CAP REGION NY

Jessica Lubin’s Good Karma Studio : Balancing Mindful Practice with Performance Arts

February 20, 2025 By Corey Aldrich

I met Jessica Lubin (Good Karma Studio) last year as part of my interim leadership gig at the CCIAC (Contemporary Circus and Immersive Arts Center) for the 2024 season. She took down the big top tent for a student showcase and ended up with an overflow crowd and sold out show. This woman owned, for profit business sits at the crossroads of holistic health and the performance arts. Jessica’s programming rides the forefront of new understandings regarding the value of integrating creative arts as a tool in physical wellness and mental health.

Jessica Lubin (*Center*) with the Good Karma Entertainment Team | Image: Provided

Please state your name, company and title. Feel free to elaborate a bit about your story, the how you got here…its a good one.

My name is Jessica Lubin and I am the Owner / Founder of Good Karma Studio, Good Karma Entertainment and Good Karma Hypnotherapy.

I graduated from University of Rhode Island with an early childhood education degree and moved to NYC in 2001. After 1 year, I realized that in-classroom education was in fact not inspiring to me. I took my creative passion and landed a job in the jewelry industry / diamond district for the next 8 years. It was glamorous, exciting, and fulfilling…yet too corporate for me.

A lover and devoted practitioner, yoga was a huge savior for me during some really challenging times in my life. It helped keep me grounded amongst the hustle and busyness of the city and a demanding corporate job. One of my greatest teachers during my 10 years living in NYC admired my serenity and slight obsession with inversions. (You could always find me in a headstand at the back of the room after class!)

“Have you been to this new, ‘floating yoga‘ from a swing?” he asked. In one visit… I was hooked!

Jessica Lubin on a Lyra at Good Karma Studio | Image: Provided

When I decided to leave the city, there was no doubt in my mind I wanted to become a yoga teacher. Like most, I thought I had to follow the ‘plan‘ of life. Graduate, get a job, get married, have kids…but that just wasn’t me. I wanted to travel & explore. I was scared but I took the leap spending time internationally specifically in Guatemala and India. You don’t know your own strength until you’re backpacking through India and the train breaks down in a small village where no one speaks a word of English…HA! When I moved back to my hometown of Albany, I wanted to give others the chance to heal through yoga. Many people are afraid to try aerial yoga specifically, but find that it’s actually extremely accessible. I have worked with students who are blind, deaf, and amputees. I love instilling confidence & bravery while giving people the opportunity to overcome their fears.

In 2011 I opened Good Karma Studio. In 2013, Good Karma expanded to two studios within one building. Then in 2018, another expansion creative the Capital Regions only aerial, circus arts, and yoga school. With three studio spaces in one building, we began to offer OMazing classes seven days a week for everyBODY, age, and ability.

Jessica Lubin Teaches a Yoga Class at Good Karma Studio | Image: Provided

Your business is at a cross section of wellness-based practice (Yoga) and entertainment (Circus Arts). What made you decide to combine the two and how do they synergize each other?

Combining the wellness-based practices of yoga with circus arts is a creative and powerful fusion! Both disciplines are deeply rooted in movement, mindfulness, and body awareness. They each offer different dimensions of experience and expression. Yoga, with its focus on breath, balance, and flexibility, helps individuals cultivate mental clarity, physical strength, and emotional well-being. It’s about grounding, alignment, and finding inner peace. Circus arts, on the other hand, are thrilling, dynamic, and often push physical limits, requiring agility, coordination, and creativity. They have an inherent element of performance and playfulness.

When combined, they create a unique synergy that offers the best of both worlds. Yoga can enhance circus performers’ flexibility, balance, and focus, allowing them to execute complex routines with precision. Circus arts, meanwhile, bring a sense of joy, creativity, and exhilaration, reminding individuals that wellness doesn’t always have to be serious or quiet — it can also be fun and filled with wonder.

Together, they provide a holistic approach to fitness, mental clarity, and creative expression.

Aerial Silks Class at Good Karma Studio | Image: Provided

Classes / education are a big part of what you do, can you share a bit about your approach to that across all your offerings?

Education and classes are at the heart of what we do, and our approach is designed to be inclusive, transformative, and adaptable to all levels. Whether someone is new to yoga or circus arts, or looking to deepen their practice, we strive to create an environment where students feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. Our program does this in a variety of ways:

Holistic Learning: Integrating mindfulness, mental focus, and creative expression into each class.

Personalized Experience: Recognizing that every student is different, so we tailor our classes to meet varying needs.

