Twin Cities Voices

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Twin Cities Voices

Twin Cities Voices Twin Cities based series of micro-docs illuminating the unique perspectives and different experiences in our community.

05/17/2019

A Saint Paul native, Mayor Melvin Carter is determined to impact his beloved city in the best possible way. His mission is to focus on the individual and help build his citizens up, as opposed to building more physical structures (an approach others have taken in the past). Mayor Carter regularly takes time out of his busy day to interact with the community, primarily the youth, to ensure everyone feels acknowledged and a part of their city. He believes that "if we want to build a city that works for all of us, it's going to take all of us doing some of the work."t.

In this interview Mayor Carter talks about his humble beginnings, the best parts of his job, and his "For Saint Paul" initiative. Check it out!

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/twin-cities-voices-mayor-carter

05/10/2019

Lady Midnight is dedicated to creating a unique experience with her music. Each performance is an intersection of her artistic skills (visuals, costumes, and sound), delivering the boldest shows in the Twin Cities music scene. Lady Midnight makes music to express her experiences with culture, feminism, and race. P((o))wer, the latest single from her upcoming album Death Before Mourning, is an anthem for womanhood and "demonstrates her vocal ability and capability to connect with her listeners". Her sublime aesthetic paired with smooth sounds makes Lady Midnight the stand-out artist she is. In this interview Lady Midnight discusses her journey to becoming a solo artist, her debut album, and why uncomfortable topics are important to discuss.

You can keep up with Lady Midnight on all streaming platforms, or on Instagram at and

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-lady-midnight

05/03/2019

Heather Friedli loves the outdoors. She has been a professional snow sculptor for nearly 10 years, and recently won first place at at the National Snow Sculpting Competition in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Heather also frequents Minnesota's state parks, which inspire the colorful, sweeping landscapes she paints. Feeling deeply connected to the land through her Mexican and Indigenous American background, her paintings and sculptures give her a chance to interact with nature, and to explore what the land truly means to her. In this interview Heather discusses her family's lineage of creative people, her favorite art pieces, and her upcoming solo show.

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-heather-friedli-snow-sculptures-paintings

This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

04/12/2019

Justin Scott Novak first got into drag only a few years ago. Since then his persona Nocturna Lee Mission has grown into a huge part of his life. So what is Nocturna's aesthetic? Goth, horror, glam, cosplay, and everything in between. Fundamentally inspired by anything creepy Nocturna's unique variety of looks keeps her in high demand, hosting shows all over the Twin Cities Area. And while she serves plenty of high energy and glamorous vibes, her EmoNite sets at Honey and First Ave are a local hit. In this interview Nocturna discusses drag as a creative outlet, the hard work that goes into every look, her influences and role models, and more. Check it out!

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/twin-cities-voices-nocturna

03/29/2019

What started as a crowd-funded idea has grown into a haven for Minneapolis women. The Coven, an inclusive workspace for women and non-binary folks, has changed what it can look like to be a start up while keeping a focus on empowerment and diversity. Founding members Alex West Steinman, Liz Giel, Bethany Iverson, and Erinn Farrell looked to the community to develop a mission that satisfied the needs of the women around them. What they've built is an environment that is conducive to both doing work within beautiful and well designed offices and conference rooms, but also to the exigencies of being a working woman by providing networking, amenities, and a sense of community she might not find elsewhere. In this interview, Steinman, Giel, and Iverson discuss what being a member to The Coven is like, their advice to upcoming entrepreneurs, and how their friendship keeps the business strong.

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/twin-cities-voices-the-coven

03/22/2019

Brad Menninga is a full time ceramic artist working out of his home studio. A dynamic artist, he creates both functional and sculptural designs. He often changes his style out of boredom and a need for growth in his work, leading to his diverse portfolio. With a background in activism and labor organizing, Brad Menninga Art is motivated to document the world around him, and uses clay to preserve his perspectives on politics and the modern human condition. In this interview he talks about his (explosive) journey into ceramics, what its like being surrounded by creativity, and the complicated relationship he often has with his pieces.

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-ceramic-art-of-brad-menninga

This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

03/15/2019

Guillermo Guardia's ceramic work is so stunning that it can be hard to believe it began as a lump of clay. Originally from Peru, Guillermo recently moved to the Twin Cities after studying and living in North Dakota, and hopes to find a broader ceramic community here. He uses his culture and childhood as an inspiration for many of his pieces, as well as politics, religion, and pop culture. In this interview Guillermo discusses his strongest series "Baby Devils", what his journey as a ceramic artist has been, and what why having a sense of "home" is important in his work.

