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A Song Called Life

A Song Called Life

By Osi Atikpoh

A Song Called Life is a podcast hosted by musician Osi Atikpoh, featuring a diverse range of guests including artists, comedians, experts, and entrepreneurs. Each episode offers engaging and authentic conversation, providing listeners with the opportunity to learn and be entertained. This podcast is ideal for those who enjoy real conversation and discovering new ideas.
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Episode #87: Reality Winner

A Song Called LifeAug 25, 2022

00:00
46:15
Episode #144: Dr. Marcus Hunter

Episode #144: Dr. Marcus Hunter

In Episode #144, Dr. Marcus Hunter engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Osi on the contentious topic of reparations for African-Americans. They explore the compelling arguments supporting reparations and encourage a reevaluation of our perspectives on this matter. Additionally, they analyze recent polling data indicating a notable shift among black voters, traditionally aligned with the Democratic party, contemplating backing Trump in the upcoming presidential election.



Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter is the Scott Waugh Endowed Chair in the Social Sciences Division, Professor of Sociology & African American Studies at UCLA. Coiner of #BlackLivesMatter, he is the author & editor of five books, including Radical Reparations: Healing the Soul of a Nation (HarperCollins/Amistad, 2024). Professor Hunter served as the Inaugural Chair of UCLA’s African American Studies Department and President of the Association of Black Sociologists. The National Science Foundation and Social Science Research Council have also supported his research. In addition, Hunter drafted and advised Congresswoman Barbara Lee’s historic Bill to establish the first-ever US Truth, Racial Healing, & Transformation Commission. He has appeared on C-SPAN’s BookTV, MSNBC, BBC, NPR, the Sacramento Bee, the Los Angeles Times, the LA Sentinel, USA Today, the Daily Beast, the Washington Post, and the New York Times.

Mar 26, 202401:19:34
Episode #143: Diana Winston

Episode #143: Diana Winston

Diana Winston, hailed as one of the nation's most prominent mindfulness teachers, joins Osi in Episode #143. They explore possible reasons behind why practices such as meditation and mindfulness haven't resonated as deeply with the Western world compared to other regions, common misconceptions surrounding mindfulness, Diana's firsthand experiences living as a Buddhist nun for a year, and more.


Diana Winston is the Director of Mindfulness Education at UCLA's Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC) and the author of The Little Book of Being: Practices and Guidance for Uncovering Your Natural Awareness. Called by the Los Angeles Times “one of the nation’s best-known teachers of mindfulness,” she has taught mindfulness since 1999 in a variety of settings including hospitals, universities, corporations, nonprofits, and schools in the US and Asia. A sought-after speaker, she developed the evidence-based Mindful Awareness Practices (MAPS) curriculum and the Training in Mindfulness Facilitation, which trains mindfulness teachers worldwide. She is a founding board member of the International Mindfulness Teachers Association.

Mar 19, 202401:00:04
Episode #142: Dr. Wael AbdAlmageed

Episode #142: Dr. Wael AbdAlmageed

In Episode #142, Osi welcomes Deepfake and AI expert, Dr. Wael AbdAlmageed, to cover the growing concerns surrounding deepfake technology. The discussion encompasses the formidable challenges posed by deepfakes, their potential impact on societal dynamics, especially in critical events such as elections, and the profound consequences of a future where visual trust becomes increasingly uncertain.


Dr. Wael Abd-Almageed is a Research Associate Professor at Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and a Research Director with Information Sciences Institute, both are units of USC Viterbi School of Engineering. He is the Founding Director of the Visual Intelligence and Multimedia Analytics Laboratory (VIMAL). His research interests include representation learning, debiasing and fair representations, multimedia forensics and visual misinformation identification (such as deepfake and image manipulation detection) and face recognition and biometric anti-spoofing.

Mar 08, 202453:51
Episode #141: Jake Ward
Mar 01, 202401:22:56
Episode #140: Chad Gerber

Episode #140: Chad Gerber

In this week's podcast episode, futurist and musician Chad Gerber joins Osi to delve into the recent advancements in AI technology and their potential impact on film, music, and various industries. Additionally, they contemplate whether lawmakers and educators will be able to adeptly keep pace with the swiftly advancing field of AI.


Chad Gerber is a dynamic figure at the forefront of music, technology, and innovation. A Gold and Platinum-selling artist, inventor, and Chief Innovation Officer at Meloscene, he seamlessly blends artistic creativity with technical prowess. As the mind behind the Scenekey AR/VR interface and low-latency studio collaboration technology, Gerber shapes the future of music creation

Feb 28, 202401:26:14
Episode #139: Brad Rowe

Episode #139: Brad Rowe

This week, Osi is joined by criminal justice expert Brad Rowe in a compelling episode centered around cannabis reform. Together, they explore the intricate history of cannabis in the United States, tackle the contemporary challenges confronting the cannabis industry, and delve into broader aspects of this complex issue.