Community-Focused: Learning is more enriching when it’s shared. We cultivate a community atmosphere where students support one another.

Emphasis on Playfulness & Creativity: Especially in circus arts, play is an essential part of the learning process. We encourage students to explore, experiment, and embrace their creativity.

Mind-Body Integration: Emphasizing the mind-body connection in all classes, helping students find rhythm, release tension, and build both physical and mental resilience.

Progressive and Adaptive: Both yoga and circus arts can be challenging, so we ensure our curriculum is progressive.

Inspiring Personal Growth: The ultimate goal is to help students grow, both as performers and as individuals. We foster an environment that celebrates progress, however big or small.

In essence, our approach is about creating a nurturing space for learning where students feel challenged, supported, and empowered to be their best selves.

Guest Instructor Brenna Bradbury Performs on the Lyra | Image: Provided

Can you discuss more about your circus arts related classes, what are your goals in this area?

My goal with the circus arts side of the business is Making Circus Accessible. Traditionally, circus arts can feel very intimidating, often requiring a level of strength, flexibility, or skill that may seem out of reach for beginners. Starting with the basics we provide step-by-step guidance, so students don’t feel overwhelmed. Circus arts are about much more than just physical skill—they’re about fostering creativity, building community, and encouraging students to push their own limits. Whether you’re trying a aerial apparatus for the first time, or preparing for your first big gig, the goal is always the same: to have fun, explore, and grow. It’s a place where performance and play intersect, and where students can feel like part of something larger than themselves—whether they’re on the mat or up in the air!

In our studio, students are constantly cheering each other on and celebrating one another’s victories, it so heart warming and definitely what inspires and drives me forward. In such a chaotic world right now, watching adults bond with their peers and work together, brings a sense of community and shared growth, which is really special.

Performance Run at Good Karma Studio | Image: Provided

Running a dynamic business can be challenging, what’s a typical day look like for you? Any recommendations to others who are thinking about opening a studio?

Here’s a snapshot of what a typical day might look like: I start with private sessions every morning, followed by morning group classes, This part of the day is energizing and keeps me grounded in the experience of what we offer. Ruben, our studio therapy dog, and I then go for a nice long walk before heading home for my ‘not so favorite‘ administrative work. This might involve updating the website, handling finances, collaborating with my studio manager, planning marketing strategies, and scheduling classes or organizing upcoming events (such as workshops or performances). Depending on the day, I may also be teaching an evening class or hosting a special event. The evenings tend to bring in students who are working professionals – together, we unwind and find balance after a busy day.

As for opening a studio, prioritize self-care: running a business can be overwhelming and burnout is real. Make sure you take time for your own well-being. For me it’s practicing yoga, doing something creative, or simply taking a break. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and your health and energy are vital to the success of your studio and personal well being.

It takes time to build momentum and grow. Be patient with yourself, and don’t get discouraged if things don’t take off immediately. Consistency, dedication, and passion will pay off over time. At the end of the day, running a studio is a labor of love. It’s about creating a space for people to grow, have fun, and experience something truly transformative. When you keep your focus on your mission and the people you serve, the rest will naturally fall into place.

Good Karma Studio Team | Image: Provided

Extra Credit: Anything we should know about that you have coming up or in the pipeline?

Good Karma Studio & Peak Music will be closing out the Albany EGG’s last weekend before renovations on Saturday, June 28th🎉🎉 It will be a GKS student showcase. My performance students have worked so hard, giving them this opportunity, on this type of a stage, feels so rewarding! I can’t wait to share their hard work and dedication with the Capital Region. Come to enjoy the show, let it inspire you to runaway with the circus… or at least to Good Karma Studio for a class!

WEB: www.thegoodkarmastudio.com | IG: @goodkarmastudio

ALN’S Steve Lawrence : All the Things, All the Time

January 10, 2025 By Corey Aldrich

My first introduction to Arts Letters & Numbers was through ACE! Our previous ED, Maureen Sager had set up for us to do a ‘Creative Networking’ event there (2019). My first impression was very similar to that of Salem Art Works, who I had done a bit of consulting with when I first left my corporate job in real estate. A hyper creative, renegade spirit with an alluring joie de vivre that attracts highly creative minds and makers. Recently, I went to an opening there and Founding Director, David Gersten invited me to stay for dinner which would be at their newest campus acquisition, La Perla Restaurant. The conversation was rich. David and Steve Lawerence, the Associate Director started passionately telling me about the educational programming and creatively fluid campus style that is developing. I had to share. This type of experiential programming really gets me excited and I am hoping it will inspire you to consider new and innovative approaches to what you do.

