The Creative Block

Hosted by Vince Gonzales

Technology Arts

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Jul 2025

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The Place for Artists and Creatives to Share Their Web3 Adventures

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July 30, 202536 min

The Future of Leadership Is Emotional Intelligence with Layla Anderson

In this episode of The Creative Block, we sit down with Layla Anderson—strategist, founder, and leadership consultant—whose work bridges tech, equity, and emotional intelligence. Layla shares insight on how emerging technologies like AI are being shaped by values-driven leadership, why emotional intelligence is becoming essential in the future of work, and how organizations can embed equity and impact into their core strategies. We also explore what it takes to lead across sectors, build resilient systems, and navigate change with purpose. 🎧 Topics We Cover: Ethical frameworks in tech and AI Emotional intelligence as a leadership skill The shift from hierarchies to networks Designing inclusive workplace cultures Advice for those outside tech looking to get in 🔗 Follow Layla Anderson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/layla-anderson-/ 📺 Watch this episode and more of The Creative Block https://www.youtube.com/@thecreativeblockpod

June 2, 202525 min

Reanimating the Past: Talia Grossman on AI, Family, and Identity

In this episode of The Creative Block, artist and media producer Talia Grossman shares the deeply personal story behind her AI-driven installation, White Australia. Blending fine art, archival research, and emerging technology, Talia uses tools like D-ID, Runway, and Kling to reanimate old family photographs—breathing new life into lost ancestors and confronting the complex layers of immigration, identity, and memory. A former NCAA athlete and graduating senior at USC's Roski School of Art and Design, Talia speaks with host Vince Gonzales about growing up between cultures, the emotional impact of seeing her family's history move again, and how AI can become a tool for generational healing. Whether you're interested in art, storytelling, or the ethics of technology, this conversation will move you. Follow Talia: https://taliagrossman.com/ 🔹 Topics Covered: • Using AI to reanimate family photos • Growing up Jewish and Muslim in the U.S. • Balancing sports and creativity • Intergenerational trauma and healing through art • How archives can be made to speak again Watch the full You Tube episode: https://youtu.be/4cokeHEiAHY Instagram @thecreativeblockpod VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix Merch Available Here : https://vinpix.square.site/

March 31, 202522 min

The Quantum Computing Breakdown: A Conversation with Camilla Brossa

🎙️ The Quantum Computing Breakdown: A Conversation with Camilla Brossa In this episode of The Creative Block, I chat with Camilla Brossa, Founder & CEO of CAIA Consulting, about the transformative power of quantum computing and its impact across industries. Camilla's expertise in Web3, AI, blockchain, and digital transformation gives her a unique perspective on how businesses and creatives can leverage emerging tech to stay competitive. We explore how quantum computing differs from traditional systems, its future applications, and how brands can integrate cutting-edge technology effectively. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the future of innovation! 🚀 Caia Consulting https://www.caia.consulting/ Instagram @thecreativeblockpod VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix Merch Available Here : https://vinpix.square.site/

March 14, 202546 min

Director & Writer Jacqueline Elyse Rosenthal on Her Sci-Fi Film "Europa"

A DGA Award-winning filmmaker, Jacqueline holds an MFA in Film Production from USC's School of Cinematic Arts and is the recipient of the prestigious John Huston Award for Outstanding Directing. Her current film, Europa, is a sci-fi short created for the Entertainment Technology Center at USC in partnership with Sony Pictures and other industry leaders. The film utilizes cutting-edge virtual production technology—also known as the Volume Wall—to explore humanity's impact on the universe and nature. In addition to Europa, Jacqueline directed Backlog, a short film inspired by the real-life U.S. Senate Hearing addressing the national backlog of untested rape kits. Backlog follows the journey of a young college sexual assault survivor who becomes a pivotal witness in the fight for justice. The film has garnered critical acclaim, winning Best Student Film at the Oscar-qualifying Cleveland International Film Festival and the Mometu Short Film Contest. As one of the few women pioneering this revolutionary production technique, Jacqueline is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in sci-fi filmmaking. Jacquelin on Instagram | @jacqueline.director Adopt Truffle here: https://www.petfinder.com/dog/truffle-74225587/ca/van-nuys/pups-without-borders-ca2836/ Instagram @thecreativeblockpod VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix

February 26, 202538 min

"Unstoppable" Director William Goldenberg on His Journey to the Director's Chair

What does it take to transition from an Oscar-winning editor to a director? William Goldenberg (Argo, Zero Dark Thirty) takes on the challenge with Unstoppable, the inspiring true story of Anthony Robles, a wrestler born with only one leg who defied the odds to become an NCAA champion. In this episode, we dive into Goldenberg's journey from editor to director, the challenges of telling a real person's story, and the creative process behind bringing Unstoppable to life. He shares insights on working with the Robles family, using VFX and AI to enhance storytelling, and crafting the film's handheld camera style. Plus, we discuss the pressure of getting a real story right and his goal of making the most authentic wrestling movie ever. Enjoy this deep dive into filmmaking, perseverance, and storytelling at its finest. Watch the full YouTube episode here: https://youtu.be/BZAedzZqq8I Instagram @thecreativeblockpod VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix Merch Available Here : https://vinpix.square.site/

February 7, 202536 min

Why Truth Loses to Misinformation with Dr. Kristina Lerman

In this episode of The Creative Block, I sit down with Dr. Kristina Lerman, Project Leader at USC's Information Sciences Institute and Research Associate Professor in the Viterbi School of Engineering. Dr. Lerman's research explores the hidden forces shaping our online world, from cognitive biases to the emotional power of misinformation. We dive into why misinformation spreads so effectively—not because it's true, but because it resonates emotionally. She explains why fact-checking efforts often fall short and introduces the idea of "vibe-checking" instead—shifting the focus to who benefits, who is harmed, and why certain narratives stick. We also discuss the role of echo chambers, not just as isolating forces but as creators of powerful shared experiences. Are social media platforms truly unraveling society, or are they simply reflecting human nature? Dr. Lerman challenges us to rethink misinformation, content moderation, and the way AI shapes public discourse. If you've ever wondered why false narratives seem to spread faster than the truth, this conversation is a must-watch. Dr. Kristina Lerman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinalerman/ https://today.usc.edu/why-truth-is-no-match-for-misinformation-qa-with-kristina-lerman/ Instagram @thecreativeblockpod VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix

December 19, 202414 min

Culture and Leadership After the Vote with Dr. Marcus Collins

In this thought-provoking episode of The Creative Block, Vince Gonzales sits down with Marcus Collins to unpack the intersections of culture, creativity, and leadership in today's fractured world. Together, they discuss the role of creators in making sense of uncertainty, the tensions between morality and profit in corporate leadership, and the power of art to foster connection in divisive times. Whether you're an artist, a leader, or simply someone seeking clarity in a chaotic world, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on navigating these challenges with purpose and creativity. Watch the Full You Tube Episode Here: https://youtu.be/SooS0q-A-Fo Dr. Marcus Collins Website: https://marctothec.com/ Follow The Creative Block: Instagram @thecreativeblockpod Produced by VINPIX Studios, X @vinpixstudios Edited by Tucker J. Hampson tuckerjhampson.com VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix VINPIX Custom ts: https://vinpix.square.site/

