SATURNE MAGAZINE - FALL 2020

SATURNE The Happiness Issue

Magazine

Diamond White

+ RUDI | Julia Rizik | Camryn Quinlan | Nicole Leier | Podcast Crying in Public

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FALL 2020

Dear readers,

Edito

Welcome to our Fall Issue.

It has been a hard time for everybody all around the world, and sadly this might stay a little longer than expected.

But because we only want to stay positive and thrive during those difficult times, we are proud to share with you, our Happiness Issue, where the talents and the readers share with you what makes them happy, how they say positives during those times.

Here's what makes us happy by the way: Lyna: "Going out with friends in a great restaurant, my book or my movie, the simple pleasures of life..."

Cerena: "My life is making me happy right now. Not talking of 2020 because it has been a total disaster so far, but being able to do my work, to go to school and do what I love, this is making me happy.

Seeing my friends, have a coffee or a cocktail on a terrace in Paris.

The little things you regret once lost.

We also share with you, our latest favorites, in terms of music, podcasts, books, series, and movies, to keep on the good vibes during this autumn.

We want to thank, as usual, the talents of this issue, Diamond White, Nicole Leier, Camryn Quinlan, the girls from Crying in Public ( Sarah, Isha, Sydni, Claudia and Sophia), RUDI and Julia Rizik.

Thank you for keeping us inspired with your art, and thank you for staying true to yourself, you are keeping us happy.

Enjoy this fresh Issue and spread happiness behind you, It’ll get better.

Cerena Hammana & Lyna Allet

Co-founders of SATURNE Magazine

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contents classics

What do we

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What makes you

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Happy?

features

Julia Rizik

RUDI

Camryn Quinlan Diamond White

Podcast Crying in

Public

Nicole Leier

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We are also

SATURNE Magazine

#14

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Diamond White

FALL 2020

available in print

What do we LISTEN

"Tomorrow" (EP) BY Diamond White "Ain’t No second Chances" BY Camryn Quinlan "Stupid Boy" BY RUDI "Self Destructive" (EP) BY Julia Rizik "Be Ok" BY Lana Chafouln Podcast edition : Crying in Public

READ "The Shelf" BY Helly Acton "Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine" BY Gail Honeyman "Last Tang Standing" BY Lauren Ho

WATCH movies "Kajillionaire" BY Miranda July "Rebecca" BY Ben Weathley "Holidate" BY John Whitesell

series "Normal People" "The Queen's Gambit" "Grand Army"

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Julia Rizik INTERVIEW AND WORDS BY LYNA ALLET PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKAELA STYLING BY STAR BURLEIGH HAIR AND MAKEUP BY FRANCIE TOMALONIS

Julia Rizik might be a new name for you but you might want to remember it. The singer/ songwriter started her career as a Country artist, even located herself in Nashville. She collaborated with a top tier writer there and even performed at Stagecoach and Country Thunder, some of the biggest country festivals in the U.S. But, because she let her mind and her writing wander, she finds herself discovering the genre of pop in her writing, finding out a new environment for her music. Leaving Nashville for L.A, she thrives again while writing and producing her pop song. « Love Myself », « You Wouldn’t Even Notice » are the result of the love story between her and the pop genre.

During quarantine, her creativity doesn’t leave her side, because this is where she writes her first EP, called « Self Destructive » that she describes as an indie-pop and alternative R&B, Inspired by her on and off a relationship.

She also took the time to contemplate her past relationship and the meaning behind it.

This EP and the writing behind were also a way to cope with her sadness and questioning.

There is no doubt that Rizik might be the future of pop, in terms of vocals and writing, you better keep an eye on her. The release of her EP « Self Destructive » might just be the beginning of a bright future for this promising artist.

--How do you fall in love with music?

I fell in love with music when I was 11 years old after an open mic night performance. I did not think that night would ever mean anything to me and I specifically remember wanting to get it over with. But, that night, my life changed forever. I remember being on that little stage and feeling so complete yet, so hungry for more music.

What’s your first memory with music?

My first memory is from when I was about four or five years old. My three older sisters and I threw a fake “wedding” in our backyard and I remember walking around the yard singing about everything I saw. I think it’s in one of our home videos, actually.

