Every Day is a Yay!

In this episode of Every Day Is a Yay, multidisciplinary artist and curator Ashanti Starlight shares what it truly means to define your own path and make your own yes. Known as the Queen of the Trades, Ashanti has built a creative career that spans design, poetry, hosting, and cultural curation. Her work celebrates self-expression, authenticity, and the courage to create without waiting for approv...

In this episode of Every Day Is a Yay, artist and creative storyteller Shereene Manimala shares what it truly means to own your artistry, honor your identity, and create from a place of rest and intention. Known as Upside Down Smilie, Shereene expresses her art through music, visual work, repurposed Indian saris, and cultural storytelling. She also builds creative community through Manimala Studio...

In this episode of Every Day Is a Yay, author and philosophical storyteller E.S. Fein takes us deep into the worlds of consciousness, creativity, and what it means to evolve as a human being. Through his books Mendel’s Ladder and Points of Origin, Fein blends science fiction and philosophy in a way that challenges how we see the world—and ourselves. His writing explores themes like transhumanism,...

In this episode of Every Day Is a Yay, we sit down with entrepreneur and wellness leader Lilly Sato to explore what it really means to build big dreams without burning out. As the founder of Sweet Fitness and SZNL Chicago, Lilly is leading two businesses while simultaneously pursuing a doctorate in family nursing. Her work is rooted in wellness, creativity, and collaboration — with a clear mission...

On the final episode of the season, we sit down with CPA-turned-founder Darion Wiggs — proving that accounting is more than filing returns, it’s a tool for building wealth, legacy, and financial freedom. As the Founder & CEO of his own firm, Darion is redefining the accounting lane by bringing real financial literacy and wealth-building strategies to entrepreneurs who never got the manual. Thi...

In this episode of Every Day Is a Yay, creative entrepreneur and former professional basketball player Antwon Hoard shares what it truly means to evolve, expand, and embrace every layer of your identity. After 19 years playing overseas, Antwon transitioned into his next chapter as the founder of ATH GRAFIX, where he blends art, athleticism, storytelling, and design. Today, he calls himself a Creat...

“Music That Dares to Be Different.” | Joryin on Creativity, Fearlessness & Finding Her Voice In this episode of Every Day Is a Yay, singer-songwriter and creator Joryin opens up about her journey as the founder of JoJo Kpop Chicago — a platform where music, community, and creativity collide. Known for blending K-pop influence with her own unique sound, Joryin turns personal experiences into po...

In this episode of Every Day Is a Yay, gaming entrepreneur and educator Kevin Fair, Founder & CEO of I Play Games, shares how he’s transforming the world of gaming for the next generation — from creating inclusive esports tournaments to building learning opportunities that connect play with purpose. Known for his work as Director of Esports at Truman College and Head Facilitator of The Esports...

“You Are Enough.” In this episode of Every Day Is a Yay, rising hip-hop artist and actor NDPNDNT opens up about The #NotEnoughProject — a movement rooted in mental health awareness, self-love, and community healing. NDPNDNT is a Chicago-based artist and actor using his platform to address mental health in communities of color. With performances across Chicago, appearances on Netflix’s Rhythm &...

🎧 Exclusive Interview: Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez (Chicago’s 25th Ward) In this episode of Every Day is a Yay , Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez — a bold voice for equity, education, and community — shares his journey in public service. From grassroots organizing to navigating controversy in City Hall, his story is a powerful look at leadership rooted in purpose and perseverance. ✨ What you’ll hear: 🌱...

Christal Luster is one of today’s biggest comedic creators to come out of Chicago. In this episode of Every Day is a Yay, she shares how she forged her own path in entertainment — from being featured on Churchy (BET+) to acting on The Chi and Chicago P.D. — all while building a brand that reaches millions across social media. ✨ What you’ll hear: How Christal built her path in comedy & content...

🎙️ Sam The Sentient turned Autism into his superpower. In this episode of Every Day is a Yay, he shares how hip-hop became his escape, his purpose, and his way to inspire resilience. From writing rhymes at 12 to performing at Lollapalooza and Fenway Park, Sam proves that creativity, intention, and truth can change lives. His story will move you, whether you’re an artist, dreamer, or simply chasing...

🔥 STEM by Day, Empire by Night 🔥 In this episode of Every Day is a Yay, we sit down with Tarik G. Hunt — a bioengineer who’s balancing a full-time STEM career while building an indie game studio, launching a comic series, hosting immersive events, and growing a thriving creative community. We explore: ✨ How Tarik juggles science and creativity 🌍 Lessons in building a brand, community, and empi...

