Join us in this episode with Anthony and Kaylah Cantu, the dynamic screenwriting duo behind Writers Spotlight—a platform built by writers, for writers, to provide meaningful feedback, build community, and help emerging screenwriters develop scripts that stand out.We dive into their journey of creativity, growth, and the challenges of maintaining balance both professionally and personally. They share what it’s like co-writing as a couple, the role of faith in their creative life, and how Writers Spotlight came from a desire to uplift others walking the same path.This conversation is filled with insight, heart, and practical wisdom for anyone navigating the dream of screenwriting. Whether you're just starting out or deep in the rewrite phase, this episode is a reminder that your voice matters—and you don’t have to do it alone!
Join Jordan for the first ever guided inner reflection episode — a shorter experience to help you slow down and reconnect with yourself.
Recorded under the light of the Buck Moon, "Full Moon Reflections for The Buck Moon | Growth, Courage, and Support" invites you to reflect on what is quietly growing within, the courage to change, and the support you are learning to receive.
Take out your journal and follow along with prompts designed to help you explore your own growth.
Thank you for listening to Aurora Airwaves, a podcast for slowing down, growing with intention, and letting your light soar.
Seattle based videographer and editor Chelsea Newton tunes into the airwaves to share her journey, one shaped by creativity, nature, and self discovery.
Join us for a heartfelt conversation as we explore friendship, growth, and self-discovery. Chelsea reflects on her inspiring journey, from the Pacific Crest Trail to her work in film. We dive into the importance of listening to one's inner voice, pursuing passions, and the incredible power of community.
A bit about Chelsea:
Chelsea spent her early career in nonprofit and public broadcasting in Upstate NY before transitioning to the Pacific Northwest, building a life around the outdoors. She worked in the outdoor and wedding industry under her own production company before moving into a full time role this past year and giving her corporate side a whirl. Outside of her art, she enjoys connecting with the land and her body through backpacking and camping, breathwork, yoga, live music, solo travel, and dancing.
"Shadows are who we are, just as light is who we are. And when we choose to look at the lights all around us and then learn how to transform the energy that is within us that is not light, we can become radically different, healthy, healed beings."
Welcome to Season 2 of Aurora Airwaves: A Haven for the Heart.
In this opening episode, I return to the reason I started this podcast in the first place—to explore what it really means to live a creative and connected life.
I share the healing journey that brought me here, from the struggles I faced to the shadow work that helped me reconnect with myself and find clarity. We talk about the myth of fixing ourselves, the power of creative energy, and what happens when you finally start listening to your heart.
If you have ever felt stuck or unsure how to move forward, this season is an invitation to come home to yourself and from that place create something real.
I’ve welcomed a new friend into my life–my adopted kitty, Poppyseed.
In this mini- episode, I share how she found her way to me and how she’ll be part of my journey moving forward.I’m so excited to keep exploring what it means to live a healthy, creative life–with her by my side– through my adventures and in Season 2 of Aurora Airwaves, launching soon.
Sara Burgess and Keith Gallucci return for a deep dive into creative growth, personal resolutions, and navigating uncertainty. Together with Jordan, they explore the impact of LA Wildfires, the shifting landscape of TikTok and online business, and most importantly, their personal takes on New Year’s resolutions—what they mean for their creative journeys and life.
This episode is all about adapting, evolving, and finding meaning in change. Whether it’s the unpredictability of the digital world, the challenges of a creative career, or setting intentions for the future, this conversation will leave you reflecting on how you approach your own path.
In this episode of Aurora Airwaves, Jordan sits down with Nicole Matarese, a Queer Filmmaker/Artist, to talk about the power of pursuing the art you love—on your own terms. Nicole shares her journey of making things happen, finding creative communities, and encouraging herself to share her work with the world while also finding balance to avoid burnout.They dive into the realities of balancing creativity with life, healing, and self-care, and how the only thing that truly matters is showing up for your art. Whether it’s film, comedy, or any creative pursuit, this conversation is a reminder that no one is stopping you—if you want to create, just do it while also prioritizing your well-being.🎭 See Nicole live! Catch her in Screaming Crying Throwing Up: A Fangirl Sketch Show at The People's Improv Theater on Saturday, 2/22. This sketch comedy show, created by and for fangirls, dives into the passions and obsessions of fandom—from K-pop and Disney to books, TV, movies, and fanfic. Follow along here: https://www.instagram.com/fangirlsketchshow/🌮 Nicole’s Upcoming Podcast! Nacho Average Diary Podcast—where she and her co-host eat nachos and read old diaries! Episodes launching soon. Follow for updates: https://www.instagram.com/nachoaveragediarypodcast/
In this episode of Aurora Airwaves, Jordan Bianchi sits down with Emily Campbell, a Colorado-based musician and educator, to explore the profound impact of music education and performance. As the Director of Colorado Music Institute, Emily has dedicated her career to making music accessible to students of all ages and skill levels.