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Printed Suit look- Hi On Life (designer)

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You started in Nashville with Country and you did a lot of festivals there, can you tell us more about your experience?

Nashville was great. I learned a lot there, I was grinding. I was in songwriting sessions all day almost every day of the week. But, despite writing and playing shows there, I just wasn’t fully happy. My heart wasn’t fulfilled. Long story short, I realized that what I wanted was to be in LA and to sing and write a different style of music.

You’re also a songwriter, for which artist would you want to write for?

This is a great question! Writing is a huge part of who I am and I would love to write for other artists. I kind of want to try writing for a male artist to see if it feels different than writing for a female artist. Maybe an artist like James Bay. I’ve always loved Bruno Mars and I think it would be a fun challenge writing for him, as well.

Your EP is out very soon, can you tell us more about it?

Yes! We just finished mastering all of the tracks on the EP. It’s called, “Self Destructive”.

These 5 songs are all about my experiences and emotions over the last year.

How did quarantine help you in the creative process?

The quarantine, in a way, really grounded me. I had nothing to do but feel & write, so that’s all I focused on. There were some really hard days, days I was all caught up in my emotions, but that’s when I wrote the hardest.

The breakup and the broken heart are a big subject in your EP, do you hope that your fans will relate to your songs?

I really hope people can relate to the realness of the songs on the EP. The breakup songs on the EP were the hardest ones, not just to write, but to record also. I had to lay my heart out there and I hope these songs can be therapeutic to listeners more than anything.

Usually, how do you get inspired?

I usually get inspired by things I’m facing or going through, I’m a Virgo, which makes me a big-time feeler. So, understanding how I’m feeling about someone or something inspires me to write.

What makes you happy?

Aw, this question is so sweet. There are so many things that make me happy. Music really does make my heart go wild. My family also makes me extremely happy, we’re super close. My dogs are a huge source of my happiness. Lastly, I love learning the French language. The list goes on and on.

--SOCIAL MEDIA instagram - facebook - twitter LISTEN TO JULIA RIZIK spotify - youtube - soundcloud

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RUDI INTERVIEW AND WORDS BY LYNA ALLET PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIGUEL FLORES STYLIST : HAILI PUE MAKEUP BY CYNTHIA HERNANDEZ

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RUDI might not be an unknown name for you. She participated in the reality TV « The Bachelors Presents: Listen To Your Heart ». She managed to stand out by her humor, her bubbly personality, and of course, her amazing voice. Being one of the fan's favorites got her feeling fulfilled with happiness. And she isn’t going to stop now, the fans better get ready because she is. With already three songs on her Spotify, three bops, she is ready to conquer it all. Her younger days were filled with music, growing up with divas on the radio like Christina Aguilera, that inspired her.

Growing up, she also started homeschooling and took vocal lessons to focus on her music career. One opening act at Lollapalooza later, she is more than ready to show you what she is capable of. Working on new music as we speak, you can be sure that RUDI will slowly become the new pop and R&B sensation. With her amazing stage presence, her unique voice, and her personality, you might want to keep RUDI under your radar.

--You participated in the reality show « The Bachelor Presents: Listen to Your Heart » , how was your experience?

Luckily for me it was absolutely amazing!!! I loved it, made some lifelong friends, and got to perform at some amazing places.

Would you like to do another reality show?

Yeah, definitely not opposed!

Your presence to the show as one of the youngest competitors was one of the most loved on the show, how did you react when you knew about the support outside the show?

I was completely overwhelmed in the best way. My heart is still so full from all the love I still receive.

You started singing at a young age and you decided to focus on your musical career, who were your musical inspirations?

Christina Aguilera all the way. So many incredible artists I was raised listening to, but she was always my go to.

You did an opening act at Lollapalooza sometimes ago. How would you describe the energy and the feels you went through while performing?

The energy was unlike anything else. I remember I almost cried right before going on because I was so excited and the crowd was just unreal!!!

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Your last song « Stupid Boy » is about finally getting over your ex. Is that something you relate to?

Yeah, of course! Especially in the time I wrote it because that’s when I was trying to get over an ex lol.

You also have two other songs: « Smile » and « Hate LA », the first one is about smiling through the pain of heartbreak and the second one is hating the city because it reminds you of someone you used to love. Is it possible that the three songs can be seen as a diary of a broken heart, passing through all the emotions: trying to smile while heartbroken, seeing the person everywhere in the city, and finally moving on?

