Casey Schostag

Hi friends. Meet @caseeylynn . Recently her and her boyfriend moved from busy San Francisco to an Orange Grove in Orange County. He great grandfather bought the grove about 100 years ago, so you could say oranges are in her blood. Casey spends her days maintaining the property and a small roadside fruit stand that operates on the honor system. Follow along this week as we get a sneak peak into this beauty and the life she lives. ⁠

What is love?
Love is what makes you a unique and irreplaceable being.

What is paradise?
Paradise is swimming in a secret watering hole after a long hike to the middle of nowhere with no one around but my boyfriend and my dog.

Tell me about the orange farm you live on.
Our orange grove has been in my family for over one hundred years. It is four and a half acres of Valencia Oranges, Fuerte Avocados, and other seasonal citrus and produce grown smack-dab in the middle of Orange County. We have a roadside fruit stand where we sell everything we grow to our community. The stand is run on the honor system and we have customers who have been buying our oranges for over 50 years! My Gampa always said oranges are in our blood and I believe in that. That’s why we made the decision to uproot our lives in San Francisco to continue the legacy of this grove that's one of the last of Orange County’s namesake.

What is one Casey fun fact?
I saved a baby crow that ended up in the middle of the street while learning how to fly. I ran out into the road stopping traffic and brought him into the middle of the grove as a safe place to practice flight. Fast forward a year later and I have a crow who drops shiny metal objects at my door. I’m pretty sure it’s the baby crow—happy and healthy, bringing me gifts as a thank you.

What would you say has been your best investment?
My 1990 Miyata 721A touring bicycle. I bought it right after I moved to SF. Having my bike allowed me to experience the Bay Area using all my senses. I rode and camped all up and down Northern California and I was able to take in little details that most people drive right past. It was extremely satisfying earning every mile and memory on my bike.

What are you most afraid of?
My loved ones dying.

What experiences in life shaped you most?
I played competitive soccer for most of my life. It was everything for so long that most of my adolescent memories are blurred into one long soccer tournament. It taught me about commitment, discipline, and hard work, and it made me a very strong person. Soccer defined who I was for 18 years and when I stopped playing after college, it was like starting a whole new life for myself. I think that’s what gave me the self-confidence and drive to be whoever I please and live a life that I really love.

When is the last time you felt pure bliss?
The other night when Jordon and I were camping above a lake on the Mount Whitney trail... hunkering down in the tent after a hailstorm, just as we were falling asleep, a coyote started howling and its song was echoing off the walls surrounding the lake. Being there, no one else around, enjoying that private performance was pretty dang blissful!

What is your secret talent?
I’m really good at placing people’s dog doppelgängers. For example, Tilda Swinton’s is a Greyhound.

What did you learn from living in San Francisco?
Oh man, I learned so much! I learned how important it is for me to surround myself with creative and thoughtful people. I learned that I need to escape into nature often to clear my mind and feel sane. I learned the ins and outs of the floral industry. I learned how to survive off of restaurant tips and that I love really good food. And I learned that the world is a whole lot smaller than you think.

How has failure, or apparent failure, set you up for later success?
There have been plenty of times where I just wanted to get something done so I rushed or half-assed it and it always ended up being more work down the road. I have learned to slow down and do things properly and with intention the first time. I believe that has greatly increased my success in all aspects of my life.

What have you changed your mind about in the past few years? Why?
I decided to step away from doing wedding florals. I find so much joy in arranging flowers and think it is a wonderful creative outlet, but the wedding industry was sucking the joy out of it for me. There is such a large negative environmental impact with the importation of flowers and the waste in weddings that I wanted to rethink and find a different approach to florals. Luckily for me, moving down to the grove has provided me with the space to grow my own flowers and a roadside stand to sell them. Now my florals have more layers; from starting the seed, to caring for the gardens, eventually harvesting the flowers and then arranging them into simple bouquets, it all means so much more now. Of course, it’s no money-maker but it sure has put the joy back in it for me.

When you think of the word successful, who is the first person that comes to mind?
Andy Goldsworthy. He is the ultimate collaborator with Nature.

What is the biggest realization you have had about yourself?
I thrive on positive reinforcement. I’m always like, “I cleaned the litter box and did the dishes!” Just so my boyfriend will tell me I did a good job.

What have you learned from selling fruit from a fruit stand?
I’ve learned that for every 1 shitty human who steals from the stand, there are 10 wonderful humans who appreciate what we provide and leave an extra buck or two to “pay it forward”. I believe in that kindness.

Nicole

Hi friends meet @chicken_in_a_biscuit. Nicole is an artist, motorcyclist and lover of good times. In a past life she thinks she was a cheetah and that’s why she likes to go fast.

What is paradise?
Paradise is taking a nap on your living room floor with the front door wide open and money in the bank.

What would you like for your next birthday?
A 1967 El Camino in any color.

What is good?
Gummy bears, my parents, and swimming in the ocean.

Are you a napper?
100%. (Why did we have to give those up after Kindergarten anyway?)

Why do you like riding your motorcycle?
Speed is immediately gratifying. I always want to go fast. Riding a motorcycle takes me anywhere and everywhere, whenever I want. Riding a motorcycle pleases my insatiable temperament.

Why is art important?
Art is important because it acts as a sophisticated reflection of our species that helps our perceptions about who we think we are, stay malleable.

At karaoke what song do you pick?
“Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon because you can’t possibly take yourself seriously while singing it.

Please tell me one Nicole fun fact.
When I was little, I used to scour gutters for nuts and bolts to give to my dad for his workshop, and dig through my neighbors' trash looking for toys. I thought I was being resourceful and my family called me ‘the bag lady.’

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?
I remind myself that I’m merely a floating piece of stardust in an ever-expanding universe and my problems aren’t as important as I think they are. In terms of our universe, I barely exist at all, and I certainly do not have time to waste on anxiety. There is far too much beauty and participation needed in real, life-changing endeavors. In short, I keep moving forward.

Mantra of the moment?
Don’t sweat the small stuff.

Favorite quote?
“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unreported genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.” —Calvin Coolidge

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?
Empathy and etiquette.

What qualities do all your friends have in common?
Several years ago, as I began traveling more, I started meeting new people in droves. There are some pretty incredible individuals out there, but that doesn’t mean I can spend a lot of time with them. A woman you meet at a campout and connect with over your love of Mezcal is not necessarily a person you can expect to empathize with about a dying parent. I decided that my close friends must possess 3 exact traits: emotional intelligence, loyalty, and be wickedly funny.

What’s your secret talent?
My sister says that I can make people look at their reality without making them feel forced or stupid for not wanting to. And that I’m good at rapping with songs on the car radio.

What’s the most anxiety-inducing thing you do on a regular basis?
Lane splitting.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of getting a motorcycle?
Take a safety course first. Then buy a small, used bike and be prepared to drop it. Wait for the shiny new one until you have a little experience under your belt. You'll respect and value it more later anyway.

Caity Watson

Hi friends meet @sirpaisley. Caity has style. She spends her days working as a Dj and driving her Volvo named Bonnie around town. I was super happy to spend some time with her in her San Francisco home and neighborhood. follow along this week as we talk about old things, music and yoga. ⁠

Why is style important?

Style is important for many reasons! Most obviously, it sets you apart, but it also denotes creativity (which is a quality I highly admire), and that you give a shit (or at least tried). I think having style speaks volumes. For me personally, it's a reflection of my internal landscape and also my interests. Being externally successful, internally zen and organized, doing it your way whatever that is, and looking good while doing it is the ultimate in my eyes. 

What have you learned from living in San Francisco?

How to make through your 20s in one of the most expensive cities in the world. You either hustle, or you leave. I've made it 7 years in arguably the most confusing decade of anyone's life. It hasn't been easy. It's been a lot of work, but it's been worth every minute. 

Why do you like old things?

History is interesting to me and I'm fascinated by certain things from prior decades. Old things have character and warmth. It probably also has to do with how I grew up; my parents rarely bought things new whether it was their cars, homes, clothes etc. They are big on repurposing, reusing, recycling etc not wasting anything. I've been wearing hand me downs and buying second hand clothes my entire life, for example.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting over in a new place?
For me, I love having a community and social engagements. I would say get involved- volunteer, contribute to your new place in some way or find something you are interested in and follow that. You will then have hobbies, friends and be positively contributing to your new place and therefore the world.

