The UPcoming with Jonathan Carr

New month, new artist episode! Introducing Errol Petgrave III, a talented and dedicated storyboard artist, animator, and character designer. Errol was kind enough to hop on and discuss his inspirations from cartoons and anime, his transition from serving in the military to diving fully into his artistic passions, and where he wants to be in the future. Errol is nothing short of fantastic and this episode will prove it.     Follow him on IG @eros_ares and check out his website, www.epetgrave3.com. 

The UPcoming is back, and with a new guest! Coming in from Philadelphia, she's an animator and the creator behind the "Black Girl Draws" coloring book. She's the animation director of JumpButton Studio, and has animated for Warner Bros. She's continuing her passion in art, and I have no doubt she will be the most sought-after animator in entertainment.  You can find her work at www.Rachelheadlam.com

First of all, 70 EPISODES!!! We hit 70 episodes people!! What a day!!Second, fantasy readers rejoice! You have another book to add to your collection! Author, Nick Suppa, has recently published his debut novel, "The Legend of Rangard: The Winds of Spring," and you can find it on Amazon. After a grueling, yet inspiring, 6-year process, Nick is sharing his work with you and me, and let me tell you, his book is worth every penny you have! Nick sits down with the UPcoming to talk about his time writing The Legend of Rangard, his influences, and his time working for Cannes Film Festival and Paramount as a production assistant.  He's seen and done so many cool things, and I cannot be more honored to have him on my show. Also, buy his book. You'll love it.

As a writer myself, I'm always happy to meet other emerging storytellers. This new addition to the UPcoming guest list is a screenwriter, filmmaker, and production assistant from the east coast: Anthony Haera! The man has worked with the Austin Film and the freaking NBA, learning how tedious, fast-paced, and demanding entertainment can be. All the same, he continues following his passion of becoming an established screenwriter, working to get his crafts onto the big screen. I look forward to seeing him win his first Oscar. Be sure to follow the UPcoming wherever you get your podcasts, and check us out on Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, and X.

Hey everyone!!This is just a part of the interview I had with Trey Petgrave that I wanted to share with you. He gives some really fantastic points here. Of course, he does that in all of Episode 67, but this is special. If you haven't already, check out that episode and hear from a phenomenal visual artist.

DISCLAIMER: The opinions of my guest are solely his own and do not reflect the Institute of Internal Auditors, whom he works for. Now, that that's out the way.WE'RE BACK EVERYONE!! After so mind-shatteringly long, we are back, and what better way to get back in the swing of things than with the newest guest, Vedant Akhauri. He's a multi-hyphenate artist, specializing in video editing, podcasting, writing, and radio. He has two books on Booksie that you need to check out: Miami: The City of Second Chances, and Mrs. Kill (The titles alone are why you should read them). Vedant is also a podcaster himself and hosts "Let's Talk Media with Vedant Akhauri." Ever since he was a child, he's always had a burning passion for storytelling, and now he's doing that in so many angles. Today on the UPcoming, we're transporting to the fun, creative, and wonderfully unpredictable world of Vedant Akhauri. 

This week, I sat with the great Trey Petgrave - a filmmaker, visual storyteller, and fellow Purchase alum. His credits are as high as getting his senior thesis project on Revolt TV and directing a music video with BET. He doesn't just come with his own experience in directing, but also his thoughts on the film industry, why quality over quantity matters, and how the streaming wars undermined cinema. I am so glad I got to talk with him, and I am nothing but excited to introduce him to you.

The UPcoming is back and better! Than! Ever! After months of hiatus, the UPcoming has returned!New rules: time length is now around 30 minutes, and I'm talking to professionals in the creative fields (directors, actors, writers, etc.).  That said, I'm thrilled to announce my latest guest, all the way from Bulgaria. Vladislav Teo "Vlad" Chepilov. Starting out as a TV writer in his home country, he's now in Los Angeles, and looking to reinvent himself as an actor and standup comedian. Sitting down with him, I dig into how he became a writer, what it was like adjusting to California, and essentially starting a new career in a whole new world. This episode really drives home the importance of courage and creativity.Follow Vlad's IG: Vladislav_Teo_Chepilov

New episode and a whole new exceptional guest! He's a freshman at the University of Florida, and even before he touched down, he, alongside his brother, co-founded Eco Brothers Inc., dedicated to increasing literacy amongst students. He's heavily involved in youth empowerment, education, and equality. A man who's gonna take on the world, Chase Hartman. Today, our topics include his founding of Eco Brothers, his take on banned books, and what he's learned from other student leaders and achievers. Always an honor to have someone like Chase on the UPcoming.