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-ceramic-guillermo-guardia

This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

03/14/2019

Angela Woosley, a senior teaching specialist in the Mortuary Sciences program, is featured as part of The CW Twin Cities Twin Cities Voices. Learn more about her sense of duty and compassion in what she does: ow.ly/2QaU30o27tS

03/07/2019

A sense of duty and compassion is what lead Angela Woosley to become a mortician. Now as a Senior Teaching Specialist for the University of Minnesota Program of Mortuary Science, she demonstrates that compassion with her students who are pursuing the career. And while the idea of working with the dead makes many uncomfortable, Angela gives a fresh perspective on morticians and funeral directors, and stresses that her job is mostly working with the living to properly commemorate and and prepare loved ones for their "home-going". The connection morticians make with their patients is both a great responsibility and honor that they don't take lightly.

In this interview Angela discusses the diverse curriculum of the program, her experiences in the field, and students offer their advice to people interested in the program.

View the full interview here: http://thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-mortuary-science-uofm

Special thanks to University of Minnesota and University of Minnesota Medical School for collaborating with The CW Twin Cities

02/13/2019

A recent transplant to the Twin Cities from the American Southwest, Stephen Poling is getting his feet wet in the visual art community of Minneapolis and St. Paul. A gardener by day, Stephen Poling Art is deeply inspired by nature. He finds inspiration for his paintings from Minnesota's diverse landscapes of trees and water. In this interview Stephen talks about his experience moving into the artist's residence Schmidt Lofts, his obsession with painting, and how he wants his work to evolve.

View the full interview here: http://thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-painter-stephen-poling

This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

02/08/2019

Kasey Payette has always been in love with storytelling. Over the years her writing style has evolved into a focus on fiction and creative non-fiction, primarily in short stories and personal essays. Kasey's short stories are been published in writing journals across the country, and recently won a grant from The Minnesota State Arts Board to focus on writing her first novel. In this interview Kasey tells us what life as an upcoming writer is like, how she integrates her writing with her job at the Minnesota Literacy Council. and the inspiration behind her upcoming novel.

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-writer-kasey-payette

This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

02/01/2019

Marisha Chamberlain is a local author and playwright living and working out of St. Paul, MN. She has made her home an oasis of inspiration by surrounding herself with beautifully bound books, posters, and other things that promote her writing. In this interview Marisha tells us how she keeps up her writing stamina, what her working routine is like, and how her writing not only touches her readers, but how it personally helps her heal with the obstacles of life.

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-author-marisha-chamberlain

This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

01/14/2019

Jerry Kosak - Guitar was lucky - he knew right away what his calling was. It wasn't until after college that he picked up a guitar for the first time, but once he did there was no turning back. Kosak has been playing "solo finger-style guitar" since the 1990s, teaching music inbetween gigs. In this interview Kosak describes his style of music, the amazing story of how he found his steel guitar, and why it's important to make music for yourself first.

View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-guitarist-jerry-kosak

This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

01/07/2019

Shaina McCoy is an artist and painter based in The Twin Cities that uses texture and color in all her work. While developing her style over the last eight years, her family has remained her inspiration and motivation to do what she loves. This passion definitley comes through in Shaina McCoy Paintings. In this interview Shaina talks about the process and effort that goes into painting, how her work has evolved over the years, and the little things she keeps around her in her creative space that helps her feel inspired and connected to her work.

More information here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-shaina-mccoy

12/06/2018

Twin Cities Voices: Sun Yung Shin Sun Yung Shin is an accomplished writer and poet. Her work seeks to connect and expatiate marginalized voices, be it through her books, poetry, or online newspaper Twin Cities Daily Planet. She has emerged as a titan in the local literary scene, and discusses how she found her way into poetry, the reception her books have had, and why its important to be keep asking the hard questions. A Chicago transplant, Sun Yung has grown to love the thriving writing community that the Twin Cities has to offer while also recognizing the work Minnesotans need to do to make sure its as diverse as it should be.

