noseyAF: Conversations about Art, Activism, and Social Change

You Might Like Listening To: The Grad School Femtoring Podcast

🎧 You Might Like Listening To is a special mini-series where I share trailers from podcasts I think you’ll love. These shows are created by smart, bold, creative people who are asking big questions and making good trouble—the kind of folks we love around here at noseyAF.

This week, I’m featuring The Grad School Femtoring Podcast, hosted by Dr. Yvette Martinez-Vu.

What It’s About

This award-winning podcast supports first-gen BIPOC students and professionals in navigating grad school...

Ep # 79: Crashing Weddings and Creating Art: Conversations with Ayana Major Bey

🚨Click Here to take the noseyAF Listener Survey Today Please!! 🚨

Summary of the episode:

Welcome to episode #79! Stephanie welcomes multifaceted actor and creative force Ayana Major Bey for a profound discussion about the intricate balance between art and personal passion. The conversation explores Ayana's journey through acting, mentoring, and podcasting, illuminating the complexities inherent in the creative process as she navigates producing her own cabaret. Central to their discussion is the notion that artists must continually seek joy in their craft while highli...

📣 I Need Your Help — Take the noseyAF Listener Survey!

📝 Take the survey here: noseyAF.com/survey

Hey hey — it’s me, Stephanie! In this quick episode, I’m inviting you to fill out the 2025 Summertime noseyAF Listener Survey so I can hear directly from you about what’s working, what you want more of, and where we can take the show next.

I’m especially curious about how you feel about solo episodes vs. interviews, and whether things like live events, creative hangouts, or small group convos sound exciting to you.

💛 Your feedback means e...

Ep #77: Exploring the Intersections of Food, Art, and Community: A Conversation with Radius

This episode premiered first on Lumpen Radio on July 28, 2025

Summary of the episode

In this episode of noseyAF, we get into the transformative power of food, wellness, and culture with multidisciplinary creative Radius. Our conversation explores how food is not just sustenance, but a form of resistance, celebration, and healing—especially within Black and Brown communities. We talk about decolonizing our diets, embracing natural abundance, and how creativity, music, travel, and community all intersect in the journey to holistic wellness.

EP #76 noseyAF Classic: Wellness in Our Communities: Breaking Barriers and Building Access with Health Coach Kristal Holmes

Summary of the episode

This noseyAF Classic is packed with empowerment, inspiration, and real talk about true holistic wellness. Originally aired in November 2023, this episode features Kristal Holmes — attorney, health coach, mother, and the force behind the Go Hard Chick movement.

Kristal shares her powerful journey from living with autoimmune disease to becoming an advocate for whole-person health that goes way beyond the gym. We dive into the eight dimensions of wellness — emotional, environmental, financial, spiritual, soci...

Ep # 75: Art Isn’t Always Easy: Friendship, Parenting & Self-Definition with Kimmy Noonen

Recorded Live at Lumpen Radio: May 24, 2025

Summary of the episode

Kimmy Noonen Joined my Live on Lumpen Radio!

This episode is basically two friends—me, Stephanie, and Kimmy Noonan—chatting about all the messy, beautiful stuff that happens when art meets real life. Kimmy opens up about how becoming a mom changed her whole creative vibe and the struggle to stay true to herself while juggling all the expectations that come with being an artist (and a human). We get in...

Ep 74: Navigating Grief through Sculpture: Bobbi Meier’s Story

“Grief doesn’t have to be gray. It can be neon, it can be soft, it can be joyful.”- Bobbi Meier

Summary of the episode

In this episode of noseyAF, we explore navigating grief through sculpture with Chicago-based artist Bobbi Meier. Bobbi’s journey as an artist is intimately shaped by personal loss and the emotional complexities of caregiving, grief, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her tactile, vibrant sculptures—which she calls “squishy, colorful towers”—Bobbi channels emotion, joy, and memory. These works, part of a series t...