What is god?

The acknowledgment that there is a phenomenon in this universe larger and more profound than humans and our inane hubris. 

Could you tell me a bit about your yoga practice and it’s importance?

The first time I ever went to a yoga class I was 15, and I've never stopped going since. It's a moving meditation. It quiets all the chatter in my brain, simply focusing on moving and breathing. It's taught me mindfulness. My relationship with it has only deepened over time and it is an utterly invaluable component in my life, especially as an adult living a busy life in a big city doling out my energy to various jobs, people and daily tasks. It is truly a gift for me, from me. MY time. And it feels good to stretch!

What have you learned from playing music for people?

So much. Too much to write. What an XLR cable is. How to use a digital controller. How to set up a PA. How to listen to people. How to make people happy. How to set a vibe. How to be a human algorithm. The difference between deep house and tropical house. How to relate to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. A lot of it is literal, a lot of it is human psychology.  

What always cheers you up when you think about it?

Sunny days at the beach. Rollerskating. My boyfriend. 

Do you like things to be carefully planned or do you prefer to just go with the flow?

Both! I use to be more go with the flow, but as I get older, I become more of a planner. I'm capable of assuming either roles pretty easily. 

What about the opposite sex confuses you the most?

The lack of honest, emotional communication with themselves, their friends and with their partners. "Boys don't cry" isn't doing anyone any favors. 

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?

How to cook!

When you look in the mirror what do you see?

Idk, I think like everyone some days I'm totally feeling myself and other days I'm critical. My hair looks good today. I hate my stomach. I like my shape, it's so womanly. I'm almost 30, how am I still breaking out? I think mostly when I look in the mirror I'm pretty detached and don't think much at all. 

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?

Yoga, exercise in general, journaling, self care things like cooking myself a nice meal, going for walks, doing my skincare routine, getting enough sleep etc. 

Mantra of the moment?

Let go. 

Favorite quote?

"He not busy being born is busy dying" -Bob Dylan

Allegra Michelle Jones

HI Friends meet @all3gruh she is a beaming light of fun, happy good and creative energy. Follow along this week as we talk about music, vibration and bunny rabbits!⁠

What do you need help with most often?

~Wow, it’s definitely parallel parking.

What’s your good luck charm?

~ The bunny rabbit keychain I just bought on Amazon. It hasn’t arrived yet but I feel it’s saintly presence already.

What’s the oldest thing you own?

~My golden accordion

What qualities do all your friends have in common?

~All of their mothers’ names are Jennifer.

What’s your secret talent?

~I know all of Bono’s childrens’ names. This special talent has gotten me incredibly far.

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself?

~I’m a vibrational being.

What’s about to get much better?

~Our inter-dimensional understanding of consciousness.

What scientific discovery would change the course of humanity overnight if it was discovered?

~ The technology to communicate clearly with all living species.

What’s your favorite quote?

~ “My lifestyle determines my deathstyle!!!!” - Metallica

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?

~Meditation, drawing, exercise, & unlimited queso

Mantra of the moment?

~I am free

At karaoke what song do you pick?

~ “Feel for You” by Chaka Kahn. One time I did some opera and it went over quite well.

When you are having a bad day what are some of the things you do to snap out of it?

~Meditation, hanging out with my two bunnies, & taking a walk all snap me out of a weird day. Also, has anyone watched “Queer Eye”? Incredible show.

Do you have any phobias?

~ Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia -the fear of looking at or hearing very long words. I thoroughly immersed myself in unbridled terror just copying and pasting that unpalatable word.

What did you learn from living in Prague?

~ Magic is very real & what we consider to be reality is very limited. Also, there is a great deal to be learned from The Velvet Revolution that happened in Prague during the 80s that put a play-write & poet inspired by Martin Luther King into presidency. It was a bloodless revolution led by the students & artists of the country.

What is paradise?

~ Paradise is the ability to connect fully to the present moment & the light in all I see. It’s why I love drawing so much. Chili’s restaurant is also pretty cool.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of going to art school?

~If you feel that fire within you, & if something real in your heart is pulling you toward a specific school or study, go for it with all you got & never lose track of the fire.

What is god?

~ The essence in everyone & everything. I like to use the word “source”.

Gemma Jimenez

HI friends meet @bagofgems . She is a young urban planner and activist who is very passionate about building better communities and world. Follow along this week as we talk about life, work and the pursuit of all things good.

What is paradise?

Paradise is any moment where being present feels like bliss.

What would you like for your next birthday?

A nice day with the sun, cajun food, ice cold agua de jamaica, and many kisses.

Why are you drawn to urban design?

Even though urban design has contributed to structural inequalities that still affect many people today, urban spaces have become significant in developing multiculturalism and that fascinates me. People have taken up space and shaped the city no matter the status quo. It is no wonder why two-thirds of the population will be living in urban areas by 2050. So we better start getting our shit together.

What’s your dream job?

Any job that involves developing spaces para mi gente.

Do people ever really change?

Of course, as long as you are willing to learn, look deep within yourself, take in criticism, and accountability you are accepting the need for change. Every day is different so why should we be the same. Every day we should be striving to be a better version of ourselves and welcome change if needed.

What do you want the world to know about you?

I am just another being, just like you.

When you think of the word successful, who is the first person who comes to mind?

Audre Lorde. She's a survivor. She lived a life being her true authentic self. She taught me to love myself, to embrace my queerness, to embrace sensuality, and to tell people how it is.

What have you changed your mind about in the last few years? Why?

In the last few years, I have prioritized my growth. So much of my life I have been so passive about life and that induced fear, confusion, and insecurities. But that isn't me. I had to break out of my shell and learn that I was very much deserving. I have learned to value my voice, goals, and life. Now I finally feel like I am heading towards where I am meant to be.

What do you believe is true, even though you can’t prove it?

My cat Moko loves to cuddle with me.

What has been your best investment?

Every book I own.

What is god?

Isn't he the guy on the Simpsons that's body is too big for the screen?

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?

Creativity is healing, accountability is a step in the right direction, crying in public will only make you stronger, boundaries are needed, community is needed, and baby steps will get you where you want to be.

What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?

At a local farm, I was offered fresh mulberries. Elliot said there might be a couple of ants on them but a little protein won't hurt anyone. I looked at the mulberries in my hand and watched ants walk by. Elliot watched. I told myself my hesitation is making this worse than it is, just eat it. And so I ate it and have been having freshly picked mulberries since.

What’s about to get much better?

The San Fernando Valley, the youth are taking up space and it's about time.

What scientific discovery would change the course of humanity overnight if it was discovered?

A pink record full of music, information, and images of another world. Imagine that.

Favorite quote?

"If you don't understand where you've been, you don't understand where you are going." - Judith Baca.

What experiences in life shaped you the most?

Riding the bus and getting lost, attending queer skating meetups, mosh-pitting and crying to "Sludgefeast" by Dinosaur Jr., taking up space at public meetings, watching movies I couldn't understand, telling a crowd I had no papeles, getting in trouble with friends, connecting with nature, feeling heartbreak, and disobeying my parents.

Kari Jaffe

HI all meet @kari924 She moved out to California from New Jersey and has never looked back. She is a yoga instructor and half of @beatsbalanceflow. Get to know her better this week as we talk about life, Yoga and not being polite. 

When you think of the word successful, who is the first person who comes to mind?

My dad. I don't measure success by monetary value or net worth. To me, success is creating a community of people who love and support each other because they are seen and heard. My dad was the amplification of this.

What is the worst advice you see or hear being dispensed in your world?

Lock your knee. Haha. Bikram yogis should get that! But if you're not sure, go look up hyperextension vs. engagement of the quad and knee cap and the muscles that surround it, and then call me later.

How has a failure, or apparent failure, set you up for later success?

Failure is just a word prescribed by societal standards that has a negative connotation attached to it. For me, it's all about experience. Every moment in my life is treated as a possibility for growth, especially and specifically the experiences that could be conceived as failure. Those are the truest opportunities for transformation. Beyond that, how I implement and download the information from those moments and experiences is how I set myself up for success when a similar situation or a new opportunity presents itself.

What is god?

