Storytellers Only
Storytellers Only is a podcast from the Art of Storytelling, a New York City-based production agency. It shares insights from the agency's journey through live events, virtual discussions, and in-studio sessions. Hosted by REL and produced with Jon Reyes, each episode explores creative tech, emerging tools, and the culture shaping creative work. The show is a space for creators and artists chasing ideas and pushing the boundaries of storytelling.
Episodes
Boston Dynamics Just Put a Robot on Set
Pulled from Episode 54 of Storytellers Only.Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot is now working behind the scenes — operating camera rigs and assisting on production sets. It’s a big step for automation in the creative world. But while robots can move the camera, the storytelling? That’s still on us.The future’s moving fast… are we ready for it?
Episode 55: Don't Wait For Permission
Ava DuVernay once said, “We have to work without permission”—and that reminder has stayed with me. This episode is about letting go of the need for a greenlight and choosing to move, even when things aren’t perfect. I share how I trademarked Art of Storytelling back in 2016 but didn’t launch it until five years later, stuck in a mindset that I needed someone else to say it was time.This theme show
EP 54: Perfect Practice Makes Perfect
Questlove once said the creatives we admire didn’t get there by luck—it was relentless, intentional practice. His dad used to tell him, “Perfect practice makes perfect,” and that mindset is the heart of this week’s episode.
REL gives a quick recap of the recent Vegas trip and why it felt like a defining moment for Art of Storytelling—not just because of the work, but because of how we work. It'
EP 53: Build Community
Success never happens alone. This week, REL reflects on a powerful quote from Angela Davis—a reminder that real progress is built with community, not in isolation. Every major moment, every breakthrough, is stronger when it's shared with the people around you.
We also dive into the latest news shaking up the creative world. The DJI Mavic 4 Pro leak signals DJI’s growing takeover of the consume
EP 52: Figure It Out
Sometimes the best way to start is to just start. REL shares how a quote from Tyler, The Creator—about making T-shirts with iron-on prints from Office Max—sparked a conversation on figuring it out as you go. No perfect plan, no fancy setup, just hustle and heart. We talk navigating the creative grind from all angles—whether you're building something personal or climbing the ladder in a corpora
EP 51: Step by Step
Inspired by Alicia Keys’ journey, this episode is all about taking things one step at a time—whether it’s building a career, creating art, or innovating in tech. We break down Adobe’s AI-powered Generative Extend and how it solves an old-school editing problem, Netflix’s botched AI upscale of A Different World, the delay of the Sony A7V, and the announcement of a Mac Dre documentary that could fin
EP 50: Write Diary Entries
In this episode of Storytellers Only (formerly REL & Friends), REL breaks down Rick Rubin’s philosophy on overcoming creative blocks—treat every project like a diary entry. When you stop worrying about judgment, you free yourself from self-doubt and let creativity flow.
We also dive into the newly announced Sigma BF camera, a beautifully simple take on photography, and Sony’s Monitor & Con
EP 49: Peaks and Valleys
In this episode of Storytellers Only (formerly REL & Friends), REL explores Lauryn Hill’s perspective on life’s journey—mastery isn’t a straight path but a cycle of rising, falling, and rising again.
We also dive into the DJI RS4 Mini, Rakim’s Notes platform, and Adobe’s new Media Intelligence Search for Premiere Pro and After Effects—game-changing tools for creators.
Plus, a look at the timel
EP 48: Confidence Comes From Preparation
In this episode of Storytellers Only (formerly REL & Friends), REL breaks down Kobe Bryant’s philosophy that confidence comes from preparation — repetition builds mastery.
We also dive into the DJI Osmo Mobile 7, Adobe’s Firefly AI for video, and whether AI is truly ready to change content creation.
Plus, REL shares his thoughts on how Hip Hop once led social conversations but has lost its v
EP 47: Press Play
This is our last episode of the year! As 2024 is winding down, we're encouraging you to PRESS PLAY in the new year. Press play on your hopes, your dreams, any creative idea that you've been putting off... now is the time to press play. As Marshawn would say, "Press play and let that idea come to life".
In this week's episode, brands are now using AI influencers to push their p
EP 46: The Grit Don't Quit
We open up this show with 3 minutes of straight game from Uncle Earl Stevens. Maybe run it back a few times to make sure the knowledge doesn't go over your head like a "military stealth plane" - where you can't see it til later. Someone who could use that game is one Drizzy Drake, who is suing Universal for conspiring against him.
Some creatives leaked access to Sora AI, more holi
EP 45: Is It Good or Is it Great?
