Your Blank Canvas

As we all know, Filipino American cultural values contribute to a strong sense of community but have led to nuanced challenges when navigating depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. In short terms, the words “mental health” is a topic, not many Filipino-Americans talk about and are often times seen as, “Hiya,” within a household. The term hiya translates to, “embarrassment.”  In this episode, I sat down with one of my good friends, Tricia, and we spoke about how mental health is portrayed in her own Filipino-American household. Everyone’s story is different so I ask that we speak and think with kindness and understanding.  Though talking about mental health can be difficult, talking about it is an important step in helping people recover. It’s uncomfortable but it is needed. If you are having a hard time, know that you are loved. You are seen but most importantly, you are more than enough.  More about Tricia Manalansan Tricia is a 30-year-old Filipina American who was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and majored in Communications. Tricia is the oldest of four children and a dog mom.  What She does:  Currently, she works in client services for one of the world's largest insurance brokers. She likes to spend her free time outdoors, running and is currently on the hunt for the perfect paddle-boarding spot.  Why mental health is important to me:  Mental health is important to me because, in the Filipino community, it is common to think of it as taboo. She went against the stereotype to engage in her own mental health journey and integrated ways to heal every day. You can't truly be on a health journey if mental health is not also prioritized. She wants her audience to see that healing your own mental health should be positive, rather than the perceptions of it being negative. 

This episode holds a special place in my heart as a Proud Filipina - a few weeks ago I sat down with Licensed Professional Counselor, Cristina Castro. In this episode, we spoke about the different representations of mental health in Filipino households - the struggles, the triumphs, and the lessons learned. Please know that our perspectives are based on our personal experiences. This is about us for us and for those who can relate. We also would like to dedicate this episode to a Filipino-American comedian and actor, JoKoy, and his most recent movie, Easter Sunday - a true milestone for Filipinos in Film. Salamat Jokoy for reminding us that it is okay to have tabos in our bathrooms. More about Cristina Castro: I'm Cristina Castro and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and doctoral student at Adler University in Counselor Education and Supervision. I practice at Gray Matter Therapy in Vernon Hills, IL. I immigrated from the Philippines to America when I was 12 years old with my family. My mother is rooted in Batangas and my father is from Pampanga, although we are mainly from Manila. As a clinician, mental health is important to me because I see firsthand the positive impact it has in changing people's lives. As Filipinas, mental health allows us to create a stronger connection to ourselves which leads to healthier and happier relationships with our community. You can find Cristina Castro in the following: Gray Matter Instagram: @graymattertherapy Gray Matter Facebook:https://m.facebook.com/graytherapy Gray Matter Website:www.graymattertherapy.net Psychology Today:https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/maria-cristina-castro-vernon-hills-il/882165 Kasamahan email:president@kasamahan.org

Welcome back to another episode of Your Blank Canvas podcast - a channel of unheard stories and a safe haven for all. I’m your host and founder Stella Marie. What’s popping you guys? I hope you are all doing well and having a great start to 2023 - if not, know that I am sending you my love and peace.  I know I've been MIA but listen, I appreciate your unconditional love and support over the past few years. Life has been life-ing but I am back and even better. This episode talks about where I've been, what's been happening in my life, and future content for this podcast. As always, if you're interested in sharing your stories, regardless of the good, the bad, the wins, and the losses, I want you. It matters and I'm here to remind you to truly be unapologetic of your own voice. Don't be silent. You know where to find me. Catch you on the other side. Ciao xo Instrumental music: @Marise Hizo Intro Music: @Christopher Kaleb  

The purpose of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. In this episode, I remind all of my listeners that everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. It is truly important to speak and think with kindness. Additionally, just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn't mean you can, should, or need to do it alone. Asking for help is the first step. You are more precious to this world than you'll ever know.  Below are some mental health resources that help can you and/or your loved ones.  Betterhelp  SAMHSA National Alliance on Mental Illness 

What's poppin' everyone? I know it's been a minute so I appreciate you all so much for being so patient and still so supportive of my hustle. With that said, I'll keep this short but just know I am so excited to share with you some life changes, updates, and what's more to come with this new chapter.  Be easy,  Stella Marie 