Me. You. All of us. (short answer)

At some point in my life, I stepped away from organized religion. Even though Judaism gave me tremendous valuable lessons, rich in community and understanding, it also presented itself as fear-based. After many years of practicing and teaching Yoga, I continue to recognize this truth about religion in general and instead move from within. In other words, religion is something to believe in. But I would argue that everything I need is already inside of me. I believe in myself. I am the God particle.

What have you changed your mind about in the last few years? Why?

Israel. Fuck. That's gonna get me in trouble. Oh well. I lived in Israel for a year when I was 16. I loved it. It was magical. Despite all the tangible terror nearby, I always felt safe. The beaches were incredible, the culture was rich in food and spirit, people loved to party, and I fit right in. More than that, it opened my eyes to a world of possibilities at a really young age. But looking back on my religious upbringing and deep involvement in the Jewish community, I realize that many of the concepts, philosophies, and history of this battled land are often taught from a one-sided perspective that is usually politically charged in favor of that one side.

What do you believe is true, even though you can’t prove it?

My dad sits with me in my meditation.

What have you learned from practicing yoga?

Conscious breathing. I am powerful. I am enough.

What have you learned from teaching yoga?

It's not gonna look how you think it's supposed to look.

What’s your favorite quote?

The master has failed more than the beginner has ever tried.

Mantra of the moment...

Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha. (loosely translated) Let go of that which holds me from freedom. Bless me with compassion and grace.

Please tell me one Kari fun fact....

I love to curse while teaching. Shit. Fuck. Asshole. Anything will do.

What is good?

Miyokos Vegan cheese for starters! My nieces and nephews. Cali bud. Yoga. Bernie Sanders. Beats Balance Flow retreat to Bali in April. Shameless plugging.

What qualities do all your friends have in common?

They love me! Joking aside, the company I keep have a common thread of individuality. My friends know exactly who they are, which is why I think we vibe so well.

What’s your secret talent?

Skilled at waxing my own eyebrows. And others. DM for appointments.

What’s the most anxiety-inducing thing you do on a regular basis?

Building a new yoga sequence to new music and teaching it publicly while working out the kinks. Even though I enjoy practicing the same sequences over and over until it's drilled in, many people do not enjoy repetition, so I like to switch it up and keep people interested and excited about practicing with me. Even then, I often wonder, are they bored? Do they want something different? Do I say the same things too much? Now that I'm talking about it, I guess teaching yoga in general is a little anxious-driven. I just channel that energy into how I deliver the information and impactfully share it with my students.

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?

How to communicate effectively, in a clear and non-blaming way.

What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?

Nothing. I do what I want. I'm not polite. Ask my mom.

What’s about to get much better?

My tan. LA summer on deck. I love when July rolls around and the sun finally comes out until Christmas.

Lexy Bowman

HI friends. Meet @lexyloveshair, she is a traveling hair stylist who loves to surf and skate.

Q: What have you learned from cutting hair? A: Hair is an ever-evolving fabric that is constantly growing and changing in texture as we age. I have learned from cutting hair that ongoing, advanced education is key to adapting to these changes.

Q: What are some of the choices you have made to make you who you are? A: A few things that have made me Lexy are:

• Attending, graduating, and pursuing my career as a traveling hairstylist.

• Spontaneously packing up my car and moving to Southern California.

• Finding my first California love...surfing!

Q: Why is traveling important to you? A: My travels provide the most research and inspiration for what’s trending in hair and fashion. I crave the feel of a new culture and an adventure as raw and real as I can get it!

Q: Window seat or aisle? A: I’m all about the window seat! I can't miss out on seeing something cool!

Q: Do you believe in miracles? A: I don’t believe in miracles, but I do believe in magic.

Q: Tell me why you love California.... A: I love California for the endless avocados!

Q: Please share one Lexy fun fact.... A: Lexy Fun Fact: I’m a simple girl. Smiles, fresh air, and sunshine have always been a favorite of mine.

Q: What is god? A: God is good. Good is great.

Q: If you could ask god one question what would it be? A: I’m not curious enough to ask.

Q: What happens when we die? A: Think of the most weightless, elegant, and radically vivid dream you’ve ever experienced...that’s what happens when we die.

Q: Tell me about surfing... A: Mmmmm. Surfing. Where do I start? It could be the complete and utterly “free” feeling I get when I paddle from the shore to the ocean. It could be the insane amount of self-accomplishment I feel when my feet grip my board and then my board to the wave. But I would say that surfing, above all, is humbling. It helps make me the best version of me I can be!

Q: What is paradise? A: Paradise is ear-to-ear smiles curated by sunshine, tropical palm trees, a big empty beach, and endless waves.

Q: Do people ever really change? A: Change is a temporary switch in life’s direction. Growth is a permanent direction going up. I don’t believe people ever really change; they grow. :)

Q: Mantra of the moment? A: “This is living!”

Q: What’s your favorite quote? A: “Get tough, stay stoked!”

Q: What’s the worst hairstyle you’ve ever had? A: I’ve had many bad hairstyles over the years, but the “best” worst hairstyle I’ve ever had was when I was 5. My Grammy cut my hair just like Elvis.

Q: What habit do you have now that you wish you started much earlier? A: Give love. Receive love. Self-love.

Mackenzie Howe

Hi friends. Meet @pet_dress_ she is a singer, songwriter, thrift store lover who loves roller skating, oh yeah she also plays in the amazing bands @thewildreeds. Follow along this week as we talk about life, music and spiritual growth.

What is Paradise?
It’s a thrift store of course! Oh and also here’s to hoping it’s some sort of karmic nirvana that we all get to achieve after one life or another.

Why is music important?
I wish I could truly understand why music is as important as it is. All I know is I’ve dedicated the better portion of my life to chasing the feeling that is provides both as a listener and an artist. It’s the spice cabinet to our lives. It always has been and always will be a language we can use when words don’t suffice.

How did you find the courage to sing?
I had sung my whole life at school and in my room, but never considered myself a singer and never really had a knack for it. It wasn’t until I wanted to write my own songs that I had to present my voice as an instrument and I was terrified. My friend Rosey convinced me that rawness and shakiness was not a flaw but rather a humbling human quality that I shouldn’t be ashamed of. I owe a lot of my courage to her. My band mates as well, taught me how to sing 3 part harmony and how to grow into my voice, they’ve always encouraged me when I’ve doubted my voice. I still don’t identify as a singer, it’s more-so something that’s necessary in the process of doing what I love.

What’s the most anxiety-inducing thing you do on a regular basis?
Sit down to write music. No joke I have to force myself and it’s like locking myself in the lion's den except I am also the lion. I battle a severe amount of resistance and self-doubt and it rears its ugly head the minute I start to write. Of course, there’s the occasional song that lands on you like a dove but that’s far less interesting.

What about the opposite sex confuses you the most?
Whether I can trust their motives. I’m referring to straight men here. It’s a shame because as women we were always taught that men are “so different” and all they care about is sex, so we grow up presenting ourselves in a way that caters to that notion, or assume that threat is constantly there. It’s been a beautiful journey unlearning the social constructs that come along with gender. I’m working on the ways in which I still subconsciously subscribe to them and recognize the ways in which even my most empathetic straight male friends subscribe to them as well. I’ve had the pleasure of some really great relationships that have defied those stereotypes. In the end, I think our only real differences are the ones they’ve taught us to have. I’m also confused by the fact that my BO is way worse than my boyfriend’s.

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?
Sewing, listening to others, stain removal, kissing, cutting hair, jump-starting a car, dream interpretation, self-defense, healthy coping mechanisms.

What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?
Turtle. That’s gotta be illegal.

What’s about to get much better?
Hopefully the state of our country, and climate change, if we keep fighting for it.