It's been a long time but the UPcoming is back with the first episode of 2025. Joining me for the long-awaited episode 64 is Samantha Sanhaus from Philadelphia. Only a freshman in Lehigh University, and her achievements are already astounding. She's the founder of Feeding Philly, a non-profit dedicated to combating youth malnutrition, inspired by her own experience with an eating disorder. Her leadership extends beyond this, as she's proudly served PA Youth Vote and the Philadelphia Youth Network.  Today she talks about her success, difficulties, goals, and how she gradually became the inspirational person she is. 

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Daryn Rockett, a remarkable individual hailing from Long Beach, California. Daryn is a graduate of Stanford University, where she was honored with the prestigious Hoefer Prize for Excellence in Writing and the Harold K. Boyd Undergraduate Scholar Award. Currently, she is pursuing her J.D. and master's in social work at Washington University in St. Louis.Daryn's journey is a testament to her ambition, hard work, and dedication. Throughout our conversation, she shares her experiences at Stanford, the little habits that build to her success, and just how she views society can change for the better. Essentially, you'll see how everything in her life has shaped her academic and professional pursuits.As Daryn prepares for a career as an attorney, she discusses her motivations for entering the legal field and her commitment to making a positive impact through social work. Her dual focus on law and social work highlights her holistic approach to advocacy and justice.Daryn is one of the many guests who more than deserves a spot on the UPcoming, and I'm honored to have had the chance to talk with her.

 In this inspiring episode of The UPcoming, I sit down with Jordon Gully, a remarkable student leader from East St. Louis, Illinois. Jordon is not only a senior at Governor French Academy but also serves as the youth lieutenant governor of Illinois and a member of the student board of directors for the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Jordon's leadership extends beyond his school, where he has made significant contributions as the president of the World Language Club, an editor for the school yearbook, and the chairman for the National Black Caucus within High School Democrats of America. His dedication to fostering positive change and empowering his peers is truly commendable. Join me as I listen to Jordon's journey, exploring his passion for leadership, his experiences in various roles, and his vision for the future. This episode is for anyone interested in youth leadership and making a difference in their community.

In this inspiring episode of The UPcoming, I sit down with Taylor Ye, a remarkable 18-year-old student activist based in Orlando, FL. As a senior at Windemere Preparatory School, Taylor has already made significant strides in both her academic and activist pursuits. She’s a member of the National Honor Society and has taken on leadership roles as a student trainee with PEN America and a community organizer with Rhizome, a student-led civic service organization.Join me as I delve into Taylor’s journey, exploring her passion for racial justice, environmental protection, and equality. We discuss the upcoming election and the critical issues that matter to Gen Z. Taylor shares how she combines her artistic talents with her activism, using performing arts as a powerful tool to advocate for change.Whether you're interested in student activism, the performing arts, or the impact of Gen Z on the upcoming election, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in to hear how Taylor Ye is making a difference and what drives her to fight for a better future.

Hello world, the UPcoming is back!! It's been a long wait, but it's worth it, because Bronx native, Patricia Booth, is the newest guest on the show. An advocate, fighting for the little guy through the legal field, she's worked for major employers such as the NYPD and the National Homeowner Landlord Association. She's an achiever in everything she does and she's far from done.  

Today is Mother's Day and while many celebrate the day with their mom's, many others sadly cannot. However, Dr. George Ackerman fights every day in honor of his mother, Sharon, who tragically passed away from Parkinson's Disease. With his website, "Together For Sharon", Dr. Ackerman spreads awareness of the disease and supports organizations and legislations trying to fight it. He'll do everything in his power to ensure that one day, families won't have to experience the same tragedy he did from this disease. For those who's loved ones have already passed, he's letting them know that they don't have to face this alone.  Along with this, he's a former police officer, attorney, and now a professor in criminal justice. This may seem unusual for the UPcoming to interview someone already at the top, but Dr. Ackerman's given excellent insight into what everyone aspiring to be in that field should know. So, for anyone wanting to go into criminal justice or have a loved one going through Parkinson's, this is the episode for you. You can find Dr. Ackerman's website at https://www.togetherforsharon.com/