I never thought about it like that because each song is about a different person!

Some even two different people. No one has shown it to me like that, but it’s a pretty cool way of looking at it.

Can we expect a new music project coming soon, maybe an EP? 100% I’m working on it as we speak. Just trying to get the best things ready for you guys. But yeah, new music very soon.

Who would you like to collaborate with?

So many people! A dream performance: me and Christina Aguilera. Would love to have Russ featured on one of my songs too.

What’s something that makes you happy?

My family. I love them with all of my heart! At the end of the day, no matter what, I always have them.

--LISTEN TO "SMILE" , "HATE LA" & "STUPID BOY" https://linktr.ee/itsjustrudi SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram

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WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY?

2020 has been a tough year for everyone, so we wanted to spread good vibes with this special happiness issue. We've asked you on social media, and have asked the talents: what makes you happy? Here are some of the answers.

TIAVINA

My Family, my boyfriend and music.

LILA

My Friends.

PAULINE

Watching children play and laugh together. I tell myself that the world still has nice colors to show.

ANDREA

Music, watch movies, series, interviews of my favs, being alone.

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ROBERT

Night car rides.

LIANA

My work, my friends and my family.

CAMRYN QUINLAN

Singing my songs to people, making others happy with my music, and hanging with my family and friends .

SAMAH My cat.

EDITH

Good food, watch series, go out when the weather is nice and know that I'm surrounded.

MILENA

Being with the people I love, drawing, listening to music, watching a movie...

YOANN

To be immersed in another universe, a video game or a film.

SOPHIA

See my favorite actors and singers.

CORALIE

Being surrounded by my animals, drawing notebook by hand. Admire the nature and the landscapes it offers us. I can get so excited about nothing, and that’s what makes me feel good.

SAMANTHA

Feeling complete and fulfilled in life.

JULIA RIZIK

There are so many things that make me happy. Music really does make my heart go wild. My family also makes me extremely happy, we’re super close. My dogs are a huge source of my happiness. Lastly, I love learning the French language. The list goes on and on.

RUDI

My family. I love them with all of my heart! At the end of the day, no matter what, I always have them.

MARIE

My family, my friends and art.

PEYO

Family, girlfriend, music and work.

NICOLE LEIER I strongly believe our joy is our strength.

I’m exercising, meditating and working out as well as working on some incredible projects with incredible people.

DIAMOND WHITE

Recently what makes me happy is turning on a classic Halloween movie and cleaning my apartment. It’s like wow I really am an adult living alone but my younger self is like WE DID IT NOW WATCH HALLOWEEN MOVIES AND THRIIIIVE.

CRYING IN PUBLIC Besides the generics (family, health, human connection, sex, etc…), sources of happiness specific to Crying in Public would include politics, Zara clothing, impromptu Sunday brunch, taking photos / making TikToks, and doing new things in the city. One day last week, we spontaneously dressed up to explore SoHo/Nolita, and when we weren’t taking approximately 600 pictures each, we were laughing, buying boba, and exploring. Although our wallets might hate us for it sometimes, spending time together in any way we can is a plus - especially with our busy work schedules keeping us occupied during the week. A nice cheese board, ripe politics discussion, and chatting about our dating lives is definitely enough to keep us satisfied. saturnemagazine - 23

CAMRYN QUINLAN

INTERVIEW AND WORDS BY LYNA ALLET PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT : ACAPOP! KIDS AND CAMRYN QUINLAN

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You might want to keep an eye on Camryn. At only 13 years old, she might have a bright destiny in the music industry. She’s part of the group « Acapop! KIDS » founded by the founder of Pentatonix. They covered « Without Me » by Halsey, «Breathin’ » by Ariana Grande, and many more.

But at a young age, she is also already very engaged. She is raising awareness about mental health. Her song « Better Days », a song she sang at 10 years old, helped to bring awareness to teen suicide prevention. All the profit went to « The Muse Within », a local youth music non-profit organization.

You better be ready for Camryn. The teenager is ready to blow your mind and to impress you. Her song « Ain’t No Second Chance » is out and we couldn’t be more impressed.

The young prodigy not only sings, but she also writes her music and plays many instruments such as guitar, ukulele, piano, and drums.

