Vedic wisdom and meditation teacher Jonni Pollard reflects on today's growing wave of people seeking to create space and internal alignment in a noisy world. The co-founder of 1 Giant Mind explains to Christopher Michael why having a practice is more important than ever and how "internal reckonings" produce meaningful, reliable, and profound shifts in mindset and outcomes. "What's happening right now is a wonderful opportunity in the making for humanity to evolve," says Jonni. Creativity is rooted in authenticity that is accessible only when we are fully present to ourselves, and our purpose is in the now. In this episode, the master of mindfulness discusses the fractures generated by today's polarized social, political, and economic environment. How can we challenge ourselves to get engaged, reject disconnection, and focus on weaving together a more inclusive culture, reflecting our common energetic field and responsibility to one another? Episode Highlights: What's Contemporary Now? Jonni's state of consciousness and the way he nurtures his relationship with what's happening in the present moment. The dismantling of ideas and expectations that have shrouded our responsibility to one another and the world at large. Today's psychology and neurology are inseparable from the mandate to open consciousness and shift away from denial. The great "What's next?": Pandemic disorientation has taught us that listening to our internal compasses is paramount. Attachment explained: Jonni contemplates universal intelligence, a vast spectrum of possibilities across one energetic field. Binary thinking: How rigid thought patterns entrap us in conflict and isolation. Consideration and self-reflection: the keys to open conversation and collaboration. Polarization manifests as fear of the "other," a gross misconception that falsely negates our fundamental oneness of being. Jonni weighs in on the burgeoning market for meditation in a society managing massive anxiety, depression, and constant stress on nervous systems. The relationship between meditation and creativity: When we restore and realign our minds and bodies, we see our true natures emerge and authentically flourish. Meditation shifts us from a hyper awareness of the external world to an inner experience that resonates more meaningfully, deeply, consistently, and reliably. Underlying the feelings that seem terrifying or stubborn is a place that is resolved, deeply aware, intelligent, confident, and powerful inside each of us. The call to action: If we're not fully engaged, we are susceptible to negative influences and ongoing disconnection. Meditation is a platform for taking ownership of—and reversing—this state of being. Transmuting stress: Sensations can bedevil us if we don't develop tools to witness, rather than identify with, them. Meditation opens up immense space and freedom to ride through anxiety and observe thought patterns without being engulfed by self-judgment or getting overwhelmed. What can a meditation practice yield? Agility through awareness and a deep understanding of priorities and values. Challenge yourself: Is what I'm doing coming genuinely creative, purposeful, or relevant? Or am I in survival mode, hustling to get by? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaime Perlman, editor in chief and creative director of More or Less, has a riveting front-row view of fashion's evolving culture and ecosystem. Formerly the creative director of British Vogue, she has helped shape a conversation that embraces the bold and sensational over the noncontroversial and safe. Driven by instinct and a personal need, she created her magazine and online platform that celebrates a different kind of fashion, highlighting individual style—perhaps a bit more democratically. Taking her vision and dedication to all things creative a step further, Jaime uses her publication to underscore the impact of consumption and spotlight sustainability and inclusivity. In this episode, she weighs in on magazines' role in driving important topics, making socially responsible statements, and building a community around a brand. Highlights: Although she didn’t know magazines would be her niche, Jaime was certain at a young age that she wanted to be part of the visual, artistic world. Good fortune and timing launched Jaime at Harper’s Bazaar in a moment of transition. From American Vogue to British Vogue, she creatively directed her way through a “weird manifestation” and realization of a dream to work abroad. Thoughts on the contrasting aesthetics and approaches—celebrity versus supermodel culture—among regional Vogue editions in less globally oriented times. Jaime reflects on Europe’s “edgier” aesthetic in contrast with America’s more celebrity-driven commercial approach. Pandemic aftershocks: Fewer reflexive, transnational travel for photo shoots. Sustainability, diversity, and the evolving ethics of responsibility and a purpose-led commitment to doing more with less consumption and more integrity. Vintage, resale, and the fashion ecosystem’s influence on price points and inclusivity. More for Less magazine is a “passion project” with a growing upside opportunity. Print is still relevant because it’s tactile, collectible, and compelling for creatives, but the format doesn’t have to be mass-produced or sourced without intention. What’s new in the magazine and publishing world: A meaningful cultural conversation—from what makes a good magazine cover to inclusivity of race, size, and gender. Magazine covers or social media platforms like Instagram: It’s all about seizing the moment to do something sensational. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a tastemaker, fashion editor, and stylist Gabriella Karefa-Johnson has a thoughtful, respected, and provocative take on the intersection between style and culture. At Vogue magazine, the venue she has long considered a pinnacle of excellence, she has pushed for evolution and has broken boundaries with tremendous success. Gabriella shares thoughts on how even those who have felt marginalized can scale the mountaintop and claim a place at the table without abandoning the concept of balance in life. She is all-in all the time while recognizing—and passing along—the power of kindness, words of support, and the importance of knowing what your “hustle” ultimately means in the big picture. This incisive episode highlights the role this dynamic game changer plays—and will continue to play—in the world she occupies. “Work the process of knowing who you are,” says Gabriella, “because it’s in those moments … of unease where you learn, and there’s the most growth.” Episode Highlights: Getting a foot in the door: Gabriella made her first inroad at Vogue through a Barnard College alumna connection, starting the job without much grounding in fashion. Vogue magazine is a pinnacle in the fashion pantheon for Gabriella. Pushing against boundaries: Feeling at times like a “problem child” at Vogue, she sometimes  creates friction and challenges the platform to evolve in both vision and execution. Gabriella’s professional bandwidth and social life epitomize “Hustle Culture.” Wanting to be the best: A “dangerous desire” that has always driven Gabriella to measure her success and value by how much she’s doing. Is balance possible to achieve? There’s a level of success that can solidify your place in the fashion industry, but getting there requires a period of all-in dedication. Gabriella tries to be mindful that the struggle to reach that fashion pinnacle is real and meaningful, yet it cannot be everything in life. Reflection is required. The gift of authenticity is the secret sauce for influence and efficacy—not something that one can self-consciously cultivate. As much as she brings her whole and entirely unique self, she also brings mindfulness about what that persona is and keeps it real. The editor is the original influencer: Heralding huge heritage brands will always be the most significant contribution she has to make in the worlds of fashion and social media. Virgil Abloh was a fashion visionary who “was something to everyone,” and for Gabriella in particular, he was a “safety net” whenever she felt out of place in the industry. Hone in what you want to do and communicate to the world—regardless of whether you should be doing it or not. Work the process of knowing who you are because it’s in the moments of unease that you’ll find the most growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To Emma Summerton, shooting the 2023 Pirelli Calendar was a dream—one that was years in the making. Entitled "Love Letters to the Muse," the 49th edition of the calendar is steeped in magical realism, with portraits going beyond aesthetical beauty to acknowledge women's strengths, talents, and sensibilities. The sought-after Australian-born photographer embraces freedom and constraints, and her work often relays this message, yielding a powerful, unique expression. As a visual artist, Emma meanders between making art awash with a distinctive vision and working as a fashion photographer with a sharp eye and a bold, dramatic style. In her much-lauded career, she's learned to overcome obstacles and keep projects moving forward in any scenario. Her mantra when it comes to the unexpected is "Have fun. Don't freak out." Adopting—and shockingly welcoming—chaos can be unexpectedly rewarding. As she recalls, what seemed as challenging and disastrous shoots, often turned out to be uncannily sublime. Episode Highlights: “Love Letters to the Muse” is the culmination of Emma’s decades-long dream to imagine a unique Pirelli Calendar edition. The seven muses represented actual artists—rather than women who had inspired artists. Art or Fashion? Emma happily discovered that the two could coexist and complement each other. Emma plays with reality, transforming it with the camera, light, and composition. Emma got her first break as an assistant to a technically brilliant photographer, who gave her an education in both fashion and photography. Emma developed her voice and style through self-portraiture, which was also her entry into commercial practice. Emma revels in the uncontrolled element of throwing a creative party when doing her art versus marshaling disciplined results for industry clients. Expectations and judgment are ever present, the stress of which Emma manages by trusting her best instincts and staying in the moment. Emma reminds us that imposter syndrome is real, but usually, it’s less about others doubting us than us doubting ourselves. Technical skill helps compensate when plans go awry. Ultimately it’s about being agile and letting things land as they may, and then just getting on with it. Every artist interested in both personal and professional work must find a balance they can comfortably hold in daily practice. There’s no one recipe. Instagram, avatars, and the gaze of social media do not compel Emma—there is “nothing more fun than doing huge, big prints of pictures and having someone put them on a wall or make a book.