AND I'm finally back! I know it's been a while but I promise you, I am doing the best that I can to post more before the year ends. Your decision to face your fears will enhance your life in ways you have never dreamed possible.  You will develop a deeper connection with yourself, with others, and with the world.  You will find the courage to undertake any challenge and the resilience to persevere in the face of adversity.  You will recognize your strengths and celebrate your capabilities.  You will believe, beyond any doubt, that you can transform impossibility into possibility. In today's episode, I sat down with Chicago native John Paul Floyd also known as J.P. Floyd, who is a 2 time Grammy Award Winning Trombonist, Producer, and Writer. His beautiful sister, Zakiya, or in short, Za, also joined our conversation. We all spoke about finding ways to face our fears and making them happen. We believe that moving towards your fears is the way to make peace with them, so they don’t conquer you. So whatever it is that you want to accomplish, write down your biggest fears and bury them.  More About J.P: While growing up in Chicago Floyd played in the church along with programs devoted to teaching jazz, classical, and performing arts. After graduating from high school, Floyd attended Hampton University. Where he pledged and became a member of the Pi Beta Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America INC. While in college Floyd decided to put school on hold to move to Los Angeles, California in 2014 to further his dreams as a musician. Since moving to Los Angeles Floyd has toured/performed with Bette Midler, Chance The Rapper, Demi Lovato, Frank Ocean, and many more. He’s gained experience in music education and studio session production. As well as, teaching himself how to play the Piano, Bass Guitar, Tuba, Euphonium, and Singing. Currently, J.P. resides in Los Angeles while touring between Gwen Stefani and Postmodern Jukebox.

Grief, it’s a very painful and overwhelming emotion to feel but it’s also an essential and fundamental factor for growth, as a person. Grief comes in many forms-- from losing a loved one, whether they are alive or taken from the heavens above, to not landing your dream job, financial hardship, or a health issue. The truth is, nobody teaches you how to deal with grief because in reality, dealing with grief is something that can’t be taught. There’s no rule book or guidelines. Because one way or another, we all have our own coping mechanisms. This past year has caused so many of us to halt the healing of current trauma and the loss of our loved ones and focus on all the things we need to do and prepare in order to help the collective at large heal. We forget that, no matter what, life has and will always happen–– and with that life comes loss. I dedicate this episode to everyone who is currently grieving and to anyone who is doing their best to move on from a loss. I dedicate this episode to Dino Angelo Jaena, to his family and friends, and lastly, to everyone who has had a glimpse of how amazing Manong is. 

In dedication to Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I’m dedicating this whole series of stories of Asian-Americans, Asians, and Pacific Islanders. Whether it’s about their business, their craft, education, families, struggles, wins, and successes, this is a channel to speak their truth and to believe that their story matters. In today’s first episode of AAPI, I feature the talented visual storyteller, Tuan Huynh. Tuan is an award-winning Chicago-based creative that has worked on some of advertising’s most iconic brands such as Samsung, McDonald’s, and Kellogs. He is also the Founder and Owner of Fatmiilk–– a direct trade specialty coffee company. In this conversation, he shared his story as a son of immigrants and the struggles of living in this anti-immigrant country. Check his story out. So much truth. So much power. I promise you, you’ll learn a thing or even two.  Be sure to follow him on Instagram at @captrue8

Oprah Winfrey is a major advocate for gratitude and often speaks of its wonders on her Super Soul Sundays. But practicing gratitude, especially if you are not Oprah Winfrey, is not easy at all. It’s easy for some to say one is being extremely ungrateful if they can’t think of a whole host of things they are thankful for in their lives, but as we know, life isn’t easy at all, and we all go through circumstances that often leave us bitter and hardened. In this conversation, I sat down with one of the most talented artists I know, Lena Jackson. Jackson shared her story on how she gravitates towards art and how she practices gratitude by using her talents as a photographer and model.  More About Lena Jackson:  Beginning as a model in 2013, the last eight years for Lena have been an exploration of what modeling truly means to her. Whether working on commercial sets or challenging herself with more emotional self-portrait work, she tries to approach each shoot as a means to tell a story. Adding photography into the mix a couple of years ago has helped her to gain more perspective, and dig deeper into storytelling through imagery.

Everything serves a purpose. There’s a popular yet misleading quote about meaningful work that says, “find your purpose, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” The phrase implies if you love your work, it won’t feel like work. Knowing and discovering your purpose can become overwhelming yet eye-opening. Your purpose is not a milestone to achieve but rather a lifestyle to live. We struggle with that and that's okay. In this conversation, I sat down with one of my good friends, Tierra Webb, about her life as a former D1 athlete and now, an up-and-coming entrepreneur. It is important to know that when we create our purpose, we are greater than it. Our purpose is just something that you decide to believe in. You discover, label, and choose to attach to it. But that also means you can take that label away at any time. You create your purpose and thus are not defined by it; more so, you control it. More About Tierra Webb:  Tierra Webb is an athletic and financial coach. Going from former D1 athlete to entrepreneurship, Tierra built TWebb Affect where she's committed to coaching the next wave of athletes through basketball skill training and development. Alongside her connection to the game, she focuses on bridging the gap between sports and life beyond the whistle while serving the community with resources and insight on how to leave a proper financial legacy as a licensed agent. People joke that Tierra has never met a stranger because of her welcoming and authentic personality. She values growth lives for electrifying experiences and is passionate about connecting with others. She lives by and quotes, “Mindset is everything, take control of your own whistle by committing to working hard at being the next best version of yourself." 

the comfort zone…aka your most comfortable nightmare. You’re afraid to step outside and yet you so want to. There are many things you may tell yourself in those moments of fear, but let this conversation be the push you need to step outside. A few weeks ago, I sat down with one of my good friends, Venesa Coger, who is the Social Content Strategist on Refinery29 sub-brand Unbothered. In this episode, she shares her story as an intern and now a full-time queen, who never gave up on her dreams despite going through her own obstacles in life. While only being at the company for a little over a year she has contributed to the growth and increase in following of the brand, she has produced and hosted the Quarantine and Chill live series, as well as written articles that cover fashion and entertainment. If you need a little push, this episode is for you. Listen to her story and let this be your sign to never give up. 

For those who don't know, PIT is short for Pain is Temporary– a black-owned business founded by Jon Calhoun and LaShawn Cargo in 2016. They first began this organization to make an everlasting impact in the community of Monmouth, Illinois, and other areas in Chicago, by using physical fitness as an icebreaker to connect with elementary and high school students. The goal is to create a safe environment that is open to discussions based on human struggles, adversities, and pain that we all can relate to as one–to realize that overall, Pain Is Temporary.  In this brutally honest conversation, I sat down with them and spoke about how they practice gratitude in their own business, regardless of what they go through personally. They believe that gratitude is such a rich practice that has so much to teach. It can be uplifting, smoothing out our edges. It can be deeply connecting, leading us to profound realizations. Ultimately, gratitude is a pathway that leads us directly to our hearts. There we find acceptance of who we are. We find acceptance for the circumstances of our lives that shape who we’ve become. We see the intricacies of life, the divine plan (or lack thereof). If you're a business owner or just a regular human- being trying to live your life to the fullest, and you're struggling to practice gratitude, this episode is for you. Listen to it. Take notes. 

Shopping, prepping, cooking, cleaning the dishes… can be overwhelming. Putting a healthy meal on the table takes effort, and sometimes we don’t have the energy or motivation to get in the kitchen and make it happen. So I decided to sit down with one of my good friends, Monét, where she shared her experiences with her business called, Mo'VEGGIES and what drives her to eat and live healthy every day. For those who don't know, Mo'VEGGIES began when Mo decided it was time to encourage flavaful vegetarian & vegan consumption. In the kitchen, Mo likes to play around with seasoning to ensure your taste buddies go on a roller coaster ride of Flava & spice. Although mo focuses on vegan and vegetarian cuisine she has already created timeless recipes using a variation of Flava! Check this episode out and definitely TRY her food. 

On March 16th, 2021– a horrific series of deadly shootings occurred in three Atlanta-area spas. It is our responsibility to condemn these violent attacks and lend our support to those affected. This episode is tough and emotional. I dedicate this one to all the families and friends who've been affected by this tragedy. Know that I am here with you, for you.  Important Resources Verified Atlanta-area spa shootings fundraisers Mental Wellness –– AAPI Journalists 

In this honest conversation, I sat down with a good friend of mine, Jimena Lucio, another wonderful boss babe. We spoke about what it takes to be our own bosses and how being "grateful" sets a good momentum to a successful life. Jimena believes that outside of your comfort zone is where the magic happens. You have to fall in love with the process of becoming the very best version of yourself. Consistency is harder when no one is clapping for you. You must clap for yourself during those times. Be your biggest fan. If you are your own boss, this episode is for you. Listen to it and let's have a chat. More about Jimena Lucio: Born in Mexico but was raised in Chicago with her beautiful family, Jimena Lucio is a superwoman. She started a business in the financial services industry after dropping out of college. She married her high-school sweetheart and is an amazing mother to her beautiful Camila. Aside from making a living whole making an impact, Jimena loves to travel and try new food groups.

