Shows
Shades of BrillianceDecoding the False Prestige of the Ivory Tower with Alex Alexiou, PART TWOIn this episode, Cierra and Alex continue their dissection of power by mapping its new digital frontier: our algorithms. They expose how the new colonial frontier is in our Instagram stories, where reality is constructed and controlled. They connect this to the politics of physical space, referencing London's Barbican Centre as a case study in utopian design and exclusion. Together, they unravel how race, class, and power merge to dictate who gets to shape the world we all inhabit. The conversation culminates in a surprising and compassionate reflection on their art school experience, finding clarity and connection after deconstructing...
2025-11-191h 12Shades of BrillianceDecoding the False Prestige of the Ivory Tower with Alex Alexiou, PART ONEIn this episode, Cierra sits down with Alex Alexiou to dissect the unspoken curriculum of their prestigious art school—a hidden masterclass in social "othering" and power dynamics. Alex shares her unique perspective, contrasting her upbringing in the Middle East with the complex social politics of Western Europe. Together, they deconstruct how the status quo teaches us to see power as something external and transactional, rather than something we can generate from within. This is part one of a crucial conversation about unlearning the systems that divide us and redefining what real, authentic power looks like.
2025-11-121h 38Shades of BrillianceFleet Week & Anthropology of Gen ZIn this episode, Cierra opens with life updates from Fleet Week in Santa Monica to a graduation celebration back home in Virginia. Inspired by witnessing young Gen Z in their image-making element, she reflects on Lauren Greenfield’s Social Studies exhibition and the ways youth culture is shaping —and unsettling our current moment. Through Greenfield’s lens, Cierra unpacks how social media is redefining identity, aspiration, and the documentation of cultural values.
2025-10-2255 minShades of BrillianceYour Emotional Compass is Key to Artistic ProcessIn this episode, Cierra celebrates completing The Artist’s Way and reflects on what it revealed about her artistic process. She unpacks how research is often limited to scientific models, leaving artistic inquiry undervalued and generally vague. Finally, she explores how our environments shape what we believe to be our “true” gifts—and what it takes to reach the emotional compass that guides our goals.
2025-10-1544 minShades of BrillianceDesign Is More Than a Deliverable with Bruna MontuoriIn this episode, Cierra sits down with her former professor Bruna Montuori for a rich conversation on the evolving dimensions of art direction and creative practice. Together, they explore how research and artistic process are not separate pursuits but deeply intertwined methods of inquiry. The episode closes with a hopeful reflection on how creativity can anchor us through uncertain political times— and knowing when you’re ready for a PhD.
2025-10-081h 08Shades of BrillianceReframing Industry and The Value of Interdisciplinary WorkIn this episode, Cierra explores the tension between institution and industry, reframing career not just as a system of training or practice, but as a discipline of thought to be actively engaged in. She highlights the Institute of Black Imagination as one of the few platforms highlighting the future of cultural production. What if your career wasn’t about output, but about deepening your understanding?
2025-10-0146 minShades of BrillianceRewriting the Rules on my 24th BirthdayIn this episode, Cierra reflects on turning 24 and the pressures of systems that quietly shape the futures we’re told to want. She questions the cultural weight of marriage and the religious narratives that frame it, asking what it really means to choose a lifestyle. Along the way, she unpacks ideas around meritocracy, weaving it into a larger critique of how success and fulfillment are defined.
2025-09-2552 minShades of BrillianceThe Fine Print of Black Americana with Yolanda HoskeyIn this episode, Cierra sits down with Brooklyn-based documentary photographer Yolanda Hoskey, recently shortlisted on Vogue’s Women by Women list of 150 most talented image makers. They revisit Yolanda’s landmark project True American and dive into her evolving lens on Black identity and belonging. Together, they confront the dangers of erasure in America today, the collapse of cultural institutions, and Yolanda’s newest work exploring the overlooked lives of Black veterans.
2025-09-171h 12Shades of BrillianceWhat Happens to Creativity When the Center Can’t Hold? Cierra opens today’s episode with what living in London revealed about the decline of the American empire, and the decline of Western civil society in general. She connects these shifts to the crumbling authority of academic institutions and the consequential uncertainty facing artists today. Closing the episode, she shares more about her next chapter: an exploration of Black culture and space, a continued reimagining of belonging.
2025-05-0750 minShades of BrillianceThe Price of Compliance.Kendrick’s Super Bowl performance sparked a conversation about who gets to define and critique Black art. Cierra revisits an art school story where she was accused of “exploiting” Black culture, unraveling the deeper implications of policing Black artists. The point is: when institutions standardize the restraint of Black culture, it’s not usually Black artists that pay the price, it’s everyone else.
2025-04-3045 minShades of Brilliance(70 Proof) Cocktails and Clout Networking parties promise opportunity, but are they just staged performances? In this episode, Cierra unpacks the illusion of industry mixers, the politics of access, and the realities of representing the American cultural footprint abroad. Experiencing how Blackness holds less cultural dominance in Europe shifted her perspective on performative connection.
