Christian Martinez, also known as “Poeta Galactico,” is an educator, artist, and innovator. He is also the founder of The Swim Good Brand and the cofounder of Latitude High School. He is from the deep East Oakland area of California.

Christian paints his story for us of what it was like growing up in deep east Oakland, yearning for a sense of belonging but never quite feeling like he fit in. He knew he thrived as a creator and enjoyed dancing; however, his dreams were cut short when he was shot in middle school. Working through one setback after another, Christian found success and fulfillment. Today Christian uses his lifes experience to connect with others who, as he likes to say, “come from the mud," and know about the hustle and struggle.

In this episode, Christians delves into his relentless journey of giving back to his community by becoming an educator and teaching outside of the bounds of a traditional education experience. Christian also shares with us his take on the art of being a cofounder and tapping into his creative process.

“No matter where you are in this ocean called life, you are going to be okay if you Swim Good. Never give up on yourself."

The music for this episode was composed by Humans Win, and the podcast editing was done by Bill Fires.

Osaze Akil Stigler is a painter and Urban Planner. He is based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Osaze delves into his experience growing up and enjoying art but being unable to relate to it. This drove the motivation for him to create art representative of his culture, background, and experiences, which ultimately led to him being a featured artist on Beyonce's "Black Parade Route," A directory of black-owned businesses in 2020.

"Art doesn't always have to feel good; sometimes it makes you upset. Sometimes it makes you think, question systems, and question our governments or our societies in general [..] and I think art and creativity are about pushing us forward. "

Osazes art embodies the power of black subjects and women of color. Often depicting them in regality and positions of power. Scenery seldom seen in prior and even contemporary art.

In this episode, we also explore the intersectionality between painting and Urban Planning. A way in which Osaze has been able to use his passion for art into a career that allows him to impact his community by using creative ideas to allow society to take pride in their surroundings by providing access.

Osaze reminds us that acknowledging oneself as an artist does not come from having a following, notoriety, or publicity. Rather, it comes from the continuous action of creating.

Find Osaze and his art on www.osazeakil.com and Instagram at osaze_Akil

Featured Painting: “June in Atlanta”

Oil on Canvas, 24 x 36.

Music for this episode is composed by Humans Win and podcast editing is by Bill Fires.

Kimiesha Jones is an entrepreneuer and recording artist She is based in Atlanta, Georgia.

“ You can’t do this for anyone else, but you. I feel that all creatives have this fire in their heart that just burns, it doesn’t matter what you do. You can’t stop doing what you love to do. You can’t stop. ”

In this episode we explore the intersection between secular and gospel music and the self fulfillment that is found in pursuing our creative talents. Kimiesha lends us insight into what is was like growing up in a family of musicians and the role that the church played in finding her voice.

Kimiesha reminds us to be confident in the mastery of our craft and to use faith as an avenue to connect deeper with our art. Find Kimieshas' music, films and other content on her linktree.

Music for this episode is composed by Humans Win and podcast editing is by Bill Fires.