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ferdinando Verderi understands that to impact the fashion landscape we need to delve into the diversity of a lived experience—what we don't yet know about ourselves and our world. The lauded creative force and former Vogue Italia creative director today has pioneered a new type of creativity, one that is focused on inclusivity and community. Whether envisioning an iconic magazine cover or conceiving a groundbreaking Prada campaign, Ferdinando aims to challenge boundaries—not merely advance marketing agendas. In this episode, he shares with Christopher Michael his thoughts on what it means to be "contemporary" and why it is not enough for him to be an interpreter of the zeitgeist. Ferdinando believes the timeless and multidimensional moments creatives choose to examine, elevate, and share are far more transformational and stimulating than the "new." Episode Highlights: Ferdinando’s minimalist personal website is a reflection of his strong desire to stay in the present, unfettered by the noise. Whether working with a magazine, institution, or company, Ferdinando infuses it with his hallmark irreverence and disregard for status quo expectations. Words of wisdom: “Try to avoid having to explain why you’re relevant!” Brand logos as vessels for energy, ideas, and originality—not marketing exercises. Community-building, values, and ideals are the defining elements of a brand, as opposed to strategic marketing conventions. Magazines have, in his view, an obligation to create a type of “clash” between superficial and more profound levels at which fashion can operate as a force for change. A single cover image can combine provocation and emotion—actions that imply a sense of risk-taking and the courage to go out and break bounds. Breaking bounds can open the way to new forms of expression and inclusivity without intimidation. It’s about challenging things that have felt unchallengeable. Magazines in today’s culture: A forum for revisualizing what irrelevance looks like. Fernando sees his platform—and the work of fashion generally—as a vehicle for highlighting social issues and challenging damaging tropes. Publishing, branding, seasonal platforms, products: Ferdinando sees each project as a discrete opportunity to explore layers and complexity without a single point of view. Coming to fashion without a rich background and extensive training enabled him to deploy a fresh perspective and challenge received wisdom. Multiple points of view: Ferdinando’s signature superpower is his ability to create community through multiplicity and fragmentation The idea of a mistake, a chance, or a variation, inspires recognition that we live in a multiverse of perspectives and experiences. For Ferdinando, “What’s Contemporary Now ?” is what exists among us at a particular moment in time—not something old or new, but what’s seen in the present. “New” is not an idea, and trying to get there can become artificial—the opposite of fresh. The concept of “new” versus “old” limits us to a linear understanding of time and reduces access to the regenerative arc of wisdom and ancient knowledge. Interpreter of the zeitgeist? No! Ferdinando thinks of himself as a contributor, which is to say a more active participant in shaping what’s contemporary now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Global PR Director Kevin McIntosh Jr. sees fashion magic happening for brands that embrace a broad range of creative voices, deploying a 360° strategy to promote their vision. A full-spectrum approach is nonnegotiable in today’s hyper-connected fashion landscape. As the chief executive officer at KMJR.World, Kevin shares with Christopher Michael his front-row perspective on why PR today encompasses everything from dressing celebrities and athletes to staging runway events and publishing a blog post or an interview in print or online. While social media and digital platforms have vast worldwide reach, Kevin still sees brick-and-mortar and real-life interactions as critical to cultivating honest consumer connections and building brand loyalty. He also weighs in on where the industry stands in terms of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and how, now more than ever, contemporary culture is both shaped by and reflective of a melting pot  of influences. For Kevin, bringing diverse voices together is the way to shift culture, make noise, and have fun. Episode Highlights: The mastheads of fashion magazines are limited and without much turnover, which prompted Kevin to cultivate his career in the vaster world of communications. The dynamism and exposure to global travel were a large part of what made Karla Otto a happy home for Kevin until he ultimately made the entrepreneurial leap to launch his namesake fashion consulting firm, KMJR.World Working with Virgil Abloh influenced Kevin and opened doors for him, putting him “in a position … to be taken seriously and respected.” Creating Space: As a Black man, Kevin had no illusions about the landscape he joined, but he’s encouraged by the growing community of color influencing the fashion industry. Fashion is built on fantasy and selling the dream, which Kevin allows space for even when working with authenticity and positive impact as his driving pillars. Nice guys do finish first! Kevin credits his reputation as a positive team player to a loving upbringing and an open, easy attitude. He sees increasing demand among brands for smaller, more agile communications partners who offer intimacy, personalization, and hands-on, accessible collaboration. He sees contemporary culture as reflecting a robust mash-up of influences, ranging from music, art and fashion to athletics and a life experience on any given city block. Branding today requires a 360° approach: Dressing celebrities, fashion sites and publications, working with partners to stage exceptional events—all of it. Runway shows as a global marketing tool that—while expensive—pay huge dividends in terms of exposure and reach. Digital has its selling points, but real-life events and brick-and-mortar offer irreplaceable energy. The metaverse is emerging, but Kevin is not ready to weigh in. Is it possible to build a heritage brand in today’s environment? “Yes,” says Kevin, “if you’ve got a compelling product and the storytelling to perpetuate it.” Defining PR: What does it really mean to publicize a brand—all kinds of packages and a variety of means designers and brands often don’t fully register. A global marketing strategy today requires a nuanced conversation that considers regional influences and how social media amplifies messages and shapes cultures globally. Kevin