Steve Lawrence, Associate Director at Arts Letters & Numbers in Avrill Park, NY | Image: Provided

Please state your name, title and past experience that got you to where you are today.

I’m Steven Lawrence, and I currently serve as the Associate Director at Arts Letters & Numbers (ALN) in Averill Park, NY. My journey here has been shaped by a blend of being a tradesman, artist, educator, and psychologist. I ended up at Arts Letters & Numbers because I changed the heating system during a stint of contracting after retiring from the classroom and working on post-grad work.

After high school, I found my way into the trades as a plumbing and heating contractor. I ran my own company for several years before transitioning into becoming a licensed NYS teacher in 2009. I spent 12 years abroad teaching History, English, and Psychology across international schools in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and China. Whatever the system I was teaching in, I focused on creating learning environments that nurture both intellectual and emotional growth. I quickly found that of all that I “taught”, the teaching of meditative practices to students was by far the most important. Through this, and my work outside the classroom in therapeutic settings, I’m now pursuing my PhD in Psychology at Saybrook University (C.A.) specializing in transpersonal psychology and the hermeneutics of meditative expressions as viable treatment.

I’ve always been passionate about the power of craft and the arts in shaping the future. At ALN, I’m working to bridge the worlds of arts, trades, and academics, helping students connect with opportunities that are both practical and creative. The skills students develop in these fields will play a crucial role in shaping their future – just as they did for me.

Arts Letters & Numbers – Resident Artist / Dancer Emma Bäcklund | Image: Zelé Angelides

Can you tell us a bit about what a day in the life looks like for you at ALN? Also, maybe a bit about the diversity of programming you have going on…

My days are a mix of community engagement, creative collaboration, and facility and program development. As Associate Director, I work on fostering connections with local educators and organizations, helping to expand our hands-on learning opportunities across arts, trades, and experiential programs. We have the privilege of a wonderfully supportive team and community that play a critical role in the success of any project associated with ALN.

A big part of my role is supporting artist residencies, where we provide them with space to create and collaborate. These residencies are about fostering the artistic experience, connecting artists with the community, and creating a space for cross-disciplinary exchange. Additionally, the maintenance of facilities could take an afternoon or two, keeping up houses, apartments, studios and the Mill.

La Perla Restaurant and the Gregory House Inn, Part of ALN’s Growing Campus | Image: Provided

La Perla Restaurant, which was opened under the ALN banner in August 2024, has been an exciting addition to the project. The restaurant brings in not only local people from the community, but musicians, poets, and guests that stay at at the Gregory House Inn.

Arts Letters & Numbers Workshop / Educational Programming | Image: Provided

I am always struck by the quality of offerings that I see happening at ALN, real intellectual stuff juxtapositioned nicely with get your hands dirty, maker oriented programming. What’s the organizational philosophy that you have to drive the selection and balance?

Our philosophy centers on the belief that intellectual exploration and hands-on creativity are most impactful when combined. We intentionally balance thought-provoking programs with maker-oriented experiences to create a dynamic, holistic learning environment. Our aim is to balance thinking with making.

Arts Letters & Numbers Workshop on Campus | Image: Zelé Angelides

Our approach is interdisciplinary, connecting different fields to foster deeper understanding, while also encouraging collaboration across disciplines, enriching both intellectual and creative work. We prioritize personalization, offering opportunities for participants to engage in both deep reflection and tactile creation, to explore their passions in diverse ways. Add to that our moto: “Yes, in advance.” and “If we know what it’s going to be we don’t do it”. Very often that’s all anyone needs, it’s so remarkably simple. It’s not easy, but it’s simple.

We also ensure that our programs have a community impact, providing real-world relevance and opportunities to engage with the local environment.

Art Letters & Number Mural Project for Doors of Hope with Partners: Rensselaer County Mental Health Student Assistance Program (SAP), and the Nopiates Committee | Image: Provided

I am especially interested in your pursuit of educational integration, IE working with non-campus based populations, academic institutions and other arts organizations. Can you sketch out what the ALN vision is there, and how you are continuing to expand that approach?

Our vision is to create a network where learning is not confined to traditional settings but extends into the broader community. Our approach is centered on connecting students and artists with real-world opportunities that span across any discipline imaginable. We are committed to collaborating with local schools, such as Big Picture Learning in Schenectady, the Averill Park School District and Berlin Central, to bring experiential learning out of the classroom through internships and hands-on programs. We also have a strong connection in secondary education with R.P.I., Russell Sage College, The Cooper Union in New York, as well as a range of international institutions. These connections are a testament of the life and career of David Gertsten, the Founding Director and President of ALN.