Ep 73: Alberto Aguilar on Making Art from Everyday Life

Summary of the Episode:

In this episode of noseyAF: Conversations About Art, Activism, and Social Change, artist and host Stephanie Graham sits down with Alberto Aguilar, a multidisciplinary artist known for transforming everyday moments and interactions into meaningful creative expressions. The conversation explores how Aguilar weaves art into the rhythms of family, teaching, and community life. If you’ve ever wondered how to sustain creativity without compartmentalizing your life, this episode is for you.

This episode is a follow-up to Alberto’s first appearance in E...

Ep # 72: Mastering the Art of Growth: Insights from Kenyatta Griggs

“Every experience is a tool—what you build is up to you.”- Kenyatta Griggs

Summary of the episode

Its the last episode of Season 5 of noseyAF and we are closing out with a wonderful conversation with Kenyatta Griggs!

Kenyatta Griggs (Dr Yatta!), is an esteemed barber, author, and filmmaker, exemplifying the intersection of personal development and hip hop culture. His influential platform, Hip Hop Motivation, serves as a beacon for those seeking inspiration and growth, as he shares invaluable insights that r...

Ep 71- noseyAF Live!:

Faux Fur, Circus Stories, Feelings, and Soft Power

with Catie Burrill

“Textile work has always been a silent language, especially among women.”- Catie Burrill

Summary of the episode:

The inaugural episode of noseyAF on Lumpen Radio introduces host Stephanie Graham and her signature blend of curiosity, creativity, and community. In this candid conversation, Stephanie sits down with Chicago-based fiber artist Catie Burrill to discuss the intersection of art, activism, and social change. Known for her whimsical and thought-provoking use of faux fur, Katie shares how...

Ep 70:🎉 Big News: noseyAF Is Now a Live Radio Show!

Summary of the episode

Friends!! Stephanie’s got a mic, a mixing board, and a whole new way to be nosy. This is your official heads-up: noseyAF is now a live radio show on Lumpen Radio in Chicago 105.5FM, and you’re invited to the party. Here’s the what, why, and how — plus a teaser of what went down in our very first broadcast.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Connect & Stay Updated

Ep # 69: Liberation, Softness, and A Good Ol’ Banjo

“I'm brilliant because my ancestors were brilliant.”

- EbonyJanice

Welcome to episode 69, Liberation, Softness, and A Good Ol’ Banjo!

This episode invites you to reflect on your own journey toward softness, wholeness, and unapologetic self-expression. Whether you’re an artist, activist, or simply someone looking to heal, EbonyJanice’s insights will leave you feeling inspired and ready to embrace your truth.

✨ Episode Summary

In this robust conversation, I’m joined by the incredible EbonyJanice, author of All Black Girls Are Activists. We...

Ep #68:

Jewelry, Tech & Authenticity with Helen with the Gold Teeth

Summary of the episode

Helen with the Gold Teeth is here!

Y’all, this episode is a treat. Helen Harris, aka Helen with the Gold Teeth, shares her incredible journey from engineering to luxury jewelry, proving that sometimes, the best career moves are the unexpected ones.

We dive into her philosophy on accessible luxury, the personal storytelling behind her work, and how she’s redefining what high-end jewelry can be—especially for Black and LGBTQ+ communities.

Helen’s pieces a...

Welcome to episode 67:

From nosey to necessary: The Impact of Evantson Made with Lisa Degliantoni

"I started this work at 40, which just goes to show that it’s never too late to begin something new and impactful" - Lisa Degliantoni

Summary of the episode

Today's conversation centers on the vital role of community arts education and advocacy, delivered with profound insights from Lisa Degliantoni, a dedicated advocate for artists in her community. As the founder and co-director of Evanston Made, Lisa embodies a commitment to fostering visibility and support for artists, em...

Ep 66: Embrace the Real You: Ditch the 'New Year, New You' Myth

Summary of the episode

The latest episode of noseyAF dives into the concept of self-acceptance versus the pervasive "New Year, New You" mentality that often pressures individuals to completely reinvent themselves each January. Host Stephanie Graham reflects on her own experiences and goals from the past year, emphasizing the importance of self-trust and embracing who we already are. Guest Valerie Friedlander expands on this idea, discussing how societal expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy and the harmful messaging that something is inherently...