Watch the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-sun-yung-shin-author

11/07/2018

Twin Cities Voices: Brigid Fitzgerald has been doing aerial and circus arts for over 15 years. Once a student there, she is now a performer and coach at Xelias Aerial Arts - Northeast Minneapolis’ premiere aerial institution. And while circus arts can look deceivingly simple, Brigid stresses to not try it at home. Xelias offers classes to all ages for all skill levels. And while many students come to learn the skill, many stay for the supportive and encouraging environment; “Confidence, courage, strength!” In the full interview, Brigid talks about how she became involved in aerial arts, choreography, and how emotionally rewarding it is to coach at Xelias.

Watch the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-xelias

10/10/2018

Twin Cities Voices: Gabe Steinberg is the founder of The Underland Project, a non-profit organization that seeks to raise visibility and encourage self-advocacy of youth and young adults with developmental disabilities. When Gabe started out he had no idea the impact that his organization would have on both his cast and himself, leaving them forever inspired. What began as a series of feature film has grown into a partnership with Green Screen Studio, a network of educational content, and expansive film productions.

Watch the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-gabe-underland-project

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Videos

Lady Midnight is Unapologetically Bold

Lady Midnight is dedicated to creating a unique experience with her music. Each performance is an intersection of her artistic skills (visuals, costumes, and sound), delivering the boldest shows in the Twin Cities music scene. Lady Midnight makes music to express her experiences with culture, feminism, and race. P((o))wer, the latest single from her upcoming album Death Before Mourning, is an anthem for womanhood and "demonstrates her vocal ability and capability to connect with her listeners". Her sublime aesthetic paired with smooth sounds makes Lady Midnight the stand-out artist she is. In this interview Lady Midnight discusses her journey to becoming a solo artist, her debut album, and why uncomfortable topics are important to discuss. You can keep up with Lady Midnight on all streaming platforms, or on Instagram at @l8dmidnight and @midnightrrs View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-lady-midnight

Twin Cities Voices: Mayor Carter and The City of Saint Paul

A Saint Paul native, Mayor Melvin Carter is determined to impact his beloved city in the best possible way. His mission is to focus on the individual and help build his citizens up, as opposed to building more physical structures (an approach others have taken in the past). Mayor Carter regularly takes time out of his busy day to interact with the community, primarily the youth, to ensure everyone feels acknowledged and a part of their city. He believes that "if we want to build a city that works for all of us, it's going to take all of us doing some of the work."t. In this interview Mayor Carter talks about his humble beginnings, the best parts of his job, and his "For Saint Paul" initiative. Check it out! View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/twin-cities-voices-mayor-carter

Nocturna the Goth-Glam Drag Queen

Justin Scott Novak first got into drag only a few years ago. Since then his persona Nocturna Lee Mission has grown into a huge part of his life. So what is Nocturna's aesthetic? Goth, horror, glam, cosplay, and everything in between. Fundamentally inspired by anything creepy Nocturna's unique variety of looks keeps her in high demand, hosting shows all over the Twin Cities Area. And while she serves plenty of high energy and glamorous vibes, her EmoNite sets at Honey and First Ave are a local hit. In this interview Nocturna discusses drag as a creative outlet, the hard work that goes into every look, her influences and role models, and more. Check it out! View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/twin-cities-voices-nocturna

"The Coven" and Creating More Spaces for Women

What started as a crowd-funded idea has grown into a haven for Minneapolis women. The Coven, an inclusive workspace for women and non-binary folks, has changed what it can look like to be a start up while keeping a focus on empowerment and diversity. Founding members Alex West Steinman, Liz Giel, Bethany Iverson, and Erinn Farrell looked to the community to develop a mission that satisfied the needs of the women around them. What they've built is an environment that is conducive to both doing work within beautiful and well designed offices and conference rooms, but also to the exigencies of being a working woman by providing networking, amenities, and a sense of community she might not find elsewhere. In this interview, Steinman, Giel, and Iverson discuss what being a member to The Coven is like, their advice to upcoming entrepreneurs, and how their friendship keeps the business strong. View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/twin-cities-voices-the-coven

