SOUL SUPREMACY

SOUL SESSIONS Vol. 001 ft. Edrian

Life After The Rain

We just officially wrapped the first half of Season 5, but I wanted to take this little opportunity to hop on here, off the record, and use this platform to update y’all about what’s really been happening to me these last few months.

For those that care enough to care. 🥹

This isn’t quite a Season 5 episode. It’s something a little more personal.

Just me, sitting down with a microphone and talking about where I’ve been, what I’ve been going through, what I’m learning, what I’m letting go of, and what it feels like to slowly find my way back to myself and my creative practice.

There are things I share, and things I’m choosing to keep close. Because I’m learning that I can tell my story without telling everybody else’s story. I can be vulnerable and still have boundaries.

So consider this a little check in.

A conversation about creativity, filmmaking, Soul Supremacy, Colorette, uncertainty, rebuilding, and the strange little moments that remind you that life is still moving forward.

Because maybe life after the rain doesn’t mean everything is suddenly okay.

Maybe it just means you can finally see a little further ahead.

And maybe joy doesn’t have to wait until you reach the destination.

Welcome to Soul Sessions.

Vol. 001.
Life After The Rain. 🌧️☀️

Charles Gray on Reconciliations, Endings & New Beginnings

In this special midseason finale of Soul Supremacy, Edrian Pangilinan reconnects with Charles Jon Gray for a deeply personal conversation about life pivots, creative journeys, relationships, faith, community, and the courage to begin again.

Five years after their first conversation, Charles returns to reflect on everything that has changed. From navigating major life and health challenges to finding a deeper relationship with God, stepping away from the race, and learning to live more authentically and in service of others, this conversation is ultimately about what happens when life asks us to slow down and reconsider what truly matters.

Edrian and Charles explore reconciliation, endings, second chances, creative identity, industry changes, and the importance of surrounding ourselves with relationships rooted in authenticity and respect.

At its heart, this is a conversation about reflection, renewal, faith, and making peace with the chapters that brought us here while finding the courage to step into whatever comes next.

“Life is about embracing all the messy parts.”

“Living in service is the true legacy.”

This is the final episode before Soul Supremacy takes a midseason pause.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

ABOUT SOUL SUPREMACY

Soul Supremacy is an independent podcast created and hosted by filmmaker and storyteller Edrian Pangilinan. Since 2021, the show has explored creativity, identity, purpose, resilience, relationships, and the stories that shape who we become through honest conversations with artists, creatives, and changemakers.

SUPPORT THE SHOW

As Edrian takes some time to navigate his own next chapter and work toward stability and housing, your support helps keep Soul Supremacy and these conversations alive.

Support: www.buymeacoffee.com/edrianpenguino

Every donation, stream, share, review, and new listener genuinely helps.

Thank you for listening. See you on the other side of this chapter.

Chris Ungco on Positioning Yourself, Finding Your Secret Sauce & Reclaiming His Filipinoness

In this episode of Soul Supremacy, Edrian Pangilinan sits down with director of photography and creative producer Chris Ungco of Ube Films for a conversation about identity, artistry, community, and the realities of building a sustainable career in film.

Chris shares his journey from New York to Los Angeles and reflects on how his Filipino American heritage shaped his sense of self, creative voice, and approach to storytelling. The conversation explores the changing landscape of filmmaking and media, non linear career paths, positioning yourself in the industry, and the importance of finding an authentic voice.

Edrian and Chris also discuss code switching, otherness, imposter syndrome, representation, community, collaboration, and the tension between need and want in modern media.

Chris shares his philosophy on cinematography and intentional storytelling, including the psychological space that images create for an audience. They also explore what it means to stay rooted in cultural truth while navigating an industry that continues to evolve.

A conversation about finding your voice, discovering your secret sauce, building community, and reclaiming the parts of yourself that make your work uniquely yours.

ABOUT SOUL SUPREMACY

Soul Supremacy is an independent podcast created and hosted by filmmaker and storyteller Edrian Pangilinan.