With her talent and her kindness, Camryn is ready to show the world what she is capable of, and we hope that in the close future, we all hear her singing on the radio.

--How did you fall in love with music?

I have always had a passion for music ever since I could talk and I knew I wanted to be a singer my whole life.

What’s the process for your songs?

My process mostly starts with some chords, a melody, and then some lyrics.

Who are your favorites singers and why?

My favorite singers are Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, Kacey Musgraves, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, and a lot of singers on the radio.

Any work in particular that inspired you?

I absolutely love the Ariana Grande’s album Sweetener and Kacey Musgrave’s album Golden Hour. They both inspired me to write more.

You are a part of the group Acapop! KIDS, created by the leaders of Pentatonix, how is the atmosphere in the group?

It is so welcoming and fun being around so many talented people. You laugh a lot.

How does your song « Ain’t No Second Chance » represent to you as an artist?

I really love that song and what it means to me, and I think it really showcases my voice.

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Who are the artists you would like to collaborate with?

Ariana Grande, Alicia Keys, Billie Eilish, and Bruno Mars.

What would be your dream in the music industry?

Definitely to release an album, having it end up on the radio, and then touring.

Are there any new projects regarding your music soon?

I am always working on new music and recording my own songs. I also just wrapped a couple of new Acapop! KIDS videos.

What makes you happy?

Singing my songs to people, making others happy with my music, and hanging with my family and friends .

--SOCIAL: Instagram & TikTok

MUSIC: Camryn Quinlan Original Music: “Ain’t No Second Chance” – Camryn Quinlan (2020) “Monsters” – Camryn Quinlan (Official Music Video)

Acapop! KIDS: THE OTHER SIDE by Justin Timberlake and SZA (Acapop! Minis) BREATHIN by Ariana Grande (Official Music Video) WITHOUT ME by Halsey (Official Music Video)

Add’l Covers on Camryn’s Instagram: I SHOULD PROBABLY GO TO BED by Dan & Shay BONES by Marren Morris IF THE WORLD WAS ENDING by JP Saxe ft. Julia Michaels

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DIAMOND

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WHITE

INTERVIEW AND WORDS BY LYNA ALLET

The cover star of our Fall Issue, Diamond White, is the next big sensation. Not only is she acting, but she is also singing. From her Broadway debut when she was younger playing in the musical « The Color Purple » to the release of her first tape "Tomorrow", she never stopped the hustle.

Her acting can be seen in the notorious show « Empire », when she played the role of Lala, the first talent of the label Bossy Media. But most recently, she plays the daughter of Wayne Brady's character on the soap-opera « The Bold and the Beautiful ». She camps the role of Paris Buckingham, sister of Zoe Buckingham.

But aside from her acting career, the singer/actress pours her heart out in her newest EP, with notes of soul, R&B, and Pop. « Tomorrow » is the promise of a delicious listening moment, her soft voice balance with the lyrics. Heaven in our ears. Enjoy the interview of Diamond White, your newest obsession, with her candor and her honesty, and be prepared to be transported into another world while her music is the soundtrack of your journey.

--Congratulations on your upcoming role in « The Bold & the Beautiful »! How did you react when you knew you had the part of Paris Buckingham?

I went straight to my mom’s house and went “I have to tell you something” and she thought I was pregnant.

How was the audition process?

Super strange because of Covid. I auditioned from home on Zoom and literally had a kissing scene with my love interest on ZOOM. I was cringing so much I almost peed.

You also played in different series such as « Dear White People », « Empire »… What did you learn out of these roles?

I learned to go with the flow and that the food is always BOMB on set, especially Empire’s! It was kind of a bumpy start on Empire because I had ants in my trailer on the first day but overall it was amazing working with everyone! Taraji had a scene introducing my character Lala and she kept calling me Rihanna .

What would be your ultimate dream role?

To be a worldwide touring artist - not a role but it’s my ultimate dream.

Your new ep « Tomorrow » was released October 23rd, how do you feel?

I feel like I just got to the top of a hill while wearing 60 pound weights. I’m proud of myself because I wrote every lyric myself and pushed every step of the way. I collaborated with some great people like Brian Kennedy who played a big part in Rihanna’s early career and helped make a big sandwich full of people I trusted with my sound like KYLLO, Saphire and Trak I look at this EP as my first child.