Joining the UPcoming on episode 58 is Episode 40's Randy Rawlings, CEO of Aneu Technologies and host of Aneu Approach Podcast. All of this makes him the perfect guest host for this episode, titled Aneu Approach with the UPcoming.The first guest to this collaboration is Maxwell Pearce. Straight out of Tuckahoe NY, he studied Economics at Purchase College, he was captain of the Men’s basketball team, winner of Purchase's first annual Shark Tank, a participant in ESPN’s college slam dunk contest, and is now a member of the Harlem Globetrotters. He’s been featured on CNN, MTV, SportsCenter, and so many other media outlets, and his performance on the court is nothing short of extraordinary. On top of this, he is an accomplished artist, having been exhibited with Art Basel in Miami, and MILE 44 in Los Angeles. And for the month of April, he is a businessman, Founder and CEO of Flynance, dedicated to helping young athletes thrive in the sports field.  Maxwell sits to talk about his life, his time as a Globetrotter and artist, how Flynance is going to impact young athletes, and all the ways he wants to maintain and enhance his brand. Follow him on all platforms and listen to Aneu Approach wherever you get your podcasts.

Ju-Marri "Kaesevyn" Sims is someone who's seen what it costs to have freedom in the music industry. Anyone can make music, but not everyone is going to succeed, and anyone could succeed, but not everyone's going to last. Kaesevyn wants to both make music and prolong his success. After becoming CEO of the label, Alive Music Group, he's set out to bring his best and most resonate with every album. Sitting down with the UPcoming, he talks about his rise as a leader, the knowledge and effort needed to maintain a business, and the dangers of being ignorant, especially as an upcoming artist. For all aspiring musicians out there, whether hip hop or any other genre, this episode is for you. Follow Kaesevyn on every platform and wherever you get your music.

Brothers Aaron and Adrian Sterling have put 100% into everything they've done. When they started as athletes in basketball and football, it was nothing but pure dedication and practice. The discipline they developed from nonstop training has helped tremendously in their shift towards filmmaking and the tedious, stressful life this path ensures. Based off Adrian's time in football, their film "Make It Happen" sheds a tragic light in the pursuit to achieve one's athletic dreams and be the star everyone can be proud of.  Upon making this shift, the brothers learned to navigate the unpredictable production life, become the businessmen they need to be to survive, and provide a story worth watching. It's difficult, but they have each other's backs, and I could not be happier to have them on.

Evelynroze has been on a harsh, but rewarding journey. From being bullied mercilessly as a child to winning the Worcester Music Award for best female vocalist in 2024, and this is her second time. With her supporting band, The Thornz, she's put out incredible songs like Careless Heart, Keyboard Warriors, and Your Ego. Her experiences have made her a fierce mental health advocate, and someone who wants to spread compassion and empathy on her platforms.  Evelyn has been through so much, but she never stopped reaching for the top, and that more than earns her a spot on the UPcoming.

Kadijah Butler, hailing from Philadelphia, is the founder of the Craig D Butler Scholarship Foundation. Honoring her father, who was a victim of gun violence, her foundation secures the educational futures of many young students. She's worked hard to show them that hard work pays off, and that nothing should stop them reaching their goals. She is also the author of three books, and a strong activist against gun violence and many other plagues to communities. Kadijah Butler is someone who gives love in every way she can, and it's an pleasure to have her on to discuss her journey.

This is the month of March. For this month's theme, we're doing sports, in honor of March Madness. First up to the plate is a captain of his college baseball team and die-hard fan of the Yankees, who's now transitioned into the life of an advertiser. A guy who's blended creative and business-related talents to become great in everything he does. Someone who puts 100% in everything, and his resume speaks for itself. That man is Louis Carvell.

If there's one student who embodies the word positivity, it's Kaitlyn Marsh. An undergrad at University of Texas at Austin, she's its social media and PR communications specialist, a marketing intern with #ICANHELP, and was a social media and fundraising intern with Breaking Taboo. She advocates for suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and anti-cyberbullying. Kaitlyn's come a long way from her early life in Spain to her time living in Texas, from being extremely socially awkward to a capable and confident leader.  

Hip-Hop band, Phenomenon, looks to be what few in the music industry are: unique. Through the witty and talented lyricism of lead MC, Osiris Warren, and the dedicated tune of bassist, Andres Merlano, they've gone on a long, and eye-opening journey to find their own sound and bring the crowd to life.   These guys are perfect for tying in this month's theme of love, which they are not lacking in when it comes to music. For Andres, it's his second heart; for Osiris, it's his GPS, always guiding him through life. Be sure to follow them @phen0men0n_official and be sure to tune in for more episodes of the UPcoming.