Since 2021, the show has explored creativity, identity, purpose, resilience, and the stories that shape who we become through honest conversations with artists, filmmakers, musicians, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.

More than interviews, Soul Supremacy is an editorial archive of people in the middle of becoming.

In conversation since 2021.

SUPPORT THE SHOW

Soul Supremacy is independently created and sustained. To support the continued production of the show:

www.buymeacoffee.com/edrianpenguino

You can also support by streaming, sharing episodes, leaving a review, or telling someone about the show.

ABOUT CHRIS UNGCO

Chris Ungco is an award-winning Director of Photography and Creative Producer whose visual language is rooted in mood, texture, and emotional resonance. Born and raised in New York and now operating across NYC and Los Angeles, his career spans narrative features, high-end commercials, and intimate documentaries — with projects recognized by an Academy Award, Emmy Awards, and multiple Imagen Awards.

Working under his production banner Ube Films — a nod to his Filipino heritage — Chris has shot commercial films across a dozen countries and most of the United States. His background spans photochemical film and digital cinema, bridging classic technique with modern technology.

For Chris, cinematography is never just about capturing what's in front of the lens — it's about shaping the psychological space the audience inhabits. That philosophy, refined across decades of documentary work on the road, is what he calls The Wonder and the Context — and it's the foundation of every frame he builds.

Ube Films: https://ubefilms.com
Instagram: @chrisungcodp

Dexter Hemedes & Allan Ibanez on Teleseryes, Queer Cinema & 'Stay'

In this episode of Soul Supremacy, Edrian sits down with Filipino filmmakers, writers, and creative partners Dexter Hemedes and Allan Ibanez to trace their journey from iconic Philippine television to independent filmmaking and queer Filipino-American storytelling.

Before developing their own body of work, Dexter and Allan were involved in some of the Philippines' most recognizable television series, including Maging Sino Ka Man: Book 2 (2007), Careful With My Heart (2012), Pinoy Big Brother: All In (2014), and Nasaan Ka Nang Kailangan Kita (2015).

They reflect on what their years in Philippine television taught them about storytelling and the industry before moving into their own creative work, including the acclaimed personal projects The Reliever and the top-hitting Filipino-American BL web series Stay.

Stay reached more than 4 million views worldwide, connecting audiences through its exploration of queer Filipino identity, love, immigration, and belonging.

The conversation explores the inspiration and making of Stay, their creative partnership, the realities of independent production, filming in Los Angeles during the pandemic, Filipino diaspora identity, LGBTQ+ representation, and the importance of creating stories on their own terms.

A conversation about Philippine showbiz, creative reinvention, queer cinema, representation, and building a body of work beyond the industry that first gave them a platform.

ABOUT SOUL SUPREMACY

Soul Supremacy is an independent podcast created and hosted by filmmaker and storyteller Edrian Pangilinan.

Since 2021, the show has explored creativity, identity, purpose, resilience, and the stories that shape who we become through honest conversations with artists, filmmakers, musicians, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.

More than interviews, Soul Supremacy is an editorial archive of people in the middle of becoming.

In conversation since 2021.

SUPPORT THE SHOW

Soul Supremacy is independently created and sustained. To support the continued production of the show, visit:

www.buymeacoffee.com/edrianpenguino

You can also support by streaming, sharing episodes, leaving a review, or telling someone about the show.

The Cast of Naughty Maids on Turning a TV Pilot into a Festival Favorite

This week on Soul Supremacy, I'm joined by the incredible team behind Naughty Maids — writer and showrunner Rommel Rojas, alongside Julio Vega, Perry Chong, and Tom Warner.

Fresh off becoming a Top 3 Finalist at the HollyShorts Online Competition, they take us behind the scenes of bringing one of the most exciting LGBTQ+ comedy pilots on the festival circuit to life.

Together, we discuss the journey from script to screen, creating authentic representation beyond stereotypes, building unforgettable characters, navigating independent filmmaking, and the importance of telling stories that reflect the world we actually live in.