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« (f*ck) What I Need » is the first single off the EP, What does it represent for you?

Literally completely ignoring what you actually need to better yourself and a person and instead deciding I’m gonna fuck with this distraction because it’ll be more fun.

How would you describe the atmosphere of your upcoming EP? “Tomorrow” is a fading love story from top to bottom. Starting in Candyland and ending on Bad Bitch Blvd with a few stops in simp cemetery.

Who are your musical inspirations?

I’m really truly just inspired by things in life and Frank Ocean. Rarely do I hear something on the radio and I’m like “OMG I’m so inspired by that.” I’m inspired to see what the dangling thing in the back of my throat looks like? BAHAHA I’m JUST KIDDING.

You finished in the top 5 on the show X-Factor, How was your experience?

Pretty ridiculous. I had fun and I loved performing every week. Behind the scenes was a little suspect tho. It’s reality tv so it was weird having a conversation happen and then seeing it air and it not being the same conversation. Getting older and looking back on that I’m happy they just showed me being a 13 year old kid and not like some competitive little monster. BUT THEY TRIED IT THO!!! That battle with Dinah editing me smiling in a different place honnneeeyyy I said wtf. That didn’t even happen like that.

You have wonderful songs such as « Pretty Brown Skin », « Cleopatron (Drunk on Me) », « Love Songs 4 » … What is your process for writing songs?

At any moment a melody may greet me but I do get a lot of them when I’m peeing.

Don’t know why.

You also played in numerous musicals such as « The Lion King » in Las Vegas, « The Color Purple » … Do you miss being on stage?

YES so muuuccchhh. I’m also mad that I can’t go see anyone do a show! I’m tryna go see Travis Scott and be in a mosh pit.

What makes you happy?

Recently what makes me happy is turning on a classic Halloween movie and cleaning my apartment. It’s like wow I really am an adult living alone but my younger self is like WE DID IT NOW WATCH HALLOWEEN MOVIES AND THRIIIIVE. --SOCIAL MEDIA instagram - twitter LISTEN TO DIAMOND WHITE spotify - youtube - applemusic - soundcloud

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CRYING IN PUBLIC

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PODCAST

INTERVIEW AND WORDS BY LYNA ALLET PHOTOS : COURTESY OF CRYING IN PUBLIC I don’t know how I got introduced to podcasts. But it wasn’t the traditional way, I never logged into my Spotify account to look up especially for a podcast. But eventually, I did. For a lot of people, a podcast is a great way to go to work, workout, or even for a simple walk in the park.

So, I listened to them. And I’m glad I did.

Because we are still in a global pandemic, I wanted a podcast that was making me travel in my mind, and especially in New-York City. And this is where I found the podcast Crying In Public.

Crying In Public was founded by 4 friends Sydni, Claudia, Sophia and Sarah, 20 something girls living in New-York. They are students at NYU, and in their podcast, they talk, unfiltered about Dating, girls code, and relationship in general. Listening to them is like being in a girl's bathroom at the club, or even better, the debriefing brunch a Sunday morning à la Sex and the City.

So relax yourself a bit, put their podcast on, have a little iced coffee, and read the interview of Crying In Public, your new best friends. You deserve it.

--How did you guys meet?

We actually met two years ago at a frat party! We were originally a part of two separate friend groups freshman year of college, and ended up having mutual friends and roommates that connected us all together over the span of a few semesters. After spending the day together, we ended up having an incredible connection that led to us spending more time together, living together the next year, and eventually the podcast!

How the idea of the podcast came to you?

The idea of starting a podcast had been a running joke among us for about ten or so months before we actually decided to get one up and running. We ended up becoming friends towards the end of a semester, so after spending the entire summer apart, and then having to all live together, we needed to find a way for us to not only get to know each other better, but to also deepen our friendships and establish trust between us as well. Wine nights became a weekly staple for us, and along with them came really deep conversations that we joked were “good enough for a podcast.” Right before COVID-19 hit New York, we finally decided to commit to doing one after hypothetically talking about it for so long. We figured we talked too much anyway, might as well record it! While the pandemic made it difficult for us to get the show off of the ground with each of us residing in a different state, it helped to keep us connected and busy during a time that was difficult for us all--thus, Crying in Public was born!

