Creative Culture with Steve Ramsey
Creative Culture is a podcast exploring how art intersects with and shapes culture. Steve Ramsey has conversations with an eclectic mix of creative people: makers, artists, musicians, filmmakers, authors, comedians and more.
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The transformations of Raven Griim @ravengriim (Episode 92)
08/30/2024
The transformations of Raven Griim @ravengriim (Episode 92)
Raven Griim is a cosplayer, content creator, and social media powerhouse, with millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram. I talked to her about cosplay, horror movies, anime, body modification and much more. • Tattoo Talk: Raven shares her experiences with tattoo laser removal and why she chose to cover up some of her ink. How painful is tattoo removal? • Permanent Fangs: We talked about body modification and her decision to have a dentist give her permanent vampire fangs • Cosplay Life: How she became a full-time cosplayer, the joys of embodying her favorite characters, and why she stays true to her love for anime. • Horror Movie Magic: Naturally, I wanted to talk about our favorite horror movies! • Halloween Vibes Year-Round: As two people who live and breathe Halloween all year, we chat about how we celebrate the season (or don’t!) and what it means to truly embrace the spooky in everyday life. Raven on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ravengriim Raven on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ravengriim
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Why are documentaries so popular right now? With Kevin Perjurer of Defunctland (Ep 91)
08/16/2024
Why are documentaries so popular right now? With Kevin Perjurer of Defunctland (Ep 91)
On this episode of Creative Culture, I chatted with Kevin Perjurer, the creator of Defunctland. If you're a fan of meticulously researched and utterly fascinating documentaries about bygone theme parks and themed entertainment, you'll love this episode. It was interesting to talk to him about being a full-time documentarian, and crafting stories that captivate millions of viewers. What is the current state of documentaries and why is there such an explosion of them everywhere? Are they getting better or just changing? Kevin and I also talked about the blurred lines between traditional media and YouTube, and what it means to be a creator in today's digital age. Plus, we discuss the nuances of balancing entertainment with historical accuracy, and how Kevin navigates the ever-evolving landscape of content creation. We also explore some of Kevin's most intriguing projects, including his exploration of the mysterious origins of the Disney Channel theme jingle, Kid Cities, and behind the scenes of the American Idol theme park experience. Check out
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TikTok, OnlyFans, and creative communities. With Dandy Demon (EP 90)
08/02/2024
TikTok, OnlyFans, and creative communities. With Dandy Demon (EP 90)
Watch this episode on In this episode of Creative Culture I had a wide-ranging conversation with TikTok creator Dandy Demon. We talked about her experience creating content for TikTok and her approach to OnlyFans where she creates “nightmare thirst traps”. We also talked about her stalker and how important it is for her to maintain a positive online environment for her viewers. Important Dandy highlights: How Dandy managed to infiltrate an e-girl cult Her obsession with learning the German language The fun of hiding people on YouTube How her cat, Bagel, receives positive affirmations The possibility of buying a pink Hello Kitty Glock to defend herself from a stalker Dandy on TikTok: Dandy on YouTube:
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Does creativity matter anymore? With Danie Berger (EP 89)
07/12/2024
Does creativity matter anymore? With Danie Berger (EP 89)
Is creativity the same as curiosity? In this episode of Creative Culture, I'm joined by Danie Berger, from @DIYDanie. We talked a lot about how social media is fundamentally changing art and creativity. It's no longer enough JUST to make art...you have to show the process. And then make that process crazy enough that people will watch. We talked about dealing with creative funks, and finding joy in authentic expression. Main Takeaways: Creative Funks and Burnout: The difference between creative funks and burnout. Authenticity in Art: Danie shares her views on what it means to be authentic in the digital age, emphasizing the value of showing the unpolished, messy side of creativity. She believes authenticity is about being true to oneself and not just presenting a polished version for social media. Personal Passion: Is it possible to stay passionate about something that you turn into a career? The Role of Social Media: Social media has changed the way art is fundamentally created, making it more accessible but also more challenging to maintain integrity of creative work. Personal Projects and Authenticity: We both share our experiences with personal projects that we don't necessarily share with a wide audience. These projects help us stay grounded and remind us of the joy of creating for the sake of creation, not just for content. Visit Danie on YouTube:
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The magical world of Half Asleep Chris: Lego, cats, and creating delight. (Ep. 88)
05/31/2024
The magical world of Half Asleep Chris: Lego, cats, and creating delight. (Ep. 88)
In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked to Chris Burton of , known for his charming and delightful videos featuring his stop-motion animation, Lego and his pets. We discuss Chris's journey to 3.2 million subscribers, his creative process, the challenges of producing high-quality content, and the unique appeal of his videos. Some of the fun-filled things we chatted about: 🚀 A project Chris is working on to send a Lego roller coaster into space using a high-altitude balloon. The challenges of making a reliable roller coaster for this venture add a layer of excitement and creativity to the endeavor. 😸 His "catio" (a cat patio) and how he's turned his home into a playground for his cats. This includes building a treehouse and various platforms, highlighting the fun and quirky side of being a cat owner. 🐸 How Lego designers use frog pieces creatively in sets, such as in bonsai trees and fire stations. Chris even has thousands of Lego frogs in various colors, reflecting his playful approach to building. ⛵ Chris's ambitious project to create a Lego boat ride in his garden, complete with a man-made river and a coherent story, shows his dedication to making immersive and entertaining videos. This project has been in the works since August and promises to be one of his best yet. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leaving a comment! Chris's YouTube Channel: Support Creative Culture: https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
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The artistic and social intersection of metal and horror, with Elliott Fullam (Ep. 87)
04/26/2024
The artistic and social intersection of metal and horror, with Elliott Fullam (Ep. 87)
Welcome back to Creative Culture! In this episode, I had a fun conversation with a multi-talented artist who began his career at the age of nine. From interviewing rock legends to acting in horror films and crafting his own music, Elliot's journey is as diverse as it is fascinating. We explore the unique blend of horror and metal, discuss the evolution of media production, and share personal stories of meeting icons like James Hetfield. Whether you're a horror fan, a metal enthusiast, or a creative soul, you need to listen to this episode! 😃 Main Topics: • Elliot Fullam's Early Career: Started interviewing famous musicians at age nine and his growth in the media. • Connection Between Horror and Metal: Discussing how these two genres intertwine and the communities around them. • Evolution of Media Production: Insight into how technology has changed the landscape for young artists and filmmakers. • Elliot's Music and Acting Career: Discussion on his slowcore music style, upcoming tours, and his roles in films like "Terrifier 2". • Advice and Insights from Celebrities: Lessons learned from various interviews, including coping with nervousness and staying genuine. • Creative Processes and DIY Culture: How current technology empowers artists to produce and distribute their work independently. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leaving a comment! Elliott's YouTube Channel: Support Creative Culture:
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The art of cocktails. Was James Bond right? With Leandro DiMonriva (EP 86)
04/12/2024
The art of cocktails. Was James Bond right? With Leandro DiMonriva (EP 86)
In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked to mixologist and professional bartender Leandro Di Monriva about the art of mixing cocktails and what it takes to be a bartender. We chatted about everything from things that annoy bartenders to the tools of the trade. And if you've been thinking about setting up your own home bar, Leandro shares his tips, including the spirts you'll want to have on hand, the tools you'll need, and the types of glassware. And yes, we learn if James Bond was correct in ordering a martini "shaken, not stirred" or if that's nonsense! The Educated Barfly on YouTube: Support Creative Culture on Patreon:
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Can art be objectively bad? With CJ the X (Episode 85)
03/22/2024
Can art be objectively bad? With CJ the X (Episode 85)
Has social media fundamentally changed the way we perceive art? Can art me quantified by the number of eyeballs that view it? In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked with , @cjthex a creator and philosopher whose work explores the intersection of art and our cultural engagement with social media. CJ's content, ranging from thought-provoking videos to critical essays, offers a fresh perspective on art's subjectivity and the influence of digital platforms on creative expression. We navigated through various topics, including the challenges and triumphs of the creative process, the impact of social media on art, and the essence of making art that resonates both personally and publicly. Key takeaways from our conversation: The "Mr. Beastification" of art CJ's approach to content creation emphasizes depth and thoughtfulness, urging creators to prioritize substance over viral appeal. The importance of "aesthetic sincerity" in art, where the value of creative work stems from genuine expression rather than strategic analytics. The challenge of balancing creative integrity with the pressures of social media metrics and audience expectations. The concept of "doing" as the core of artistic identity, underscoring the need for creators to engage actively with their craft. Insights into navigating the digital landscape as an artist, including the pitfalls of content commodification and the pursuit of meaningful engagement. The potential of social media as a tool for artistic expression, despite its inherent tensions with traditional notions of artistry. Reflections on the evolving definition of art in the digital age and the role of creators in shaping cultural conversations. Watch CJ's videos: Read CJ's essays: Support Creative Culture on Patreon:
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Is Fast-Fashion Destroying Culture? With V.Birchwood (Episode 84)
02/23/2024
Is Fast-Fashion Destroying Culture? With V.Birchwood (Episode 84)
This episode of Creative Culture is a look into the enchanting world of historical fashion with the talented who not only dons but also meticulously crafts her own historical attire that she wears daily. We explored Vasi's journey into hand sewing and her passion for bringing the clothing of the working-class Victorian era and her Volga Tatar heritage to life. Our conversation touched on the practicality and comfort of historical garments, debunking common misconceptions about corsetry, and the deeper connection these clothes offer to our ancestors and past cultures. Vasi's approach to living intentionally, through sustainable fashion and a deep respect for craftsmanship, offered a refreshing perspective on the significance of what we wear and how it connects us to history and identity. Key highlights of the episode include: Vasi Birchwood's expertise in creating authentic historical fashion by hand, focusing on working-class Victorian and Volga Tatar garments. The practical benefits and comfort of wearing historical clothing, challenging modern perceptions of discomfort associated with it. The significance of historical attire in connecting with one's heritage and the broader cultural implications of fashion throughout history. The importance of sustainable fashion practices and the critique of fast fashion's impact on society and the environment. Vasi's personal journey into sewing and the therapeutic aspects of handcrafting garments. The role of clothing in living intentionally and fostering a deeper connection to the materials and processes involved in garment creation. Visit Vasi's Consider
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Why is everyone getting tattoos? What you need to know. With Electric Linda (EP 83)
02/09/2024
Why is everyone getting tattoos? What you need to know. With Electric Linda (EP 83)
In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked with , a master tattoo artist hailing from Norway about tattoo art. With over two decades of experience, Linda brings a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and artistic wisdom to the table. Known for her dynamic and colorful photorealistic tattoos, as well as being a specialist in coverups, Linda has won over 50 international tattoo awards. Beyond her tattoo mastery, she's also a passionate entrepreneur, running both a successful tattoo studio and an online store inspired by tattoo art. This conversation explores the depths of tattoo culture, artistic expression, and the personal journeys intertwined with every inked piece. Main takeaways from the show include: The evolution of tattoo placements and societal perceptions over the past two decades. Insights into the personal and emotional significance tattoos hold for individuals. The intricacies of tattoo artistry, from photorealism to coverups, and the technical skills required. The importance of artist-client relationships in the tattoo process and how it shapes the final artwork. The impact of social media and television on the tattoo industry and individual artists' careers. Help support the show! Watch
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How magic tricks work: The secrets behind the illusions. With Lloyd Barnes (Episode 82)
01/19/2024
How magic tricks work: The secrets behind the illusions. With Lloyd Barnes (Episode 82)
Welcome to Creative Culture, a podcast that explores the myriad ways people express their creativity. In this episode, I spoke with Lloyd Barnes @LloydB a professional magician and illusion creator. Lloyd not only develops magic illusions for magicians globally but also shares his expertise through detailed tutorials on his YouTube channel. His approach to magic combines ingenuity and creativity, and in this conversation, he dives into the intricacies of his craft, offering a unique perspective on magic and illusion. Main Takeaways: • The Art of Illusion Creation: Lloyd discusses his process of developing new magic tricks and the challenges of balancing technical skill with presentation. • The Impact of Technology on Magic: Insights into how advancements in technology have shaped modern magic and illusion. • Ethics in Magic: Lloyd shares his views on the ethics of revealing magic tricks and the distinction between exposure and education in the magic community. • Personal Journey into Magic: A look into Lloyd's personal journey and how he transformed challenges into a thriving career in magic. • Magic as a Universal Language: Exploring how magic transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, connecting people worldwide. Listeners of this episode will gain a deeper appreciation for the art of magic and the creative process behind illusion creation. Lloyd Barnes's journey from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a renowned illusionist is not only inspiring but also a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance. Whether you're a magic enthusiast or simply curious about the world of illusion, this episode offers valuable insights and an engaging conversation. Check out Lloyd's YouTube channel: Support Creative Culture!
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Why tarot is more effective than you think. With EsoTarot (Ep. 81)
01/05/2024
Why tarot is more effective than you think. With EsoTarot (Ep. 81)
This episode of Creative Culture, features Madison from @EsoTarot. The episode explores the art of tarot reading, its cultural significance, and its comparison to psychology. Madison shares her journey into tarot reading, discussing the personal and broader implications of tarot, its misconceptions, and its role in self-reflection and personal growth. This conversation will give you a deeper understanding of tarot reading beyond common stereotypes. Madison demystifies tarot, presents it as a meaningful practice for self-discovery, and showcases its relevance in modern culture. Her insights offer a fresh perspective on tarot's role in personal and psychological growth. Key takeaways from the episode include: • Tarot is more than just card reading; it's a tool for self-exploration and reflection. • Misconceptions about tarot often stem from lack of understanding or religious and cultural biases. • The process of tarot reading varies among individuals, blending intuition and structured meanings of cards. • Madison discusses the ethics in tarot reading, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and responsible practices. • The podcast highlights the parallel between tarot and psychology, both serving as tools for understanding human behavior and emotions. • Madison's YouTube channel offers accessible, long-form tarot readings, emphasizing community and collective experiences. Support the show at Thank you!
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Why is food so important in anime? With ChefPK (Ep. 80)
12/22/2023
Why is food so important in anime? With ChefPK (Ep. 80)
Help support the podcast! Chef PK on YouTube: Paul Karyakos, also known as Chef PK, combines his love for cooking with his passion for anime. In this episode of the Creative Culture Podcast, Paul discusses his unique approach to creating content that blends culinary arts with anime and video games. He shares his experiences filming in Japan, the significance of food in anime, and the influence of Western cuisine on Japanese culture. Paul also talks about his journey as a chef and how he found success on YouTube by combining two niches. Overall, his story highlights the power of creativity and the importance of embracing one's passions. In this conversation, Paul discusses his approach to creating new ideas for his content and the challenge of keeping it fresh. He shares his goal of providing unique experiences for convention attendees and involving the community in his videos. Paul also talks about balancing health and food content, managing caloric intake, and the concept of rare and appropriate food indulgences. He expresses his dislike for food waste and the joy he finds in cooking for others. The conversation concludes with a mention of Paul's upcoming book release, which features recipes and stories from his travels in Japan. Takeaways: • Food plays a significant role in anime, often reflecting the culture and emotions of the characters. • The depiction of food in anime has evolved over time, with dedicated studios now specializing in creating realistic and appetizing food scenes. • The pandemic has led to an increased interest in cooking and food-related content on YouTube. Creating new ideas for content can be challenging, but involving the community and providing unique experiences can help keep it fresh. • Balancing health and food content is important, and it's possible to enjoy indulgent meals while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. • Finding joy in cooking for others can create lasting memories. • Paul has an upcoming book release that features recipes and stories from his travels in Japan.
