In this episode, Felicia and Rachel welcome Jumai Yusuf, a talented filmmaker and storyteller. Jumai shares her unique journey from Massachusetts theater kid to LA film director, highlighting her background in neurobiology and her passion for blending art and science. She discusses the development of her animated series 'Layla and the Starship Afrotopia,' which features a young Black Muslim girl with wormhole powers. We dive into the process of directing, from working with screenwriters to location scouting and casting. Before we talk with Jumai, we chat about our experiences at a few conferences - it turns out IRL events are still amazing!

• Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
• Sundance and Disney's Muslim Artist Fellowship
• Islamic Scholarship Fund
• Jumai Yusuf Instagram
• Nate and John Film Instagram

00:25 Felicia's Networking Adventures at WBENC

04:56 Rachel's Culture Summit Experience

08:22 Introducing Jumai Yusuf

10:14 Jumai's Journey and Inspirations

20:24 Directing The Eid Gift

26:18 Casting for Ramadan America

26:46 Balancing Writing and Directing

28:13 Challenges in Directing

29:37 Impact of Me Too and Black Lives Matter

31:33 Advice for Aspiring Directors

33:06 Cosplay and Anime Passion

41:49 Renaissance Fair Adventures

44:20 Peloton and Fitness Goals

46:30 Final Thoughts and Social Media

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