Emily shares her journey from studying clarinet at the University of Michigan and the University of Colorado Boulder to performing with ensembles like the Colorado Wind Ensemble and indie rock band "Jack Campbell and the Head Mess". She and Jordan reflect on their experiences studying clarinet in high school, discussing the positives, the hardships, and the process of unpacking what truly aligns with them on their creative journeys.
This conversation delves into the ways music shapes personal growth, strengthens communities, and offers a path for self-expression. Whether performing in orchestras, pit ensembles, or chamber groups, Emily’s passion for music shines through in every aspect of her work.
Emily Rundle, MSLIS, is a children’s and local history librarian in Central New York with a deep passion for childhood literacy, intellectual freedom, and all things creative and "geeky." Emily shares her journey to becoming a librarian and reflects on the transformative power of libraries as sanctuaries for creativity, exploration, and personal growth.
She shares her work fostering childhood literacy, supporting kids’ emotional and educational needs, and cultivating joy through storytelling and community programs. Emily also discusses the importance of meeting children where they are, reducing shame around reading preferences, and creating spaces where young minds can thrive. Additionally, she offers insights into how adults can rediscover their love for reading by engaging with stories in ways that feel meaningful and joyful.
Jordan’s friend and fellow writer Amanda Bintz is back! In this episode, they reflect on their experiences with NaNoWriMo—National Novel Writing Month—and the surprising realizations they uncovered about their writing processes.
Together, they explore what worked best for them, the challenges of meeting external goals, and the importance of following intuition in storytelling.
This episode is a case study in remembering how to tell stories in a way that feels good, focusing on creativity and authenticity rather than just ticking off word count milestones.
Read Amanda's blog post, "Why I’m Not Doing NaNoWriMo After All":https://www.amandabintz.com/blog/why-im-not-doing-nanowrimo-after-all
In this episode, Jordan speaks with Charles Czarnecki, a Creative Entrepreneur and international music industry powerhouse. They discuss life, creativity, and what it means to be a professional musician while balancing the demands of a multifaceted career and personal life. Charles shares insights from his remarkable journey, including his work on Broadway, collaborations with world-renowned artists, and his innovative approach to storytelling through music and immersive experiences.🎙️
Links to Charles' Podcast, "Le Chat Noir Journal":
📰 Substack: https://lechatnoirjournal.substack.com/podcast
🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/le-chat-noir-journal-podcast/id1675485016
🌐 Charles's Website: https://czmaestro.com/
🎵 Charles's SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-265967668
Jordan shares his reflections on understanding his relationship with writing as he completes his book outline in preparation for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo).
In this episode, Jordan dives into the world of independent publishing with LCW Allingham and River Eno, the founders of Speculation Publications, a women-owned indie press dedicated to amplifying new and established voices. LC and River share their journeys as authors, editors, and advocates for diverse storytelling, discussing the challenges and rewards of running an indie press and their passion for the art of writing. LC and River share their insights on creating and running Speculation Publications, the process of writing long-format stories versus short stories, and the value of writing workshops. They also explore the art of storytelling, their approaches to nurturing creativity within their press and personal projects, and Speculation Publications' published works, including anthologies like BEACH SHORTS, GRIMM RETOLD, MUSE, and INCUBATE: A Horror Collection of Feminine Power.
Join Jordan Bianchi as he reconnects with his former film professor, Jacob A. Dodd—an independent filmmaker, author, and Associate Professor of Cinema and Screen Studies at Oswego State University of New York. Jacob’s work is a celebration of analog film, specializing in memoir documentary and fiction filmmaking on celluloid. With an MFA in Photography and Film from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BFA in Film, Photography, and Visual Arts from Ithaca College, Jacob brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his craft.
In this episode, they dive into Jake's film projects, his unique approach to teaching, and his ongoing process of balancing personal creative work with his role in the classroom. They discuss the difficulties of managing large, unfinished projects and navigating the discomfort that comes with creative blockages. Jake shares his insights into crafting a career that aligns with his values and passions, and his dedication to fostering a love for film in his students. He also highlights his commitment to community-based projects in the Oswego area, including a special class project for his “Children’s Literature and Film” course at Fort Ontario.
As the author of 16mm and 8mm Filmmaking: An Essential Guide to Shooting on Celluloid, Jake is committed to preserving the art and technique of traditional film formats. His short films have been screened at both national and international festivals, including the Lahore International Children’s Film Festival, Thomas Edison Film Festival, Virginia Film Festival, Athens International Film + Video Festival, Big Muddy Film Festival, and the James River Film Festival.