Why did you choose « Crying in Public » for the title?

On the day that we decided to finally go for it and create our show, we had a friend/family dinner at our favorite restaurant in New York City, Vapiano, to discuss the vision we had for the podcast, and to catch up and spend time together after a long week. About thirty minutes into the dinner, and while we were simultaneously trying to come up with a name, we made the joke that every time we go out together we always “cry in public.” saturnemagazine - 35

We figured it was the perfect title to encompass who we are as a group, and what direction we were aiming to go in with the show: letting women know that it’s okay to be vulnerable and open, especially in the times we’re living in today.

Who do you target with your podcast?

While we try not to limit ourselves to a certain demographic, we believe that the strength of our show lies in its diversity. We are four women from very different backgrounds, of different races, with different nationalities, and different life experiences. We aim to, as a whole, represent a large range of young women, not only in the United States but worldwide, by discussing a range of topics and issues that affect our generation, specifically women. We do however, have a surprisingly wide range of listeners from all ages and gender identities. We have had mothers and parents tell us that our show has helped them to understand what their children are going through and how various issues impact their lives, and allowed them to connect with their children on a deeper level. On the other end of that spectrum, we have had listeners as young as freshmen in high school tell us that we were like the big sisters or role models that they never had. The reach we’ve experienced in such a short period of time is what has impacted us the most as creators, and have made this endeavor so worthwhile.

Who would you like to have on your podcast?

We’re certainly not looking for anyone in particular, because we feel that the power of our show comes from being relatable and our dynamic as a group. However, we do think it's both beneficial and entertaining to have a number of guests that we believe can add value to a topic by either being an expert in that feel or by bringing a perspective to the conversation that would otherwise be largely missing. In a perfect world, our ideal guest would be Rihanna because she is both our hero and who isn’t obsessed with her? But being realistic, we would be glad to have anyone on the show ur fans would connect with and add to the conversation and mission we are trying to put forward.

What are the issues that are important to you that everyone should learn about?

The issues that are most important to Crying In Public that we believe that everyone, especially our listeners should learn about, are the very issues that affect women of our generation: physically, mentally, and emotionally. From sexual health and education, to mental health, to navigating toxic relationships, and even understanding voting and politics in our country, we aim to discuss issues that we believe are taboo for women to speak out about, and therefore generally make us feel as though we are dealing with these issues alone.

We want to break down the stigma around women speaking out about their issues publicly, especially when it comes to sex and relationships, in an attempt to both educate and empower us and our listeners.

To the people that don’t know the subject of your podcast, how would you present it?

Crying in Public is just another weekly podcast that is hosted by four 20-something, college women living in NYC. We invite listeners to follow along while we dive into what it is like growing up in a time where there’s no distinction between what’s public and what’s private.

Even though we’re encouraged by society and social media to only put our best self forward, we dare to be open and vulnerable as young women navigating the 21st century--

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SOCIAL MEDIA instagram (@cryinginpublicpodcast)

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LISTEN TO CRYING IN PUBLIC linktr.ee/cryinginpublic

showing our listeners that it’s okay to not be okay, and it’s okay to not have everything together! We cover everything from navigating relationships, to the best spots in the city, how to navigate hookups, to trying to make sense of what in the world is happening around us politically and socially. On our show, nothing is off limits.

How do you choose the subject you are going to talk about?

This is definitely one of our most asked questions, and sometimes we feel like we disappoint inquirers with our answer! The example scenario we often provide is very underwhelming: we’re all out eating dinner - perhaps with a few beverages involved - and one of us naturally steers the conversation in a Crying in Public-esque direction. Whether it be men, friendship, dating, or New York City, our episodes are most likely just continuations of a conversation that we started before, and promptly saved because “oh my gosh this would be such good content, let’s save this for later!” When we first started the show, we made a master list of all of the issues and topics that we felt it would be important to touch upon, or that we believed would benefit women of our generation! Whenever we have trouble coming up with a topic for the week (which is rare), we like to refer back to that list.

Now that we are in a Global pandemic, how did that change the way you experience NewYork City, in terms of party, dates…?