2025-04-2348 minShades of BrillianceWhy Are We Still Playing by Their Rules? Success isn’t about talent; it’s about knowing when to walk away. Today, Cierra breaks down the red flags of toxic environments, from “networking” parties to workplaces where the unspoken rules do more harm than good. Plus, she swears by a two-drink maximum at work events because some lessons aren’t worth learning the hard way.
2025-04-1643 minShades of BrillianceMuses to Messes: Dating in the Creative Industry is Insane. Today, Cierra dives into your juicy questions, from post-grad struggles to dating in the creative industry. She dissects the problem with the whole artist/muse farce in modern relationships and divulges her opinion on artsy men. Let's talk ambition, romance, and the mess in between.
2025-04-0945 minShades of BrillianceThe Unknown Dangers of the Red Pen.In this episode, Cierra unpacks how editorial roles have been designed for gatekeeping and reductive practices. This leads to performative sabotage that wastes your time, executing ideas many institutions never intend to support. Knowing what you ADD to the visual landscape changes everything, it’s only then that you’ll hear applause.
2025-04-0244 minShades of BrillianceWhat Even Is Art Direction?Cierra dives into the evolving landscape of media and the critical role of the free press right now. She also shares her journey to becoming an art director, unpacking what it truly means to hold this title. In this episode, Cierra makes a compelling case for why creatives have a responsibility to champion truth-telling in a time when authenticity matters most.
2025-03-2659 minShades of BrillianceThe Great Violence of Great Britain with Caroline JapalLondon called, but at what cost? In this episode, Cierra and Caroline Japal unpack the quiet (and not-so-quiet) violences of being Black (American) women in the UK. The discuss the weight of representation, the brutal dynamics of art school, and for the love of God — the critiques. The empire never ended, and they’ve got stories to prove it.Follow Caroline Japal
2025-03-191h 22Shades of BrillianceWhen They Realize You Aren't Acting. In this episode, Cierra critiques the London art scene, examining the colonial degradation and intense othering of Black artists. She dives deep into the systemic challenges faced by Black creatives and the moments when authenticity becomes a shock to those who expect performances. Alchemize shame into power instead of letting it define you or fuel your own exploitation.
2025-03-1254 minShades of BrillianceWe Cant Afford to Not Know Who We Are.Cierra opens up about a betrayal that marked a turning point in her experience in art school. She examines the racial dynamics at play and their lasting impact. This episode pleads an alternative perspective to self-perception when the system fails to have your back. Most importantly, Black women: we can’t afford to not know who we are.
2025-03-0549 minShades of BrillianceWhere has she Been?! Catching Up On Life & LondonIn this welcome-back episode, Cierra shares an overview of her time in London, diving into her experiences in her master’s program and life abroad. She catches listeners up on where she’s been and what’s next for the podcast this season: the hardcore lessons from art school. Expect insane stories that’ll leave you inspired and entertained.
2025-02-2643 min
Shades of BrillianceIntegrity and Appearance: Navigating SuccessCierra unpacks the dynamics that have created tension in her recent artwork and environment. Through all of the changes, she is learning the real meaning of success. Have you ever had to choose between your integrity and your appearance?
2024-02-2439 minShades of BrillianceYes, You Deserve to Shine.Today, Cierra dives deep into the perils of maintaining her energy and uniqueness. In a world that wants us all dim and depressed, how do we see ourselves and our gifts? Cierra answers that question with insights from her life in London and past life experiences.
2024-02-1759 minShades of BrillianceThe Hot Girl Diary on Valentines DayGalentines or Valentines? This year, Cierra lets you into her diary on all the thoughts around romance and friendship. This holiday can be such a painful comparison to an unrealistic standard. Let's chat about it.
2024-02-1051 minShades of BrillianceIdentity Crisis: I'm American??In todays episode, Cierra reflects on being American abroad. In a way, it's become a self-deprecating title. Black Americans aren't even considered "American", so where does the confliction come from?
2024-02-0353 minShades of BrillianceWelcoming 2024: The Era of TruthHappy New Year! Cierra welcomes season 2 with the current events to begin 2024. Have we approached the era of truth? From Katt Williams to Gypsy Rose, we're seeing the truth play out at all costs. Some truths are being smothered, like the case of Claudine Gay, Harvard's former acting president. Let's get to the bottom of it.
2024-01-2754 minShades of BrillianceThe American Dream is Excellent PRIn this episode, Cierra discusses the infatuation of the American Dream. Even as an expat in the UK, American culture is pervasive. As a marketing tool, The American Dream is an endless case study.
