlights of his exhibitions, including the Brooklyn Artist Exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode is a must-listen for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about blending traditional techniques with modern artistic expression. Garry Grant’s story is one of passion, purpose, and a deep reverence for humanity’s creative legacy.

Connect with Garry Grant:

• Website: 
• Social Media: 

Tune In:
Join us tonight at 8 PM EST to be inspired by Garry Grant’s journey and his profound impact on the art world.

Show Notes for Episode Featuring Janell Santana-Sims
Episode Title: The Hard Truths About Self-Care with Janell Santana-Sims
Guest: Janell Santana-Sims

• Social Worker, Author, and Founder of Self-Care JS Inc. and JS Self-Care LLC
• Advocate for harm reduction, mental health awareness, and intentional living

Episode Overview:
In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into self-care and mental health with Janell Santana-Sims, a dedicated social worker, coach, and author. As the founder of Self-Care JS Inc., 
Janell emphasizes harm reduction and mental health advocacy. At the same time, her coaching program, JS Self-Care LLC, revisits essential life lessons about self-care that we often overlook. Janell candidly shares her personal journey, the hard truths she had to relearn, and how they resonate with those on a path to wellness. Her phrase, “Have An Amazing Day on Purpose,” reminds us to embrace intentional living. Key Topics Covered:

1. The Hard Truths About Self-Care
   • Insights from her book The Hard Truths About Self-Care are part of the curriculum at the Center for Recovery in Middletown, NY.
2. Empowering Communities
   • Her work as a Narcan Trainer educates others on lifesaving measures in substance use scenarios.
   • Philanthropic efforts provide essentials to halfway houses, substance abuse programs, and domestic violence survivors.
3. Creative Self-Care Advocacy
   • Hosting self-care workshops and social mixers to empower and connect individuals.
   • Designing self-care spaces and creating soothing boxes to encourage calmness at home.
4. JS Self-Care Mind Body & Soul Podcast
   • Insights from her podcast, where she explores topics surrounding self-care and wellness.
5. Natural Healing and Self-Care Products
   • The creation of a self-soothing body kind of butter that nourishes the skin and promotes wellness.
6. Nature and Intentional Living
   • Her love for nature and how it ties into her self-care philosophy.

Takeaways:

• Learn how to embrace intentional living and prioritize self-care.
• Discover practical self-care tips that can transform your mental and emotional health.
• Explore ways to create your personal self-care sanctuary at home.

Connect with Janell Santana-Sims:

• Website: [Insert Website Link]
• Podcast: JS Self-Care Mind Body & Soul Podcast
• Social Media: [Insert Social Media Links]

Closing Thought:
“Your mental health equals your mental wealth. Have an amazing day on purpose!” – Janell Santana-SimsTune in to be empowered, inspired, and equipped with actionable tools for your self-care journey!4o

Show Notes for "Let's Talk: Passion & Purpose"
Host: Nicole Thomas
Special Guest: Laura Canty-Samuel
Airing: Tonight at 8 PM EST

Where to Listen: Spreaker Podcast Live, Spotify, and iHeart Media

Episode Overview
Tonight, on Let's Talk: Passion & Purpose, host Nicole Thomas welcomes the dynamic and accomplished Laura Canty-Samuel, a four-time Emmy-nominated TV writer, award-winning comedian, and Co-Artistic Director of the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (UCB) in NYC. This inspiring conversation dives into Laura's creative journey, her passion for storytelling, and how she balances a thriving career in comedy, writing, and the arts while inspiring others to live purposefully.

About Laura Canty-Samuel

Laura Canty-Samuel is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. She is a:

• Four-time Emmy-Nominated TV Writer whose credits include Sesame Street, Mecha Builders, and The Not Too Late Show with Elmo.
• Award-winning Comedian who has performed at festivals such as the Women in Comedy Festival and the Devil Cup Festival.
• Co-Artistic Director of the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater in NYC, where she champions diverse voices in comedy.

Her accolades include being a NYC Power Player in Arts and Culture and winning the Big Apple Film Festival with her animated pilot, That Dirty B!. Laura is also a writer for the award-winning children's podcast Once Upon A Beat with Tinkercast/Wondery and a driving force in the Black sketch comedy movement as a founding member of Ninjas Assemble.

Key Discussion Points

• How Laura discovered her passion for comedy and storytelling.
• The challenges and triumphs of navigating a competitive entertainment industry.
• The importance of diversity and inclusion in the arts.
• Advice for aspiring writers and performers on living a purposeful, creative life.

Connect with Laura Canty-Samuel

• Social Media: FACEBOOK, IG AND LINKED-IN
• Projects: Once Upon A Beat podcast, UCB Theater productions, and Sesame Studios.

Call to Action
Tonight at 8 PM EST on Spreaker Podcast Live, Spotify, or iHeart Media for this engaging and inspiring conversation. Don't miss Laura Canty-Samuel as she shares her wisdom, humor, and insights on living a life fueled by passion and purpose.

Be sure to subscribe, like, and leave a review to support Let’s Talk: Passion & Purpose with Nicole Thomas!

Courtney Minor is a multidisciplinary artist based in Jersey City, NJ, specializing in collage, photography/film, assemblage, and product design. Her work draws deeply from personal emotions, psychology and mental health, cherished memories, global travels, and a passion for science fiction. Courtney's unique style blends contemporary abstract art with elements of street art and surrealism, creating thought-provoking and visually striking pieces.

