Episodes

  • The Enlightened Experience Ep. 6 (Justin Trento)

    The Enlightened Experience Ep. 6 (Justin Trento)
    Feb 9 2026
    What is new with Enlightened Studios? Well, we hare here to get you all caught up. Justin provides the latest news, events, and update around Enlightened Studios and Cincinnati. Grass Roots can be found on WGRI as we are excited for the radio station to be promoting our upcoming production. We also take a look at what is going on around the Cincinnati Public Library's as we head into this Valentines Day weekend.

    Announcement!!!
    From now through March 8th, listen to WGRI on 1050AM or 103.1FM and whenever you hear the advertisement of Grass Roots, be sure to comment in our Facebook post link towards WGRI. Every week, Brittany and I will give you a shout out on our podcast.

    Upcoming Events
    Grass Roots
    February 27th - March 8th
    Artsville Theater - Cincinnati, Ohio
    https://www.tickettailor.com/events/enlightenedstudiosinc/1963250?fbclid=IwY2xjawPbhAJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeUU-DlJsliqaO7GOy5mkfa3ikMNRT0lpEqL-AZGbe4yXZT4BVYXFvbGBrfKI_aem_hUkXwN488PIi9A6bs8f6BA

    #podcast #news #events #enlightenedstudios #performingarts #cincinnatipubliclibrary
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    12 mins
  • Cincinnati Theater & Black History: Stories, Community & Grass Roots Spotlight

    Cincinnati Theater & Black History: Stories, Community & Grass Roots Spotlight
    Feb 4 2026
    Celebrate Cincinnati’s rich arts and theater scene in this special episode of Light In The City, presented by Enlightened Studios and hosted by Brittany L. Brown. In honor of Black History Month, we highlight Black creativity, iconic artists like Denzel Washington, and why Cincinnati continues to matter in the arts. We take a deep dive into the local theater community, reflect on the power of storytelling, and explore how theater connects generations and cultures. Plus:
    • A special commercial from Terry L. Chappell II, writer and director of the new stage play Grass Roots. (Ticket link below!)
    • Community announcement: Enlightened Studios brings back Dinner With A Few Sides of Drama – A Holiday Special at the Fairfield Community Arts Center.
    🎟️ Get your tickets for Grass Roots here: https://www.tickettailor.com/.../enlightenedstudi.../1963250 Listen, get inspired, and keep supporting local arts in Cincinnati.
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    9 mins
  • The Enlightened Experience Ep. 5 (Justin Trento)

    The Enlightened Experience Ep. 5 (Justin Trento)
    Feb 2 2026
    Summary
    In this episode, Justin Trento discusses the exciting events planned for February at Enlighten Studios, including 'Painting Pastries' and the production of 'Grassroots.' He reflects on his recent illness and the importance of faith during tough times. The conversation also highlights the significance of Black History Month, emphasizing the need for ongoing reflection and celebration of African American contributions throughout the year.

    Takeaways
    February is a significant month for Enlighten Studios with upcoming events.
    Prayer and faith can provide strength during illness.
    Black History Month should be celebrated year-round, not just in February.
    Community engagement is vital for local artists and productions.
    The importance of reflecting on past achievements and future aspirations.
    Events like 'Painting Pastries' offer creative outlets during winter.
    Grassroots is a production that reflects on societal issues and history.
    Personal stories and perspectives enrich the understanding of Black History Month.
    Support for local artists is crucial for community growth.
    Engagement with the audience fosters a sense of belonging and shared experience.

    Paint & Pastries
    February 13th - 6:00pm - 8:00pm
    Artsville Theater - Cincinnati, Ohio
    https://www.tickettailor.com/events/enlightenedstudiosinc/2018818?fbclid=IwY2xjawPbg99leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeaOI0XtBhHRz_jFc5w4x_RRev-BNW7Jb7o6o-K_3WLqDjFw5oq20m2jb2uTM_aem_19DKzjdeeYraO2M6lJnzRA

    Grass Roots
    February 27th - March 8th
    Artsville Theater - Cincinnati, Ohio
    https://www.tickettailor.com/events/enlightenedstudiosinc/1963250?fbclid=IwY2xjawPbhAJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeUU-DlJsliqaO7GOy5mkfa3ikMNRT0lpEqL-AZGbe4yXZT4BVYXFvbGBrfKI_aem_hUkXwN488PIi9A6bs8f6BA
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    23 mins
  • An Exclusive Interview with the founders of Enlightened Studios!

    An Exclusive Interview with the founders of Enlightened Studios!
    Jan 28 2026
    In this special interview episode, we sit down with Terry L. Chappell II, writer and director of the powerful new stage play Grass Roots, alongside Nikelle Chappell, executive producer and co-founder of Enlightened Studios. Together, we dive into the inspiration behind Grass Roots, the creative process of bringing the story to life, and the deeper message the play explores around community, legacy, and lived experience. Terry shares what sparked the story, how it evolved from idea to stage, and what audiences can expect when they take their seats. Nikelle offers insight into producing meaningful theater, building Enlightened Studios, and why stories like Grass Roots matter now more than ever. If you love theater, storytelling, or behind-the-scenes conversations with creatives shaping Cincinnati’s arts scene, this episode is for you. 🎟️ Grass Roots runs February 27th through March 8th.
    Tickets are still available here:
    👉 https://www.tickettailor.com/.../enlightenedstudi.../1963250 Support live theater. Support local artists. Support stories that start at the roots.
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    17 mins
  • The Enlightened Experience Ep. 4 (Justin Trento)

    The Enlightened Experience Ep. 4 (Justin Trento)
    Jan 27 2026
    Summary
    We get to hear from cast members getting to know their character as we get closer to Grass Roots production. Justin shares his fasting experience and his discovery of the true meaning behind fast and prayer. We leave you with a bible script of the week to think of when faith becomes a distance.