Ep 65: Saint Nick Sets The Record Straight

Summary of the episode

Get ready for a magical holiday treat as our friends of Modern Dadhood, Adam and Mark, sit down for an exclusive interview with Santa Claus himself!! I know so wild! This special episode is designed for the entire family, making it a perfect way to spark joy and excitement in the hearts of children and parents alike. Adam dives into some of the kids' biggest questions about Santa, covering everything from how he manages to visit every home in one night to the secrets...

Ep 64: From Art to Aid: Eric von Haynes on Creating Community Connections

Summary of the episode:

Today’s conversation centers on the critical distinction between mutual aid and charity, as articulated by our guest, Eric von Haynes. Eric emphasizes that mutual aid is rooted in reciprocity and community connection, contrasting it with the more transactional nature of charity. He shares insights from his extensive work in mutual aid initiatives, including the Love Fridge project, which provides community fridges stocked with food and resources, emphasizing the importance of anonymity and equality in these efforts. Throughout the di...

Ep 63: First-Time Vendor: My Experience at a Holiday Market

Summary of the episode:

Hey friends, welcome back to noseyAF! In this solo episode, Stephanie Graham reflects on the whirlwind of 2024 as December kicks off. Stephanie shares her experience as a first-time vendor at the 476 2nd Annual Holiday Market, hosted by her film union, IATSE. From setting up a cute booth with her cousin Brandy of Poor Little Rich Girl to selling her tiny, inspired pins, Stephanie dives into what it was like to step into the world of holiday markets.

She recounts highlights...

Ep 62: From Disappointment to Determination: A New Path Forward with Brian Pughsley

Summary of the episode

This episode of noseyAF centers around disappointment and reflection following the 2024 election results, highlighting the importance of community, faith, and resilience. Host Stephanie Graham expresses her pride in the efforts made by individuals who supported Vice President Harris, emphasizing that their hard work should not feel wasted. Reverend Brian Pughsley joins the conversation, offering a powerful message about faith and perseverance during challenging times. He encourages listeners to strengthen their convictions and unite in their causes, reminding everyone that...

Buckle up, everyone! It’s Election Day 2024, and the energy is electric! The stakes are high, the tension is real, and all eyes are on the possibility of a new Madame President. In today’s episode, host Stephanie Graham is joined by her trusted battle buddy, Stephisha YCoy Walton, to break down what this pivotal election means for us all.

Join them as they dig into the importance of voter mobilization and civic engagement, sharing their own experiences in activism, from phone banking to grassroots organizing. With passion, humor, and a few personal stories, they explore how each...

Ep 60: Doom-Scrolling and Daily Joys

Summary of this episode

In this episode of noseyAF, host Stephanie shares candid, one-take thoughts on navigating the emotional weight of the current election cycle. She opens up about being glued to the news and refreshing social media while dealing with the uncertainty that comes with it. Stephanie hopes these reflections will resonate with listeners and offer a bit of support during these overwhelming times.

She also gives a shoutout to her podcast bestie, Paulette Erato, and her incredible work organizing the Latinas in Podcasting Summit, an event...

Join Stephanie Graham as she talks about her enamel pins and shares exciting news about her upcoming debut as a vendor at a holiday market. With a passion for creativity and conversation, Stephanie reflects on her journey of making quirky, limited-edition pins that spark joy and connection. From her inspiration at a local artist gallery to her fun designs like the "Freedom Kahlo" and "I Need a Baker," she opens up about her artistic process and the stories behind her creations. Get ready for some fun insights, a catchy new beat for a podcast segment, and a heartfelt invitation...

Ep 58: Hosting with Heart: Breaking the Rules of Traditional Entertaining

“The heart of hospitality isn’t about impressing others but making them feel welcome.”

— Saanya Ali

Summary of the episode

Welcome back to episode 58 of nosyAF!

In this episode of nosyAF: Conversations About Art, Activism, and Social Change, host Stephanie sits down with Saanya Ali, founder of Soiree, to discuss how she is hosting with heart and redefining hospitality through her creative and joyful approach to gatherings. Saanya shares how hosting can move beyond stress and formality, focusing instead on conne...