We open up this week with Will Smith talking about the difference between good and great, the difference between a "B" grade and an "A" grade, the difference between 90% and 100%. Not only does it require more work than we realize, but we also gotta be familiar with what "greatness" is. It reminds me of an early interview we had on REL & Friends with Cheryl Del Rosario
EP 44: What Would Quincy Do?
REL & FRIENDS IS BACK...from a brief hiatus. Jon here, I just got back from Japan and am in full grind mode to close out the year strong. We got two months left, leskeddit! To help us get there, we open the show with game from the one and only Quincy Jones (RIP). REL reminisces over legendary hip hop duos after the new album announcement from Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre. We forecast new Sony camera
EP 43: Eat Your L's
In this episode of REL & Friends, we want you to eat your L's like they're vitamins. We're all gonna take L's on this journey, it's really about how you handle them. A Tribe Called Quest gets into the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame, DJI is dropping a 3D camera, the LA graffiti scene is popping off, Timbaland is experimenting with ayo technology, and more!
REL & Friends i
EP 42: Real Dreams Scare You
In this episode of REL & Friends, we want you to hold those dreams, especially the ones that scare you. We salute the late emcee Ka, aka Kaseem Ryan, the underground legend from Bronxville. Adobe's generative AI is getting better, Benzino is working on a documentary of the 1995 Source Awards, KAWS is curating an exhibit at The Drawing Center and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by
EP 41: Get The F*** Up Out My Way
In this episode of REL & Friends, we want you to mush "they"! All the doubters, the naysayers, the "give up on your dream" haters...just mush them in the face. Boots Riley has a new film coming out called "I Love Boosters, Blackmagic Design is opening up Blackmagic RAW to other camera platforms, Doechii is making waves in the hip hop space and Stussy is opening back up in N
EP 40: Claim It!
In this episode of REL & Friends, we want you to claim it! Manifest your aspirations, goals and dreams...speak into existence the things that you want. Eve, The Lox & Mike Tyson walk into a bar, DJI drops the perfect drone for beginners, upgrade your MacBook Pro, MLB is dropping Nike as their jersey makers and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New York-bas
EP 39: Nobody Does What You Do
In this episode of REL & Friends, we want you to stop comparing yourself to others. Find out what makes you unique as a creative person...because that's where you'll find your superpower. Graffiti artist RAMS bombs NYC skyscrapers, DJI releases a new action camera, Nike has a new CEO, TV/Film company Lionsgate is jumping into the AI space and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you b
Ep 38: Kill it in V2
In this episode of REL & Friends, we want you to kill it in your V2s. When your clients hit you with notes and feedback, don't take it personal. Take note, and take care of it. We salute Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo aka The Neptunes, we take a look at Canon's C80 camera, we unpack Adobe's Firefly AI model and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a Ne
Ep. 37: Do You
Just DO YOU!
(also...happy birthday REL!)
In this episode of REL & Friends, RED's Komodo-X camera hits a major price drop, Eddie Huang's new film "Vice Is Broke" makes noise at the Toronto International Film Festival, Apple's new iPhone 16 might just be your next camera...and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New York-based production agenc
EP 36: Throw Your Darts
In this episode of REL & Friends, a legendary hip hop producer creates ringtones for Apple, Jeff Staple and the Staple Brand are celebrating 25 years in the game with a new NYC flagship store, and the new Ol Dirty Bastard documentary, A Tale of Two Dirtys, by Sam and Jason Pollard premieres...and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New York-based production agen
EP 35: Die Empty
In this episode of REL & Friends, Tyler the Creator has very strong opinions about new artists, Procreate CEO has very strong opinions about AI, PolarPro releases three new lenses to give you very strong control over light leaks...and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New York-based production agency that provides creative solutions for visual content. The pro
Ep. 34: Post-Production's Technical Evolution, our Salute to CNET Networks, and It's The Perfect Time with Mitch Chang
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Mitch Chang, a Bay Area-based digital media producer. His started at CNET/CBS Interactive as a freelance editor and eventually worked his way up to becoming Senior Producer. Today, he's the Digital Media Producer at St. Francis High School in Mountain View, CA.