In this honest conversation, Caroline Liu shares her story as a late-diagnosed autistic adult and her tribulations with short-term memory loss as a result of multiple concussions in the last decade. I can't express how important it is for me to remind everyone that their story matters. Everyone has their own struggles and battles, but it is important for us to be kind.  Caroline Liu is a painter, seamstress, and muralist currently living in Albuquerque. Liu holds a BFA in Painting and Drawing from the University of New Mexico and has exhibited work in galleries all across the Midwest and the Southwest. She has painted murals throughout the Chicagoland area, as well as for international companies such as Adidas, Vans, and Lululemon. She is an artist in residence alumni at the Chicago Artists Coalition, the Chicago Art Department, and the Hyde Park Art Center. Her work has been published in various publications, including New American Paintings and The Chicago Tribune. 

Whether you’re in lockdown or practicing social isolation, times are tough. And it’s okay if all you feel like doing is napping, multiple times a day. It is safe to say that 2020 has not turned out the way any of us had hoped. What started out as a promising year, has now evolved into some sort of poorly made B horror movie with a storyline that doesn’t seem to have an end in sight. This new reality of dealing with this pandemic has been thrust upon us all, leaving many with more questions than answers, especially for photographers. However, in this brutally honest conversation with photographer, journalist, and educator in Washington, D.C, Alyssa Schukar, she continues to see the good in every day, even if it may seem impossible at times. If you're struggling to be 'creative' during the pandemic, this episode is for you. Listen to it and let's chat.  More about Alyssa Schukar:  Alyssa Schukar is a Washington, D.C.-based photographer, journalist, and educator. While her work is rooted in an interest in and love of people, it's propelled by a desire to study and name the larger forces that affect Americans' everyday lives. Alyssa is a frequent contributor to the New York Times. Her images have also appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, the Atlantic, and TIME magazine. National commercial clients include US Bank, UPS, Chase, and Glenmorangie. A native of the Great Plains and a proud graduate of the University of Nebraska, Alyssa has worked professionally in several countries outside of North America, including Afghanistan, India, Scotland, and France.

Welcome, March! New week, new beginnings, new season. First and foremost, thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to another episode of pure honesty. In this brutally honest conversation, I sat down with one of Chicago's talented and finest artists, Christopher Marrs, where we spoke about ways we can practice gratitude through our creative spaces. Being grateful is a feeling that makes life worth living—a feeling that makes you want to stay in this world and come back for more. Gratitude is the practice of noticing and appreciating the positives in the world. Shifting the focus from what you don’t have to what you do have can have a profound influence on your emotional state, particularly happiness. If you're a creative or just a regular human being, struggling to practice gratitude, this episode is for you.  More about Christopher Marrs: Marrs uses photography to create evocative and surreal visual narratives. He likes to believe that there is beauty even in the darkest of places. If you aren't already, make sure you follow him on his social media platforms linked below.  Tik-Tok: @marrsthemartian Instagram: marrs_the_martian 

This week is a little different. I'm taking a week off on posting these amazing stories I've gathered, and really encourage you all to focus on practicing gratitude. Gratitude is the state of feeling content. Content with what we have, what we have achieved, and what is happening around us. It’s not always easy to be grateful or even optimistic about our half-full glass or new intern position at your dream company, but it’s a way of saying thank you for all the good things in our lives. If you can be anything, be grateful. Let's chat. What Are You Grateful For? 

To all the single moms who alone carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. To all the single moms whose only wish is to lay the world on our feet. To all the single moms who strive to give their children a better life, this one is for you. In this episode, I sat down with Taylor Grisson where she shared her story about being a single mom– the struggles, the highs, and lows. For those who don't know, Taylor is one of my good friends, who continues to inspire and motivate me to become a better individual each day. In my eyes, she is an extraordinary single mother of a beautiful little boy. If you're struggling to be a single mom, listen to this. This one is for you.  More about Taylor Grisson: Recently receiving her Masters in Special Education, she pursues a career as an elementary school SPED teacher. She finds great joy in organizing, however, she’s at her happiest when she is surrounded by her loved ones.