Brad Rowe has designed, researched, run and delivered a dozen public policy research projects over the last six years through his time running BOTEC Analysis, with UCLA, and with Avenu Cannabis Support Services. Brad is Adjunct Professor of criminal justice, cannabis and other drug policy at Pepperdine University School of Public Policy and Lecturer of Public Policy at UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs. He serves on the Board of Advisors for the UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative and coordinates the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Research team there. He sits on the Board of Advisors to the Los Angeles County Health Impact assessment on cannabis. He spent much of 2018 working with over a dozen localities across California helping them set their regulations, staff out municipal departments, develop effective tax and enforcement policies, select and award licensees, and convene community groups for educational sessions on licensing, use, and general public health and public safety education.


Feb 16, 202401:20:49
Episode #138: Dr. Carrie Bearden

Episode #138: Dr. Carrie Bearden

Carrie E. Bearden, Ph.D., is an esteemed Professor with a multifaceted presence in the academic landscape. Holding positions in the Departments of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Psychology, and the Brain Research Institute at UCLA, Dr. Bearden stands at the forefront of cutting-edge research. Her work is dedicated to unraveling the intricacies of serious mental illnesses, with a primary emphasis on discerning the genetic and biological vulnerability markers that underlie these conditions. Through her expertise, Dr. Bearden contributes significantly to advancing our understanding of the complex intersection between genetics and mental health, paving the way for innovative approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

Feb 02, 202401:02:31
Episode #137: Geena Russo

Episode #137: Geena Russo

Author Geena Russo joins Osi in this week's episode to to explore her debut book, "Sydney's Adventure in New Mexico." They dive into the challenges that accompany the process of writing and publishing your first book, why writing for children is harder than you'd think, and more.


Visit https://bit.ly/48GxZV6 to get yourself or a child near you a copy of Sydney's Adventure in New Mexico.


Geena Russo is a long-time writer, first-time author. During the day G writes blogs, social media content, press releases and the like. By night, G uses words to imagine what Sydney is thinking. A children’s book was a surprise venture, but publishing something was always the dream.

Connect with G on IG:

Author: geena_russo_reads

Book: sydneyadventurebooks

Jan 15, 202443:31
Episode #136: PIXIEPUNK

Episode #136: PIXIEPUNK

PIXIEPUNK represents more than just a musical ensemble; it stands as a dynamic cultural movement propelled by the collaborative synergy of TJ, emanating from the vibrant pulse of New York City, and LYNZI, hailing from the serene landscapes of a rural Texan town. The serendipity of their musical convergence unfolded amidst the captivating backdrop of Costa Rica in 2019 during a songwriters workshop, where an instantaneous connection sparked a prolific creative partnership. Their compositions effortlessly blend influences from the timeless allure of Fleetwood Mac to the avant-garde innovation reminiscent of Kanye West merged with the genre-defying essence of Twenty One Pilots, crafting a musical narrative that seamlessly weaves between vintage charm and ethereal allure.


Formerly recognized as "Mercury & the Architects," their journey has been a testament to resilience and unwavering commitment. Achieving acclaim with self-released tracks and visuals, the duo, TJ and LYNZI, navigated a labyrinth of experiences – from triumphant nights in front of sold-out crowds in Los Angeles to the exhilarating highs of sync placements. Their path, however, was marked by health challenges, the unforeseen disruptions of a global pandemic, and a complex web of business dealings. Through these tribulations, their shared passion not only anchored them but also fueled an unyielding dedication to their craft.


PIXIEPUNK is a manifestation of artistic evolution, a project that transcends the boundaries of conventional music. With each obstacle encountered, TJ and LYNZI emerged not only stronger but also imbued with a profound wisdom that enriches their creative expression. Rooted in a commitment to authenticity, PIXIEPUNK stands poised at the intersection of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering passion for crafting a musical experience that transcends the ordinary.

Jan 08, 202402:49:58
Episode #135: 2023 Wrapped

Episode #135: 2023 Wrapped

In this podcast episode, Osi explores the major events and stories that defined 2023, emphasizing their impact as they transition into the new year. Additionally, he shares his personal highlights, including favorite movies, funny moments, and more from the past year.

Jan 01, 202401:08:18
Episode #134: Kayla Esmond

Episode #134: Kayla Esmond

Kayla Esmond is a Los Angeles-based comedian and actress, originally from Hawaii and raised in Texas. She holds a B.A. in Musical Theater from Ouachita Baptist University (2014). In Little Rock, Arkansas, Kayla excelled in various roles on stage and screen, co-founding the comedy sketch troupe Tyrannosaurus Sketch.