In this conversation, REL and Mitch reminisce on their times working together
Ep. 33: Photographing the Olympics, LaRussell Brings Out Richie Rich, and Staying Prepared for Opportunities
In this episode of REL & Friends, we listen to photographer Jeff Cobb talk about shooting the Olympics, Bay Area legend emcee Richie Rich pops out...his knee in LaRussell's backyard, why a 2017 MacBook does not cut it for video editing...and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New York-based production agency that provides creative solutions for visual conte
Ep. 32: A Cypher Reminiscing on TeamBackPack, Directing Steph Curry, and Being Undeniable with Kyle Standiford
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Kyle Standiford, a Bay Area-based cinematographer, beatmaker and content specialist. He is currently the project manager and senior editor for Warriors Studio, the production arm of the Golden State Warriors, and has previously held roles at Lucasfilm, Luckyshot Digital, and the San Francisco Giants. Before these stops, he began his career a
Ep. 31: AI vs The Music Industry, Canon's New EOS R5 Mark II, and NASA Sends Missy Elliott to Venus
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL tries out Suno and Udio for the first time, Canon announces new pro cameras including its new Canon EOS R1, NASA tries to communicate to aliens through Missy Elliot's 1997 classic, "Supa Dupa Fly" and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New York-based production agency that provides creative solutions for visual
Ep. 30: Cipha Sounds Puts AI to Good Use, Oakland Wants Filmmakers to Come to Oakland, & Pusha T is Now Team Louis Vutton
In this episode of REL & Friends, legendary NY DJ Cipha Sounds puts AI to good use by replacing Diddy on a classic hip hop anthem, Oakland wants to incentivize filmmakers for bringing film productions to The Town, Pusha T joins Louis Vutton as a brand ambassador and more!
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New York-based production agency that provides creative solut
Ep. 29: Did Nike Bite the Jumpman Logo?, Paramount Shuts Down MTV News, A New AI Camera Debuts at Cannes
Did Nike Bite the Jumpman Logo?, Paramount Shuts Down MTV News, A New AI Camera Debuts at Cannes
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL explores whether or not Nike stole the idea of the Jumpman logo from a 1984 photoshoot Michael Jordan had with Co Rentmeester, REL reminices on his favorite MTV News moments after Paramount pulls its MTV News archives from the internet, and REL takes a look at
Ep. 28: Kendrick Lamar Takes a Victory Lap and Creative Director Mike Carson & TD Switcher Damien Gravois Pop Out
Kendrick Lamar Takes a Victory Lap and Creative Director Mike Carson & TD Switcher Damien Gravois Pop Out
In this episode of REL & Friends, we're celebrating wins! REL gives some updates to the podcast, he revisits Kendrick Lamar's "Pop Out" and give roses to the production team, and REL chats with Kyle Standiford of the Golden State Warriors production team to give us BTS
Ep. 27: Craze Calls Out Q-Bert, Vans Returns Back to its Skateboarding Roots, and YouTube Ollies Over Misinformation
Craze Calls Out Q-Bert, Vans Returns Back to its Skateboarding Roots, and YouTube Ollies Over Misinformation
In this episode of REL & Friends, we're giving back to the next generation of creatives! REL shares some parenting anecdotes fresh off the holiday for papas. DJ Craze vs DJ Q-Bert is Hip Hop's latest beef, Vans is making a strategic return to its roots in skateboarding, and YouT
Ep 26: HUF x Air Max 1 Re-Release, Apple WWDC Updates, and Siri Gets an Open AI Boost
HUF x Air Max 1 Re-Release, Apple WWDC Updates, and Siri Gets an Open AI Boost
In this episode of REL & Friends, in the wake of HUF re-releasing their iconic Air Max 1's, REL reflects on the brand's role in 2000s San Francisco. Also, REL walks through Apple's WWDC updates including its collaboration with Open AI. Darius Reilly hits us with another voicemail and more on this week
Ep 25: Canva's Got Wack Bars, Spotify's AI DJ Speaks Spanish, & YouTuber Aesthetic is Evolving
Canva's Got Wack Bars, Spotify's AI DJ Speaks Spanish, & YouTube Creator Aesthetic is Evolving
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL wraps up Q2 of 2024 with a solo episode. Canva's latest release provides some cringeworthy moments, Spotify updates their DJ feature to speak Spanish, and YouTubers are moving away from the metric thirsty aesthetic that has defined the platform.
A
Ep 24: OpenAI GPT-4o, DJI LiDar Range Finder, and guest Sinematic drops a Gem about The Bigger Picture
ChatGPT has an update, DJI drops their LiDar Range Finder, and guest Sinematic drops a Gem about The Bigger Picture
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Sinematic!, a New York-based photographer. Specializing in documenting the New York City hip hop culture and music scene, he is best known for his dramatic black and white photography.
In this conversation, REL and Sinematic ta
Ep 23: Apple's M4 chips, Testing your AUX game, and guest Soosh! talks Community on the Road To Success
Apple drops it's M4 chips, Testing your AUX game, and guest Soosh! drops a Gem about the importance of Community on the Road to Success.