What scientific discovery would change the course of humanity overnight if it was discovered?
Proof of a spiritual realm. If we had knowledge of reincarnation, or the health of our own souls, or if we had the ability to see how our actions have a ripple effect far beyond what’s visible, I think we would live much more responsibly and empathetically while we are here. Maybe we would take better care of ourselves if we knew for sure that our souls would be used again whether it be in nature or another person. I’m a huge fan of Rudolf Steiner who was a spiritual scientist. He melded the two seemingly opposite worlds into one, in a way that makes so much sense to me.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?
My psychological health has always been something I’m aware of because I’m very sensitive. I am, for the first time, on anti-depressants and after years of stigmatizing it, I decided to try it and I’m so glad I did. It has truly helped me feel joyful and hopeful for the time being. Everyone’s path is their own, and I think you need to figure out what’s right for you. I do also take many natural supplements for my brain chemistry. I listen to things that calm me down, like Eckhart Tolle, or use the insight timer app (yes yes, I’m sure you rolled your eyes, but I was against meditation apps until I tried this one) if I’m really in a tizzy. Writing in my journal is a good place to organize my brain. Praying is a daily part of my life. Talking to my mom on the phone is a huge one for me. And the last one, which isn’t only my happy place but also a guilty pleasure, is digging through clothes at the goodwill bins. I liken it to fishing. If I’m having a hard day I know that will take my mind off of things.

Mantra of the moment?
“Keep the car running.” I’ve been hearing that phrase, probably subconsciously from that Arcade Fire song, and I feel like it’s a metaphorical way of reminding myself to just keep creating even if I don’t have an end goal or even a target to aim my projects toward. I get easily discouraged when I can only see 10 ft in front of me (in life that is), so my mind has somehow chosen that phrase as a reminder.

Favorite quote?
“Ain’t it funny how an old broken bottle, looks just like a diamond ring.” -John Prine

What is the best advice you have ever received?
“Take the best, fuck the rest.” A friend of mine always says that. It sounds harsh but it’s really just a way of looking at the glass half full, and reminding yourself not to dwell on others' perceptions of you.

How do you make yourself sleep when you can’t seem to get to sleep?
I’ve taken things to sleep in the past, mostly all-natural like CBD or melatonin. But when my mind is racing I try to get into a dreamlike state, the way I would as a child the day before the first day of school or Disneyland. I let my mind wander to positive places, though I have to keep redirecting it when it goes off course. Breathing exercises help as well.

What habit do you have now that you wish you started much earlier?
Taking vitamin C. Dog watching. Going commando.

What are things that bring you joy in the world?
Toddlers. Lattes. Coincidences. Antiques. Good songs. Playing shows. True crime docs. Vitamins. My boyfriend's chest hair. History. Glitter. Roller skating. Anthroposophy. Sleep. Los Angeles. Old pickup trucks. Camaraderie.

Is love all we need?
I think love is most of what we need. But I do know that salty people have the best advice for a reason. It’s our pain that elevates us (or stunts us depending on what we do with it). I’m not saying hardships are a good thing, but I do think they’re the closest thing to spiritual push-ups.

At karaoke what song do you pick?
If It Makes You Happy by Sheryl Crow. Or Complicated by Avril Lavigne.

Tracie Garacochea

Hi everybody. This week we introduce you to a real super hero @traciegara. She started skating in skate parks a few years ago and has never looked back. Her ability to make others feel loved and seen is incredible.

What is paradise?

Paradise is a skatepark of course! Skateparks are full of the most amazing people…very accepting. Paradise can also be a beautiful garden or a quiet day with my pups. Or a cup of coffee and a plate of cookies……Paradise can be so many things, an afternoon in an art studio, I imagine Paradise can be found just about anywhere, not just one place.

Do people ever really change?

I believe you are who you are at the moment of birth. Yes, people can change, but not the part of them that is the deepest part of their personalities. Aren’t we supposed to change and grow with our circumstances? Tough question…..I suppose I know people on both sides of this fence! I cannot be sure. What sort of change are we talking about anyway?

What do you want the world to know about you?

I am not so sure that I care what the world thinks….only the people that surround me. (Although if I hear something negative that doesn’t mean my feelings won’t be hurt! I need to work on that.) What I wish people knew was that there’s no race to the finish line of life. Take your time you never know what amazing thing can happen in those extra 5 minutes you took. Today while grocery shopping a woman asked if I needed help (mind blown). We had a conversation. It turns out in that 5 minutes I learned we had a mutual friend, some random facts about her beautiful child named Bea. And I taught Bea to tie her shoes in the middle of a grocery store. That is a beautiful day.

When you think of the word successful, who is the first person who comes to mind?

No one person comes to mind when I hear the word successful. Why should it? Everyone defines success differently. I believe that an individual's definition of success can change depending upon what stage of life they are in. I do admire certain traits I see in others but I think I would have a hard time judging if someone is successful. Success is not a big home, a great car, large home, or a ton of money. Success is having joy in what you do, having a positive impact on others, or overcoming a difficulty. It can be creating something, living life with joy and happiness and being content with your circumstance. How can you choose one person…

What have you changed your mind about in the last few years? Why?

I can’t think of anything right now…

What has been your best investment?

The investment of time in various Charitable Organizations over the years. I have learned so much from so many! One in particular changed my life…..yes, I guess people can change! Hahahaha But they have to choose it and want it! Also investing time with kids doing anything. I believe an investment in your time is worth more than anything… If we are talking monetary, art supplies and tools.

When did you start skating and why?

My sport is called WCMX. Wheelchair Motocross. About 4 years ago I was volunteering and riding bicycles with kids through an organization that worked with kids in chairs. I fell in love with the kids and went to watch some of the other activities. I was invited out to watch the kids in a skatepark and a BBQ and went. A friend talked me into trying her chair. One time through the snake run and I was hooked! The difficult part for me was getting a chair. I was still walking with a cane, a very painful and slow process. This friend patiently explained a wheelchair is a tool and it will ENABLE you to do many things. 6 months later I had my chair! I named her Cookie Box. Now I can’t stop skating!

What have you learned from your wheelchair?

Oh, I have learned so many things from having my wheelchair! The most positive is it enables me to do more in a day than I could walking. She helps me reserve energy for the things I really enjoy instead of the things I need to get done. My chair lets me interact with the world in a very different way. I literally see things on a whole new level. 🤪🤪🤭 I have learned that very often I need to advocate to get seated where I would like to be in theaters, events, and restaurants. I have gained more patience with odd questions from strangers. Most I will answer because I feel like they were brave enough to be curious, until the questions become too invasive. 🤪🤪🤪 And I have learned that you can be invisible. Wheelchairs are a tool. Mine is my superpower.

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?

Mind reading.

What is God?

Favorite quote?

“What matters most is how well you walk through the fire.”
Another is, “It isn’t whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game.”
This is a good quote for how you live your life as well as a good reference for the sporting life.

What experiences in life shaped you the most?

Oh boy. The good and the bad. You decide. I have older brothers. The teasing, the physical abuse, the name-calling, just childhood with parents that didn’t keep this in check... I am still sensitive about name-calling and teasing. I am more likely to stand up to others when I see it happening to them than when it happens to me. Yep folks, bullies do grow up to be bigger bullies. Go figure. 🤷🏻‍♀️ As a kid, we had to play sports in our family. This was pre-title 9 for me. Girls were allowed t-ball. I wanted to play what the boys did. Finally, girls were allowed to run track. At one point it was decided I was good at distances. I loved it. I promised at a young age to run until I was 80. I just do it differently. Off the subject, but now having a chair it is more difficult to be in sport. Especially female and in an “Extreme Sport.” These sports go unnoticed and pretty much unsupported. Disabled athletes are rarely sponsored if at all. Sure, you can apply for grants, but something like my WCMX chair is so expensive it is difficult to get one. Off the subject again! Even if one wanted to cycle you just can’t head to the local bicycle shop..okay. Stop Tracie. I would love to see kids in chairs playing❤️❤️❤️❤️‼️‼️🤗🤗🥰 And volunteering. I started doing different things at a young age I think it was through Girl Scouts, brownies...something. But it did leave an impression. Doing things for others is something that is always on my agenda.

Why do you love cookies so much?

COOKIES!!! Because you cannot be sad or not smile while eating a cookie! They make everything better! And they are so much fun to share🍪🍪🍪‼️ And there are some pretty amazing cookies in the world! Cookies are also an amazing ice breaker. Fun to share in skateparks.

What are your thoughts on falling down?

You can’t learn without falling. And falling makes you feel alive. Especially when you have a chair. And if you are in a skatepark what better opportunity to fall?

Laura Jean Anderson

Follow along this week as we talk to @laurajeanandersonmusic about life, love and the importance of music. ⠀

Why is music important?

Music is life. It is tradition, it is culture. Everyone has a different relationship to it but it can heal, it can help us through life and help us communicate to each other when words don’t do justice. It can be made for celebration or grieving, self expression or building community.