Screenwriting is the first form of a film and the one that brings out the most creative, awe-inspiring, and dedicated people. Bailey Peabody is no exception. Ever since she watched "The Imitation Game" as a child, she's focused on creating the most engaging and intimate worlds inside of a screenplay. A film lover, history buff (especially for US presidents), and meticulous editor for Chaotic Merge Magazine, Bailey is never someone you'd consider as just a writer. She has multiple talents and skills. She could be reviewing your script one moment, and then hosting a podcast the next.Bailey's time watching the Oscars, perfecting her characters, and utilizing every opportunity for growth and improvement prove her desire to win awards herself and become a writer everyone can recognize. It's easy to see her hosting the Oscars herself. Someday soon.

Jahleel Hills is an incredible filmmaker and musician, specializing in snare-style drumming. Having grown up in the arts and wanting to take his music and passion for visual storytelling to bigger heights, he studied film at SUNY Purchase College, where he directed his movie, "Off the Beat", which won for best director and best student film at the New York Neorealism Film Awards. As a drummer he's performed at multiple venues, including NFL Stadiums, and has worked with celebrities like Lil Nas X.   He's grateful for his experiences, family, community, and his God-given talents that brought him where he is today. Now, he joins the UPcoming to talk about how it all came to be.

Singer/Songwriter Breigh has dealt with a lot of red flags in music and understands how crucial it is to watch her back. When talking to the UPcoming, Breigh goes over how she checks for people who might try to manipulate her. Everyone who wants to be in music, NEVER walk in ignorant. There are snakes lying around, and you will get bitten. Check out Breigh's latest song, "JUMPSCARES", available everywhere. 

Breigh is a singer/songwriter from Pleasantville, New York. Ever since she was 5, Breigh's used her passion for music to bring out the most powerful performances in her songs, such as her latest single, Jumpscares, which you can check out now.  Starting out in stage performance, she found her love for singing, and worked tirelessly to excel in the music industry. She details her rigorous singing practice, her favorite themes in songwriting, and how she plans to succeed and avoid the dangers that left a lot of artists struggling. 

Monday is a Latin singer and actress from Los Angeles, CA. Her songs go into deep and relatable themes, notably toxic relationships and self-love. She's passionate about her craft and wants to stand out from everyone else in the music industry in every way. Time will only tell how amazing she'll be. Follow her @mondayclass3s and check out her song "No Te Necesito".

Misty Yarnall is a writer, editor, teaching artist, and playwright from Rochester, New York.  She's adored the art of storytelling since elementary school and is now building her legacy from it. She's worked for Wild Roof Journal, Boa Editions, and Hudson Valley Writers Center. She has also produced a play, called "No Clean Clothes" which you can find below. Misty indulges the UPcoming in her start in writing, how to give good criticism, and how she gets her stories done. No Clean Clothes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPkZJKUEEHI

Roger Bazan-Flores is not only a first-gen American, but a first-gen college graduate, having gotten his bachelor's at UCLA and his master's at UC Berkely. He's on the field of public health and is highly community-driven, utilizing his skills and knowledge to uplift others, especially in underserved communities. He embodies the phrase "hard work pays off", and he sat down to discuss his life, ideals, and how he came to be where he is. 

Harrison Sutton is a transportation associate with LA Metro and a freelance car detailer from Long Beach, CA, with an extreme love for automobiles. He sits down here to discuss his shift from kinesiology to data science, his time with LA Metro, and his passion in cars, along with his detail stories. 

For confidential reasons, episode 42 was taken down. That's why you don't see it in the episode list. Still, you can look forward to hearing episode 44 of the UPcoming, which will be coming soon. Stay tuned folks.

Stefan Lozano is the co-host of The Bonus Room Podcast where he and his team dive into all things, from sports to music. Prior to this, he went to UC Davis, where he was heavily involved and saw the value of cultures, heritage, and the power of connecting. In this episode, he breaks down his time in UC Davis, his love for horror movies and music, and how The Bonus Room started and grew.

Thomas Esposito is an alum of SUNY Purchase College and a screenwriter, who's worked with the Greenwich International Film Festival Festival, and PBS Kidvision. He's a master of comedy, looking to bring his talents and experience to the big screen. Here, he details his background, time at Purchase, and working with said employers. 

Randy Rawlings is a social entrepreneur from Long Beach, California. He's a member of the board of directors for Long Beach Economic Partnerships and was a contracts administrator for Virgin Orbit before eventually becoming the founder of his own AI-powered startup, Aneu. Here, he talks about his life, his passion for AI, how Aneu will impact society, and how he's taking his business experiences to be the leader his company needs.

