Creating on Your Own Terms with Queer Filmmaker/Artist Nicole Matarese
Aurora Airwaves • Episode 33
Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube
“It’s funny because people are like, “follow your dreams, follow your heart, follow your craft,” and then I’m like, “but I’m afraid.” And people are like, “don’t be afraid.” It’s like, no, look, it’s valid—it’s a valid concern to be afraid, like, that is so valid. Here’s the thing: you could still do it. You’ll still find strength within yourself again and again. I mean, growth sucks. I often talk to my therapist about that. I’m like, people on Instagram are like, “grow, you know, oh, it’s gonna heal, it’s gonna be so nice,” and I’m like, “no, growth—growth is painful, dude.” It’s messy, and you have to seal parts of yourself that you don’t want to look at. Yeah, like, I feel emotional growth often and I’m like, “no, don’t do this to me,” but it just happens. I mean, this is the journey I’ve accepted for myself as an artist, so, like, sure, bring it on.”
In this episode of Aurora Airwaves, Jordan sits down with Nicole Matarese, a Queer Filmmaker/Artist, to talk about the power of pursuing the art you love—on your own terms. Nicole shares her journey of making things happen, finding creative communities, and encouraging herself to share her work with the world while also finding balance to avoid burnout.
They dive into the realities of balancing creativity with life, healing, and self-care, and how the only thing that truly matters is showing up for your art. Whether it’s film, comedy, or any creative pursuit, this conversation is a reminder that no one is stopping you—if you want to create, just do it while also prioritizing your well-being.
Follow Nicole Matarese & Check Out Her Work on Instagram.
See Nicole live! Catch her in Screaming Crying Throwing Up: A Fangirl Sketch Show at The People's Improv Theater on Saturday, 2/22. This sketch comedy show, created by and for fangirls, dives into the passions and obsessions of fandom—from K-pop and Disney to books, TV, movies, and fanfic. Follow along here!
Nicole’s Upcoming Podcast! Nacho Average Diary Podcast—where she and her co-host eat nachos and read old diaries! Episodes launching soon. Follow for updates.