Provided that we all wear masks, social distance, and maintain a necessary level of caution for ourselves and others, we definitely still experience most aspects the city has to offer. A few of our regular haunts include outdoor dining (The Little Owl, DOMODOMO, and Vapiano are our current obsessions), rooftops (The Edge just reopened with enforced social distancing rules, for example), sightseeing (we often frequent The High Line, SoHo, Central Park, Williamsburg, and the Hudson Yards), and shopping literally anywhere and everywhere. Partying is a no-go; we only encourage / attend socially distant, outdoor events that are completely compliant with Governor Cuomo’s regulations. And dates? For Crying in Public, dating apps are a requirement, and although we can’t be as carefree and (cough, cough) wild as we were pre-Covid, navigating the dating scene in New York City hasn’t changed drastically. Men are still frustrating and probably still won’t pick up the check after dinner, outdoors or not.

What makes you happy?

Besides the generics (family, health, human connection, sex, etc…), sources of happiness specific to Crying in Public would include politics, Zara clothing, impromptu Sunday brunch, taking photos / making TikToks, and doing new things in the city. One day last week, we spontaneously dressed up to explore SoHo/Nolita, and when we weren’t taking approximately 600 pictures each, we were laughing, buying boba, and exploring. Although our wallets might hate us for it sometimes, spending time together in any way we can is a plus - especially with our busy work schedules keeping us occupied during the week. A nice cheese board, ripe politics discussion, and chatting about our dating lives is definitely enough to keep us satisfied.

- You didn’t ask, but some things we hate: the excuse “I don’t care about politics” to make up for being completely ignorant, having no plans for a Friday night, and people who take life or themselves way too seriously.

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NICOLE LEIER

INTERVIEW AND WORDS BY LYNA ALLET PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDAN UEGAMA Nicole Leier is a director and actor. She played in many movies, amongst some of the most famous actors. But, Nicole Leier is more than that, she’s a multitalented woman. Besides being an actress, she’s also a producer for her own company « BlackTree Pictures ». With many projects that come along her ways with her company, you can be sure that one day, she’ll be all around Hollywood. Nicole is also a woman of color. She faced many problems with the police because of that. And she will raise her voice. As a Black Woman and with protests all around the globe, she will not be silent any longer. Her brave story is now out and she’s hoping it’ll help people to talk about the injustices they faced just by being people of color. She will not be silent any longer about police brutality. No one will be. Now she is focusing on her new projects, hoping it’ll inspire people, because it’s what she wants, inspiring people, with her art.

And transmitting her passion through her project. But one thing is sure, Nicole is headed through a bright and promising future.

--You have a big career behind you, how did it all start for you?

I made the very hard choice at a very young age to leave home and make a way for myself. I only just recently found my biological father, who happens to be Tanzanian, and it was such a powerful moment. Finally learning my ancestry was very important. I don’t say this so everyone can feel sorry for me. I share this to encourage people. In the words of Barack Obama, “it doesn’t matter what you start, it matters where you end up.” That is one thing you have complete control over. Knowing where I come from keeps me fueled. Knowing what the worst looks like keeps me moving forward.

I wholeheartedly believe this career path chose me, I didn’t choose it. I feel called to tell stories for the people who can’t, stories that make the world a better place, stories that educate, and stories that help people in unique situations see themselves represented.

You act, direct, and produce! Why have you decided to put on so many hats over the years?

As one of the owners of the production company Black Tree Pictures I am very proud of some of the projects that we have been able to create so far. We have a new future film in the works.

You can check us out and stay up to date on our upcoming projects at www.blacktreepictures.com - Instagram - @blacktree_pictures We also have camera equipment for rent.

I believe and always say that I’m a producer out necessity. Producing is extremely hard work and I have the utmost respect for the people who do it full-time. I have to produce projects if I want to tell stories that I believe need to be shared with the world. I will never stop creating and will always do whatever it takes to make that happen.

Acting and directing are very symbiotic for me and naturally go hand-in-hand they are both outlets of my creativity. I don’t think I will ever be able to do just one. both are extensions of who I am as a person and as an artist.

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As a Black Woman in the industry, did you face any injustices concerning your gender or your skin color?