As a stand-up comedian, Kayla earned recognition at Loony Bin Comedy Clubs and was crowned Best Undiscovered Comic in Arkansas. She showcased her comedic prowess at major festivals, including the DC Comedy Festival, The Art of Female Comedy Festival, and The World Series of Comedy. Sharing the stage with notable comedians like AJ Johnson and Mo Alexander, Kayla continues to make her mark in the entertainment industry.

Dec 29, 202301:41:58
Episode #133: Andy Van

Episode #133: Andy Van

Andy Van, a versatile entertainer, excels as a stand-up comedian, actor, and writer. With years of experience, he has masterfully hosted and MCed various large events nationwide, from captivating fashion shows to enchanting weddings. Recently relocating from the Bay Area via San Diego to LA, Andy has been leaving his mark on the local comedy scene, gracing iconic venues such as the Comedy Store, The Ice House, and Flappers Comedy Club with his irresistible charm and wit.
Dec 21, 202301:23:36
Episode #132: Akinola Pedro

Episode #132: Akinola Pedro

Akinola Pedro, also formerly known as AkinG Kalld Pedro is an American musician, songwriter, rapper, and record producer. Akinola is best known for his breakout single Traffic.jam, which was featured on NBA 2K 2020 and co-signed by Steve Stoute’s UnitedMasters & Kevin Durant. In 2020, his single "INTERNACIONAL!” Which earned him a placement on NBA 2K21 gave Pedro back-to-back placements with 2k sports and In the following year, Pedro released his debut album “Children of Immigrants!” and became a brand ambassador with clothing company, Pendleton Woolen Mills in 2022.
Dec 18, 202302:08:19
Episode #131: EmanuelDaPhrophet

Episode #131: EmanuelDaPhrophet

EmanuelDaProphet, the rising star originally hailing from Michigan, now calls Columbus, Ohio home. His journey began in 2020, marked by doubt and limited support, but he has since undergone a remarkable transformation, making a complete 180-degree turn in his career. EmanuelDaProphet is more than just an artist; he's a captivating Gospel musician who seamlessly fuses elements from various genres, including Rap and Hip-Hop. His music not only boasts infectious hooks but also delivers a powerful narrative, intertwined with a hard-hitting flow that injects realism into every lyric. With each song, EmanuelDaProphet weaves a compelling story, creating content that not only captivates the ears but also engages the soul.
Nov 30, 202332:09
Episode #130: Israel/Palestine Discussion with Dr. David Myers

Episode #130: Israel/Palestine Discussion with Dr. David Myers


David N. Myers, a distinguished professor and accomplished author, holds the Sady and Ludwig Kahn Chair in Jewish History at UCLA. Since fall 2017, he has also served as the director of the Luskin Center for History and Policy and leads the UCLA Initiative to Study Hate. With a background in graduate studies at Tel-Aviv, Harvard, and Columbia Universities, Myers is renowned for his significant contributions to modern Jewish intellectual and cultural history. He has authored six books and played a pivotal role in editing or co-editing eleven others. His book, "American Shtetl: The Making of Kiryas Joel, a Hasidic Village in Upstate New York," earned him the prestigious 2022 National Jewish Book Award in American Jewish Studies.

Nov 16, 202301:18:32
Episode #129: Corey Kang

Episode #129: Corey Kang

Corey Kang, a Los Angeles-based stand-up comedian, brings his unique comedic style to the stage. Hailing from the vibrant streets of Miami, Corey offers fresh perspectives on life with an unapologetically genuine approach that resonates with audiences.

Nov 16, 202301:05:56
Episode #128: Myka Miller

Episode #128: Myka Miller

Myka Miller holds the position of Executive Director at the Guitar Center Music Foundation and concurrently works as a freelance oboist in Los Angeles, CA. In her previous role as the Executive Director of Harmony Project, she successfully managed significant growth in both student enrollment and the program's budget. Initially serving 250 students with a budget of $300,000, she transformed it into an institution catering to over 3,500 students with a budget of $4.9 million. Under her leadership, the Harmony Project received the prestigious "Coming Up Taller" award from the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities and was recognized as a Bright Spot in Hispanic Education during the Obama Administration.


Currently residing in Hollywood, Myka actively participates in various musical endeavors, including collaborations with orchestras, rock and salsa bands, experimental ensembles, and jazz projects. She is a consistent member of Adam Rudolph's avant-garde GO Organic Orchestra and the daKAH hip-hop orchestra.