Mortuary Science with Angela Woosley

A sense of duty and compassion is what lead Angela Woosley to become a mortician. Now as a Senior Teaching Specialist for the University of Minnesota Program of Mortuary Science, she demonstrates that compassion with her students who are pursuing the career. And while the idea of working with the dead makes many uncomfortable, Angela gives a fresh perspective on morticians and funeral directors, and stresses that her job is mostly working with the living to properly commemorate and and prepare loved ones for their "home-going". The connection morticians make with their patients is both a great responsibility and honor that they don't take lightly. In this interview Angela discusses the diverse curriculum of the program, her experiences in the field, and students offer their advice to people interested in the program. View the full interview here: http://thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-mortuary-science-uofm Special thanks to University of Minnesota and University of Minnesota Medical School for collaborating with The CW Twin Cities

Twin Cities Voices: Heather Friedli's Landscape Inspired Snow Sculptures & Paintings

Heather Friedli loves the outdoors. She has been a professional snow sculptor for nearly 10 years, and recently won first place at at the National Snow Sculpting Competition in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Heather also frequents Minnesota's state parks, which inspire the colorful, sweeping landscapes she paints. Feeling deeply connected to the land through her Mexican and Indigenous American background, her paintings and sculptures give her a chance to interact with nature, and to explore what the land truly means to her. In this interview Heather discusses her family's lineage of creative people, her favorite art pieces, and her upcoming solo show. View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-heather-friedli-snow-sculptures-paintings This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

The Intricate Ceramic Art of Brad Menninga

Brad Menninga is a full time ceramic artist working out of his home studio. A dynamic artist, he creates both functional and sculptural designs. He often changes his style out of boredom and a need for growth in his work, leading to his diverse portfolio. With a background in activism and labor organizing, Brad Menninga Art is motivated to document the world around him, and uses clay to preserve his perspectives on politics and the modern human condition. In this interview he talks about his (explosive) journey into ceramics, what its like being surrounded by creativity, and the complicated relationship he often has with his pieces. View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-ceramic-art-of-brad-menninga This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

Painting is Stephen Poling's Obsession

A recent transplant to the Twin Cities from the American Southwest, Stephen Poling is getting his feet wet in the visual art community of Minneapolis and St. Paul. A gardener by day, Stephen Poling Art is deeply inspired by nature. He finds inspiration for his paintings from Minnesota's diverse landscapes of trees and water. In this interview Stephen talks about his experience moving into the artist's residence Schmidt Lofts, his obsession with painting, and how he wants his work to evolve. View the full interview here: http://thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-painter-stephen-poling This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

Ceramic Artist and Sculptor Guillermo Guardia Shows Off His Work

Guillermo Guardia's ceramic work is so stunning that it can be hard to believe it began as a lump of clay. Originally from Peru, Guillermo recently moved to the Twin Cities after studying and living in North Dakota, and hopes to find a broader ceramic community here. He uses his culture and childhood as an inspiration for many of his pieces, as well as politics, religion, and pop culture. In this interview Guillermo discusses his strongest series "Baby Devils", what his journey as a ceramic artist has been, and what why having a sense of "home" is important in his work. View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-ceramic-guillermo-guardia This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

Dynamic Local Writer Kasey Payette

Kasey Payette has always been in love with storytelling. Over the years her writing style has evolved into a focus on fiction and creative non-fiction, primarily in short stories and personal essays. Kasey's short stories are been published in writing journals across the country, and recently won a grant from The Minnesota State Arts Board to focus on writing her first novel. In this interview Kasey tells us what life as an upcoming writer is like, how she integrates her writing with her job at the Minnesota Literacy Council. and the inspiration behind her upcoming novel. View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-writer-kasey-payette This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

Author and Playwright Marisha Chamberlain

Marisha Chamberlain is a local author and playwright living and working out of St. Paul, MN. She has made her home an oasis of inspiration by surrounding herself with beautifully bound books, posters, and other things that promote her writing. In this interview Marisha tells us how she keeps up her writing stamina, what her working routine is like, and how her writing not only touches her readers, but how it personally helps her heal with the obstacles of life. View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-author-marisha-chamberlain This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!

Local Guitarist Jerry Kosak

Jerry Kosak - Guitar was lucky - he knew right away what his calling was. It wasn't until after college that he picked up a guitar for the first time, but once he did there was no turning back. Kosak has been playing "solo finger-style guitar" since the 1990s, teaching music inbetween gigs. In this interview Kosak describes his style of music, the amazing story of how he found his steel guitar, and why it's important to make music for yourself first. View the full interview here: thecwtc.com/news/local/voices-guitarist-jerry-kosak This episode is part of Twin Cities Voices' Schmidt Artist Series. Stay tuned for more!