Arts Letters & Numbers Founding Director David Gertsten Does TEDx | Image: Provided

2018 ALN Collaboration : ‘Future Unknown’ Chancellor’s Summit held at
The Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) in Beijing, China | Image: Provided

We’re deepening these collaborations to develop more integrated programs that connect craftsmanship, creativity, and theory as a sort of global exchange. This allows us to create rather unconventional pathways to learning and individual development. ALN is evolving into a truly interdisciplinary and transnational model. I wouldn’t say we’re building a school, it’s more like we’re working to supplement a learning experience that students want and typical schools can’t always provide. Schools have been open to working together. Generally, any hurdles are pragmatic, working through a system one issue at a time and sticking with it. ‘No’ can’t be an answer, sometimes.

Arts Letter & Numbers Film Project Collaboration with Youth FX and the
Albany High School’s Social Justice Theater Program | Image: Provided

It’s all very collaborative, what would you recommend to other institutions who may have an interest in expanding their footprint to have a greater yet practical impact? Thoughts on how to do that sustainably from a resource perspective?

When working with other institutions towards the same ends, it’s essential to focus on creating genuine partnerships that bring real value. Find the people that ‘get it’ and work with them. Starting small with pilot programs or focused collaborations can help you see what works before expanding. It’s also important to find synergies between different partners—whether that’s through sharing resources like space and staffing or finding common goals to work towards. Sustainability comes from creating partnerships that are mutually beneficial, where the collaboration strengthens the work of everyone involved.

When partnering with local schools, businesses, or other arts organizations, we look for opportunities to build programs that are aligned with our style of approach. It’s important to note that these discussions often take months—sometimes even a year—before a project fully comes to fruition. This long timeline is the reality of creating great programs. While planning and discussing future initiatives, we’re also actively carrying out the programs that are already in motion. Patience is essential. It’s important to manage both long-term development and the work happening right now.

We’re always keen to open the space for folks to venture out into their artistic pursuits. Recently a local woodworker took up shop here to get his furniture business off the ground. As ‘compensation’ he lends a hand, using his skill sets to support us where he can. There are ways to be creative about developing transactional relationships.

Arts Letters and Numbers – Teaching Time | Image: Zelé Angelides

Anything in the pipeline that we should be aware of? Anything you would like to plug that you have coming up?

We’re continuing to work closely with local schools and developing community projects that students can be involved in. These initiatives take on many forms, from community-based murals to a community table-building project for the Poestenkill Town Park.

Our residency seasons run from January 15-March 15 and April 15-June 15, where we invite artists from various disciplines to create, collaborate, and engage with the local community. Many are scheduled to arrive, and our application process is still open. You can learn more by visiting our residency page.

We’re also excited to be running our Craft 1o1 project again this year in July and August 2025. It’s our second year running, and we had a remarkable time last year. It’s a unique opportunity for individuals to engage experiences unlike anything I’ve seen, where we engage masters of craft in upwards of 15 different disciplines – from music to masonry, poetry to plumbing. That is to say, musicians learn masonry and masons learn to play music, poets plumb and plumbers write poetry. It’s rather remarkable. We’ll be announcing the open registration for that soon, otherwise folks can plan ahead and join the residency which allows them to participate.

Food Prep at Arts Letters & Numbers | Image: Zelé Angelides

There are a few other exciting projects in development that I’m not quite ready to announce, but you can stay updated on all of our upcoming initiatives by following our newsletter. It’s the best way to stay in the loop and hear about what we’re up to.

For more info –
WEB: artslettersandnumbers.com | IG/FB : @artslettersandnumbers

Prince UFO Catchers : Young Creative Entrepreneurs Laying It On the Line

November 25, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

I met Danbi Yu and Bradley Alverez through a co-producer (Guinevere of the Dentist Office) for a pop up cyberpunk market that I have worked on with the Arts Center of the Capital Region. Not only do I find them to be some of the most attractive / positive and kind people, but I loved the passion they bring to share Japanese arcade culture with the region. I have worked with them on a few projects and am really excited to share their new entrepreneurial endeavor!

Bradley Alverez and Danbi Yu : Owners and Founders at Prince UFO Catchers | Photo: Corey Aldrich

Please state your name, title and educational / artistic background.

Danbi Yu and Bradley Alvarez, Co-Founders of Prince UFO Catchers.