In 2023, she was recognized as one of the Top 15 Black American Assemblage & Collage Artists by Saatchi Art and Singulart Gallery, cementing her place as a rising star in the art world.

Wendy Angulo, born in New York City and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, is a writer, essayist, and passionate community builder. With a law degree from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello, she returned to NYC in 1998 to start her legal career but rediscovered her love for writing in 2011. Wendy is currently working on her memoir, Rebirth: Where it all Begins, aiming to inspire women facing life’s many challenges.
She is the creator of Canvas of Words, an art and poetry showcase, and founder of Wendy Angulo Productions, which supports and promotes the arts in Queens. Wendy has collaborated with multiple organizations, co-hosts Trailblazers the Podcast, and edited Lifting the Burden of Shame, a powerful essay collection exploring shame’s impact in marginalized communities. Through mentorship and art, she’s a driving force in creating spaces for creativity, community, and empowerment.

Show Notes for Let's Talk Passion and Purpose with Nicole Thomas Featuring Torrie Slaughter**

In this inspiring episode, Let's Talk Passion and Purpose host Nicole Thomas welcomes the remarkable Torrie Slaughter, founder of Our Given Purpose®. Torrie is a devoted woman of faith who has dedicated her life to empowering others to grow spiritually and serve their communities. Through her ministry and impactful content, she brings faith-driven individuals on a journey of transformation and purpose.

Episode Highlights:
1. Torrie's Faith Journey and Ministry  
   - Torrie shares her journey of faith and the founding of Our Given Purpose®, explaining her mission to help people grow spiritually and live purpose-driven lives.
   - As a media ministry consultant and creator of the *I Pray Women's Conference*, Torrie discusses her passion for inspiring transformation through a deep connection with Jesus.
2. A Daily Purpose of the Podcast  
   - Torrie explains her podcast, A Daily Purpose*, a one-year Bible journey featuring contributions from 20 writers. This podcast guides listeners through the Bible, providing daily insights and reflections.
3. Divine Alignment Live Bible Study
   - Torrie leads the live Bible study series *Divine Alignment*, meeting weekday mornings at 5:30 AM. She discusses how these gatherings help build a faith-centered community and encourage spiritual growth.
4. Empowering Faith and Community Service

   - Torrie speaks on her calling to equip and inspire others to serve their communities with integrity, emphasizing the power of faith to create positive change.

Connect with Torrie Slaughter:
- **Facebook**: [@ourgivenPurpose](https://www.facebook.com/ourgivenPurpose)
- **Instagram**: [@ourgivenPurpose](https://www.instagram.com/ourgivenPurpose)
- **Website**: [www.ourgivenpurpose.com](https://www.ourgivenpurpose.com)
- **YouTube**: *A Daily Purpose*
Tune in to hear Torrie Slaughter's inspiring journey and discover how passion and purpose come alive through faith and service. Take advantage of this impactful conversation!

Show Notes: "Let's Talk: Passion & Purpose" featuring Wilma Hollis
Host: Nicole Thomas
Guest: Wilma Hollis – Author, Speaker, Blogger

Episode Title: Speak Life and Win with Wilma Hollis

Wilma Hollis is a Chicago native, author, speaker, and blogger passionate about helping people overcome life's challenges through faith-based coaching. As the author of LifeSpeak 101: Speak Life and Win!, Wilma empowers individuals to activate the promises of God in their lives through the power of "LifeSpeaking"—a method of using faith-filled words to frame a victorious life.

Wilma's mission is clear and powerful: she aims to inspire people to speak the Word of God confidently, align their words with His truth, and embrace their authority in Christ to conquer adversity. Her practical, faith-filled guidance provides a roadmap for living a victorious, purposeful life.Wilma is a devoted wife and mother of three adult children outside her ministry.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Wilma’s Journey into Faith-Support Coaching:
   • How Wilma’s personal experiences led her to develop a faith-based coaching platform that empowers individuals to speak God’s Word over their lives.
2. The Power of “LifeSpeaking”:
   • An introduction to Wilma’s trademarked method, “LifeSpeaking,” and how faith-filled words can shape the life you desire.
   • Practical ways listeners can start speaking life to activate God’s promises.
3. Overcoming Adversity through the Word of God:
   • How aligning your words with God’s Word can help you overcome challenges and live victoriously.
   • Wilma shares powerful stories of transformation through speaking the truth of Scripture.
4. Key Lessons from LifeSpeak 101: Speak Life and Win!:
   • Insights from her book on how to use your words to unlock victory in every area of life.
   • Encouragement for listeners to embrace their authority in Christ and walk confidently in God’s promises.
   • Reflection and Takeaways:
     • Are you aligning your words with the truth of God’s Word?
     • How can you begin to apply the principles of LifeSpeaking to your daily challenges?
     • Wilma’s call to action: start speaking like the conqueror God’s Word declares you to be.
     • Connect with Wilma Hollis:
       • Web: WILMAHOLLIS.com
       • Instagram: @WilmaHollisLifeSpeak
       • TikTok: @WilmaHollisLifeSpeak
       • YouTube: LifeSpeakTV
       • Amazon: LifeSpeak 101: Speak Life and Win!
       Next Episode Teaser: Join us next week as we dive into more inspiring stories of passion and purpose with visionary guests making a difference in the world.
     • Listen to the Podcast: Available on all major podcast platforms.
       #SpeakLife #WilmaHollis #LifeSpeaking #FaithJourney #OvercomingChallenges #PodcastInspiration