Getting Close UP!

Some people write words. Others bring those words to life. Today's guest does both.
Zoie Magic is a poet and rapper whose thought-provoking lyrics and captivating performances remind us that every verse has a story, every rhyme has a purpose, and every stage is an opportunity to inspire. With equal parts passion and precision, she's turning poetry into conversation and music into a movement.
Today, Danielle gets up close and personal with Zoie as they talk creativity, confidence, spoken word, hip-hop, and the experiences that continue to shape her artistic journey.
The microphone is live, the verses are ready, and the magic is about to unfold. Welcome to Getting Close UP! featuring Zoie Magic.
You can also check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/9S71jLOkstA?si=Tr2SnXEw65CU1XIj  

Ready for the Queer Narrative Festival? So are we—and who better to get us festival-ready than the incredible duo behind it all? This week, host Danielle sits down with Lindsey Kinney and Waleska Rodriguez Kruger, Co-Executive Directors of No Divide KC, to pull back the curtain on the inspiration, mission, and heart behind the Queer Narrative Festival.
From creating spaces where every story matters to building stronger, more connected communities for underserved populations, this conversation proves that representation isn't just important—it's transformative.
Along the way, expect plenty of laughs, meaningful insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn vision into impact.
Whether you're planning to attend the festival, passionate about community advocacy, or simply love hearing stories from changemakers making a difference, this is one episode you won't want to miss. 
You can also view the video version of the episode on our YouTube Channel:  https://youtu.be/fD5XSYhGUjs  

Today we're stepping inside one of the area's growing creative hubs with Cody Pieschl, creator and owner of Code Red Productions—a full-service audio recording and podcast studio dedicated to helping artists, musicians, businesses, and content creators bring their ideas to life.
From producing and recording music to building a space where creativity thrives, Cody has turned his passion for production into a destination for storytellers looking to make their voices heard.
Join Danielle as she sits down with Cody to discuss the inspiration behind Code Red Productions, music, audio and professional podcasts production, the challenges of running a creative business, and why giving independent creators a professional platform matters now more than ever.
So put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to go behind the microphone... because it's time to get Close UP! with Cody Pieschl of Code Red Productions.
You can also check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube Channel:  https://youtu.be/bW0u6jwHR6c 

Welcome to Season 7, Episode 1 of the Getting Close UP!, where we feature inspiring conversations with independent artists, creatives, entrepreneurs, and visionaries making their mark on the world. We couldn't think of a better way to kick off a brand-new season than with today's guest, Jordan Occasionally.
A singer, songwriter, and storyteller whose music blends heartfelt emotion with honest experiences, Jordan has built a reputation for creating songs that resonate long after the music stops.
Today, Danielle sits down with Jordan to talk about the creative process, life's unexpected turns, the inspiration behind the music, and what it truly means to stay authentic while pursuing your passion.
You can also see this episode on our YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/@thesanctuaryentertainment :  https://youtu.be/CzGRUv2LBQc 
Thnx for support independent artist and creatives!

We've officially come to the end of Season 6 and what a season it was!!!
Returning guest Joey Marlow (episode 3) and Dose of T.H.A (episode 4 and Season 5 Retro Show host) are here to wrap of the end of the season on Part 2 of the Getting Close S6 Retro Show.
We also reflect on a guest who couldn't make it back due to some sentimental reasons, our episode 5 guest, Sentimental Creatures.
We also take a look back on some our most favorite GCU! Game Times highlighting Tea with Teash Podcast, King Kihei and IndieFemme Productions.
Make sure you don't miss it.  Season 7 will air July 17th - 7pm.  You can also viewed the video version of this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/7nGH0ipvY18 

Hayden Poling of Tea Leaf (episode 11), Malek Azrael (episode 10) and the Canna Chemist herself, Kim Kambron - Jones of Thraxx Pastry came back to let us know what's going on with them since they taped their episode,on part 1 of the Getting Close S6 Retro Show. Danielle also gives a special mention to Comedian Charles Randolph!
You can see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/b7-e1nGIlxo     
 

We've come to that time when we've reached the end of the season and dare I say we've saved the best for last (naw, cause we've has some great guest throughout this entire season), nonetheless, our finale guest grew up in Kansas City, went to USC on a full ride scholarship came back to KC to study theatre, then made her way to the bright lights of the big city, NY. Finally after a long cross-country drive from NY back to LA, started a multi-media production company with her sister.
Welcome Melanna Gray of IndieFEMME Productions. Providing a safe place for women actors, filmmakers, directors, writers and all around creatives of many kinds, this production company has also expanding into African American Ancestry; giving a platform to sustain the history and culture of African American people during a time when those who shall remain nameless, are attempting to erase it.
You can see the video of this episode on our YouTube channel:https:https:  //youtu.be/ZtlBs-I3kRQ  

Welcoming to the purple chairs, we have the band,.......Tea Leaf.  
This band blew us away when they hit the stage.  From their soulful sound to their heart-felt lyrics, this band was an unexpected thrill.  Note:  we were not the only ones, the sound guys were back there partying with us!
Lucas, Nick and Hayden sit down with Danielle to really give us what is behind the songs (oh and the name as well).  They talk about their recording process, how they manage the financials and finds out who each individual is  that make up this sound.  
You do not want to miss this episode.
You can see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtu.be/DNCLzFYZh0E    

I know you've heard the saying "Art Imitating Life", but I'm going to pin a new cliché for this artist "Life Dictating Art". Whether the song is about his own experiences or he channels someone else's, the only way to truly know this book of secrets is by reading the pages within. I introduce you to Malek Azrael front man of the band Malek Azrael and the Vibes.
Danielle and Malek have one of the most personal interviews we've had since S6E1 Stephonne. Though naturally shy, Malek is extremely vulnerable and transparent, giving insight into his youth, feelings of isolation, insight into where the music comes from and the navigations of being the front man of a band who's collective talent is undeniable. You don't want to miss this interview.
You can also check out the video version of this interview on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/iP6W9_6F_m0 

"Dreams are aspirations one has a deep desire to achieve."  
Our next guest is a man of many dreams, but his aspirations are becoming reality.  Welcome to the purple chairs comedian, author, film maker and now adding rapper to his arsenal, Charles Randolph.
Charles reached out to us on Instagram and we were happy to oblige.  Danielle and Charles sat down to dig into the mind of a creative with many talents in just enough time to get an invitation to the premier of the debut of his first attempt in making a movie, "Open Mic".  Opening the door for other local talent, which opened his eyes to new endeavors for his children's books. This creative is making it all happen!!!
You can also check out the video version of this interview on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/PU9BTbxKkMM