closes with thoughts on where Black creatives are in the industry today and the need to transcend performative gestures and optics to offer opportunity to the richest, most diverse possible tapestry of talent and lived experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zinnia Kumar is anything but unseen, but would that have been the case had she not fought so hard on so many fronts? An ecologist, activist, writer, and model, this Australian multihyphenate shares her unique journey to claiming an undeniable presence. In this episode, she discusses with Christopher Michael the stereotypes that have trapped South Asians—especially women—ultimately shaping how they see themselves. More than anything, these discriminating notions are related to consumer psychology and the images sold by the beauty, fashion, and media industries. She details some  drivers of bias and unequal representation and highlights the blinding privilege of those in positions to affect change. Zinnia calls out stubborn systemic barriers and, as an optimist, offers thoughts on actionable steps toward creating a multicultural and multiethnic landscape. Her vision is one of representation of the full spectrum of human colors, shapes, and features—not as an act of tokenism—but as a reflection of our current global reality. As both a commercial face and a face for change, Zinnia profoundly understands what it means to young women everywhere to identify with visual representations.  And that accurate cultural and ethnic representation  is empowering and the way of the future.  Episode Highlights: Why Zinnia believes consumer psychology is a driver in the commercial targeting and feedback loop around politics and unconscious biases that define the concept of beauty.  Zinnia highlights two types of beauty: The homogenized ideal people see daily on social media and elsewhere; New ideals and norms in the making, which are controlled by casting directors and tastemakers.  The commercial definition of beauty has expanded and has become more inclusive in terms of color, size, shape, features, and ethnic diversity; Zinnia believes in general that the beauty standard still reflects norms that existed 20–30 years ago. Enduring “Hierarchies of Visibility” projected in the media Despite inroads in colorism, the practice (and marketing) of skin bleaching remains popular globally, along with genuine social, psychological, and economic ramifications.  Actionable steps for change: Ban marketing and sales of bleaching products of any type; Reject the use of color as a performative marketing strategy, which is fundamentally superficial and indifferent to deeper social and psychological issues of colorism; Increase visibility for people of color and a full range of features. Zinnia’s view from behind the camera, as a social science researcher, and in front of the camera, as a model, has afforded her a glimpse of privilege and its impacts socially and psychologically, especially for young girls. A tumultuous and disadvantaged family history challenged Zinnia to intentionally practice optimism (rather than negativity and defeat). Is it truly inclusivity and belonging if culture, religion, or ethnicity define the roles in which models and others in the media are cast? Zinnia reflects on the issues shaping representations of South Asians The change that Zinnia seeks: An expanded conversation that enfranchises all under-represented minority, ethnicity, or cultural groups; Global inclusivity across all sectors—leaving no group invisible; Raising up—and bringing fresh perspective to—voices that have been historically unheard; Education through openness and candid conversations that raise awareness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What keeps creatives relevant in an industry that’s constantly evolving? Ezra Petronio has done it decade after decade by staying curious and riding the waves of technological and cultural change. In this episode, the Petronio Associates founder and creative director explains to Christopher Michael how he has been very intentional about the early adoption of digital innovation and media trends. He shares his journey as a magazine editor, photographer, and marketing visionary in New York and Paris, presenting a unique perspective on three decades of fashion and culture. Ezra and his team inspire trust by setting the stage for successful—very often highly experimental—collaborations by meeting clients (including renowned top luxury brands) where they are, with a commitment to communication and clarity. The episode wraps with thoughts on how the metaverse will likely impact the fashion industry and a compelling rundown of “what’s contemporary right now” for this thoughtful, multidisciplinary, and influential image maker. Episode Highlights: Ezra attributes his career’s longevity to several factors: The early adoption of artistic innovation and the awareness of the power of the written word—as a student and as the son of creatives; A nimble response to evolving technologies, from manual typography to an early Mac with (wait for it!) three fonts to today’s instant desktop publishing; Access to a series of mentors and branding experts over a period of exploration, apprenticeship, and youthful development. It was clear to Ezra early on that digital communication would become a significant influence, which is why he eagerly immersed himself in the technology and its platforms. Self Service is about stretching the bounds of what a magazine can be, including experimenting with a pandemic-inspired video format with huge commercial potential.   Lessons learned in a fluid commercial and communications landscape: Fashion shows and presentations often fall flat visually online; More is not better when it comes to social media if it has no strategic vision; Engagement must now occur through numerous media channels; The pace (and quantity) of deliverables has quickened (and grown) exponentially.  