Oct 27, 202301:25:18
Episode #127: Tim Chonacas

Episode #127: Tim Chonacas

Tim Chonacas is the CEO of Gold Tree Studios as well as the founder and CEO of Untouchable, a well known Independent Feature film Production Company. Untouchable are primarily known for Executive Producing titles such as Kilimanjaro (2013), Some Velvet Morning (2013), All Eyes on Me "2Pac" (2017) and Inconceivable (2017), and more. Chonacas now in 2022 has founded and formed Gold Tree Studios’ first location with his long time friend and Film Development Financing Partner Rom Alborzi, along with his film partner Immerman. It is located in West Hollywood on the legendary Sunset Strip located in the heart of it Sunset Plaza. This studio is second to none and will be the new standard for post productions services and facilities throughout the industry.
Oct 14, 202343:37
Episode #126: Steve Swerdlow

Episode #126: Steve Swerdlow

Steve reunites with Osi for his fourth appearance on the podcast, shedding light on the latest global events. They navigate the evolving tensions between Ukraine and Russia, revisiting pivotal moments since Steve's February discussion. Additionally, they discuss the limited media attention given to the Armenia/Azerbaijan conflict, among other pressing issues.


Steve Swerdlow is an  Associate Professor of the Practice of Human Rights in the Department of Political and International Relations at the University of Southern California. A human rights lawyer and expert on the former Soviet region, Swerdlow was Senior Central Asia researcher at Human Rights Watch, heading the organization’s work on Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, and founding its Kyrgyzstan field office. Swerdlow has worked as a consultant with the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Oct 04, 202301:09:02
Episode #125: Michael Mollo

Episode #125: Michael Mollo

In Episode #125, we are thrilled to welcome back Michael Mollo, one of the first guests to appear on the podcast back in Episode 5. Michael and Osi discuss their experiences while collaborating on Michael's upcoming debut album, Blue Door Records. They discuss themes such as self-discovery through music, the significance of crafting your own definition of success, and more.


Michael Mollo is a musical native of the Pennsylvania mountains. As composer and songwriter in Santa Monica, California, his music can be heard in a number of film, television and game scores. Michael also oversees global operations for Velvet Green Music. The first single, titled "Blue Ramble," from his upcoming debut album will be released on September 29th, 2023. You can listen to this track by clicking on the links below.


Blue Door Records full album release, Friday October 13, 2023


“Born to Ramble” on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/album/2CKHIu8NuZMrwj9PEmBCpt?si=Ogv1MoNbSgO30eBXOTM6gg


“Born To Ramble” Official Music Video

https://youtu.be/xCVvANhYvf8?si=1gnomyTSPiNdNiMb

Sep 29, 202301:15:14
Episode #124: Hana Katana

Episode #124: Hana Katana

Hana Katana is a musician, author, action actress, & content creator from Austin, Texas.

Hana is back on the podcast, joining Osi in this week's episode. The two reconnect and discuss a diverse array of subjects, spanning from their experiences living with insane roommates to their thoughts about the forthcoming 2024 election and its potential candidates, and more.


Sep 20, 202357:41
Episode #123: Big Mac Lawson

Episode #123: Big Mac Lawson

Mac Lawson aka “Big Mac Lawson” is a stand-up comedian based in Miami, Florida. She has past experiences with sketch comedy, modeling, acting, writing, entrepreneurship, and former musician. She is the host of her brand new podcast “Mac After Dark.”

Mac and Osi discuss Mac's journey into stand-up comedy, including a pivotal moment marked by a significant head injury that served as the catalyst for her comedic career. They also discuss the lessons they’ve learned from living in LA, and much more.


Sep 05, 202301:29:18
Episode #122: Sam Landers and Micahel Powers

Episode #122: Sam Landers and Micahel Powers

Sam Landers and Micahel Powers are stand up comedians based in Los Angeles, CA. Together, they host 'Kinda Big,’ a weekly comedy podcast.

Sam and Michael join Osi to discuss their thoughts on the recent congressional hearing where whistleblower David Grusch confirmed the existence of non-human entities visiting Earth. They also discuss the unique path of becoming a comedian or in Osi's case, a professional tuba player, and everything that has to go wrong (or right?) to find yourself on these paths.
Aug 25, 202344:24
Episode #121: Sanford Williams

Episode #121: Sanford Williams

In this week’s episode, Sanford Williams joins Osi to discuss the Supreme Court’s overturning of affirmative action, unpacking the implications it holds for the future. They also explore the origins of affirmative action, its historical context, and common misconceptions about its beneficiaries.

Sanford Williams is a lecturer of law at University of California, Los Angeles Law School, and both a special advisor to Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel and a deputy managing director at the Federal Communications Commission. He was a member of the Manassas City, Virginia school board from 2010 –2021, and served as chair from 2018–2021—the first African American chairman of the Manassas City school board. He is also a member of the board of directors of Kids in the Spotlight, a Los Angeles County–based organization that helps foster youth heal and grow from trauma through storytelling and filmmaking.
Aug 08, 202301:02:03
Episode #120: Liz Zagone

Episode #120: Liz Zagone

Liz Zagone is a Los Angeles-based stand-up comedian. She is the host and co-producer of 'Bitch N Purge', a monthly live comedy show where people share their hilarious stories about working in the service industry.


