Filling the Mad Cup: Navigating Personal Struggles, Art, and Validation

In this heartfelt episode, Rebekah and Samuel dive deep into personal challenges and the complexities of pursuing art in today's society. They open up about financial hardships—Samuel shares his struggle with potential foreclosure—and discuss how friends can support each other during tough times, even when everyone is facing their own battles.

The conversation shifts to the state of philanthropy and the difficulties artists face in securing funding for projects related to mental health and the arts. They critique the gatekeeping nature of grant applications and the systemic issues within philanthropic organizations that often hinder genuine creative efforts.

Samuel provides Rebekah with a psychic reading about her financial prospects, leading to a candid discussion about expectations, the allure of quick fixes, and the reality of seeking validation through external means. They explore the impact of social media platforms like TikTok, debating the difference between content creation and true artistry.

Touching on recent events in the entertainment industry, the duo contemplates the responsibilities of artists and public figures without delving into unverified claims. They reflect on the challenges of separating art from the artist and the importance of ethical considerations in creative work.

Rebekah shares insights into her creative process, including her experiences with AI-generated music and the emotional journey behind her song "A Million Likes to Fill My Mad Cup." Together, they discuss the struggles of seeking validation through social media likes and the impact it has on mental health.

Towards the end, they express gratitude to their listeners, discuss plans for upcoming episodes—including a guest appearance by Dr. Les Hutchinson—and encourage audience engagement through subscriptions and reviews.

• Personal Financial Struggles: Navigating hardships and supporting friends during crises.
• Philanthropy Critique: The gatekeeping and challenges in securing arts funding.
• Art vs. Content Creation: Debating the value and impact of social media platforms on artistry.
• Psychic Reading: Samuel provides insights into Rebekah's financial future.
• Validation and Self-Worth: The quest for external approval and its effects on mental health.
• AI in Music: Rebekah's experiences with AI-generated music and ethical considerations.
• Industry Reflections: Contemplating recent events involving public figures responsibly.
• Upcoming Projects: Teasers for future episodes and guest appearances.

• Rebekah: "What do you do when your friend is having a real-life crisis... How can you support them when your boat is not afloat your damn self?"
• Samuel: "There's tons of money out there... but it's all gatekept."
• Rebekah: "I need a million likes to fill my mad cup."

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us continue creating content that resonates and fosters meaningful conversations.

• Rebekah Henderson
  Please don't. 
• Samuel Gonzalez
  • Instagram: @1r1descent
    • Note: The username includes numbers in place of some letters—it's spelled with a '1' at the beginning and end.

Stay tuned for our next episode featuring Dr. Les Hutchinson, where we'll delve into the challenges of academia and the experiences of marginalized communities within it.

• Rebekah's Documentary Screening: For listeners in Milwaukee, catch Rebekah's documentary screening at the Oriental Theatre on September 30th. Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for seniors and students. Don't miss this opportunity to support her impactful work!
• Music Mentioned:
  • "A Million Likes to Fill My Mad Cup" by Rebekah Henderson
  • "Big Fat Gap" now available to stream on major platforms.

Listener Feedback

We value your thoughts and opinions! Feel free to reach out to us with your feedback or topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes.

Consider donating to our podcast to help us continue bringing you insightful and meaningful content. Every contribution makes a difference!