Ep 57: Black Male Friendship: A Love You Bro Update

Summary of the episode:

In this episode of noseyAF, host Stephanie invites Black men living in Chicago to participate in her ongoing photography project titled "Love You Bro." Launched in 2018, the project aims to document the unique bonds of friendship among Black men through photography. Stephanie shares her inspiration for the project, which stemmed from her personal observations of the loyalty and camaraderie in these friendships. Listeners can learn more about the project and find a link to sign up for the photography session scheduled for...

Ep 56: Choosing You: Art, Family, Community

🎨👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🤎✊🏾

"You got to choose you." - Pug Atomz, Prince of Art 😎 IFYKYK

Hey friends, welcome back to another episode of nosey AF! Today, we have an incredibly versatile Chicago artist, Pugs Atomz, on the show. Pugs is a true Renaissance man, excelling as an emcee, painter, sculptor, fashion designer, and more. In this episode, we dive deep into his multifaceted creative journey.

Episode Summary:

We start by discussing Pugs' impressive discography, which includes around 32 albums. We also explore the challenges of being a multi-talented artist and how Pu...

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of art submissions. Stephanie answers a listener's burning question: Is it worth paying an entry fee for art opportunities? She breaks down the importance of thorough research, emphasizing the value of understanding the hosting organization, juror, and curator.

Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting , this episode offers practical advice on navigating the complex landscape of art opportunities with confidence and clarity.

Topics discussed:

🔍Researching Art Opportunities: How to dig deep into an organization's history, the juror's style, and the curator's vision.

🔍...

Hey there, noseyAF fam! Stephanie Graham here, and guess what? We're hitting a significant milestone with our 50th episode, and it's a Q&A special, baby! I'm seriously feeling the love from all of you fantastic listeners, whether you've been rocking with us since day one or just hopping on board. Seriously, your support means the world to me, and I'm beyond stoked to celebrate this momentous occasion with every one of you.

So, what's in store for this special ep?

Well, get ready to dive deep into all sorts of topics as...

Hey, nosey friends! I'm just popping in to share some exciting updates about noseyAF.

What You'll Learn:

Fun Chicago Events:

Chicago Art Department's 20th Anniversary Crystal Ball September 14th:

Calling all art enthusiasts! Join the glamorous celebration with code STEPHANIE for 10% off tickets.

Get your Crystal Ball tickets here

Terrain Exhibitions Fundraiser: Garden Party September 21st:

Enjoy art, food, and music at the Riverside Art Center.

Get your Early Bird tickets now!

This episode is a call to action for listeners! Stephanie, the host, is looking for guests for future episodes of noseyAF.

Folks I'm looking for:

Introducing the podcast Studio Noize! where creativity meets conversation! Join host Jamaal Barber on a journey into the vibrant world of Black creatives who are reshaping the art scene. Whether renowned artists like Deborah Roberts and Bisa Butler or emerging talents making their mark, Studio Noize offers intimate, behind-the-scenes access to their stories and inspirations.

With each episode, Jamaal invites listeners into the studios of these remarkable individuals, exploring the passion, dedication, and unique perspectives that fuel their artistic endeavors. From insightful discussions on technique and process to candid reflections on the challenges and triumphs of their...

Atlanta, Prints, and Podcasts with Jamaal Barber

Hey Everyone!! Welcome to another episode of another noseyAF!!! This is episode 51!

Summary of the episode

In this episode I enjoyed sitting with the incredibly talented artist and printmaker Jamal Barber. Jamal, a Virginia native now deeply embedded in the Atlanta art scene, shares his journey from stumbling upon a screen printing demo to becoming a full-fledged artist passionate about the craft.

We delve into the intricacies of printmaking, discussing how the medium's process-oriented nature helped Jamal find...

Hey there, noseyAF fam! Stephanie Graham here, and guess what? We're hitting a significant milestone with our 50th episode, and it's a Q&A special, baby! I'm seriously feeling the love from all of you fantastic listeners, whether you've been rocking with us since day one or just hopping on board. Seriously, your support means the world to me, and I'm beyond stoked to celebrate this momentous occasion with every one of you.

So, what's in store for this special ep? Well, get ready to dive deep into all sorts of topics as I spill the beans...