Join Jordan Bianchi as he reconnects with his former SUNY Oswego screenwriting professor, Jane Winslow, and learns all about her incredible journey as an artist! Jane’s path has taken many fascinating turns—from training as an opera singer to becoming a singer-songwriter, filmmaker, professor, and now Co-Director and Festival Manager at the renowned Sebastopol Documentary Film Festival (SDFF). In this episode, Jane shares her belief that creating art is all about connection and the joys that unfold when you share your voice with the world. She opens up about the times she faced creative blocks that stopped her from connecting, and how she learned to step around those obstacles, ultimately gifting herself the freedom to express her inner voice. A little bit about SDFF: The Sebastopol Documentary Film Festival was founded in 2007 with the bold vision of spotlighting 44 films from talented filmmakers in Sonoma County and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Sixteen years later, SDFF 2023 received nearly 700 submissions from 62 countries, with 63 films programmed and 93 filmmakers in attendance. As an Oscar®-qualifying festival for short-form documentaries, SDFF remains a progressive platform for social justice, journalism, and diverse perspectives.
Filmmakers, submit your documentaries to SDFF today! https://sebastopolfilmfestival.org/ and get ready for the Spring 2025 program!
In this episode of Aurora Airwaves, Jordan Bianchi talks with actor Keith Gallucci about the challenges of navigating a creative path. They emphasize the importance of prioritization and focusing on one goal at a time, acknowledging that success often involves a winding journey where rejection and failure can be reframed as opportunities for growth. The conversation highlights the necessity of self-reflection and patience, reminding listeners that progress is a personal journey that takes time.
They also discuss the transformative power of taking U-turns in life. Keith shares a touching story about his grandfather, whose commitment to building a church had a profound impact on their community, illustrating the significance of following one’s calling. Jordan reflects on her own experiences, stressing the need to balance personal needs with artistic pursuits. Together, they underscore the importance of self-worth, boundaries, and the immigrant experience, celebrating storytelling as a powerful means of connection and inspiration.
On this week’s episode, Jordan chats with David Heath, a London-based flautist, who shares his journey from a psychic encounter that revealed his past life as a Cathar to his quest to uncover the Holy Grail - the lost gospels of Mary Magdalene. He discusses his mission to bring forth knowledge about the divine feminine energy often forgotten by history and how his understanding of spirituality has reshaped his view of his place in the universe. Dave also explores the divine energy that speaks through music, highlighting new prominent voices in each generation.
A bit about the artist: Dave Heath is a London-based composer and flautist, a Guildhall School of Music and Drama graduate. He began his career in modern jazz, gaining recognition with works like Out of the Cool (1978) and Rise from the Dark (1982). His compositions blend jazz, rock rhythms, and avant-garde techniques. Heath has written for renowned artists such as James Galway and Nigel Kennedy and has been both acclaimed and controversial. He served as Composer in Residence with the BT Scottish Ensemble (1993-1996) and appeared on BBC2's Mad About Music. Heath also records with notable musicians and plays a custom Cooper flute, the Excalibur.
Peter Hanley, known for his experimental mixed media contributions to the Philadelphia street art scene, discusses his latest creative project, “We Are Friends! Yes!” with writer Amanda Bintz and host Jordan Bianchi. We dive into his creative process and explore his ventures into integrating creative writing with different mediums.
Peter and Amanda, who are newly engaged, also share their experiences of living together while working on creative projects. They offer a candid look at how they balance their artistic endeavors while supporting each other’s work, including writing stories and workshopping ideas.
UK illustrator Calum Heath joins us for Episode 20 of Aurora Airwaves! Calum Heath is a distinguished UK-based illustrator known for his captivating work with an array of high-profile clients. His illustrations have been featured in renowned publications such as The New Yorker, Creative Review, The Washington Post, Bloomberg, The Guardian, The New York Times, and VICE. In this episode, Jordan and Calum discuss his career journey, how he became an illustrator, his influences growing up, his experiences finding his way in commercial art while nurturing his inner artist, and his latest publication, the book "For the Love of Dog", written by Pilley Bianchi.
Angela Bianchi, Owner and Lead Stager of Bianchi Designs, shares insights into her entrepreneurial journey with Jordan on Aurora Airwaves. Based in Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, Bianchi Designs excels in preparing homes for sale, boasting over 700 successful transactions.
In this episode, Angela discusses founding and leading Bianchi Designs, offering insights into starting a business and navigating its first year. She fondly reflects on the lessons learned from the Bianchi family, sharing with Jordan how their support and wisdom have been instrumental in her entrepreneurial path. Additionally, Angela highlights the crucial support from her partner and family, explaining how their encouragement and assistance enabled her to transition into working full-time on her company.