From Brownsville, Texas to Los Angeles, California, he’s a screenwriter, with one of his scripts advancing as a Quarter-Finalist in the ScreenCraft Sci-Fi & Fantasy Screenwriting Competition. Aside from that, he’s been a content writer for Screen Rant and Comic Book Resources. Here, Rudy talks about his journey, his influences, and life as a screenwriter in these uncertain times.

Hey guys. Don't have an episode set up for 7/2. Happy 4th of July.

Lola Bessis is a senior at Skidmore College, where she’s achieved huge honors, including being a member of Alpha Kappa Delta and has been accepted as a New Leader in the Center for Women in Government and Civil Society. On top of that, she’s a lead intern for #ICANHELP, working to create more thoughtful, socially aware, and community-driven youth. She’s come a long way, and she’s only just begun.

Fatou Diouf was born to dance. From starting out as a little girl learning, to becoming a dance teacher and founder of her own dance club, Fatou wants to bring the same love of the art to those around her and inspire a new generation to become the best dancers they can be. Above all, she wants her students to believe in themselves just as much as she believes in them.

Fatou Diouf explains what she wants people to remember the most when looking at her legacy. 

Music, being an art, is never done one way and can be expanded upon creatively. Ethan talks about the possibility of him doing so, while praising the work of his producers who've helped him create his excellent tracks.

Ethan Buckner is a singer-songwriter and climate activist from LA. When he's not releasing singles like "All We Got is Time" or "Fireflies," he's committed to fighting climate change and the fossil fuel industry, as well as social injustice, such as systemic racism. Whether through music or his work with nonprofits like Earthworks, he's looking to brighten someone's day. You can find him online at https://theminnesotachild.com.

Abby Balter is the creative director of Off the Cuff Magazine at Boston University, while getting her degree in journalism. Prior to that, she was a travel and culture writer for the BU Buzz Magazine, and an editorial intern for Modern Luxury. Abby is passionate about writing, traveling, and fashion, and hearing her take on all three was proof she puts her full attention and effort into anything of interest. 

Kira DeLeón is an alum of SUNY Purchase College, with her BA in arts management and minor in Screenwriting. She is a lover of three things: Disney, purple, and butterflies, and has combined all three to build her new travel agency brand, Magical Journeys by Kira. She is a woman of media, having observed and analyzed the ever-changing trends of entertainment and pop culture. Above all, she's gained extended knowledge of how Disney maintains and expands their media empire, which she gladly shares with the UPcoming and many others who want to learn her craft.

AJE SMD is an up-and-coming rapper from Tuckahoe, NY. From writing his own rhymes, and competing with others at school to releasing his debut album, Cold. This album is a tale of him, his thoughts, his experiences, and his passion. You can find his music on all platforms (except SoundCloud), and you can follow him @ajesmd. Be sure to look out for this guy at the Grammy Awards.

Risha Chaurasia is 15 years old, and already has self-published three books: Truce, Tales of Twinkling Tweens, and To My Homies, which you can find on Amazon. She's appeared in magazines and podcasts, making her name internationally known. When she's not doing novels, she's educating her listeners on financial literacy through her blog, Straight From My Pen. Risha is marvelous in all she does, and it was an honor to have her on the UPcoming.

Ana Gutierrez is a media enthusiast from Bogotá, Colombia. She is serving her master's degree at the New School in New York for media studies. While in the New School, she was published for an essay and short story, dedicated to urban life and the social issues we often disregard. She is also the head of press for Cine Colombia, where she handles PR and press coverage for film distribution. She's done so much in her life, and it would be a waste to not have her on The UPcoming.

Jennifer Musser is a woman of film. After shifting her creative writing interests from novels to screenplays, she has since indulged in the art, becoming her biggest passion. She has read and critiqued scripts for Roadmap Writers and become a film producer and development coordinator for Amendment 28 Films. When she's not in film, Jennifer is an ELA tutor for students 6-8th grade, which may turn into a full-time profession as a teacher or professor. Really, there's nothing Jennifer Musser can't do.

Jason Armstrong is a point guard, born and raised in Chicago, who's played with the Chicago Peace League and plans to take his talents and dedication to the NBA. He's overcome a lot of hardships and personal loss, which has only made him stronger and humbler. He talks now about that, his time on the court, his admiration for Kobe Bryant, and his plans once he reaches the NBA. Follow him on IG @bean_jayso

Joshua Jones talks about the pressure that many kids feel regarding their future. It is possible to break from this pressure, but so many don't know how. Joshua's found peace instead of succumbing to the pressure and he's happy to discuss how.