What does it mean to return to self as an artist? In this episode of Every Day is a Yay, We sit down with powerhouse vocalist and creative force Ranika to explore the deeply personal journey of reclaiming your voice and carving your own path in a world full of noise. We dive into: 🎤 Her journey as a vocalist and why her voice is her superpower 🎨 What “creating your own lane” really looks like as...

What does it mean to reset your life and reclaim your vision? In this episode of Every Day is a Yay, we sit down with powerhouse strategist, storyteller, and creative visionary Darius Caffey to unpack what it really means to align with purpose in a world full of pressure. We dive into: 🧠 How Darius helped creatives & nonprofits raise over $1M in funding 📺 His journey from launching Closet Un...

In this episode of Every Day is a Yay, we sit down with Joshua Jay James — brand storyteller, creative strategist, and founder — to explore what it really takes to build a brand that people feel. We dive into: 💡 His journey from CMO to creative entrepreneur 🎯 The storytelling strategies behind brands that truly resonate 🧱 How to build emotional connection into your branding from day one 🌍 Why...

In this episode of Every Day is a Yay, we sit down with Ireon Roach — actor, poet, and August Wilson Poetry Competition winner — to talk about the power of storytelling, embracing your roots, and what it really means to just be in a world that demands performance. We dive into: 🎭 Her acting journey in CW’s 4400, Departing Seniors, and Candyman 🖊️ How poetry became her foundation as an artist 🌆 G...

In this episode of Every Day is a Yay, we sit down with Brittney Perry, founder of PerryCo Shoes, to talk about the bold journey of starting a business as a Black woman — and the deep power in owning your confidence. We dive into: 💼 Why so many Black women are launching businesses 👟 Brittney’s journey building PerryCo Shoes 💫 How to walk in your power, even when doubt creeps in 💡 Why community...

Welcome to Season 3 of Every Day Is A Yay! 🎉 We’re kicking things off with an inspiring conversation featuring rising artist Zion Ali in our very first episode of the season! In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to become the best artist you can be. Zion shares his creative journey, the mindset shifts that helped him grow, and how to push past doubt to stand out in the industry. Whe...

🎉🍋YAY Nation!🍋🎉 We are closing out Season 2 with another enthralling conversation you won't want to miss—featuring the ICONIC MUSIC DUO, Channel Seven! Channel Seven aka Ch.7 is a powerhouse creative collective led by visionaries Coop (né Christian Johnson) and Marz (née Mari Poydras) that fuses art, fashion, music, and video production in ways you've never seen!  Their latest releas...

Get ready for another exciting episode of Every Day Is A Yay! This week, we sit down with the incredibly talented Tia Marie. Join us as we explore what it means to embrace all of your seasons. Tia Marie, a seasoned model, rising actress, and musician, has been captivating audiences since her early days in Chicago, where she made hilarious videos with her family that highlighted her passion for com...

Get ready for another galvanizing episode of Every Day Is A Yay! This week, we sit down with the multi-talented and accomplished film director, Grecia Aguilar! Join us as we delve into what it means to build intimacy with our passions. Intimacy is not just sex! Grecia, a Mexican-American filmmaker from Chicago, explores the vast array of human connections and identity through her work. She has ove...

🎉 Get ready for another thrilling episode of "Every Day Is A Yay!" 🎉 This time, we're sitting down with the dynamic leader of Black Tech Chicago and accomplished Data Scientist, Vera Dureke! 🚀 Vera Dureke is a powerhouse in tech innovation and leadership, making waves in Chicago's tech community. With a stellar record of attending numerous tech conferences annually, she’s pa...

Get ready for another exciting episode of Every Day Is A Yay! as we sit down with the innovative and inspiring Malcolm Crawford and explore what it means to build a community behind the pod mic. This week's episode is featuring the iconic creator, Malcolm Crawford! Tune into this episode where we dive deep into the journey of being a content creator, building Tha Storm Pod, and a community of...

Get ready for another exciting episode of Every Day Is A Yay! as we sit down with the hilarious and inspiring Matt Smith and explore what it means to find one's Superpower! Matt is a dynamic creative and successful serial entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in helping build engaging business experiences in a variety of industries. His many creative talents span stand-up comedy, musi...