Bradley and I attended SUNY Potsdam. There, I majored in English Writing and Philosophy. Bradley majored in Spanish and minored in Art. We studied abroad in Japan in the last semester of our 4-years in college, in a countryside prefecture called Akita and at an international school called Akita University. During this time, we have had the opportunity to explore various prefectures in Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. We also had the chance to meet locals and become friends with the Japanese students there. But most of our free time, I admit that we spent at Japanese arcades playing for anime figures and gigantic plushies. After the study abroad experience, I quickly jumped into the publishing industry as an editor and Bradley launched a start-up resell business called Shop.De.Alvarez. While I honed my professional writing, editing, project management, and administrative work skills, Bradley became familiar with the entrepreneurial process of making connections, buying merchandise, researching market value, and finding selling platforms.

Catching Plushies at Prince UFO Catchers in Colonie Center Mall | Image: Corey Aldrich

I have worked with you in the past at different pop up events. Can you tell us more about your shop? What motivated you to open a physical location. Any additional programming ideas for the space?

We have had an interest in claw machines/Japanese-style arcades ever since we studied abroad in Japan in 2018. We were blown away by the Japanese arcades because of their focus on claw machines, their customer service, the level of quality prizes inside the machines, and the aesthetics of the entire environment that catered to not only Japanese people but foreigners like us. They had token machines at every corner that converted cash into satisfyingly sounding 100 yen coins. They had anime figures, a variety of creative plushies, and rhythm games at every level of the arcade.

At the beginning of our entrepreneurial journey, we started off with vending mini claw machines inside of restaurants, grocery stores, cafes, etc. and we eventually started to participate in various events. We luckily landed a vending spot at Colonie Center Mall and began to have a relationship with the leasing people there. They were actually the ones who suggested that we should do a physical location because claw machine arcades were becoming popular throughout the world but there was nothing like that around the capital region of New York. And so, we thought if we were going to do this, we wanted to recreate our experiences in Japan as close as possible. Claw machines, high-quality prizes, fair winnings, attention to detail to the smallest things, and customer service that would cater to the audience by adjusting the prizes as many times as possible if needed and giving advice on how to win quicker.

Mary and Friend Show Off Their Winnings at Prince UFO Catchers | Image: Corey Aldrich

In the near future, we are planning to have more rhythm games, like Dance Dance Revolution and/or Taiko no Tatsujin, and of course a monthly-bimonthly rotation of the prizes inside the claw machines. We are also planning to host events within the space. We are entertaining a Rhythm Game Competition or even a Speed Dating Event, but that would all be TBD and TBA on our Instagram page.

Keychain Characters at Prince UFO Catchers in Colonie Center Mall | Image: Corey Aldrich

What type of research did you do to decide what type of machines and products you would have? What drove your product theme?

Our product theme varies. Our original focus was anime, like One Piece, J ujutsu Kaisen, SpyxFamily, etc., but we thought it shouldn’t be so niche because children would love things like Pokemon, Winnie the Pooh, Stitch, etc. Another thing we liked about Japanese arcades was that they didn’t just have plushies or keychains. They also have food products like chips, sodas, chocolates, etc. They had practical things like mini hand towels, pillows, bags, pencil case holders, and whatever you could imagine. This way, I thought we could cater to not only the plush fans, anime fans, a collector, or a certain age group but to all people who might just want to walk in and try something they haven’t seen before.

Of course, when we were still vending, we tried to learn as much about claw machines and the sources from which we get our merch as possible, to vet out quality prizes from not-so-quality, and we are still in this learning process but a lot better than we were a year ago.

Japanese Imported Beverages / Snacks at Prince UFO Catchers in Colonie Center Mall : Image: Corey Aldrich

Setting up a retail shop is financially challenging. How were you able to pull that off? Did you have to bring in partners? I am always interested in how folks make these things a reality, so many creatives have dreams of doing creative entrepreneurial businesses but don’t know where to start.

To be honest, the financial part was the trickiest part on our end. We tried exploring so many loan options but quickly found that no bank would entertain a start-up business despite my fully fleshed-out 25-page business proposal and many financial projection sheets. We tried a private loan but were daunted by the idea of having 40% interest rates that we would have to pay back in less than five years. We even reached out to the Chamber of Commerce in Albany and the Community Loan Fund for small business loans, but found that they couldn’t do anything for us since we were considered a fresh business. As a last resort, Bradley and I sold our one and only investment property in Troy that we had managed to buy back in 2020, and this was what helped fund us at the start of this journey.