How did you find your voice?

When I came out my mother’s womb screaming my ass off consistently for the first 6 months of my life. Then, later on in life as a teenager through writing songs when I felt like I couldn’t speak my mind in life- I would sing my feelings instead. I think we consistently find our voice throughout life- it changes and deepens.

What is paradise?

I think it looks different for everyone but for me it’s a peace of mind, knowing I worked as hard as I could. And being somewhere in the mountains surrounded by trees and deer with the ones I love cooking a big meal for people and singing old tunes.

What near future predictions do you have?

I feel change and revolution brewing in America. 

What do you need help with most often?

Letting go, taking a break, and taming my instilled guilt 

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?

stepping outside of ourselves to help others and true hard work. 

What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?

a club sandwich from middle of nowhere New Mexico on tour. Felt too bad to let it go to waste. It was horrible.

What’s about to get much better?

I hope that acceptance of differences gets better. I feel a shift but we have so much more work to do to demolish prejudice in our world. 

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?

exercising my body, playing old jazz and country tunes with my friends, labor. 

Mantra of the moment?

Bathe in the river of receiving 

Favorite quote? 

“It takes all kinds”

Is you grandmother a good cook? What is her best dish?

oh yes! My grandmother’s cooking is the glue to my family. She is an amazing baker and her coconut cream pie is to die for!

What is the most important thing you need to do before you die?

oh man! can’t pick just one. But my ultimate dream is to build a house and a farm and community in the mountains somewhere to have music festivals, raise my children, make records and help people with their creative aspirations. 

Do you believe in miracles?

absolutely. I can’t tell you what or when or why or how but I do believe that there is a force stronger than us that cosmically has something to do with miracles. 

Where do broken hearts go?

Broken hearts don’t disappear. they live in us and can take on new forms or be the foundation of unbroken love. 

Lauren Kim

Hi friends meet @laurenkirm, one of the most amazing humans on planet earth. Lauren is an artist who is incredible funny, creative and unique. Follow along this week as we talk about pushing kids out of the way to win things and art. ⁣

What is paradise?

I see paradise as a state of mind. Paradise is losing self consciousness, and giving yourself over to the feeling of being alive. It's the sensation of falling in love, and feeling safe in your vulnerability. It's losing sense of time. It's freedom. 

What would you like for your next birthday? 

an egregious pile of ranunculus, a room full of balloons, to knock over every single thing in an aisle of a grocery store, to break an expensive sculpture, ride a ferris wheel above the ocean, be the reason why eileen myles breaks her abstinence, sit on a court case with john waters, dance to bad music, and cookies from yuko's kitchen.

What is good? 

michael, is this a test on my ethics? because i can tell you that i have questionable morals and i am not above pushing a child out of the way to win something. 

Do people ever change? 

I'd like to think so. What's the point of living, if other people can't surprise you? 

Why is art important? 

I don't know if it is, but it's important to me. I need to make art, because it's one of the only things that make me feel like a human being. I need it because sometimes words aren't enough to express how complicated emotions can be. I need it because it's fun, and it's futile---but the biggest truth of the matter is that I just fucking love it.

 
What is the best advice you’ve ever received? 

There used to be a bad dim sum restaurant in Chinatown that looked like an 80's coke den (excessive amount of black lacquer, walls made up of mirrors), which I loved to frequent because on certain nights, hoards of mariachi bands would fill the restaurant after their late night gigs. I loved the feeling of eating shitty dim sum with off duty mariachi musicians. Anyways, once I got a fortune cookie there that said, "HAPPINESS IS NOT A REWARD, IT'S A CONSEQUENCE". 

What does the perfect day look like? 

No barking from the dogs, no smog
And momma cooked a breakfast with no hog
I got my grub on, but didn't pig out
Finally got a call from a girl I wanna dig out
Hooked it up on later as I hit the door
Thinking will I live another twenty four?

What are your thoughts on the ocean? 

I'm going to quote the poet Etel Adnan here, as I share her sentiments on the ocean:

"The sea is immense, to say the least. As an entity, a constituent of the physical world, it is infinite, because it is “there” (from every angle), and always there. That sea hypnotizes me. Needless to say. And the sea is an element of our inner life, a tool by which we exist, and we think. It’s sometimes an image, sometimes an energy, sometimes an inner direction back to energy, to an immaterial line that crosses the mind (the brain?). There’s also something very simple to our addiction to the sea: its beauty."

Mantra of the moment? 

Favorite quote? 

Remain mysterious 

Rather than be pure, accept yourself as numerous

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful? 

Elasticity, curiosity, self reflection, expressing dissent graciously, humor, accepting and being undeterred by rejection, reading personalities, balancing resilience/self preservation, lighting a pilot light. 

What’s your good luck charm? 

I don't have one, but I have a talisman that I've been instructed to keep on me at all times. It's a prayer from a Korean shaman, given to me by my grandmother. It's supposed to protect me from evil. Also, I keep a rabbits foot stuffed in my butthole during art openings. I'm very talented.

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself? 

I'm a sensitive cockroach, and I'm an artist. I couldn't call myself an artist, for a long time. I had to go through a period of utter lack of self worth, fear, and stagnancy in order to understand that. Which is why now I make my friends address me as EMPRESS COCKROACH ARTIST. They really like it. 

Please tell me one Lauren fun fact... 

I don't believe in "fun", just like I don't believe in "vitamins" or "exercise". 

What is something difficult that you a currently working through?

Depression. Balancing the ego needed to show art vs the lack of ego needed to make art. 

Tell me about your work? 

I went to a conceptual art school where language and theory was prioritized above materiality, so now I try to avoid talking about my own work. However, I will share that my last body of work was about: internal struggle, infinite longing, projections / the illusion of love vs. real love(?), walking the tightrope of stability, Los Angeles, sex, contradictions, dancing, and the never ending search for the self. 

My next body of work will share some overarching themes, but will look very different than the work I've made before. My practice is in the process of finding itself, and it hasn't settled. Because of that, each new body of work ends up being more and more experimental than the last. It's such an exciting place to be in. 

You can see a selection of my work at WWW.LAUREN-KIM.COM or instagram.com/laurenkirm

Why do you like watching scary movies? 

I hate scary movies, but I love the act of watching scary movies with other people. It stems from my mother. She loved to watch scary movies together. So much so that when I was in third grade, she made me throw a birthday party and surprised us with a viewing of Alfred Hitchcock's THE BIRDS (courtesy of Blockbuster). I have a visceral memory of all of my child colleagues shrieking with terror at the scene where a man is found eyeball-less after a bird attack. My mother didn't think about how scary it would be, she just thought that she was showing us a good movie. The unintended inappropriateness of my mother showing a bunch of 9 year olds THE BIRDS makes me laugh so hard.

What does stuck look and feel like? 

Stuck looks like Winnie the Pooh stuck in a hole and feels like Winnie the Pooh stuck in a hole. You're immobile, helpless, pantsless, and on top of that your asshole friend Rabbit tries to disguise your ass so that you look like some strange, demonic smiling antlered BUTT SHELF. UNACCEPTABLE! 

Whitney Skauge

Hi friends meet @whitneyskauge. She is a film maker who moved from Montana to Hollywood in search of the dream. She is clever, cool and beats to her own drum. Follow along this week as we get to know her better.⁣

Why are movies important?⁣
@whitneyskauge: How much time do you have because this is one of my favorite things to talk about. Basically they are a reflection of society and have the ability, and some might say responsibility, to enact social change. Movies are a vehicle you know? They can help you understand yourself and the world around you better. People might think movies are just for entertainment, that the actors and everyone else involved are just rich people playing pretend, but it's more than that. Movies are one of the if not the most popular art form. There’s a lot of weight and thought that has to be taken in consideration in terms of what you chose to show. The amount of representation that can occur in 90 minutes can be life-changing. Are you going to show harmful stereotypes or are you going to break the mold? Everyone deserves to feel seen.That’s what movies do; they tell people they matter. That’s powerful. ⁣

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?⁣
@whitneyskauge:⁣
Self care. It can be very difficult to take care of yourself. And I don’t mean how to do your laundry or pay bills. But how to say no. How to ask for help. How to give yourself credit. Those are the hard ones. It should happen at a young age you know? I think K-12 should have like a mental care class where kids learn how to process feelings and other essential life skills that are focused on the internal. .A lot of shit would change if we all had better coping mechanisms. ⁣

Do you like things to be carefully planned or do you prefer to just go with the flow?⁣
@whitneyskauge: If it is something that requires a lot of time and attention I'm definitely more of a planner.I have to at least have a basic game plan or else I’ll get stressed out and that’s just not necessary. But with anything creative I try to go with the flow. I’m not that person that has intricate notes or concepts. I just have to feel it out. ⁣

Vicki Tan

Hi friends meet @vickiheart. Vicki is a designer, motorcyclist, meditator and very gentle spirit. Follow along this week as we talk about life and what makes us human

Why do you like riding your motorcycle?
Motorcycle = freedom

What habit do you have now that you wish you started much earlier?
Meditation

What about the opposite sex confuses you the most?
Nearly everything

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?
Nutrition, sleep hygiene, personal finance, and mindfulness

What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?
Crickets.

Tell me about Headspace?

What is the best thing you have learned from working in the tech industry?
Complete strangers will go out of their way to help you succeed

What experiences in life shaped you the most?
Being born 2 months premature at 2 lbs
My dad’s passing when I was 12
Working in pediatric oncology in my 20s
A really humbling bike accident at 25
Quitting my job to start a new career
Traveling solo through foreign countries
Facing my worst fear, public speaking

What’s the most anxiety inducing thing you do on a regular basis?
Meditation

What near future predictions do you have?
In order to combat the looming catastrophe of climate change, there will be drastic tax-related measures implemented to cut down on carbon emissions, and these will greatly change how we live our lives.

What do you do to make the world a better place?
Every day, I work at company whose mission is to make the world a happier and healthier place. We build a product called Headspace that helps teach people about meditation and mindfulness.

Mantra of the moment?
Let it go

Favorite quote?
“If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” – Haruki Murakami

What does the perfect day look like?
Meditation and yoga in the morning. Lunch at Destroyer with a perfect flat white and a good book. Climbing outdoors in a beautiful location with friends. Garlic crab and a bottle of wine for dinner. In bed by midnight!

Christina Chi Craig

Hi friends meet @urbanafterthought. She is a photographer, deep thinker and all around super beautiful human. This week we will dive into life, art and happiness recipes.

What is paradise? Balance, and the art of learning to find it in everything you do.

What experiences in life shaped you the most? Shooting 35 mm Film taught me composure and patience. I would say being born with two different cultural backgrounds also played a big role. My mother is Vietnamese and my father is North-American. Growing up my dual identity gave me a less ego-centric vision which opened my mind in ways It might not have otherwise. I think in the creative world that’s one of my most important assets, having an open mind. I’m not afraid to trying anything once.

Who is your biggest influence and why? My mother. Her journey from Vietnam to America is a story of leaving everything you know and building yourself from the ground up. I continue to be amazed by the capacity she has to give, and the capability to endure. She is one of the most selfless people I know and her love knows no bounds. Her passion shined a light on the beauty of this world and makes me appreciate every breath I take.

What will destroy the world and what will save it? Love

What are things that bring you joy in the world? Art

My dog

Nature

Traveling

Solid podcasts + a good playlist (freelance = lot’s of driving)

Cooking at home

Spending time with my family, friends, loved ones

Exercising (exercising gives you endorphins and endorphins make you happy!)

My plants

What does being a woman mean to you? Bearer of light and life

What habit do you have now that you wish you started much earlier? Self-confidence. I was terribly shy and self-conscious growing up.

What about the opposite sex confuses you the most? Less about the opposite sex and more about humans in general: communication of feelings. I think that’s why I gravitate towards the creative world because it’s the lifelong study and quest to understand and be understood.

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful? To never stop imagining. I think generally speaking play is seen as this thing you do as a kid but then phase out of, into a more adult mindset. But a big part of finding happiness is to never stop seeing the world through the lens of wonderment.

Tell me about photography? Photography started as therapy. My first class was a 35mm Black and white class. Something about being in a dark room and being forced to be with myself for long stretches of time really opened me up to a level of self-consciousness. Then there was the magic of watching a blank piece of photographic paper develop before your eyes. And the permanence of a fleeting moment captured. I remember my parents going through their divorce and how each moment became so much more fragile to me. I saw The impermanence of things and photography was my way of holding on to each moment.

What is Love? Love is compromise.

What is god? God is whatever, whoever, or wherever humbles you. It pushes you to be a better version of you.

What’s about to get much better? Me. Every day is an opportunity to grow and learn, and I do.

Tell me one Christina fun fact... I could watch space documentaries all day

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself? That I tend to over analyze.

What do you need help with most often? Internally, I sometimes find myself struggling with allowing myself to be proud of my own work.

Corina Rose

Hi friends. Meet @corina_rose she is a photographer, surfer and genuinely kind, caring and sweet human being.

1. What is the best advice your grandmother ever gave you?
I can’t say that I’m very close with either of my grandmothers, but I think from just being in their presence, I’ve observed that speaking with straightforward honesty is always a good policy.

2. What drives you?
I’m perpetually inspired by beauty, and the idea of bringing more beauty into the world drives me like nothing else.

3. When you think of strong woman who is the first person that comes to mind?
My mother, Nola Rae.

4. What does success mean to you? Has the definition changed over the years and if so, why?
To me, success means being able to get by in life (i.e. be able to pay all your bills) by doing something you love. I’ve always been ideological like that, but I am learning that perfection shouldn’t be a goal in achieving success. The older I get, the more I realize that you can’t always ‘make’ things happen; a lot of times, the best things come when you’re just minding your own business and doing what fulfills you, without having any other agenda. I believe that every single person has innate talent(s), and that if we employ them to the best of our ability, success in some form or another will follow.

5. What does it mean to have courage?
I remember being the goalie on my soccer team when I was 8 years old, and my mom looking me in the eyes and telling me how courageous I was for standing in the face of oncoming opposition and not yielding. Personally, I just remember feeling scared seeing a ball being kicked toward my face, but I do think her affirmations instilled in me a positive relationship with fear; the ability to be aware of fear and acknowledge its existence is extremely useful in being able to choose to not succumb to it. Personally, I can’t say that I always choose to conquer the various fears I have, but that is my understanding of what courage is.

6. You are a surfer and photographer, could you tell me a bit about the two…
Yes, I am a surfer, thanks to my super cool older Brother, Ben, who taught me what style was when I was a teenager, and to my parents, who supported my single-minded ambition to be “cool” like my big bro. Surfing has literally shaped my life into what it is today and exceeded my adolescent expectations of how much happiness, joy, and ecstatic beauty it could bring into my life. I am so grateful for it. Photography came later, in my mid-twenties and, despite (or perhaps due to) the fact that my mom always had some sort of camera around to document my four siblings’ and my growing-up years, I didn’t really consider it a fun activity. But, once I realized I could make pretty things using light and film, I was hooked. There are infinite amounts of beauty in the world; as a photographer, all you have to do is be there to appreciate it (and make sure your film speed is set correctly).

7. What are the principles and values that you believe are important to live by?
I feel that most people would say something like ‘kindness’ here, but, being slightly more selfish than most people, I find high importance in the ability to hone into one’s own intuition. Is that a value? It might be more of a principle, as it’s served as a guide in many of my own experiences in life. The best decisions I’ve made in my life were not made by logic or strict reasoning, but by following what simply felt ‘right’ for where I was at the time. I also like to place faith in the idea of setting intentions. I couldn’t necessarily explain the science of how the universe works in returning what is emitted into it, but I do know that on more than one occasion, a specific thought or ‘wish’ I had in the past ended up becoming my reality. I believe it’s important to appreciate the power of our thoughts.

8. Who inspires you and who are your role models?
I’m inspired by all of my siblings and what grown-ups they’ve all become. Maybe it’s because I’ve known them since we were all really young (cause that’s how siblings work), but I find myself continually more impressed by their accomplishments, humor, intelligence, and poise. Some credit should go to my parents as well for raising us with proper values (and chores). I think collectively, they are probably all my role models, as they all have different strengths. It’s like everyone in my family is a different superhero and each has their own personality ‘superpower’. Like, my mom is probably the most compassionate person in the world; my dad is hilariously funny (both intentionally and non-); my eldest brother Ben is super witty; Tyler, the second-eldest is smart as a whip and can reference basically any pop-culture-related fact ever; and both of my sisters, Hannah and Grace (twins) are some of the hardest-working and most driven people I know, which is super foreign to me, an artistic-creative type who just wanted to ‘do surfing’ as a career. So, these six humans inspire me in their unique ways, to be a better me.