Liz joins Osi in this week’s episode to share her experiences as a comedian in LA, having come from Chicago and adjusting to a new scene. Additionally, she talks about how being a bartender complements her life as a comedian and more.


Jul 26, 202301:42:22
 Episode #119: LX Xander

Episode #119: LX Xander


LX Xander joins Osi on this week's episode to discuss the most wholesome and least problematic industry out there. You guessed it: the music industry. They dive into what gives the music industry its questionable reputation, how artists often find themselves in unfavorable situations, the culture of the music industry in Los Angeles, and much more.



Hailing all the way from North England, LX Xander is a Billboard-charting music producer based in Los Angeles, CA. He has worked with artists such as Lil Uzi Vert, Kodak Black, Rick Ross, Fetty Wap, and many more.


Jun 22, 202301:00:59
Episode #118: DJ KZA

Episode #118: DJ KZA

DJ KZA is a multi-talented artist hailing from San Diego, CA, known for his skills as a producer, designer, and of course, a DJ. KZA reveals the fascinating story of his journey into the world of DJing, his exhilarating experience performing at Coachella for the very first time, his unique insights into what sets exceptional DJs apart from their counterparts, and more.



Jun 15, 202301:05:39
Episode #117: Drizzy Tae

Episode #117: Drizzy Tae

At just 15 years old, Drizzy Tae is a rising young artist determined to prove his place among top emerging artists . Hailing from Arkansas, this self-proclaimed "youngest 'n hottest" artist is building a powerful following and making waves with his catchy tracks and relentless dedication to his craft. Listen to his latest album, "Young Goat 2," available on all streaming platforms.


Instagram: @DrizzyTae

TikTok: @DrizzyTae

Jun 08, 202354:57
Episode #116: Dr. Shushan Karapetian

Episode #116: Dr. Shushan Karapetian

Shushan Karapetian is the director of the USC Institute of Armenian Studies. Her research focuses on the intersection of language and transnational Armenian identity. She also hosts a podcast series “Language Therapy with Dr. K.”

Jun 05, 202301:27:56
Episode #115: Travis Marsh

Episode #115: Travis Marsh

Travis Marsh is a multi-platinum top 100 billboard producer. He started out in Nashville touring with Joel Crouse opening for all the huge country acts as the utility player and backing vocalist. Travis has gone on to produce and work with some of the biggest R&B and Hip-Hop artists today. Some wins are: Boogie wit da hoodie, French Montana, Drake, G Herbo, Kid Cudi, Lil Durk, Teyana Taylor, Lil Zay Osama, Young Nudy, Rotimi, Offset, Kelly Rowland. Gashi & PARTYNEXTDOOR. He has also scored for Amazon, Netflix and has songs placed in major motion pictures.

May 30, 202301:00:58
Episode #114: Margaux Avedisian

Episode #114: Margaux Avedisian

Margaux Avedisian, whom the Wall Street Journal called "The Queen of Bitcoin," is Co-Founder and CEO  at Beyond the Runway, a revolutionary online shopping platform that empowers consumers to try on clothes with a custom-fit virtual avatar. Margaux has more than a decade of experience as an entrepreneur on the ground floor of innovative technology. In her work, Margaux has connected hundreds of entrepreneurs with business leaders, technologists, policymakers, and creatives to promote tech startups and cryptocurrency. She has spoken at numerous conferences and had a podcast, Burning Bridges with Margaux. She has a BA from Mount Holyoke College and an MFA in Fashion Merchandising from the Academy of Art University. She is also a standup comedian who performed in the Mike Tyson mansion from The Hangover, SXSW, Carolines on Broadway, NY Comedy Club, Greenwich Comedy Club, and many others.




May 23, 202354:58
Episode #113: Mike Kim

Episode #113: Mike Kim

In this week's episode, Osi is joined by stand-up comedian Mike Kim, who shares his incredible journey of pursuing his passion and leaving his job to follow his dreams. Additionally, they cover a wide range of wacky topics that will either evoke laughter or spark curiosity.

Mike Kim is a stand-up comic, actor, and improvisor living in Los Angeles, CA. After graduating college and working marketing jobs that sucked the soul out of his being with a straw, he decided to trade it all for the pursuit of happiness.

May 11, 202302:33:05
Episode #112: Dr. Razia Sahi

Episode #112: Dr. Razia Sahi

Dr. Razia Sahi joins Osi to discuss the fascinating topic of emotional intelligence. In this conversation, they will explore what emotional intelligence is, its role and impact in our relationships, how it can help us better understand ourselves. Additionally, Dr. Sahi shares effective strategies for managing emotional states, both independently and with support from others.