The most successful brand collaborations are experimental and symbiotic, and they leverage complementary skill sets to execute a common creative vision. The most successful campaigns invariably have: Clarity around the brand’s vision; Stakeholder alignment around executing that strategic mission. Defining Terms: Building a coherent brand message means identifying goals (whether artistic, profit-driven, or both), then deploying the right vehicle. Mindset is Key: Forward-thinking brands like Yves St. Laurent or Prada embrace surprise, but that’s not always the case. Innovation requires trust and fearlessness. What will the metaverse mean for the fashion industry? It is too soon to tell about the timeline for adoption or commercial prospects; however,t Web 3.0 will undoubtedly drive more digital consumption. It’s a time to be curious, experiment, and pay attention! What’s contemporary right now: Our ability to determine what brings us maximum joy; Radical engagement and change; Supporting the things we believe in, in any medium; Modulating social media use and interacting with live opportunities; Seeking purpose and passion; Maintaining a sense of humility and continuing to question ourselves.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to the concept of “flow,” the fashion PR Lucien Pagès is Exhibit A. He has carved out a dynamic career in communications by following his instincts, keeping an eye on the big picture, and always staying true to himself. He explains to  Christopher Michael in this episode that his  Lucien Pagès Communications team is laser-focused on two things: identifying what makes a designer unique and then excavating that treasure for others to see.  An avalanche of new communications channels has profoundly changed the media landscape since Lucien started as an aspiring designer working for legendary houses like Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent in the 1990s and since he founded his PR agency in 2006. Yet, his personalized made-to-measure style of messaging is evergreen. No matter the platform, Lucien’s branding is all about capturing the unique humanity and vision embodied by his notable and up-and-coming clients: “The way we express fashion at its best is when we bring emotion.” Highlights: The impact of early apprenticeships with heritage couture houses like Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent in the 1990s—a colorful fashion epoch pre-dating social media. The importance of staying current and curious, as Lucien’s mentors modeled for him, and he now models for—and derives from—the young people in his team. The role of communications in linking brand, designer, and media remains constant, even if social media has transformed the landscape. Today’s marketing, PR, and brand management is all about working a spectrum of channels, from Instagram influencers and mainstream magazines to TikTok and live runway shows. Is the fashion show dead? “To the contrary,” says Lucien. It’s lights, cameras, action—an expression of the industry that energizes creatives at all levels, of all ages. They’ve also been democratized by the advent of live streaming for an audience of millions. Web 3.0: Is it a thing? The wave may be coming, but it will break first in more tech-centric worlds and undoubtedly find adoption in the fashion industry, which took a minute to adapt to Web 2.0. Are heritage brands a thing of the past? Lucien wondered whether it was possible to establish a flagship fashion brand like Armani or Givenchy in today’s environment; he sees new talents like Simone Porte Jacquemus building a self-sustaining house. Is brick-and-mortar still a thing? Lucien believes storefronts are critical to creating an immersive experience that animates design and compels customers. Why Lucien Pagès Communications keeps focused on what it does best: Harnessing the power of media influencers across all channels to bring designers and brands to life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beginning his career at the age of twelve, Sam Visser has become one of the most renowned makeup artists today, lauded for his sense of style, understanding of the camera, and the ability to find a unique beauty in any face. Sam boasts an impressive list of esteemed clients and creative collaborators, including the likes of Kendall Jenner, Amber Valletta, and Bella Hadid amongst many others. In this episode, he joins host Christopher Michael to shine a spotlight on the evolution of fashion and makeup, his definition of modern standards, and the muses that fueled his success in the beauty industry. Highlights: Sam reflects on the moment he realized beauty was his passion and speaks of the time he took over his school’s art class when the teacher was absent. One photo you take and post to social media can change your life. Sam talks about why he dropped out of high school, how he started working for Kris Jenner, and the importance of mentorship for an artist. Makeup artistry enables  self-expression, creativity, self-discovery, and the ability to inspire others throughout the process. If you don’t label something or someone, you can see the  unique beauty in everything. Looking back on his school years, Sam reflects on the power of finding someone beautiful for who they are and how that translated into his beauty career. How do you differentiate fashion and editorial beauty from. commercial beauty? Beauty is ever-evolving, yet we continue to draw inspiration from past looks. Sam shares his candid thoughts on his inspiration from past fashion aesthetics, like the 80s. He also shares some of his greatest muses. Sam’s perspective on beauty, fashion, and glamor is shaped  by cinema, fantasy, and unrealism. Is makeup for the everyday the same as makeup for the camera? Listen in to hear Sam’s opinion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices