You and Aya

Hank Ball and I talk about finding his way into the creative world and the experiences that shaped his passion for production. Hank reflects on his love of learning, trying new things, and continuing to grow through every creative opportunity that comes his way. It's a conversation about curiosity, creativity, and what can happen when you stay open to learning along the way.

I sat down with Jen and Terry Lage, the owners of Carbon Coffee Lounge, to talk about the story behind the space they’ve created. We explore what inspired them to open Carbon, what community truly means to them, and how a coffee shop can become a place for connection, creativity, and belonging. We also talk about their commitment to supporting local creatives and why they chose to support this season of the podcast.

Behind every professor is a person with a story. Dr. Catelyn Bridges joins me for a thoughtful conversation about navigating academia as a Black woman. We talk about identity, belonging, mentorship, resilience, and the moments that shape us long before they appear on a résumé. Together, we explore what it means to lead in spaces that haven't always been inclusive, why representation matters, and how personal experiences influence the way we move through the world. This is a conversation about science, certainly, but even more, it's about being human.

How did humans become who we are today—and where are we going next? In this episode, I sit down with Ron Briel to explore the story of humanity, from our earliest ancestors to the future of our species, through a conversation about evolution, cognition, cooperation, and the choices that may shape our collective future.

Some of the most powerful conversations aren't about changing your circumstances, they're about changing the conversation happening inside your own mind.In this episode, I sit down with Raymonn Adams to explore the incredible power of positivity and the words we choose to speak over ourselves. We unpack how our inner dialogue shapes our confidence, relationships, and the direction of our lives, and why the stories we repeat to ourselves can either keep us stuck or set us free.Whether you're battling self-doubt, navigating a difficult season, or simply looking for a healthier mindset, this conversation is a reminder that transformation often begins with a single thought—and a single word.Join us for an uplifting discussion on self-talk, resilience, and choosing hope, even when life feels uncertain.

Have you ever wondered who is really observing your thoughts?In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend Jim Walker for a conversation about meditation, consciousness, grief, and what it means to become more aware of ourselves. We explore the observer's effect—not just in science, but in our own lives—and ask what happens when we stop identifying with every thought that passes through our minds.This isn't a conversation about having all the answers. It's an invitation to slow down, become present, and consider how awareness might change the way we experience ourselves and the world around us.

Grief is something we all experience, yet so many of us struggle to talk about it.In this episode, I sit down with Mike Murphy for an honest conversation about loss, healing, and what it means to move forward without leaving the people we love behind. Together, we explore how grief changes us, the ways it shapes our relationships, and why giving ourselves permission to feel is one of the most powerful things we can do.Whether you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, navigating a major life transition, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers compassion, perspective, and hope.

Academia is built on knowledge, but it’s also shaped by power.Who gets heard? Who gets overlooked? And how do power dynamics influence the way we work, lead, mentor, and belong?In this episode, Thaís and I have an open conversation about the realities of academia that aren’t always discussed.If you’ve ever worked, studied, or dreamed of a career in higher education, this conversation is for you.

Dr. Helen Fagan has spent her life helping others find their voice, lead with purpose, and navigate change with courage.In this episode, we talk about leadership, growth, self-discovery, and the lessons that shape us along the way. But more than anything, we talk about what it means to be human.

Kevin Oliver is a classically trained hand bookbinder and book restorer in Lincoln, Nebraska, who has worked professionally in the trade for more than thirty years.In this episode, we discuss his obsession with Moby-Dick, which began when he was in third grade and continues to this day.But why? What does this book mean to him? What is this strange connection? And how can a single story shape a lifetime?Tune in as we explore Kevin's fascination with one of the most iconic novels ever written. Get ready for the goosebumps!