In this episode, Loveis Wise, a non-binary multidisciplinary artist, shares insights into their creative journey, emphasizing the importance of joy, play, and transformation in their work. Loveis reflects on the influence of their family, especially matriarchal figures, and how their art has evolved alongside their personal growth. The conversation delves into themes of gender, queer identity, and representation, with Loveis highlighting the need for vulnerability and authenticity in both personal and professional creative practices. They discuss the balance between commercial work and staying true to one’s values, offering valuable lessons on boundaries and self-respect.

In this episode, we dive into the unique experiences of first-generation students navigating college life, featuring insights from Sami, a Navy veteran, and Zeta, an international student. Both share how their backgrounds, ranging from military service to growing up in Argentina and Hong Kong, shaped their academic journeys. They discuss challenges like adapting to new educational systems, overcoming language barriers, and building social skills in unfamiliar environments. Their stories highlight the resilience required to thrive in college, shedding light on the intersection of diversity, inclusion, and the personal growth that comes with embracing one’s unique path as a first-generation student.

In this episode, interior designer and nonprofit executive Jason Champion shares his journey of weaving creativity into community activism. He discusses his role in Project Pride Sarasota, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. Jason reflects on his experience as a reality TV star on HGTV's Design Star and how authenticity fuels his work. He also explores the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the vital role allies play in fostering understanding.

In this podcast episode, Paul Gonzalez delves into his journey as a Latino man navigating his career in design and building his design firm. Growing up in Sarasota with Puerto Rican and Ecuadorian heritage, Paul reflects on how his cultural identity influenced his path. He shares how his upbringing in a predominantly non-Latino environment shaped his sense of self and entrepreneurial drive. Paul highlights his mission to challenge stereotypes and elevate the perception of Latinos in professional spaces. By integrating his cultural values of family and community into his businesses, he aims to foster a more inclusive and representative industry.

This episode features a conversation with two time Emmy winner, Ringling College alum Sarah Kambara, who is now a producer at Chromosphere, discussing various topics related to art, design, inclusion, and personal experiences. They share insights on their background, career journey, projects, cultural influences, overcoming failures, and the use of AI in the entertainment industry. They emphasize the importance of self-care and offers advice to students. The conversation touches on diversity, storytelling, the evolution of the entertainment industry, and the impact of AI on creative roles.

In this episode of, we sat down with Mara Torres Gonzalez, a gallerist, curator, and artist from Puerto Rico. The conversation delves into Mara’s experiences following Hurricane Maria, and how it shaped her perspective as both a person and an artist. As Mara settled into the artistic community of Sarasota, Florida, she candidly shares the hurdles she faced as a Puerto Rican living in the U.S. While the city boasts a mosaic of cultures and backgrounds, Mara sheds light on the stark realities of being a Latin artist in a predominantly non-Latin environment. In recounting her journey, Mara offers a compelling narrative that underscores the resilience and creativity. Her experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and recognition faced by marginalized communities, both within the art world and beyond.

You can find all of our episodes, transcripts and lots of resources on our website at ringling.edu/risingtogether. Join us next time for more insightful discussions. Stay connected, stay engaged, and keep rising together with us.

This episode delves into the transformative journey of Nate Jacobs, the visionary behind the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT). Through candid anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Nate shares his personal narrative, his earlier years at the Asolo Repertory Theatre performing the parts of servants and other like characters in supporting roles, and his experiences with racial issues in theater. The need and desire to change the cultural scene encouraged Nate to create a professional theater company showcasing all Black casts and narratives that resonated deeply with Black audiences.

You can find all of our episodes, transcripts and lots of resources on our website at ringling.edu/risingtogether. Join us next time for more insightful discussions. Stay connected, stay engaged, and keep rising together with us.