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Soosh!, a Los Angeles-based emcee, DJ, and host. Originally from Sacramento, Soosh! spent 7 years in commercial radio before moving to LA in 2020. He is now the creative force behind "Hyphy House
Ep 22: Generative AI in Premiere Pro powered by Adobe Firefly, and Staying in a Learning State with Jeff "Silence" Arthur
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Jeff "Silence" Arthur, Founder and Creative Director of Oakland-based Silent Victory Productions. He is also the Innovation Manager at The Clubhouse Network, an international community that provides low-income young people access to technology.
In this conversation, REL and Jeff talk about how Jeff transitioned from making music to v
Ep 21: Big 3 hot takes, AI updates, and our Q1 Wrapup
In this episode of REL & Friends, the guys end Q1 of 2024 with a wrap up episode! Before going on much needed break, REL gives some AI updates, Big 3 hot takes and answers some listener voicemails. Leave us a voicemail at (646) 926-3885 or send a voice note to relandfriendspod@gmail.com.
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New York-based production agency that provid
Ep 20: Neo speaks out against AI, Dapper Dan appointed Creative Director of Sherwin Williams, and Make What You Do Valuable with Cliff Washington
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Cliff Washington, a New York-based designer, brand strategist and creative consultant. His company Duke & Jo, is a strategic design consultancy to assist entrepreneurs and small companies scale their business. REL & Friends is proud to be a product of Duke & Jo's work with Art of Storytelling.
In this conversation, REL and Cl
Ep 19: The D.O.C. on using AI to record new records decades after losing voice, and Love What You Do with Ray Herrera
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Ray Herrera, a New York-based architecture and design professional. In another life, he was the Art Director for the Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival and was the Creative Director for the blog-era staple The Couch Sessions. Today, he's a project manager at MKDA, corporate planning and interior design recognized by Interior Design magazine as on
Ep 18: Adobe teases language translation feature for video, Lens rentals acquires Borrow Lenses, and Just Have Fun with Beats Me
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Milan Hawthorne, aka Beats Me, a San Francisco-based DJ and visual artist. Previously a host on the legendary Bay Area hip hop television show Distortion 2 Static, he now produces nightlife events throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area.
In this conversation, REL and Beats Me talk reminisce on the days of Distortion 2 Static, the importanc
Ep 17: TikTok Might be Gone, Nikon Acquires RED, and Keep Pushing with Jon Reyes
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Jon Reyes a San Francisco-based DJ, music producer and podcast producer. He's also produces REL & Friends... and enjoys referring to himself in the third person when writing podcast show notes.
In this conversation, REL and Jon talk about transitioning to being an independent creative, the nuances of working on projects with friends,
Ep 16: Google Testing AI-Powered Journalism, Adobe Can Score Original Music, and Create Your Own Box with Wonway Posibul
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Wonway Posibul, a San Francisco-based artist whose mediums include DJing, emceeing, and stage. His work has included freestyle battle championships, DJ residencies in New York and Los Angeles, and even a GRAMMY nomination. Currently, he's the prime time weeknight DJ and music presenter at KALW 91.7 FM and is can currently be seen in the
Ep 15: Open AI's Introduces Sora and It's Impact on Marketers, plus Guest Robin Park Says Bring Your People With You
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Robin Park, a Bay Area-based marketing generalist. She's had over a decade in the marketing space, working with companies like Amazon, Lyft and is currently the Product Marketing Lead at the San Francisco software company, Parafin.
In this conversation, REL and Robin talk about the internal and external roles of marketers in an organizat
Ep 14: Tyler Perry's Save's $800M Using AI, Vice and Okayplayer Layoffs, Complex Media Sold, and guest Trackademicks
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Trackademicks, a Bay Area-based music producer and creative. With over 20+ years of music industry experience, he's worked with artists such as Kamaiyah, Phonte, and Kid Sister while also remixing the likes of Zero 7, Chromeo and Platinum Pied Pipers. Currently, he's co-owner of the online music streaming platform All Day Play FM.
In
Ep 13: A Tribute to Mister Rey, B&H Pickups with REL, and the Voicemails roll in
In this episode of REL & Friends, we get to go shopping with REL!
REL walks us through a shopping session on B&H Photo (with the appropriate shopping soundtrack), shares how he got clowned at the new job, and answers the first 2 voicemails we got on the REL & Friends Hotline™. We're taking voicemails and giving away books - CALL 646-926-3885.
REL & Friends is brought to you by
Ep 12: Nationwide Layoffs Continue, Content Creator Predicted to be a One-Hundred Billion Dollar Economy, Finding Joy in Every Project with Nic Golden Henry
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Nic Golden Henry, a Denver-based creative producer and video editor. With over 10+ years of content creation and visual storytelling under his belt, his client list includes CNBC, Kaiser Permanente and Epitaph Records.