9. If you could ask God one question what would it be?
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of eternity…

10. Window seat or aisle?
Aisle.

Diandre Fuentes

Hi friends. Meet @_dfuentes_ she is an artist, activist, dog lover, shoe designer @vans and one of the most engaging thinkers, doers and changers I have ever met. So happy to be sharing her photos and words this week.

What is paradise?
Paradise has a kind of unattainable connotation to it. It seems like a place that is mythical or otherworldly. A place with no pain. I prefer the idea of utopia over the idea of paradise. Utopia is a fully realized version of our world- where all the economic and political bullshit is sorted out through the effort and cooperation of global citizens. Fighting for utopia is painful, but I will take collective wins over isolated solace.

What do you think about when you hear the word “classy”?

The word classy triggers the practice of toxic judgment in my mind. When I was young, I remember some of my older relatives would deem certain things classy or not classy. In retrospect, I translate their actions into a weird manifestation of love. They were looking out for me and wanted me to acceptable in the eyes of the status quo. Classy is a word that divides us. I prefer to just let people be who they are without the constructs of value or class.

What does it mean to be true to you?
I feel the truest to myself when my actions align with my ideals. Integrity is something I am working on. The gap between my actions and ideals widens the more I investigate the hidden political and economic forces that fuel our society. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to close the gap. I would be lying if I told you that I haven’t eaten Chik-Fil-A or shopped at Wal-Mart in the past few months. But I try to stay mindful and informed, take it one step at a time.

What do you need help with most often?
I need help with learning how to ask people for help. I always tend of bite off more than I can chew and I am more of a control freak than I would like to admit. I am learning how to relinquish control, trust others, and spread the responsibility. It’s been doing wonders for my sanity, and projects turn out better than I could have imagined!

What habit do you have now that you wish you started much earlier?
Self-Affirmations. I’m far from perfect and self-deprecation is almost hardwired into my psyche. But learning to love myself has been a powerful tool when navigating through unfamiliar and uncomfortable situations. Being self-affirming doesn’t mean I am always right or that I have all the answers. But it reminds me that that my perspective is unique and possibly valuable, and it deserves representation.

What is your current occupation?
By day I am a footwear designer. By night I am an illustrator and organizer.
What do you love most about where you work?
My coworkers are a gang of talented and compassionate misfits. They fill me with inspiration and laughter every day. And Lord knows I couldn’t survive a day in this dysfunctional ashpit of a society without a daily dose of laughter.

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?
Sacrificing your ego for the good of the collective is a life skill that’s hard to learn, but critical. We live in a culture that celebrates individualism, but one mind and one body can only accomplish so much. Relinquishing personal pride and authorship to the power of a group can push you farther than you could ever have gone on your own.

Ashleigh Johnson

Today we introduce you to Olympic gold medalists @ashleighjohnson. Ashleigh is the goalie for @usawp women’s national team. She recently graduated from @princeton and finds her days traveling the world playing waterpolo. Follow along this week as we talk about life, waterpolo and @netflix.

Why water polo?

I started playing water polo because it was a convenient and fun after school sport for my siblings and I, but I continue to play because I love it. I love how exciting and challenging it is to play, and I love how big of a role it’s played in my life.

What is paradise?

Paradise is being able to make home wherever I am.

Any pregame rituals?

I love to dance before a game, but I also like to dance generally.

What song do you play to pump you up?

I'm not consistent with listening to a particular song, but I’m super into Khalid right now for pregame listening.

What did you like / dislike about where you grew up?

I both liked and disliked how far away from everything I lived. It gave me the opportunity to spend a lot of time with my family, but it didn’t make it easy to have friends over or go over to theirs.

What’s your good luck charm?

I don’t have one!

What’s the oldest thing you own?

The oldest thing I own is a stereo/radio that was given to me by my oldest brother when he got tired of it.

What’s the most disgusting sounding word in the English language?

Never thought about this before, but the word "slut" hits my ear wrong, also "gherkin."

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself?

The biggest realization I’ve had about myself recently is that I’m messy. I’ve always had this idea of myself as understatedly organized, but that was a lie.

What awful movie do you love?

"The Taking of Deborah Logan"! I’m all in with bad Netflix horrors.

What’s the cutest thing you can imagine? Something so cute it’s almost painful.

I cry every time I see a video of a family member or dog reacting to a soldier coming home—it’s so cute. Those get me good.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I’ve ever received has been: however much I invest into something is what I can expect to get out of it. That has held true for many important things in my life including relationships, school, and water polo.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to go to the Olympics?

I would advise someone who wants to go for the Olympics not to make making it to the Olympics the end-all-be-all of their aspirations. If you’re going to pursue a goal like this, you have to make it about more than just making it there. Not only will this allow you to experience the other positive and negatives of the process in a different way, and give everything that you’re putting into your sport more meaning.

What near-future predictions do you have?

This is going to sound eerily on point, but Netflix will keep releasing originals, and I’ll keep watching them.

What do you need help with most often?

I struggle the most with staying connected, but the people who I am closest with excel at it.

What do you do to make the world a better place?

I’d really love to make an impact on drowning rates by giving swim lessons, especially in communities of color.

What did you eat so much of that now you hate it?

The only food I really dislike is okra and I didn’t have to eat much of it to get there.

In what situations do you wish you could throw down a smoke bomb and disappear?

Ugh, I’m so awkward meeting in new situations with new people sometimes. Maybe I need a reset button more than a smoke bomb, though.

Do you have any post-game rituals?

Usually a good meal with family and friends.

Golden Shyne

Everybody meet @goldensunshyne she is a professional makeup artist who styles some of the biggest celebrities in the world. Golden had very humble beginnings and learned how to apply makeup by practicing on strippers and prostitutes in Los Vegas. Golden is a shining light that is deep and full of loving wisdom.

What is paradise? Creating something out of nothing!

What would you like for your next birthday? A nice vacation with my boyfriend - his pick.

How did you get into makeup? Initially, Michael Jackson’s Thriller changed my world! I was 6 years old sitting on the floor in our living room and I became infuriated that someone would do such a thing to Michael like turn him into a zombie. When I later found out it was makeup effects - I instantly became obsessed. But it wasn’t until I became an adult, trying to navigate my way through makeup that I was given the gift of working for high-end sex workers that I understood I could make a living helping people feel better starting in a makeup chair.

One day you would like to start a skin care line, could you tell me about that? I wish that I could! I am in the developing stages and hope to announce something soon... But I will tell you this; it will be a dream come true. I love makeup but I honestly feel Makeup is nothing without skin care.

If you could ask God one question what would it be? What could I do better for my next visit?

What would you say has been your best investment? Quitting my corporate makeup job to become my own boss and taking up the practice of reiki. Reiki has helped me understand my emotions and take responsibility for them. It’s taught me the most about who I strive to be.

Do you have any phobias? I prefer focusing on the well-being of things. Like why would I go to a buffet of endless eats only to talk about what I’m not going to eat? Focusing on the good of all things is more fun to me. Phobias are just unimagined fears.

Is the world big or small? It’s a rippling effect of both. To me the universe is all about contrast and all of its connective tissue in between.

Do you believe in miracles? Absolutely, if you look up long enough they are endlessly happening around you!

What is the best way to deal with rejection? Remembering you’re always a student and that never changes. Nothing is personally done to you. Everything is a lesson in how we are really meant to be here to take care of the planet and all the things on it - that includes learning from one another! The point of being at the top of the food chain is to care for every element - even the rejection. Everything else is trivial.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy? I astro project. I meditate and practice Qigong religiously.

Mantra of the moment? What would it feel like if you already had the things you felt you were missing?

Favorite quote? Make good art! Make it on the good days and the bad days too. - Neil Gaiman

What is the best advice you have ever received? Don’t try and figure it out. Let the journey pick you.

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful? I think emotional intelligence. If we started with the understanding that what we feel and how we feel it has consequences maybe we would learn more about ourselves which would lead to the compassion for others because we would have found it within ourselves.