But I would like to add that we were relentless in this. It was very unrealistic at the beginning of this journey, financially, but I knew that this was something we wanted to do. Whatever the method, whether it was seeking out a family loan or calling up private investors all over the country, we wanted to make this a reality. Luckily for us, we were able to sell the house for a good price at the right time, but I truly believe that we would’ve found another method if this hadn’t been the case. What I’m trying to get at is that obstacles are always present when we are chasing something that seems bigger than ourselves at that moment, but it is also up to us to determine whether those obstacles make our reality or whether we can create a reality that is beyond those obstacles. I believe we chose the latter because we had a strong desire to share our love for Japanese arcades in America.

Deep in Game Play at Prince UFO Catchers in Colonie Center Mall | Image: Corey Aldrich

Shameless plug: Anything additional coming up we should know about? Can folks still talk to you about getting a machine in their location?

We do try to participate in some events here and there, like the card show in Albany or the Anime Night in Troy, but it honestly depends on the date + time. We try to participate in these events because it is a nice way to meet other vendors, coordinators, and customers, but at the same time, running a business has proven to be very time/energy consuming. As for vending, we still do them, but it’s only in Westchester due to the help we receive from Bradley’s family. For upstate NY, we are familiar with other people who do vending so always feel free to reach out to us if you’d like a claw machine in your business!

Fun Fact: The name of our arcade originates from our cat’s name, Prince, and what the Japanese call claw machines “UFO Catchers.”

For more info or to follow them on Instagram: Prince UFO Catchers

Prince the Cat Logo for Prince UFO Catchers | Image: Corey Aldrich

METROLAND (NOW) : Revival of a Capital Region Institution

October 9, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

Like the glory days of First Friday, METROLAND played such an important part in the creative discovery of what the Capital Region had to offer. Every week I remember picking up a copy (Usually at Tess’s Lark Tavern) and scanning through it to plan my weekend activities. While there are some other sources of arts and cultural listings in the region where you can find out things that are happening and get good interviews and background (Radio Radio X and Nippertown) METROLAND was always a gold standard for finding out where and what was happening from the above to underground scenes. Musician / Comedian Erin Harkes is looking to bring back that energy and has secured the brand for a new rendition as retooled as METROLAND NOW. The question is, what will she do with it?

Erin Harkes : Musician, Comedian and Publisher at METROLAND NOW | Photo: Kiki Vassilakis

Could you state your name, title and background?

Erin Harkes. Multi-hyphenate 😉 Musician, Comedian, and now publisher!

As an entertainer who has spent over two decades in the capital region, navigating every twist and turn the industry has presented, continuously adapting and reinventing myself along the way. The constant throughout this journey has been the significance of marketing. While the methods of marketing may evolve, the essential need for it remains unchanged.

Many people often ask why I haven’t relocated to a larger city. It’s a complex question. Perhaps it stems from a sense of contentment or, by some accounts, complacency. It’s undeniable that bigger cities offer opportunities that may not be available here, yet I have consistently found ways to create my own paths. Instead of commuting to places like Boston or NYC every time I want to showcase my comedy, I decided to take matters into my own hands by producing shows specifically to provide myself with performance opportunities. I’ve approached music in a similar fashion, and now, I’m venturing into publishing as well with METROLAND NOW.

Historic METROLAND Covers | Photo(s): Facebook

To many of us who have been around the region for a while, METROLAND was a gold standard for the arts and cultural sector (and activism). I was so disappointed to see it go. What made you decide that now was the time to revive that and how were you able to pull that off? What geographic area will you be covering? Topically, what will be the content focus of the publication?

I felt there was a void / vacuum in the area. There are definitely other publications but some are just not an option for me as a performer. I had always had the idea of reviving METROLAND in the back or my brain. I honestly never thought beyond that until this year. It all kind of happened organically through countless conversations with other creatives and folks in the community. We will be covering Albany, Troy, Schenectady, Saratoga and the general perimeter around those four. But we won’t hold ourselves back from places beyond that when the call comes! The focus, for now, will mostly be music but we’re expanding into arts and other entertainment, comedy, community events, non-profit organizations, small businesses, a comprehensive calendar and just see where it takes us! As long as the message is positive, we’ll share it!

I know you started with the idea of being an online publication only and now I have heard murmurs that you are considering bringing a version into print also. Can you tell us more about what that will look like and what the timelines are on that front? Will this be a weekly issue?

