In the Making with Mander

Episode 7: Finding Yourself w/ Auston Phoenix

In the first episode of 2026, I sit down with my friend Kolton Harris (Auston Phoenix) to talk about what it’s really like to navigate finding yourself as an artist. The quiet doubts and comparisons, the inspiration, and working around the blocks.

Episode 6: The Sounds of Community w/ Brandon Serafino

In this episode of In the Making with Mander, I sit down with musician, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Brandon Serafino to talk about the inspiration that can be found where you’re rooted. Brandon shares how his artistic roots connect him to community and the evolution so many artists go through with time, practice and maturity. We talk about building a creative life here in Hartford, engaging in the art scene beyond Connecticut’s Capitol City, and why teaching the next generation of musicians is central to his practice. This is a conversation about where art begins, how it grows, and the roots that keep us grounded.

Episode 5: The Rights & Risks of Art w/ Mercury

In this episode, I sit down on the couch with Mercury, an artist based in Hartford who stands out to me as a creative mind who sees and works with art like no one else I know. We talk about what it means to make art in Hartford, the fight for artist rights, and Mercury's own experiences where boundaries were crossed. We also dig into the complicated reality of public art, its purpose, and gentrification. Mercury keeps things mysterious, but one thing’s certain: they don’t hold back. This conversation is real, and bound to get people talking.

Episode 4: The Healing Path of Art w/ Andy Sorenson

I'm sitting down with artist and musician Andy Sorenson to explore the transformative and deeply personal ways art can heal, connect, and inspire the artist and the audience. We talk about getting uncomfortable making art and what happens when you challenge yourself to go to the places you didn't even realize you could go.  Whether you’re an artist yourself, finding your path in art, or looking for inspiration, Andy’s reflections will leave you feeling grounded, hopeful, and ready to embrace what life throws at you, through art.

Episode 3: When Abstract Meets Abstract w/ Nick Biello

What happens when two abstract artists — one a painter, one a composer — interpret the same story through different mediums?In this episode of In the Making with Mander, I sit down with jazz saxophonist and composer Nick Biello to talk about our collaboration on Before the Flood, a powerful and personal piece that started as sound and became a 20-foot painted scroll made with handmade inks inspired by ancient civilizations. We dive into the abstract nature of instrumental music and intuitive art, the deep trust involved in creative translation, and the magic of feeling truly seen in your work. We also talk about being present, letting go in the creative process, and how collaboration can unlock layers in your own practice you didn’t know were there. This one’s special. Find Nick Biello's music on all streaming platforms. His album New America will be released on June 20th. Before the Flood debuts at the Jewish Community Center in West Hartford, CT this summer. The exhibition runs from July 2 - August 26. Artist reception July 24th. See www.amandaroyart.com for details.