What was one of the most interesting concerts you’ve been to? I think it would have to have been the Comedy Camosado. I was working for Eric Andre but backstage was what felt like a sea of unicorns disguised as comedians. All of the greats were there and at one point I looked to my right and said “omg your skin is amazing”. Mid-sentence I realized it was Maya Rudolph. In return, this led to a 30-minute conversation with her on skincare. Afterwards, she disappeared into a sea of other comedians. It was one of the best nights of my life.

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself? Things aren’t about me. No matter how much I rack my brain I can’t control anything or anyone. The world doesn’t owe me a fucking thing but I owe the world everything - all my love, all my hate and all my joy. I owe it to the world to show up every day better than my last.

Adri Law

Hi friends. Meet @adri_law, she rules. Adri is a photographer, dog lover, motorcyclist and fan of all things Morrissey. Adri’s is the co-founder of @paradiseroadshow and eats vegetarian. Follow along this week to see some very cool photos and intriguing words.

Tell me about photography....
It’s one of my greatest loves and biggest struggles. It has been a part of my life since I was a teen, and I have been able to turn my passion into a career. With that being said, having gone fully freelance and without an agent can be pretty difficult; it’s easy to hit a wall and just see this as a job vs a creative outlet. I’ve had times where I really question myself and the path that I’ve chosen. One of the most important things that I’ve realized is that no matter what, I need to continue creating the work that I personally love, not what I think other people want to see. It’s that much more rewarding when I get amazing jobs based off of that particular work.

What is paradise road?
A classic car and motorcycle show that I put on with Chase Stopnik and Lana Macnaughton. We are going on our 3rd year! It's happening Jan 12-13, 2019, at The Saguaro in Palm Springs!

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?
Compassion, patience, time management, and how to do your taxes.

What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?
I'll try anything once, but if I hate it, I'm gonna tell you.

What’s about to get much better?
LIFE! I recently had a very wise, amazing, and beautiful witch tell me that ‘the universe favors the bold.’ It’s so simple and has really stuck with me; it’s something I will definitely continue to practice in my daily life!

What’s the most awkward thing that happens to you on a regular basis?
People like to compare me to Betty Page because of my black hair/bangs, I guess, but more often than not, they can't even remember her name, so I have to remind them who I remind them of... insert eyeroll

What was one of the most interesting concerts you’ve been to?
I saw Maroon 5 and Enrique Iglesias play at a small private party in San Antonio, TX. My job has begun to take me to the best and strangest of places.

What qualities do all your friends have in common?
They are all pretty damn funny! I favor a sense of humor, honestly, and loyalty above all.

What’s your secret talent?
I'm pretty great in the kitchen!

What’s the most anxiety-inducing thing you do on a regular basis?
As a freelancer, waking up every morning not knowing what the hell life and work holds for me. It’s equal parts anxiety and excitement. I love it but also hate it.

What always cheers you up when you think about it?
MY DOG, OBV.

Do you like things to be carefully planned or do you prefer to just go with the flow?
It depends on my mood, but more often than not, I prefer things to be planned. I need to be prepared and I like to know what’s going on before it goes on. As much as I love things to be planned, I do love a good surprise... sorry, I'm a Gemini.

What about the opposite sex confuses you the most?
Everything. Lol I’ve dated idiots (who I didn't realize were idiots until we broke up) and also not idiots, so they run the gamut here. I never know what I’m getting into, but let’s just say, I’m currently happy with where I’m at.

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself?
Being true to myself and doing the things I love most is key and everything else will follow. Trends are not sustainable but passion is.

What do you do to make the world a better place?
I try my best to eat vegan, if not vegetarian, and working on being kind to everyone... a nice gesture, big or small, can go a long way and more often than not have a chain reaction.

In what situations, do you wish you could throw down a smoke bomb and disappear?
Social ones. LOL

Jenavieve Belair

Hey y’all. Meet @jenavieve, she is a photographer, dog lover and proud owner of a very cool ford truck. Follow along this week as we dig into life, love and passion for sandwiches.

What qualities do all your friends have in common?
I think we are all different in our own amazing ways, but at the core of who we are is our hearts. We are all tenderhearted people who care a lot.

What’s your secret talent?
My body is pretty bendable, I was a ballerina for 15 years.

What’s the most anxiety-inducing thing you do on a regular basis?
I'm a pretty calm person, but trying to fall asleep when I have to wake up early almost always gives me anxiety. I've been that way my whole life; I become afraid I won't fall asleep and won't get enough sleep. I've gotten better at not letting it happen, but from time to time it still pops up.

What would the adult version of an ice-cream truck sell and what song would it play?
Amazing question. Ideally, it'd play "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves and sell smoothies and iced coffee.

What always cheers you up when you think about it?
My dog. Just the thought of him brings a smile to my face.

Do you like things to be carefully planned or do you prefer to just go with the flow?
I am the worst at plans. At making them and following through with them. I'm a much more go-with-the-flow, hop-in-the-car-and-let's-adventure-that-way kind of person.

If you owned a restaurant, what kind of food would it serve?
Sandwiches because they're the best meal of all time. My sister Erin would have to be the chef though. Her veggie and turkey sandwiches are my favorite thing to eat.

What did you like/dislike about where you grew up?
I grew up in Minnesota, about an hour outside the city. Not quite farm country but still enough space to roam and run as a child. Minnesota was a wholesome place to grow up; my childhood was filled with backyards, lakes, and forests to roam in. We played baseball and rode our bikes to the Dairy Queen for fun. Summers were hotter than hot and winters were beyond freezing, but I don't ever remember being bothered by that.

What’s your good luck charm?
I actually don't know if I have one. Is luck real? Is it karma? Is it fate? I'm not sure.

What’s the oldest thing you own?
Before my grandma passed, she gave me her rosary that she got from her father in Spain when she was a little girl. It's one of the most important things to me I have in my possession.

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself?
I think I've had many, if we're lucky we have a lot. I've learned that all life is is learning more about ourselves as time goes on. I'm in the last year of my 20's and I've come to understand myself more than ever about work, love, relationships, self-communication, and much more. It sounds silly to say that the most important thing to do is what makes you happy (in all those categories) but it's true. At the root of all those realizations is what brings the most happiness. Understanding what we want in a relationship is ultimately about what will make you happiest. Learning the life-work balance is all about staying happy between the two. Figuring out what part of your job or what path in your career is best for you is about what yields the most happiness. Learning to give and receive love is the ultimate learning of how to be happy. At the core of everything we do is the endless quest for pure happiness.

What awful movie do you love?
I am a sucker for teen drama, and every movie based on a Nicholas Sparks novel. I've seen them all, and I will cry at the end of all of them. Yes, the Notebook is actually amazing, but have y'all seen The Longest Ride or The Best of Me?

Why photography?
I started shooting when I was around 13. My grandpa had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and I was just old enough to understand and see the effect it was having on my family. I couldn't grasp the reality behind forgetting your family, your life, and your experiences. I was terrified by the entire thing, that he was forgetting, that someday I could forget. The only way I could keep everything close to me was to take pictures of it. I got obsessed with remembering my life. My family, my friends, my everyday life. My dad gave me one of his old film cameras and I brought it everywhere with me. There was a point where photography had turned into so much of a job and a career that I had forgotten why I started in the first place. I began taking pictures of my life again and it reignited the passion that I had lost for a minute there. After all, I think the beauty of life is in our day-to-day, not just the grand adventure we take.

What is paradise?
I think paradise is in being calm. In the moments when our brain isn't tied to stress, or what we have to do. In the moments where you can be present with the people who matter most to you. My family is my everything, and the time that we all get together means the world to me. Yes, tropical places look like "paradise" but those places mean very little to me if I'm not sharing them with the people I love.

What is god?
I think god is love. Every religion is beautiful in its own way, and every book each religion follows has amazing stories and lessons. But I think the foundation of each religion, and what I've taken away from learning about all of them is love. To be the best person you can be, to help others unconditionally and as my mother says, to "always come from a place of love." We went to church when I was little, mostly for holidays. We were never your typical family in that regard though. My mom is quite the gypsy. We were raised on astrology, the phases of the moon and that every living thing has energy. We were taught to believe that love is at the core of everything we do and that you should take