December 3, 202429 min

Zero Gravity Space Dreams

Welcome to the podcast! Today, we have a truly fascinating guest who embodies the intersection of art, technology, and innovation. I'm thrilled to introduce Anna Shaposhnik, a creative technologist who's on a mission to revolutionize storytelling in space. Anna is the CEO of Orbital Entertainment Supply, a company developing free-flying robots to capture breathtaking footage in zero gravity. Imagine being able to remotely fly around space stations – that's the kind of groundbreaking technology Anna and her team are working on. A recent graduate of USC's prestigious Iovine & Young Academy, Anna holds a B.S. in Arts, Technology, and the Business of Innovation, with a specialization in Connected Devices and Making. But her expertise doesn't stop there – she's also ventured into astronautical engineering, bringing a unique interdisciplinary perspective to her work. Anna's journey in the space industry is impressive. She's worked as a Marketing Manager for Orbit Fab, a startup building "Gas Stations In Space," and contributed her skills as a graphic designer and machinist to USC's Rocket Propulsion Laboratory – the first student-run lab to successfully send a rocket to space. What sets Anna apart is her belief in abandoning the siloed engineer stereotype and embracing aesthetics in all aspects of technology. She's a strong advocate for blending art and engineering, aiming to bring creativity and delight to the space industry. Watch the Full You Tube Episode Here: https://youtu.be/UY5jgoNjHAI Privateer Space | https://www.privateer.com/ Space Perspective | https://spaceperspective.com/ Orbit Fab | https://www.orbitfab.com/ Anna's Essay, Art & Engineering in the Space Industry https://scalar.usc.edu/works/art--engineering-in-the-space-industry/index Linked In | https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheepianna/ Orbital Entertainment | orbitalentertainmentsupply.com Instagram | @sheepianna1 @sheepianna2_uwu Website | https://graphicdesignanna.myportfolio.com/ +++ X @tcblockpod.eth Instagram @thecreativeblockpod Produced by VINPIX Studios, X @vinpixstudios Edited by Tucker J. Hampson tuckerjhampson.com VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix Get the "Space Rocket" T Shirt here: https://vinpix.square.site/

August 19, 202452 min

Creating Virtual Realities: A Conversation with Trisha Williams & Joseph Unger

Join us as we chat with Trisha Williams, the visionary CEO with over 20 years of experience in building 3D worlds for games and innovation. Trisha has collaborated with prestigious institutions and is now shaping the next generation of world builders at UC San Diego. Her insights into the evolution of virtual environments are not to be missed. We are also thrilled to have Joseph Unger, Origami Air's Chief Ecosystem Officer, on the show. Joseph is an expert in XR World Building and game design, having worked with industry giants like Zynga, Sony, and 2K. His passion for advancing the future of entertainment and creative work through world building is inspiring and thought-provoking. Together, Trisha and Joseph are at the forefront of pro-social XR production, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in virtual worlds. Their work is not only shaping the future of technology but also creating meaningful and impactful experiences. A special shoutout to our mutual friend, Nile Elwardani, for connecting us with these incredible guests and Donna Grillo for joining me. Tune in to explore the cutting-edge of immersive technology and discover how these leaders are changing the landscape of virtual reality. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ukyEfdTuE8E MAVERiC Studio | https://www.youtube.com/@MAVERiC-Studio Trisha Williams | https://www.linkedin.com/in/pigeontrisha/ Joseph Unger | https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephunger/ The Creative Block, X @tcblockpod.eth Instagram, @thecreativeblockpod Produced by VINPIX Studios, X @vinpixstudios Edited by Tucker J. Hampson tuckerjhampson.com VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix Get the "Bits vs Atoms" & "Aggie Bot" T Shirt here: https://vinpix.square.site/

August 8, 202447 min

Rachel Joy Victor, Co-Founder of FBRC.ai

In this episode of The Creative Block, I am thrilled to welcome Rachel Joy Victor. Rachel is a distinguished designer, strategist, and worldbuilder who operates at the intersection of emerging technologies such as XR, AI, and Web3. Her work spans a variety of fields, from creating multiplatform narratives and immersive experiences to designing tools, platforms, spaces, and even cities. With an impressive client list that includes major names like Disney, HBO, Vans, Ford, and Nike, Rachel brings a wealth of knowledge from her academic background in Computational Neuroscience, Spatial Economics, and Data Analysis. She is also known for sharing her insights through workshops, talks, and written deliverables. I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel at USC's School of Cinematic Arts panel, "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Creative Work," where she was a speaker. Join us as Rachel shares her unique perspectives on the future of design and technology, and how they are shaping our world. Tune in for this inspiring conversation! Watch the full YouTube episode here: https://youtu.be/8Q3KSULrsf8 FBRC.ai | https://www.fbrc.ai/ ETC | https://www.etcentric.org/ X @tcblockpod.eth Instagram @thecreativeblockpod Produced by VINPIX Studios, X @vinpixstudios Edited by Tucker J. Hampson tuckerjhampson.com VINPIX NFT Collection on OpenSea https://opensea.io/vinpix Get the "V Logo' T Shirt here: https://vinpix.square.site/