In this conversation, REL and Nic reflect on their time working together at *Jadakiss laugh*, Nic shares experiences from hi
Ep 11: Snoop Dogg's Solo Stove Campaign fails, and Don't Be Afraid to Fail with Racks Hogan
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with the charismatic Racks Hogan, a New York-based creative currently in Amsterdam. Most known for his work as on-air talent for Complex Media, he is a creative director/production manager/designer/fashion influencer/rug tufter...but the best description for Racks is his own: Racks Hogan is lifestyle journalist.
In this conversation, REL and Rack
Ep 10: Sony announces Apple Vision Pro competitor, Canon ms500, and Doing Creative for Creatives with Justin Fleischer
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Justin Fleischer, a Los Angeles-based talent manager and videographer. He's held many roles in the music industry but is currently known for his work with Logic - first documenting the rapper's early tours and now working as his manager. When he's not in a business capacity, he's still creating video stories with the project
Ep 09: Adobe's Figma acquisition falls through and Talent vs. Drive - What Determines Success with Karis Chandler aka NY Giant
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Karis Chandler, aka NY Giant, a Brooklyn based design director and DJ. As a DJ, he's a New York nightlife staple and former Red Bull 3style contestant. Professionally, he's worked with brands like the NFL, Nike and Kiehl's.
In this conversation, REL and Karis talk about the idea of being a generalist, the reality behind working f
Ep 08: Tech companies cut DEI programs, teenage engineering EP-133 K.O. II, and Balancing Profession and Passion with Justin Herman
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Justin Herman, an animator, graphic designer and hip hop beatmaker. By day, Justin is a senior creative director at Paramount. By night, Justin fires up his ASR-10 and produces music under the moniker Unjust making music with the likes Tajai (as Rap Noir), Nappy Nina and Rome Streetz.
In this conversation, REL and Justin talk about the delic
Ep 07: REL & Jon reflect on the first few months of doing a podcast
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL and Jon reflect on the first few months of doing the podcast.
In this conversation, REL goes into detail on why he started REL & Friends, he shares some of his favorite gems from friends, and reveals the secret playlist he uses to help him power through being a creative professional.
REL & Friends is brought to you by Art of Storytelling, a New Yor
Ep 06: Canva integrates music, Holiday gift ideas, and Ignoring The Noise with Brian Tong
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Brian Tong a journalist, and host specializing in the technology space. An OG in the tech creator space, Brian has influenced notable content creators and garnered a significant following through his self-produced YouTube videos on tech and geek culture.
In this conversation, REL and Brian reflect on their time working for *insert Jadakiss
Ep 05: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and Getting Outside of Your Comfort Zone with Jamie Lai
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Jamie Lai a San Francisco-based director, producer and editor. Previously working with REL at *insert Jadakiss laugh*, her experience includes working with professional sports teams, athletes, celebrities and has covered major press events for leading tech companies and has field produced, directed and covered major global conferences.
In th
Ep 04: Overcoming Impostor Syndrome with Cheryll Del Rosario
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Cheryll Del Rosario, a San Francisco-based marketing art director and visual designer. With over 15 years of experience in the gaming industry, she currently serves as the Director of Creative Direction at the mobile game company Pocket Gems.
In this conversation, REL and Cheryll talk about their experiences transitioning to a director role,
Ep 03: Elevating Voice Through Photography with Darius Reily
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Darius Reily, a photographer and videographer from East Palo Alto, CA. Through the moniker HOUR VOYSES, Darius travels the world and tells stories through the lens of his camera - including a 2019 documentary Betón Je Krásny (Concrete is Beautiful) profiling the street skateboarding community in Prague.
In this conversation, REL and Darius t
Ep 02: Shure SM7dB mic upgrade, Soho House, and guest Halline Overby talk Celebrating The Victories
In this episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with longtime collaborator Halline Overby, a Los Angeles-based multi-disciplinary creative (musician, DJ, graphic design, web design and photography) who is currently the production lead at Idea2Form.
In this conversation, REL and Halline talk about identity and the history of his name, how having the "dream job" isn't always what it
Ep 01: DJI mini 4 pro, and Creative for Social Change with Tomas Alvarez
In the debut episode of REL & Friends, REL sits down with Tomás Alvarez III. Tomás is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Idea2Form, a BIPOC-led creative studio whose mission is to design solutions that connect, activate, and inspire people to build a more equitable world.
In this conversation, REL and Tomás talk about Tomás origins as the founder of Beats, Rhymes and Life - one of the countr
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