    Takeaways
    • Bible Script of the week
    • Paint & Pastries Event
    • Grass Roots Promotion
    • Meet the Cast
    Paint & Pastries
    February 13th - 6:00pm - 8:00pm
    Artsville Theater - Cincinnati, Ohio
    https://www.tickettailor.com/events/enlightenedstudiosinc/2018818?fbclid=IwY2xjawPbg99leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeaOI0XtBhHRz_jFc5w4x_RRev-BNW7Jb7o6o-K_3WLqDjFw5oq20m2jb2uTM_aem_19DKzjdeeYraO2M6lJnzRA

    Grass Roots
    February 27th - March 8th
    Artsville Theater - Cincinnati, Ohio
    https://www.tickettailor.com/events/enlightenedstudiosinc/1963250?fbclid=IwY2xjawPbhAJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeUU-DlJsliqaO7GOy5mkfa3ikMNRT0lpEqL-AZGbe4yXZT4BVYXFvbGBrfKI_aem_hUkXwN488PIi9A6bs8f6BA
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    23 mins
  • Behind the Curtain — What You Don’t See in Cincinnati Theater (Brittany Brown)

    Behind the Curtain — What You Don’t See in Cincinnati Theater (Brittany Brown)
    Jan 21 2026
    What really happens behind the curtain in Cincinnati theaters? In this episode, we go deep backstage to explore the world most audiences never see: tech week, stage managers, pre-show rituals, costume secrets, and the tiny traditions that make every performance magical. You’ll also hear perspectives from local volunteers, actors, and designers, giving you a front-row seat to the heart of Cincinnati theater. And if you’re ready to see a show live, don’t miss Grass Roots, running February 27th – March 8th at Artsville Theatre. Tickets are still available:
    👉 https://www.tickettailor.com/.../enlightenedstudi.../1963250 Hosted by Brittany L. Brown
    Presented by Enlightened Studios
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    7 mins
  • The Enlightened Experience Ep. 3 (Justin Trento)

    The Enlightened Experience Ep. 3 (Justin Trento)
    Jan 19 2026
    Summary:
    We honor Martin Luther King Jr. and his impact as the leader of the Civil Rights Movement. We share the mark it left on Cincinnati's performing arts industry and share how it has touched others including Terry himself. Upcoming tickets are avialable for February's events (Paint & Pastries and Grass Roots).

    Takeways:
    • Martin Luther King Jr. Rememberance
    • What Martin Luther King Jr means to Justin and Terry
    • How Martin Luther King Jr. impacted Performing Arts in Cincinnati
    • Paint & Pastries Event
    • Grass Roots Production

    Chapters:
    04:24 - Bible Script of the Week
    07:33 - Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy
    11:49 - Martin Luther King Jr. Impact on Terry Chappell II
    14:38 - King's influence on Cincinnati Performing Arts
    17:16 - Paint & Pastries ticket information
    18:20 - Grass Roots ticket information

    Paint & Pastries
    February 13th - 6:00pm - 8:00pm
    Artsville Theater - Cincinnati, Ohio
    https://www.tickettailor.com/events/enlightenedstudiosinc/2018818?fbclid=IwY2xjawPbg99leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeaOI0XtBhHRz_jFc5w4x_RRev-BNW7Jb7o6o-K_3WLqDjFw5oq20m2jb2uTM_aem_19DKzjdeeYraO2M6lJnzRA

    Grass Roots
    February 27th - March 8th
    Artsville Theater - Cincinnati, Ohio
    https://www.tickettailor.com/events/enlightenedstudiosinc/1963250?fbclid=IwY2xjawPbhAJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeUU-DlJsliqaO7GOy5mkfa3ikMNRT0lpEqL-AZGbe4yXZT4BVYXFvbGBrfKI_aem_hUkXwN488PIi9A6bs8f6BA
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    20 mins
  • Stages You’d Never Expect: Cincinnati’s Most Unexpected Performance Spaces (Brittany Brown)

    Stages You’d Never Expect: Cincinnati’s Most Unexpected Performance Spaces (Brittany Brown)
    Jan 14 2026
    Some of the most powerful performances don’t happen on traditional stages. In this episode, we explore Cincinnati’s most unexpected performance spaces — from libraries and parks to community rooms and converted venues — and why these everyday places have become some of the most meaningful stages in the city. This conversation is about access, creativity, and the way art shows up where people already are. It’s about how unexpected spaces invite new audiences, support families, and remind us that performance doesn’t need permission to exist. Hosted by Brittany L. Brown
    Presented by Enlightened Studios

    Ticket Links below
    Grass Roots tickets
    Free Chamber Music concert tickets
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    6 mins