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How to stay creative throughout the (ENTIRE) year, with Jacqueline Suskin (Ep 79)
12/08/2023
How to stay creative throughout the (ENTIRE) year, with Jacqueline Suskin (Ep 79)
A Year in Practice is available here: Jacqueline's website: Help support Creative Culture! Jacqueline Suskin, a prolific poet and writer, discusses her work and the importance of poetry in human culture. She shares her experience running Poem Store, where she writes personalized poems for people on the spot. Jacqueline emphasizes the need for vulnerability and authenticity in creative expression and explores the impact of seasons on creativity. Her latest book, A Year in Practice, offers techniques and prompts to guide creative individuals throughout the year. In this conversation, Jacqueline Suskin discusses the importance of reconnecting with the earth and recognizing our connection to it. She emphasizes the need to disconnect from technology and spend time in nature. Jacqueline also encourages people to approach poetry with a sense of curiosity and to use it as a healing practice. She provides tips for writing poetry and emphasizes the value of sharing one's work. She concludes by discussing the need for poetry in today's world. Takeaways: • Poetry is a powerful form of self-expression that allows for exploration of the macro and micro aspects of life. • Writing poetry for oneself can be a valuable practice, but sharing it with others can create a deep connection and resonance. • Creativity and inspiration can come from various sources, including other poets' work and the natural world. • The seasons can have a profound impact on creativity, with each season offering its own rhythm and energy. Reconnecting with the earth and recognizing our connection to it can provide a sense of wholeness and vitality. • Taking time to disconnect from technology and spend time in nature can help us find depth and clarity in our lives. • Writing poetry can be a healing practice that allows us to express our emotions and experiences in a unique and creative way. • Sharing our poetry with others can be a powerful and rewarding experience.
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Basically, Christmas wants to kill you | Holiday hazards with Scott Dixon (Ep 78)
11/24/2023
Basically, Christmas wants to kill you | Holiday hazards with Scott Dixon (Ep 78)
Did you know that the number of trips to emergency rooms rise every December? Are you running too many lights in a single strand? How safe are you climbing up a ladder to install holiday lights? In this episode Scott Dixon of and I discuss the dangers of the season and ways to avoid them.
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The badass world of chainsaw carving with Chainsaw Jenna (Episode 77)
11/10/2023
The badass world of chainsaw carving with Chainsaw Jenna (Episode 77)
In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked with Jenna Whiting of , a prolific sculptor whose tool of choice is the chainsaw. We talked about her carving career and how she approaches the beautiful and amazing works of art she creates. She also talks about the performative nature of chainsaw carving and the various saws she uses. This is an inspirational episode for any creative person who is trying to find meaning in their art as well as people needing a nudge to start their own business. Check out Jenna on YouTube: Video version of this episode: Support the show!