Welcome back to noseyAF.

Today, we're wrapping up our On the Rock Series by chatting with artist Alayne Spafford. But first, a heads-up: Next episode, it's all about you. I'll be answering your questions, so send them over via email or DM on Instagram.

Alayne Spafford is an Edmonton-based visual artist. Originally from Saskatchewan, she spent time in Montreal and worked at Cirque du Soleil before settling in Alberta to focus on painting full-time. Her work explores the balance between chaos and order, reflecting her background in textiles and her time in...

Welcome to noseyAF, continuing on with the On the Rock Series, where we dive deep into the intriguing realm of art and creativity. I'm thrilled to introduce our esteemed guest today, Marie Lannoo, a Canadian artist whose boundary-breaking work continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Born in Simcoe, Ontario, and raised in Delhi, Ontario, Lannoo's artistic journey has taken her to the vibrant landscape of Saskatchewan, where she has flourished as a painter primarily based in Saskatoon. Known for her mesmerizing abstract paintings.

Lannoo's creations tantalize the senses with their layered colors and intricate textures, challenging...

In this episode, we delve into the spunky, bright, and warm world of Conny Goelz Schmitt, a renowned collage artist and sculptor whose work is deeply influenced by her rich multicultural experiences. Conny's journey spans continents, from her upbringing in Germany to her time in Taiwan and eventual settling in the United States. She seamlessly integrates elements of her diverse cultural background through her art, drawing inspiration from German artistry's meticulous attention to detail, the vibrant retro aesthetics of 1980s Taiwan, and the boundless creativity of the American pioneering spirit. Her profound connection with vintage books lies at the...

In this vibrant episode of the Nosy AF Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with the incredibly talented artist Meg Franklin. Meg's journey from the picturesque landscapes of Georgia to the bustling art scene of New York and back again is a tale of passion, creativity, and the pursuit of an artist's dream.

Meg shared her experiences of living in New York for 15 years, her eventual return to Georgia, and the accidental acquisition of a bunch of cats. We delved into her dream of ditching the regular job to paint full-time, free from the distractions of...

🎙️ Another Classic noseyAF Episode!

This is a rebroadcast of an enlightening conversation with Mr. Andre, a Hebrew Israelite, in one of my favorite episodes! This special discussion emerged from my curiosity about a group often misunderstood as radical and unwelcoming.

Prompted by critical social media posts, I invited Andre to tackle all the "really crazy questions" about his faith, including the challenges of dating as a Hebrew Israelite.

Andre illuminates the beliefs of Hebrew Israelites, revealing their perspective that African Americans are the descendants of biblical Israelites. We explore historical perspectives, cultural practices, and t...

Welcome back to a brand new year of NoseyAF! I'm joined in the studio by my friend and filmmaker, Ife, as we kick off the year by revisiting a classic episode from 2018. Today, we invite you to join us in the excitement as we replay an inspiring conversation with the dynamic force behind "All We Do Is Wander," Abby McNair.

Abby's journey began when her husband Dion was given the option to retire, propelling them to fully embrace a nomadic lifestyle. In early 2017, they meticulously crafted a plan, sold everything, and leaped into a life of constant...

Happy Holidays, Y'all! Welcome to noseyAF!

This year has been a tough one for me, but a constant source of joy has been this podcast project and connecting with so many incredible artists, including you! Thank you so much for being a part of this journey.

I’m taking some time off until after the new year to rest, reflect, plan, and kick! But before I go, let's dive into a special episode. Joining me is the amazing filmmaker and friend, Ife Olatunji. In this fun, spontaneous conversation, we discuss the highs an...

The spotlight is Maci Nelson, the creative mind behind "The Landscape Nerd" podcast and a seasoned landscape architect. Join Stephanie and Maci as they embark on a journey through the lush world of outdoor design, exploring the nuances of landscape architecture and debunking myths along the way.

Maci shares her unique path into landscape architecture, unveiling the layers of her career from a pre-medical background to the vibrant realm of gardens and landscapes. The conversation meanders through Maci’s exposure to ecological systems, the fusion of art and science in landscape design, and the significance of educating ho...