I started this idea with NO intention of printing but the more I talked to folks the more I heard this exact phrase uttered: “I miss picking one up.” I really listened to that. For whatever reason, folks miss the physical nature of METROLAND. I don’t believe print is dead but I also don’t see the need for a weekly so we’re going to try for a monthly hopefully starting this month! (October 2024)

A robust and representative publication takes a lot of team work. How big is your current team? Is it mostly volunteers or paid folk? As I recollect, that last version of Metroland ended up closing due to financial issues. Do you have a plan to ensure that you don’t end up with similar challenges?

My current team is about seven folks, including myself. Everyone has been volunteering, including myself. There’s one person who I have been paying out of my own pocket because she does this for a living and has a small child and another on the way, whereas the other team members have day jobs. Everything is transparent; everyone knows who’s making what. I’m actively working on way to ensure that everyone, including myself, gets paid. It’s a priority. The last thing I want to do is exploit artists!

I registered as a non-profit because my priority is to try and help other non-profits in the area – be it venues or general NFP’s – get the attention they might not be able to afford otherwise. I plan on doing some fundraising and getting some sponsors/patrons/donors to help give to the cause. There will also be advertising opportunities that can generate income. My plan to make sure we stay financially viable is to use the resources I have built over my 20+ years in the Capital Region and learn from my peers. I have been offered an incredible amount of support from some of the most successful people in the area and am genuinely humbled by the respect I’ve been shown. I have a big ego and know what my vision is but I am not too proud to ask for help with the things that I haven’t learned enough about yet. It will take a village, but I HAVE that village.

If folks want to be involved on the creative content side or are interested in advertising or being a distribution point, what’s the best way for them to get in touch?

We have received SO many submissions so far. We are working on the best way to filter through them all and give the best consideration to each and are still ironing out a process to make this easy for everyone involved. When it’s time it will be very clear how to do that! Right now we suggest checking the website and the social media. We’re chipping away at the messages we’ve already gotten and asking people to be patient with us. I have amazing volunteers and I am not about to overwhelm them. There’s a fine line between ambition/tenacity and harassment, though. The latter will not be rewarded. Even the most talented folks won’t be considered if they aren’t respectful during this process. Also the core group has to vote unanimously on new contributors. I want everyone to be safe and comfortable with their peers. That is paramount. Contacting ME directly isn’t a good idea, either. Haha! Just trying to make our boundaries very clear.

Shameless Plug: What would you like to share with us? Any things coming up on the horizon we should know about?

Thank you but honestly nothing right now! We just ask that everyone share the website and the socials and keep it up with all the positive messages. I can’t wait to watch this grow and work with our vibrant and talented community!

Finally, know that ACE! has your back! 🙂

LIKEWISE! I look very much forward to working with you guys closely!

For more on the final days of METROLAND previous...check out the article in the Times Union from January 2016 by Paul Grondahl.

The Team at METROLAND – The Final Days | Photo: Steve Jacobs / Times Union

Arielle Steele : Finance by Day Film by Night | Building a Creative Career One Gig at a Time

June 6, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

I met Arielle Steele recently at a backyard picnic at John Yost‘s house (Film Maker and Founder at Fifth Column Features). After about 30 minutes of engaging conversation I knew I wanted to highlight her story. So many of our freelance creatives are working day gigs with big aspirations of moving full time into their creative practice. Arielle brings a solid business background to hers and as if she is not busy enough, was recently named Vice President of the Board at the newly rejuvenated 518 Film Network – a group ACE! has produced some very successful networking events with in the past.

Arielle Steele : Financial Analyst at AYCO and Independent Film Maker / Producer | Image: Jayana LaFotos

Please state your name, company and job title.

My name is Arielle Steele and I am a Wealth Management Professional at Ayco-Goldman Sachs by day and a Filmmaker-Producer by night. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from Williams College, where I discovered film as a second love. Since then I’ve juggled my work in traditional 9-5s in education and finance with my passion for film. On set, I usually occupy the producer or associate producer’s seat. Recently I have expanded my work in film to include the festival circuit. In 2023 I was the Film Festival Coordinator for the inaugural Renaissance Black Film Festival here in Albany.

Can you share what a typical day looks like for you on your day job and one when you are running a creative project?

A typical day for me within finance is a day full of juggling competing priorities servicing our clients. Whether it’s executing trades over the phone with clients, sending out wires, liaising with internal teams to maintain brokerages, training new team members, or mentoring new hires with the developmental program I created with senior employees at the firm, my day is focused on providing great experiences for our clients and ensuring that my team is fully prepared to take on the day. There’s always an overarching project I’m working on in tandem with my daily asset movement and administrative responsibilities.

When I’m working on a creative project my day to day varies depending on the length of the project, the role I’m assuming, and where we are in production (pre, shooting, or post).

