Rising Together Podcast

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...

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, overcom...

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...

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 h...

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...

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. Whil...

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....