Podcast Host Intro: State of Art – Pueblo Film Fest Edition

Welcome to State of Art, the official podcast of the Pueblo Star Journal, where we celebrate the people and projects shaping the creative spirit of Southern Colorado. I’m your host, Bree Pappan, writer of the monthly State of Art feature in the PSJ.

Today, we’re focusing on one of the region’s most exciting cultural events — the Pueblo Film Fest, returning April 24–27, 2025. I’m joined by two dynamic voices from the festival’s Board of Directors: Kennedy Pugh and Chili Cilch. Together, we explore how this annual festival is building a cinematic bridge between Pueblo and the global film community.

We talk about the origins of the festival, what’s new this year, and how film can bring people together through shared stories and bold artistic expression. Whether you're a filmmaker, a film lover, or simply someone who believes in the power of community through art — this one’s for you.

And don’t forget! Tomorrow, April 19, is the Join or Die documentary screening and the official launch of ClubCon.org — a new initiative to bring together clubs and organizations across Pueblo. This free community event runs from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center. Come be part of the conversation and discover how you can get involved!

Pueblo Star Journal Presents: Gimme Shelter – The Podcast Hosted by Gregory Howell | Featuring Chantal Woodyard and Molly Cotner

In this powerful episode, PSJ host Gregory Howell sits down with disability rights advocate Chantal Woodyard and journalist Molly Cotner to discuss Gimme Shelter: A Survivor’s Fight for Justice, the March cover story of the Pueblo Star Journal. With unflinching honesty, Chantal shares her journey of surviving childhood abuse, confronting institutional power, and dedicating her life to fighting for those the system has historically left behind.

Molly walks us through the reporting process behind the feature, while Chantal reflects on the emotional return to the Wyoming State Hospital and how the past still echoes into her advocacy today.

We are also thrilled to announce that Gimme Shelter, the television pilot based on Chantal’s story, has been selected as one of only five finalists out of 10,000 submissions for this year’s SeriesFest. The pilot will screen as part of the Pitch-A-Thon on Thursday, May 1 at 9:30 a.m. at the Sie FilmCenter’s H2 Maglione Theater in Denver.

This episode is more than a conversation—it’s a testament to survival, truth-telling, and the power of story to spark change.

🎧 Listen now and join us on the road to SeriesFest.

Photography is more than just capturing a moment—it’s about storytelling, creativity, and seeing the world through a different lens. In this episode of State of Art on the Voices of Pueblo Podcast, we sit down with members of the Southern Colorado Photography Society: Joel Ohlsen, David Russell Jr., and James Van Hoy. They share their passion for photography, the evolution of the SCPS community, and the incredible opportunities for photographers—both seasoned and new—to connect, learn, and showcase their work. From monthly competitions to dynamic photo outings, SCPS is keeping the art of photography alive in Southern Colorado.

As we celebrate Colorado’s Month of Photography, we explore the importance of artistic collaboration and the impact of photography as a storytelling tool. Our guests discuss the power of mentorship, the joy of sharing creative experiences, and how SCPS continues to foster a vibrant photography community in Pueblo and beyond. Whether you're behind the camera or simply an admirer of stunning imagery, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of visual storytelling.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Join or Die, a must-see documentary screening happening on April 19 at the Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center. This event, hosted by the Pueblo Star Journal, will also launch ClubCon.org, a new platform designed to connect you with clubs and organizations in Pueblo. It’s free, it’s community-driven, and it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger. Register now at ClubCon.org. If you enjoyed this podcast, the SCPS will have a booth at ClubCon and you will be able to talk to members at the event.

A huge thank you to Joel Ohlsen, David Russell Jr., and James Van Hoy for joining us on this episode and sharing their deep love for photography and community. Your insights and stories have shed light on the incredible work being done through the Southern Colorado Photography Society, inspiring both photographers and art enthusiasts alike. We appreciate your time, expertise, and commitment to keeping the art of photography thriving in Pueblo.