In this episode, Felicia and Rachel welcome Jumai Yusuf, a talented filmmaker and storyteller. Jumai shares her unique journey from Massachusetts theater kid to LA film director, highlighting her background in neurobiology and her passion for blending art and science. She discusses the development of her animated series 'Layla and the Starship Afrotopia,' which features a young Black Muslim girl with wormhole powers. We dive into the process of directing, from working with screenwriters to location scouting and casting. Before we talk with Jumai, we chat about our experiences at a few conferences - it turns out IRL events are still amazing!
00:25 Felicia's Networking Adventures at WBENC
04:56 Rachel's Culture Summit Experience
08:22 Introducing Jumai Yusuf
10:14 Jumai's Journey and Inspirations
20:24 Directing The Eid Gift
26:18 Casting for Ramadan America
26:46 Balancing Writing and Directing
28:13 Challenges in Directing
29:37 Impact of Me Too and Black Lives Matter
31:33 Advice for Aspiring Directors
33:06 Cosplay and Anime Passion
41:49 Renaissance Fair Adventures
44:20 Peloton and Fitness Goals
46:30 Final Thoughts and Social Media
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