Dr. Razia Sahi systematically unpacks the effects of social support on emotion and well-being across various modalities and contexts. Razia's research aims to promote emotional intelligence in how we understand ourselves, each other, and the world around us. Originally from Texas, she completed her B.A. at New York University, M.A. in Neurophilosophy at Georgia State University, and recently obtained her Ph.D. in Psychology at University of California Los Angeles.
May 04, 202301:16:42
 Episode #111: Jaxodus Roman Volumes

Episode #111: Jaxodus Roman Volumes

Jaxodus and Osi discuss the intricate journey of becoming a successful actor and the unpredictability that comes with it. Furthermore, they shed light on the distinctive challenges of acting compared to other art forms. Jaxodus Roman Volumes is an American actor known for his eccentricity both in the shots and behind the scenes. His early performing arts career began in New York City on various television shows and commercials, including One Life to Live (1968) and Law & Order (1990), winning himself a Ron Millkie Award for Best Actor Performance in 2001. The following summer, Jaxodus kicked off his Hollywood debut when he was featured in two MTV top-chart music videos: as a rebel in frontman Jared Leto's 30 Seconds to Mars: Capricorn (A Brand New Name) (2002) and a boxer in "Dirty" by Christina Aguilera. After a few scene studies and expression sessions under the instruction of Bobbie Shaw Chance, the young actor landed both a general meeting with casting director Mali Finn and a featured role in 10 Attitudes (2001). He then took the field with Ray Liotta to film Chasing 3000 (2010), rebelled with Charlie Hunnam on the series pilot of Sons of Anarchy (2008) and supported Armie Hammer in Billy: The Early Years (2008). In 2009, his extreme brand GOOMBY teamed up with After-School All-Stars, a nonprofit organization led by Arnold Schwarzenegger, to help keep urban children safe and influence happy futures. Next was a grassroots campaign in Philadelphia to graffiti back home. Then a stint in the festival hit The Paper Tiger (2013) to directing Almost Ruined (2018). Childhood pal Major Dodge cast Jaxodus in the punk epic Bomb City (2017), a film awarded in double-digits and showcasing Marilyn Manson.
Apr 28, 202302:10:48
Episode #110: Dr. Lauren E. Wisk

Episode #110: Dr. Lauren E. Wisk

Lauren and Osi discuss the the social and economic factors that play a crucial role in shaping an individual's health outcomes, beyond just biological factors. They also dive into then widespread issue of "Long COVID" - a condition where individuals experience lingering symptoms of COVID-19 for prolonged periods, sometimes even for years after the initial infection.


Dr. Lauren Wisk is an Assistant Professor in the Division of General Internal Medicine & Health Services Research at UCLA, and previously held the position of Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and Research Associate at Boston Children's Hospital. Her research program centers around health and healthcare utilization among young people and their families, particularly those with chronic medical conditions, utilizing a biopsychosocial model, social determinants of health model, and life course framework.


Apr 20, 202301:12:26
Episode #109: Kat Matutina

Episode #109: Kat Matutina

Kat Matutina is a multi-talented entrepreneur who is also a music curator, fitness instructor, wellness coach, podcast host, event coordinator, and private chef. She founded Ass Camp, Mayumi Goods, and Mayumi Skin and promotes natural products for the body and skin while making strength training fun and accessible.

Kat and Osi cover various topics, including the challenges of balancing multiple passions, common misunderstandings about veganism, the dark side of the food industry, valuable lessons learned from traveling abroad, and more.

Apr 13, 202301:52:44
Episode #108: Dr. Richard Castriotta

Episode #108: Dr. Richard Castriotta

Sleep expert Dr. Richard Castriotta sits down with Osi to explore the intriguing link between your sleep quality (or lack thereof) and your daily performance. With his wealth of knowledge in the field of sleep medicine, Dr. Castriotta offers invaluable insights and practical tips to help you achieve optimal sleep, paving the way for a more productive and fulfilling life.

Dr. Castriotta is the director of the Keck/USC Sleep Disorders Center. He is an internationally-recognized leader in pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine as a clinician, teacher and researcher. He has been a pioneer in the field of sleep medicine, establishing a sleep laboratory in 1981 and a formal sleep medicine fellowship program in 1999.


Apr 06, 202358:28
Episode #107: Esin Aydingoz

Episode #107: Esin Aydingoz

Esin and Osi delve into the world of film composition - exploring the key elements that make a great film score, sharing our personal favorite composers, discussing Esin's journey into the industry, and much more.