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2023's BEST Scary Party Movie! Halloween Special with Ethan James (Ep 76)
10/27/2023
2023's BEST Scary Party Movie! Halloween Special with Ethan James (Ep 76)
In this spooky Halloween special, I'm joined by Ethan James @TheHonestCarpenter to discuss our favorite scary movies just in time for Halloween. We explore various horror subgenres, from classic slashers to modern gems, sharing recommendations and insights. Some of the movies discussed: "Happy Death Day" "Totally Killer" "The Blackcoat's Daughter" "Terrifier" and "Terrifier 2" "Saw" (Franchise) VHS Series (Found Footage Anthology) "Halloween Trick 'r Treat" "Evil Dead Rise" "Ginger Snaps" "Prom Night 2: Hello Mary Lou" "The Last Voyage of the Demeter" "Werewolves Within" John Carpenter's Films ("The Fog," "Christine") "Motel Hell" "Auntie Lee's Meat Pies" "Infinity Pool" "Deadstream" Nicolas Cage Films ("Adaptation," "Pig," "Becky," "Wrath of Becky") We share our thoughts on cult favorites like "Terrifier" and the unique anti-hero Jigsaw from the "Saw" franchise. We also delve into the world of found footage horror with the VHS series, emphasizing the artistry and creativity behind these shorts. We also touch on "Evil Dead Rise" and its fresh urban take on the horror classic. Werewolf movies briefly take the spotlight, with "Ginger Snaps" standing out as a memorable example. We continue our discussion by exploring recent horror releases, including "The Last Voyage of the Demeter" and the comedy-horror gem "Werewolves Within." We share insights on the experience of rewatching older films and highlight their enjoyment of John Carpenter's classics like "The Fog" and "Christine." And let's not forget about kitschy horror favorites such as "Motel Hell" and "Auntie Lee's Meat Pies." The episode also delves into marketing strategies, with A24's approach to promoting independent cult films being commended. The effectiveness of movie trailers and the trend of young filmmakers attempting to include everything in their movies are explored. The Lovecraftian genre, Nicolas Cage's diverse roles in horror, and a brief mention of "Deadstream" round out our discussion. Throughout the conversation, we emphasize their belief that a good film should be evaluated not solely on objective elements like acting and budget, but on its ability to tell a compelling story and evoke emotions. We share their appreciation for films that surprise and engage the audience, leaving a lasting impression. Ethan on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonestCarpenter
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Why do we LAUGH after a jump scare? The science of FEAR. Nina Nesseth (Ep. 75)
10/13/2023
Why do we LAUGH after a jump scare? The science of FEAR. Nina Nesseth (Ep. 75)
Grab your popcorn! Nina Nesseth, author of "" slashes into the Creative Culture Podcast for a ghostly discussion on why horror movies scare us and what causes our brains and bodies to react the way we do. We also highlight the evolution of horror reflecting societal concerns, from classic monsters to modern real-world horrors. Dare to listen? 🎬💀 Some of the fun topics include: • The physiological responses to fear, appeal of jump scares, and our evolutionary understanding of threats play significant roles in horror. • How horror movies mirror societal fears and values, evolving over time to represent themes such as consumerism, the Red Scare, queerness, trauma and more. • Why the genre is expanding with the rise of liminal films and reflections of real-world events like 9/11 and the pandemic. • Debunking t common misconception links horror movie consumption to real-world violence; however, this correlation is not based on any science and utter bullshit lol. Whether you're a horror enthusiast, science nerd, or just a curious listener, this episode is a revelation about a genre that mirrors our deepest dreads and cultural shifts. Don't miss out on these dark yet enlightening insights! Get a copy of Nina’s book, Nightmare Fuel here: You can watch the video version of this episode here: You can help support Creative Culture here: Thank you!
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Wait, pinball was illegal?? With Alec from Technology Connections (EP 74)
09/29/2023
Wait, pinball was illegal?? With Alec from Technology Connections (EP 74)
Support this podcast! Video episodes are available on YouTube: In this episode of Creative Culture, I am joined by Alec Watson, renowned for his insights into the fusion of creativity and technology. He’s also a pinball collector, historian, and restorer. We take a deep dive into the fascinating world of pinball. From its roots to modern evolutions, we discuss the art, design, history, and cultural impact of this iconic arcade game. Main Takeaways: The Evolution of Pinball: Learn about the transformation of pinball machines over time, from their connections to gambling to their shift towards skill-based gameplay. A Walk Down Memory Lane: Alec and I reminisce about pinball, our childhood pinball memories, and the thrill of playing at local arcades. Historical Insights: Uncover how the French game 'bagatelle' inspired pinball, and the journey of pinball from being illegal in New York to becoming a celebrated arcade staple. The Technology Behind the Game: Explore the introduction of flippers, the