Taking the Middle Seat next to the Grand Rapids Feminist Film Festival

On episode 44, I’m talking with Lydia VanHoven-Cook and Courtney Stuart from the Grand Rapids Feminist Film Festival (Facebook, Facebook event, Instagram). This year’s Film Festival will be on October 27 at the Wealthy Theatre. They are in their 6th year and offer a FREE day-long film festival for all ages. The films are all short films, 20 minutes or less, “dedicated to elevating voices and showcasing talent from historically underrepresented groups in mainstream media.” The Film Fest will feature the film Teeth and have a keynote by Joyce Pierpoline. You’ll be able to get a rad t-shirt from Citizen Shirt, enjoy a jillion cool films and listen to panel discussions that span so many topics. They’re also partnering with The Learning Commons at Fountain Street Church.

Lydia mentions her zine, The Bandit Zine (Etsy, Instagram). You’ll LOVE her zines and buttons. Think holiday shopping, people.

Lydia and Courtney mention a few past films that they loved: Le Clitoris and Wrap My Hijab by Mona Haydar. So, get involved! You can volunteer and small and big ways. I think you’ll find your people there.

Lydia and Courtney mention some favorite things that include the show Pose, Instagram account @hetsexplainyourselves, Lizzo, Better Body Image Conference, affinity spaces, animal rescue.

So go to the Film Festival! Take your friends! Take your neighbors! Take the middle seat and I know you’ll find belonging, learning, and connection right there.

Taking the Middle Seat next to Sarah Hartley with Holl & Lane Magazine

On Episode 21, I’m talking to Sarah Hartley, Editor in Chief of Holl & Lane Magazine. She describes the magazine by saying, “This is a revolution to show women, you are perfect as you are and there are other women just like you who have been standing right where you feel you are right now.” A REVOLUTION!! Yes!!! Soak in the whole Holl & Lane manifesto. We talk about the manifesto in our conversation and how it guides the intention of every issue.

The next issue of Holl & Lane is coming out Tuesday, October 16! And what exact subject do we need right now? Sarah knew we’d need this. It’s all about IMPACT. Subscribe right this minute. You’ll be so glad you did!

Follow Holl & Lane on Facebook and Instagram. Sarah and Jess craft gorgeous social media posts. I also just discovered that Jess has a rad business called Chaotic & Collected where she creates handmade party decor. So cool! If you’re a writer, check out H&L Writes too! The third member of the H&L team, Mia, helps with that and has an awesome blog you should follow.

I love Sarah’s idea of creating a “Sunshine Folder!” I keep a pile of cards that I’ve received in my desk drawer. So fun to look at those on the hard days.

Sarah’s favorite things include This is Us (I think I’m the only human who does not watch this), Armchair Expert podcast, photography, and Chatbooks.

Go take the middle seat, dear listener!  You'll love the magic you find there.

Sarah Hartley, Editor in Chief of Holl & Lane Magazine