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, writer, actor, or simply someone who believes in the power of storytelling, this episode is a reminder that every great project begins with one idea and the courage to bring it to life.

☕ Support Soul Supremacy

www.buymeacoffee.com/edrianpenguino

Vote for them through this link - https://linktr.ee/naughtymaidstv?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Thank you for helping keep these conversations alive.

Welcome back to another episode of "Soul Supremacy."

This week, I'm joined by Filipino-American rapper, artist, and mental health advocate Chris Ang for one of our most heartfelt conversations yet.

Chris opens up about growing up in San Diego, navigating childhood trauma, battling mental health struggles, surviving heart failure, and discovering how music became both his refuge and his purpose. We also dive into the story behind his powerful song "I Am Van Gogh," the importance of authenticity, building community, and why betting on yourself may be the greatest risk you'll ever take.

Whether you're an artist chasing a dream, someone navigating life's darkest seasons, or simply looking for a reminder that hope still exists, I truly believe this conversation will stay with you.

✨ In this episode we discuss:

🎤 Chris' journey into music

🧠 Mental health and healing

🎭 Performing in costume and embracing identity

🎨 The meaning behind "I Am Van Gogh"

❤️ Surviving heart failure

🌱 Authenticity and resilience

🤎 The legacy he hopes to leave behind

Thank you for supporting five incredible seasons of Soul Supremacy. If this conversation resonates with you, please follow, rate, and share it with someone who may need to hear it today.

Please support the podcast - www.buymeacoffee.com/edrianpenguino

🎙️✨ "Earl Paus on Filipino Identity, Grief & Building Community Through Storytelling"

What does it mean to truly come home to yourself?

In this heartfelt episode of "Soul Supremacy," host Edrian Pangilinan sits down with filmmaker, actor, and community builder Earl Paus for an inspiring conversation about identity, healing, and the power of creating spaces where people feel seen.

Together, they explore Earl's creative journey, the making of his acclaimed short film "Glimpse," reconnecting with Filipino spirituality and ancestral healing, and how personal grief became the foundation for meaningful storytelling.

They also discuss the importance of building artistic communities through initiatives like AAPI Actor Studio and Balete, navigating burnout, embracing authenticity, and creating stories that celebrate Filipino culture, queer joy, and underrepresented voices.

Whether you're an artist, filmmaker, or someone searching for purpose, this conversation is a reminder that our greatest strength often comes from embracing who we truly are.

🤎 In this episode:

✨ The making of "Glimpse"

🇵🇭 Reconnecting with Filipino identity and ancestral healing

🌿 Filipino spirituality, Helot, and cultural traditions

🎬 Building creative communities through AAPI Actor Studio and Balete

💭 Turning grief into purpose through storytelling

🌈 Queer joy, representation, and authenticity

🌱 Avoiding burnout and redefining success

🤎 Creating a legacy rooted in culture and community

🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes every Monday featuring inspiring conversations with filmmakers, actors, musicians, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.

👇 What part of Earl's journey resonated with you the most? Let us know in the comments!

🎙️ Episode Description

✨ From OPM icon to fearless reinvention.

In this special episode of "Soul Supremacy," host Edrian Pangilinan sits down with the legendary Tootsie Guevara for her very first exclusive interview as "Tootsie 2.0."

Known for timeless OPM hits like "Kaba," Tootsie opens up about the incredible journey that has shaped every chapter of her life. From becoming a young breadwinner and one of the Philippines' most recognizable artists, to making the life changing decision to leave everything behind and start over in the United States, she shares the resilience, courage, and purpose that continue to define her today.

Together, they explore the inspiration behind her empowering comeback single "It's Tootsie," her highly anticipated return to acting in "Nurse The Dead," what reinvention truly means, and why it's never too late to embrace the fullest version of yourself.

Filled with laughter, heartfelt reflections, and inspiring life lessons, this conversation celebrates growth, confidence, second chances, and the beauty of beginning again.