transition to solid-state machines in the 1970s, and how the art of 'nudging' became a key strategy for players. Pinball in Modern Times: Recent innovations, including video displays in machines. Pinball enthusiasts and novices alike will find a treasure trove of knowledge in this episode. Alec and I navigate the intricate world of pinball, revealing its rich history, technological innovations, and cultural significance. Beyond just gameplay, you’ll learn the intricacies of machine design, maintenance challenges, and the passionate community that surrounds this classic game. I promise, by the end you will have gained a deeper appreciation for pinball, understanding its enduring charm and the undying enthusiasm of its fans. Check out Technology Connections on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TechnologyConnections
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Why Does Suburban Architecture Lack Soul? Stewart Hicks. (EP 73)
09/15/2023
Why Does Suburban Architecture Lack Soul? Stewart Hicks. (EP 73)
Does the U.S. have a unique architectural style besides the hideous McMansion? Why does the constructed suburban landscape have the same blandness no matter where you travel? Well, it's all about the stories they (don't) tell. The art of architecture: Architectural fails The haunting feeling caused by liminal spaces The challenges of converting office spaces into residential units The popularity of mid-century modern architecture Don't Miss: 10:50 The few unique city skylines in the U.S. 20:15 With such a large cultural shift to working from home, what to do with the vast amounts of empty office spaces? 26:45 Have you seen Jury Duty??? OMG it's amazing! 46:40 Why are liminal spaces so compelling? 57:15 Why should you care about architecture and how can you start to pay attention to it? In this episode, discusses how architecture in the urban environment, even city skylines themselves are unique because they tell stories. Stewart Hicks is an Associate Professor in the School of Architecture at the University of Illinois at Chicago and is the co-founder of the practice Stewart's YouTube channel explores (mostly urban) architectural topics and his videos are highly polished, well researched, and fun.
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From Chia Toilets to Driveable Fidgets. Intentional Creativity with Ali Spagnola (EP 72)
08/18/2023
From Chia Toilets to Driveable Fidgets. Intentional Creativity with Ali Spagnola (EP 72)
I had an absolute blast chatting with Ali Spagnola, a true creative maverick. She spills the beans on how she keeps those creative juices flowing—hint: it involves actively hunting for ideas rather than waiting for a strike of inspiration. Ali lets us in on her selection process, diving into how she picks and chooses projects that not only resonate with her but also defy artistic norms. Ali dishes on some of her mind-blowing projects, including the Chia Pet car and a freakin' driveable fidget toy! She walks us through the thrilling journey of turning a simple idea into a tangible masterpiece. What really hit home for me was Ali's take on balancing intentional creativity with spontaneous artistic exploration. We explore embracing experimentation, learning from flops, and staying true to your unique vision. So, if you're an aspiring creative looking for a hefty dose of inspiration and a fresh perspective on pushing boundaries, you gotta check out this episode. Ali Spagnola and I dive headfirst into what it means to fearlessly march to the beat of your artistic drum. Ali on YouTube: Her fitness channel:
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A Culture of Hype. And Sneakers, With Shade TV (ep 71)
08/04/2023
A Culture of Hype. And Sneakers, With Shade TV (ep 71)
Marissa Hill is the producer and host of Shade TV, a YouTube channel devoted to fashion, sneakers and hype culture. She herself is a sneakerhead and fashion model who is continually seen at movie premieres, pop culture events and festivals. In this episode we talked about her role in hype culture, what kind of sneakers to wear, and a little about volleyball.
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What artists need to know about AI. With Mary Tsai, Adobe AI/ML designer (EP 70)
07/21/2023
What artists need to know about AI. With Mary Tsai, Adobe AI/ML designer (EP 70)
Mary Tsai is an Artificial Intelligence/ Machine Learning designer for Adobe, specializing in its audio and video tools such as Premier and After Effects. In this episode we discuss what AI is, what it means, and how it will affect culture, especially involving artists, makers and other creatives. Will artists become obsolete?
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Why does my cake look like a blob? Laurie Shannon from The Icing Artist. (EP 69)
07/07/2023
Why does my cake look like a blob? Laurie Shannon from The Icing Artist. (EP 69)
Laurie Shannon is the creator and host of The Icing Artist, a YouTube channel that has garnered nearly 5 million subscribers and whose videos have been seen over 1.2 billion times over the past ten years. In this episode we talked about the art of cake decorating and I learned some of the tricks and tools of the trade. Laurie recently launched a new online course designed to teach you everything to create stunning cakes of your own, step by step. Check out Laurie's online .