Because I have a full time job I typically choose short term projects, such as short films or music videos. On these days I’ll create call sheets for the next day, review shot lists, create sides for the actors and crew, and check in with PAs to make sure we’re ready to shoot for the day. If it’s a small enough shoot I’ll have to wear multiple hats and act as a PA myself, getting talent to the location, ensuring crafty and meals are available and served in a timely fashion. I’ll consistently check in with the AD and director to ensure we have what we need to shoot efficiently.

In many ways it mirrors my main job because I rely heavily on my project management skills both on and off set.

However, pre-production is my favorite part of the process. Everyone is bubbling with excitement and the seemingly near endless possibilities for the project, while I’m thinking of ways to harness this energy to yield the best results. I work with the director and in some cases writer-director to grasp their vision and offer solutions for costuming, locations, and crew that strikes the balance of honoring their vision and the budget. Then we crunch the numbers and conquer! These meetings typically span a few days in the evenings to accommodate my availability.

How do navigate finding time wearing the different hats of these two very different roles? Are there any ways in which your day job helps you in your creative practice?

Honestly speaking navigating these two roles can get challenging when I’m in the throes of a film project. Knowing that my main job has its peaks I’ll plan to work on projects during the financial “off season.” This is only part of the battle. When on set I’ll try to be there during off days and capitalize on my evenings doing prep work for a shoot. So for a week I’ll be firing on all cylinders.

As for transferable skills, there unexpectedly is a lot of overlap. Excel is both my friend and foe on both sides of the aisle. I check in constantly with other teams/heads of departments and produce deliverables for my supervisor/directors. In the pre-production stage I create pitch decks to secure funding for films, and in the office I’ve created pitch decks for developmental programming. Though finance and film seem to be worlds apart, in terms of production they actually work in tandem with one another.

**Renaissance** Black Film Festival Panel Discussion with Arielle Steele | Image: Jayana LaFotos

Any particular projects that you would like to share that you are especially proud of?

One project that I’m especially proud of was the film programming I did for the Renaissance Black Film Festival. We secured 100+ submissions on the first go around, and the shorts we selected were phenomenal. Under Kevin Johnson and Patrick Harris’ leadership I was able to moderate a panel with Jamal Hill, Gail Bean, and Morris Chestnut. It has been a career highlight for me.

Additionally my work with non-profit 518 Film Network has invigorated me. Created by Michelle Polacinski and Micah Khan, the network was founded on the idea of forging an equitable and rich filmmaking community, something I really resonated with. When Michelle and Micah decided to end their terms, it gave me the opportunity to be an active participant with the 518 film community. I’m really excited for the work we’re doing and the programming to come this summer!

**Renaissance** Black Film Festival Photo Op | Image: Jayana LaFotos

As a female and minority Film Producer how would you describe the state of opportunity for you to participate in projects regionally? The challenges? What advice would you give to other women who are looking to participate more in leadership roles in the industry regionally?

The projects I typically work on are for independent filmmakers so that field varies from commercial opportunities. Bearing that in mind, as an emerging producer my opportunities have been generated by my personal network. I am incredibly thankful for those who have seen my passion for production and trusted in the vision.

This is not to say that I haven’t tried mainstream avenues within local television networks. In the past I’ve tried to go that route and it was difficult. Even applying for Production Assistant positions, networks want to see a traditional film history, which as a multi-hyphenate hailing from a liberal arts college, I didn’t have. People don’t want to take a gamble which is understandable, but it makes it that much harder for greener folks, and women of color especially to get in the door.

My advice to those like me, who don’t reflect the majority of the industry, is to find their community and keep showing up. Of course landing your first big job with a network, Netflix production, or Hollywood production is major. But until then hop on projects with your friends, get to know other creators in your area so you can keep working and getting to know the world around you. Network across so you can grow with your siblings in film, as you identify possible mentors in your given field. While your mentor helps you stay true to your ultimate goal, your comrades will inspire you and aid you in strengthening your creative muscles. Show up, give as much as you get and create. Your time will come. It’s taken me since 2016 of on and off work to get to this point and I still have a ways to go.

Anything coming up you would like to shamelessly plug? Long term plans / goals you would like to share?

Shameless plug: I am now the Board VP of 518 Film Network and I’m very proud to announce that 518 Film Network has relaunched and we are now accepting members! We offer filmmakers in the region a chance to connect and showcase their work via screenings. We eventually will be expanding on educational opportunities for members and will be hosting mixers this summer.

FOR MORE INFO: arielle-steele.com