Whether you've been a fan since the '90s or are just discovering Tootsie for the first time, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

🎤 Growing up and becoming a breadwinner at a young age

🎶 The story behind "Kaba" and her unforgettable OPM legacy

🇺🇸 Leaving the Philippines to build a new life in America

❤️ Marriage, family, and finding happiness beyond fame

💃 The inspiration behind her new era, "It's Tootsie"

🎬 Returning to acting in "Nurse The Dead"

🌱 Reinvention, confidence, and embracing every chapter of life

🤎 Her advice for anyone starting over

✨ The legacy she hopes to leave behind

"Soul Supremacy" is a weekly podcast hosted by filmmaker and storyteller Edrian Pangilinan, featuring heartfelt conversations with filmmakers, actors, musicians, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who are making an impact through their work, creativity, and life stories.

New episodes every week.

Follow, rate, and share the podcast to help us continue amplifying inspiring voices from our creative community.

Tootsie Guevara, Tootsie 2.0, It's Tootsie, Kaba, OPM, OPM Diva, Filipino Music, Filipino Singer, Soul Supremacy, Edrian Pangilinan, Nurse The Dead, iWant, Exclusive Interview, Filipino Podcast, Music Podcast, Reinvention, Comeback Story, 90s OPM, Filipino Entertainment, Filipino Artists, Women in Music, Storytelling, Personal Growth, Acting Comeback, New Music

✨ In This Episode🎧 About "Soul Supremacy"🔎 SEO Keywords (Spotify/YouTube)

"Finding Yourself Again" 🤎

This week on Soul Supremacy, Edrian sits down with makeup artist, creative, and Nurse The Dead cast member Melanie Cristescu for one of our most honest and inspiring conversations yet.

Together, they explore Melanie's journey through motherhood, navigating postpartum depression and anxiety, growing up in a strict Mormon environment, overcoming years of people pleasing, and finding the courage to rediscover herself.

They also dive into her transition into makeup artistry, the power of networking and social media, memorable behind the scenes stories from Nurse The Dead, and why collaboration, mentorship, and community continue to shape her creative journey.

This episode is a reminder that it's never too late to choose yourself, pursue your passions, and begin again.

Whether you're navigating change, healing from your past, or searching for the confidence to take your next step, this conversation is for you.

🎙️ In this episode:
✨ Melanie's transition into makeup artistry
🤱 Motherhood and life after raising children
🩵 Postpartum depression and anxiety
🌱 Healing from people pleasing and a strict religious upbringing
🎬 Behind the scenes stories from Nurse The Dead
🤝 Networking, mentorship, and building creative community
💭 The legacy she hopes to leave behind

Thank you for listening to Soul Supremacy. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and share the podcast to help us continue amplifying inspiring stories from creatives, changemakers, and community leaders around the world.

🎙️✨ The Faces of Nurse The Dead | Authenticity, Resilience & Community

As Nurse The Dead continues to captivate audiences, we're shining a spotlight on the incredible ensemble cast members who help bring this world to life.

In this special roundtable episode of Soul Supremacy, Edrian sits down with Priscilla, Didi Caneda, Erika Bell, Mary Rose Gutierrez, Gino Villanueva, Jasmin Jota, Erik Gutierrez, and Dustin Zdenek for a heartfelt conversation about the journeys that shaped them both on and off screen.

From humble beginnings and unexpected career paths to behind the scenes stories from Nurse The Dead, this episode explores the power of community, perseverance, representation, and staying true to yourself while pursuing your dreams.

Filled with laughter, honesty, and inspiring reflections, this conversation reminds us that behind every character is a human being with a story worth telling.

🤎 In this episode:
✨ Their origins and creative journeys
🎭 How they joined Nurse The Dead
😂 Fun behind the scenes moments
🇵🇭 The importance of Filipino representation
🌱 Lessons learned through life and career
🎬 Their hopes, dreams, and legacy

Whether you're a fan of Nurse The Dead, an aspiring creative, or simply someone who loves authentic conversations, this episode is for you.

🎧 New episode of Soul Supremacy available now.