Esin Aydingoz is a media composer, born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey and currently residing in the USA. She worked on a vast variety of projects including animations, TV series, movies, video games, albums, concerts and musicals, and has recently worked on Tim Burton's hit Netflix series, Wednesday, starring Jenna Ortega. Aydingoz was a part of the music team and arranged some of the hit cover songs in the series such as The Rolling Stones' Paint It Black, which reached #1 on the Billboard Classical Charts and has been streamed on Spotify alone nearly 14 million times in a very short time. She was recently nominated for the prestigious “David Raksin Award for Emerging Talent” for the 4th Annual Society of Composers and Lyricists Awards. Even though she is only 29 years old, she has already accomplished a lot in her career. Her first feature film, Simchas and Sorrows, got distribution from Gravitas Ventures, and her second feature Black Barbie had its world premiere at South by Southwest just a few weeks ago. Aydingoz is currently working as the Assistant Chair of Berklee College of Music's Screen Scoring Department and the secretary for The Alliance for Women Film Composers, for which she has been a board member for four years. She arranged, produced, recorded and assistant music directed for various album and concert projects for Disney Music Group, starred with Olivia Rodrigo in multiple music videos for High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, arranged an orchestral medley for Disney+'s inaugural launch in Turkey, where she also got to perform with Istanbul Film Music Orchestra and wrote additional music on a lot of popular series such as Apple TV's SEE as well as Netflix's Princess Power and The Witcher: Blood Origin, starring Michelle Yeoh. She was recently a fellow at Los Angeles Film Conducting Intensive, where she recorded and conducted her music at Warner Brothers. Aydingoz is also creating some buzz in the concert world. The world premiere of her orchestral and choral piece "A Shattered Fantasy" had its world premiere in October 2022 at Auditorium Stravinski in Montreux and was televised twice on La Télé on New Year's Eve.

Mar 30, 202347:54
Episode #106: Reid Blackman
Mar 09, 202351:55
Episode #105: Cort Casady

Episode #105: Cort Casady

Cort sits down with Osi to talk about his latest book, "Not Your Father's America: An Adventure Raising Triplets in a Country Being Changed by Greed". The book explores Cort's personal journey, including the challenges he and his wife faced with infertility, the loss of a child, and a high-risk triplet pregnancy. They reflect on the America his father and brothers experienced versus the America his triplets are growing up in, exploring how economic injustice, deregulation, and greed are shaping and undermining the American experience. Cort Casady is an American television & documentary writer-producer, author, and playwright. Born in McAllen, Texas, he grew up in San Diego, California, and graduated from Harvard University prior to making his home in Los Angeles. Casady has won two Emmy Awards and three NAACP Image Awards for his work as a television and documentary writer-producer. He won his first Emmy for New York at Night Starring Clint Holmes, a daily, live, prime time variety-talk series he created for Superstation WWOR-New York (1992). He won his second Emmy for the American Film Institute (AFI) Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Mel Brooks (2014). Cort is the coauthor of two previously published books: The Singing Entertainer (with John Davidson, Alfred Publishing), a handbook for professionals, and You Oughta Be Me: How to Be a Lounge Singer and Live Like One by the Fabulous Bud E. Luv (with Ned Claflin, St. Martin’s Press), a humorous faux autobiography
Mar 02, 202301:22:06
Episode #104: Margaux Avedisian

Episode #104: Margaux Avedisian

Margaux Avedisian joins Osi to discuss her entrepreneurial journey and how she became an expert in cryptocurrency. Additionally, we explore the FTX scandal and how Sam Bankman-Fried was able to deceive several experienced investors.

Margaux Avedisian, whom the Wall Street Journal called "The Queen of Bitcoin," is Co-Founder and CEO at Beyond the Runway, a revolutionary online shopping platform that empowers consumers to try on clothes with a custom-fit virtual avatar. Margaux has more than a decade of experience as an entrepreneur on the ground floor of innovative technology. In her work, Margaux has connected hundreds of entrepreneurs with business leaders, technologists, policymakers, and creatives to promote tech startups and cryptocurrency. She has spoken at numerous conferences and had a podcast, Burning Bridges with Margaux. She has a BA from Mount Holyoke College and an MFA in Fashion Merchandising from the Academy of Art University. She is also a standup comedian who performed in the Mike Tyson mansion from The Hangover, SXSW, Carolines on Broadway, NY Comedy Club, Greenwich Comedy Club, and many others.
Feb 23, 202301:21:51
Episode #103: The Dark Net with Julia Norgaard

Episode #103: The Dark Net with Julia Norgaard

Many of you may have heard of the dark net and some of its notorious sites, such as Silk Road and AlphaBay, which sell all kinds of illegal items and services. Julia Norgaard, an economist and professor at Pepperdine University, joins the podcast to share her research on the topic and discuss various aspects of the dark net, including the shocking amount of money exchanged on the markets, the history of its creation, legitimate/legal reasons to use the dark net, the process of building trust as a seller, and much more.