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Denim, dollar signs and trendsetting. Blacktail Studio (Ep 68)
06/23/2023
Denim, dollar signs and trendsetting. Blacktail Studio (Ep 68)
Cam Anderson of Blacktail Studio joined me this week to talk about his newfound fascination with making tables out of denim. Is he a trendsetter? Well, we also discussed how the first person to do something is rarely the best. Watch Blacktail Studio: Support this podcast!
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Are photographers becoming irrelevant? With Jared Polin (Ep 67)
06/09/2023
Are photographers becoming irrelevant? With Jared Polin (Ep 67)
This week I spoke to Jared Polin of about Photoshop's new generative AI and other apps such as MidJourney AI. They are dramatically changing everything about art and photography. Do we really need humans to take photographs? Are graphic designers becoming irrelevant? We also talked about the trend for shooting film and how a lot of people are simply wasting their time by not understanding this medium.
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When hysteria leads to Censorship. With Prano Bailey-Bond (Episode 66)
05/26/2023
When hysteria leads to Censorship. With Prano Bailey-Bond (Episode 66)
Joining me today is Prano Bailey-Bond, the filmmaker who wrote and directed Censor, a movie that takes place during the U.K. "Video Nasties" era and tells the story of Enid, a film censor who screens all these videos to implement cuts of scenes deemed too dangerous to be viewed. The movie asks if watching violent movies causes people to act violent, then what prevents censors from also becoming violent. I wanted to have Prano on the podcast to talk about censorship and give us some insight into our not-so-distant past and how that might have shaped today's standards and regulations. Are we doomed to repeat ourselves? You can or Follow .
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No, you shouldn't decorate however you want. With Nick Lewis. (Ep. 65)
05/12/2023
No, you shouldn't decorate however you want. With Nick Lewis. (Ep. 65)
Help support this podcast! is a designer with the goal of simplifying interior design. He’s not afraid to voice his opinions on design trends that might be here to stay and others that need to go. Nick represents such a rational voice in what can be very subjective, even divisive topics. Why is interior design important in our lives and why does it matters? Interior design is the intersection of practical construction knowledge with creativity and artistic style. In this episode we discuss finding your design style and what the different interior styles are. We also talk about what the role of an interior designer is and when you should consider hiring one. What is their area of expertise and how are they different from an interior decorator? Nick Lewis on YouTube: Boring to Beautiful course:
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Home flipping ethics and dumb mistakes new homeowners make (Ep 64)
04/28/2023
Home flipping ethics and dumb mistakes new homeowners make (Ep 64)
Scott Dixon joined me this week to discuss his YouTube channel, Everyday Home Repairs, which has detailed tutorials on how to fix just about anything in and around your house. Ever wonder how to add an electrical outlet in a wall without access to an attic or crawlspace…and not rip apart the wall? Do you have a crack in your concrete driveway that needs fixing or a faucet that won't stop dripping? Need to fix a stuck garbage disposal or learn how to install a new one? And for god's sake, know where your water shut-off valve is! His channel tackles everything from plumbing and electrical work, to carpentry and remodeling, all with an eye on the DIYer. Everyday Home Repairs on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EverydayHomeRepairs
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Can you actually repair a phone? JerryRigEverything on AI, wheelchairs, and electric cars (Ep 63)
04/14/2023
Can you actually repair a phone? JerryRigEverything on AI, wheelchairs, and electric cars (Ep 63)
Zack Nelson is the creator of a YouTube channel mostly about technology. With over 1.6 billion channel views, you’ve probably seen one of his many videos taking apart phones, testing their durability, or showing you how to repair them. Or maybe you’ve seen his videos on electric vehicles: he built his own electric Hummer. Zack is also interested in accessibility issues and created an off-road electric wheelchair called the Not-a-Wheelchair and is developing a new, affordable manual wheelchair. Watch Zack on YouTube:
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