2023-11-1345 minShades of BrillianceLA, Fashion School, and the World of PR (Emily Villari)Today's guest, Emily Villari, lays down the law on the PR machine in Los Angeles. As a capricorn and expert multitasker, Emily let's us in on her favorite events and crazy stories in the industry. Want to be in the Events/PR space? I'll give you a hint: you have to be extremely entrepreneurial.
2023-11-031h 05Shades of BrillianceRituals, Religion, and the HolidaysCierra discusses the power of readjusting holiday rituals during a swell of nihlism and moral collapse. There seems to be a desire for the whimsical feelings and romance to resurface, but we need to get more intentional.
2023-10-2744 minShades of BrillianceIs there Longevity in Lifestyle Brands?Today Cierra deep dives into the Matilda Djerf controversy to analyze the impact of Influencing as a mechanism for Lifestyle marketing. Aren't we all tired trying to keep up? My theory: most of us need creative space, not more things.
2023-10-2142 minShades of BrillianceThe Great American Detox: London ObservationsIn Todays Episode, Cierra begins by sharing the things that are irritating her concerning societies' changing of the guard. Through observations in a different Western society, Cierra begins to detox the American myths. Also, why are men so disappointing at 22?
2023-09-2957 minShades of BrillianceMy Golden Birthday: Dreaming BigCelebrate Cierra’s 22nd birthday through reflection on the cyclical qualities of life. From pursuing huge creative opportunities, to living in London, Cierra shares her helpful tips in watering the seeds of big dreams. Hint: It’s actually a lot easier than you think.
2023-09-2248 minShades of BrillianceThe Art of Intention with a Native New Yorker (Imani Baptiste)Imani and I discuss the realms of black woman-hood. As a model and digital marketing extraordinaire, Imani shares her amazing perspective on the industry and how she intends to make it a more inclusive space. As a native New Yorker, Imani has the ability to stand up for herself and teaches us how to do the same.
2023-09-1548 minShades of BrillianceKeep Calm and Carry On, I’m Moving to London.Surprise! Today Cierra reflects on the triumphant and spiritual journey that led her to London. Different from an “A-ha! Moment”, this life change was evoked through a whisper, a subtle suggestion that directed her intuition towards a different country. Make sure to stick around to hear the full scoop on University of the Arts London and the Masters Program(me) of Cierra’s dreams.
2023-09-0848 minShades of BrillianceDirecting Creativity From Within with Stylist LolaToday, Lola Sato and I dive into the depth of Goth culture and the importance of self-esteem. She shares the misconceptions of Goth expression and her resonance to music as a means of acceptance. Interestingly, we share a similar background as women of color journeying towards Fashion School and belonging.
2023-09-0158 minShades of BrillianceCrazy LA Stories, Favorite Brands, and My Kindergarten TeacherJoin me as I answer your questions! You’ll want to stick around for the wild roommate stories, my first Fashion Week experience, and more about me. Stay tuned to hear my next steps in career and life, that episode is coming soon…
2023-08-2553 minShades of BrillianceNo One Told Me Success Was IsolatingToday Cierra dives into the art of loneliness and the necessity of Weak Ties. As a concept from the book of The Defining Decade; Twenty-Somethings may not have as much time to waste, especially with their Urban Tribe. In other words, authenticity requires personal belonging and our world is designed for Group Thinking.
2023-08-1845 minShades of BrillianceNavigating the Post-Fashion School Experience with MiguelJoin me as I introduce you to the first person I met at Fashion School, Miguel Velasquez! Today we bring you into the fold of Los Angeles culture and reminisce on our first encounters in the city. As a San Diego native, Miguel shares his perception of LA and his early creative beginnings. We wrap up with a catch-up on the post-grad feelings and discuss the future.
2023-08-1157 minShades of BrillianceThe Barbie Movie Reshapes Brand and RealityIn this episode, Cierra is fresh from the theater to digest the new Barbie movie, directed by Greta Gerwig. Barbie transcends Brand, Culture, and Consumerism. We have all only ever wanted to feel real, feel connected. Let's talk about it!
2023-08-0425 minShades of BrillianceMy Journey Towards a Colorful Life (and Fashion School)Welcome to "Shades of Brilliance," a podcast where I, Cierra Venable, embark on my journey as a creative professional with a lens fixed on the psychology of color. In the first episode, I share the details of my personal journey towards Fashion School and the crucial discoveries I made about myself along the way.
2023-07-2829 min
Your Sorority Journey19. Navigating Sorority Membership as a Woman of Color ~ Cierra VenableIt’s been too long since we’ve had a collegian on the podcast! Meet Cierra ~ rising sophomore in Phi Mu at James Madison University. As she navigated quarantine and the recent racial movements just like the rest of us, she also went through a realization that her sorority membership differed from her sisters’ experience. On the episode, she shares her perspective as one of the two Black women in her chapter, the research she’s done, and the role she’s taken to educate her sisters with her story {virtually!}. After reflecting on her recruitment experience, we talk about the potent...
2020-07-091h 04