Economist Julia R. Norgaard is an Assistant Professor of Economics at Pepperdine University, where she runs the PEP Talks Research Seminar and the Economics Reading Group. She is affiliated with the Sudreau Global Justice Institute and serves on the External Advisory Council for the International Justice Mission's Center to End Online Sexual Exploitation of Children. Norgaard received her Ph.D from George Mason University in 2017 and her Master's degree in economics in 2015. She also holds a B.A. in economics with a minor in mathematics from The University of San Diego, which she completed in 2012.
Feb 16, 202342:43
Live From Santa Monica: Episode #102 - Steve Swerdlow

Live From Santa Monica: Episode #102 - Steve Swerdlow

In this special episode, the podcast welcomes USC Professor Steve Swerdlow and several of his insightful students to delve into the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict. Kamila Fomin, a Ukrainian student, and Mané Berikyan, an Armenian student, offer their personal perspectives on these complex and pressing issues, adding a unique and valuable layer to the conversation. Join us as we explore the current status of these conflicts and gain a deeper understanding of the human impact they have on those directly affected.

Steve Swerdlow is Associate Professor of the Practice of Human Rights in the Department of Political and International Relations at the University of Southern California. A human rights lawyer and expert on the former Soviet region, Swerdlow was Senior Central Asia researcher at Human Rights Watch, heading the organization’s work on Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, and founding its Kyrgyzstan field office. Swerdlow has worked as a consultant with the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the International Labour Organization (ILO). Earlier Swerdlow was a fellow in the U.S. State Department’s Young Leaders for Public Service program in Russia and worked as a human rights monitor for the Union of Council for Soviet Jews (UCSJ) as their Caucasus monitor in Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia as well as with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Russia.
Feb 09, 202301:42:46
Episode #101: Hana Katana

Episode #101: Hana Katana

Hana Katana is a musician, author, action actress, & content creator from Austin, Texas.


Hana sits down with Osi to share her journey in the music industry, the inspiration behind her becoming a stunt performer, dealing with controversy as a content creator, and more.





Feb 02, 202301:03:19
Episode #100: Thank You

Episode #100: Thank You

As we mark our 100th episode, Osi takes a moment to express gratitude to all who have contributed to the journey so far. He reflects on some of his most memorable episodes and offers a glimpse into the exciting content ahead for the podcast.

Jan 26, 202337:54
Episode #99: MAVRYCK

Episode #99: MAVRYCK

MAVRYCK joins Osi to discuss her new project, “The Fifth Year”, and more. 


MAVRYCK is a multi-talented artist based in the Inland Empire of Southern California. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, she creates music that draws from early 2000s R&B and adds a modern, innovative twist. Her debut project, "The Fifth Year," released in October 2022, offers listeners a unique perspective on a past toxic relationship. With a love for a variety of genres, MAVRYCK is always pushing herself to incorporate new sounds into her work. Fans can look forward to more great projects and collaborations from MAVRYCK in 2023.

Jan 06, 202327:53
Episode #98: Lindsay Pierce
Dec 23, 202246:20
Episode #97: Aimee Batuski

Episode #97: Aimee Batuski

Aimee Batuski is a Pleasure and Intimacy Expert, committed to helping women live turned-on, connected, satisfying lives. 


Osi and Aimee discuss what inspired her to become an intimacy coach, the importance of taking accountability in your relationships, acknowledging the effect your behaviors have on your partner, putting pleasure first, and more.

Dec 08, 202201:34:31
Episode #96: Ben Herwitz

Episode #96: Ben Herwitz

Ben Herwitz is a stand up comedian based in Los Angeles, CA and performs at clubs, colleges and casinos throughout the country. You might have seen him on No Offense on Fox Soul. He also has a weekly podcast called Ben the Menace that you can stream on YouTube, Spotify and anywhere that you get your podcasts. 


Ben joins Osi to share his experiences as a stand up comic, his background in psychology and how he transitioned into comedy, and more.

Dec 01, 202201:27:52
Episode #95: The Cleaning Lady

Episode #95: The Cleaning Lady

The Cleaning Lady is a crime drama TV series about a Cambodian doctor that comes to the United States for medical treatment to save her ailing son. As the system quickly fails her, pushing her into hiding, she resolves not to allow herself to be beaten down and marginalized, and becomes a cleaning lady for organized crime.

Osi is joined by Miranda Kwok (writer/executive producer) and Melissa Carter (showrunner) to discuss the unique themes/subjects in The Cleaning Lady that are rarely shown on TV, how Miranda found the inspiration to develop the show, and what to expect as Season 2 continues to unfold.
Nov 17, 202225:56