As someone who has personally experienced police brutality, I'm a dedicated activist for the purpose of change. I am absolutely honored to help others in any way I can. So I share this story in the hopes of helping others know they are not alone. I share this story to take a stand against police brutality and the injustices plaguing the world. I was leaving a wrap party for a feature film. A man driving a minivan type cab arrived and we were on our way. While en route, I asked the driver if he could make a stop at a nearby ATM. That is when things took a turn for the worst. He became irate and accused me of trying to scam him. He pulled over, slammed on the brakes, and got out of the car to call another cab driver for backup. They came to my side of the cab, yanked the door open and proceeded to grab me by the shirt and shake me violently. I was alone and being assaulted by two men in the middle of the night. I had to kick them away just to shut the door and lock myself inside. I felt safer in the cab because I knew there was a camera that would be documenting this. I warned him that I was calling the cops. He said the same. The police arrived in force with two squad cars and a paddy wagon. I unlocked the door, thinking I was saved, but the police snatched me from the cab, wrenching on my breasts as they did, and threw me down on the ground. They didn’t even give me a chance to explain why I had called them in the first place. They apparently heard all they needed to hear, and saw what they needed to see, to cuff me, a 4’11” woman, and throw me in the back of the paddy wagon. The entire ride I screamed for my life. I called you for help! Look at the tape! I called you! My pleas fell on deaf ears. I don’t what made them change their minds but they un-cuffed me, threw me and my belongings out on the ground in front of my house, and sped off. I had never felt a rage so strong in my life. I never felt so helpless. My trust in law enforcement was broken.

The next morning, two cops came to my house to apologize. But that was it. The tape disappeared and there was no other investigation. As they drove away, I realized I was lucky. I lived.

With your company Black Tree Pictures You recently executive produced and starred in a film called Black Chicks, can you tell our readers a little bit about this film and what you and the team are hoping to do with the piece?

"Black Chicks" is based on a play that Neil LaBute wore titled "Black Girls." Neil Labute is one of my favorite writers of all times and I am very honored that I was able to work with him on this project. It is my hope that "Black Chicks" might also eventually become a feature film. Our film unveils an important story, addressing huge issues in an understated yet emotional way, as racial stereotypes are "brought to light... and questioned. David Cubit co-stars in Black Chicks with me, and I am very proud of his brave work in the film. We wouldn’t have been able to make this project without him.

We had the amazing cinematographer Brendan Uegama on this one with us as well.

Honestly it was a total dream team!

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You also are an ambassador for the Instagram « Bite the Bullet », can you talk about the project behind?

BITE THE BULLET Stories, is a social justice initiative. We work in the community to amplify stories to create meaningful dialogs about mental health, ending excessive force and racial discrimination by law enforcement. We feature people 'biting the bullet' to share a personal story of struggle and how they overcame it. I wanted to make sure that I was working continually and long-term for the movement with an organization so that my activist work would continue no matter what happened.

INSTAGRAM instagram.com/bitethebulletstories What people can do to help the BLM movement and raise awareness?

I’m very hopeful that we will continue to solidify efforts to make lasting change in our industry and our world. It will take time and lots of hard work. But we will see change. We will not allow things to stay as they are. We will be silenced no more. VOTE…Please VOTE!!!! We all have to VOTE like our life depends on it.

The election in the US is very soon, can you explain to people why this election is very important?

VOTE - Educate - Share - Keep Posting - Listen - Learn.

Please VOTE!!!! We all have to vote and keep educating yourselves and helping each other rise up. We all have a part to play in the improvement of our world. Recycle and reduce waste and open your hearts, take care of yourself and be safe.

Any upcoming projects ?

I’m working on some really exciting projects! I have a feature film in post-production that I directed for Reelone ENT. I also have a sci-fi TV series in development with my writing partner, Indira Lorick, following a journalist’s investigation into a string of deaths at a psych ward, and to round it out I have a second feature film in the works that I hope will show a new perspective on human trafficking.

There are a few other projects that I am involved with but I can’t say much about them at the moment.

How are you staying positive during these times?

I strongly believe our joy is our strength.

I’m exercising, meditating and working out as well as working on some incredible projects with incredible people.

Instagram - @nicolegleier Twitter - @NicoleGLeier IMBD - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0500133/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1 Thank you for helping amplifying our voices as artists on your outlet.

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"The most important thing is to enjoy your life - to be happy . It's all that matters" - Audrey Hepburn

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