In this episode, Lisane Basquiat sits down with Shawn McClendon, author of Understanding Each Other: The Blueprint for a New America and founder of the Sister Cities Project, for a timely conversation about communication and division.

They explore how many of today’s conflicts stem not just from poor communication, but from how we interpret each other through past experiences and assumptions. Shawn shares how his upbringing shaped his perspective and led him to create spaces where people can have honest, often uncomfortable conversations.

Together, they discuss the power of listening, the importance of discomfort in growth, and how real understanding can begin to shift the way we see one another. This conversation is about connection, awareness, and the possibility of something better when we choose to truly engage.

In this episode of Shaping Freedom, Lisane Basquiat sits down with filmmakers Lin Que Ayoung and Rashad Frett, the creative forces behind Ricky, a powerful film that goes far beyond one person’s story.

Together, they explore how identity is shaped early, how roles get assigned, and what it takes to break free from patterns that no longer serve us. Drawing from their own lived experiences and communities, Lin Que and Rashad share why it was so important to give voice to people who are often misunderstood or overlooked, and how storytelling can shift perspective and challenge stigma.

In this episode of Shaping Freedom, Lisane Basquiat is joined by Glenn and Yvette Henry, creators of How Married Are You?, for a real and honest conversation about marriage, identity, and the work it takes to grow together. They open up about therapy, family patterns, and learning to do the inner work that builds a real partnership.

In this episode of Shaping Freedom, Lisane Basquiat is joined by married creative duo Jevin and L. Marie Smith for a real and honest conversation about love, partnership, and building a life together.

From meeting as actors in a play to raising a family and creating together, they share their journey with humor and openness. They talk about the importance of clear communication, learning how to grow through conflict, and what it means to truly choose each other every day.

Jevin and L. Marie also reflect on the challenges they’ve faced, including financial struggles and moments that tested their faith, and how those experiences strengthened both their relationship and their perspective on life.

This conversation is about more than marriage. It’s about growth, honesty, and building something real together.

In this episode’s conversation with Antonio Neves, we explore some of the most pressing issues affecting modern men–and women. We talk about how to get out of that comfort zone that’s leaving you unfulfilled and find alignment through community, self-exploration, and a little time in nature.