Driftwood Conversations

Janis CommentzPainter and educator Janis Commentz talks about finding beauty in the desert and in daily life. This conversation explores her artistic evolution, her commitment to community art education, and how she uses creativity as a form of spiritual connection and expression.

In Part Two of Driftwood Conversations with Sant Khalsa, we delve into her recent projects, her community-centered practice in Joshua Tree, and her reflections on legacy, teaching, and how we might reimagine our relationship to the land and each other. Sant is one of those rare people whose presence feels both grounding and expansive. I can’t wait for you to hear her story. 

Sant Khalsa is an artist, activist, educator, and longtime resident of Joshua Tree whose life and work embody the kind of transformation this podcast seeks to illuminate.
In Part 1 of this episode, Sant shares the early influences that shaped her, from her Jewish heritage to her spiritual awakening, her name change, and the beginnings of her creative and political journey. We discuss the power of art to reveal what’s unseen, the roots of her photography practice, and the pivotal moment when a California wildfire led her to environmental work that has now spanned decades.

Driftwood Conversations: Wendee & JoyceIn this episode of Driftwood Conversations, Hilary Sloane speaks with environmental journalist Wendee Nicole and her daughter Joyce. What begins as a story about reporting in Uganda and founding a nonprofit unfolds into a moving exploration of identity, adoption, resilience, and love across cultures and generations. Through personal storytelling, the episode reveals the complex journey of building connections within the community and forming a sense of family.
Music Introduction (for description or narration):This episode features Ugandan music that celebrates cultural pride and modern rhythm. You'll hear tracks by Pinky and Jokwiz Klean, which are included with the artists' permission. Their music brings the vibrant energy of Uganda into this story of resilience and transformation. Sheebah, Mudra D. Viral, and other rising voices from Uganda's contemporary music scene are also mentioned: artists redefining sound in East Africa.

In a conversation with Jill Lust, we dive into creativity, nomadic living, and the courage to reinvent oneself. Jill speaks about art, spirit, and the practice of being present with life’s transitions, offering wisdom from her years as a traveler, artist, and seeker.

Jeff Frost
In this episode, I sit down with Jeff Frost, an artist, filmmaker, musician, and self-proclaimed alien. His life and work move between chaos and beauty, collapse and transformation. From painting inside abandoned desert homes to capturing California wildfires in haunting time-lapse, Jeff’s story is one of survival, spiritual awakening, and the healing power of art.

Jamie RoseJamie Rose is an award-winning documentary photographer and humanitarian. In this episode, she shares her journey covering global health crises and humanitarian issues, and how she co-founded Momenta Group to support other photographers in telling impactful stories. Her deep compassion and commitment to justice shine through every image and word.

Lauren Lovett
Actress, coach, and trauma-informed practitioner Lauren Lovett brings her unique blend of theater, voice work, and emotional awareness to the forefront. In this episode, we discuss how conscious communication and self-awareness can heal, empower, and transform our relationships—on and off the stage.

Episode 3: Fred and Jim – A Lifetime of Creative Friendship
In this heartwarming conversation, Fred and Jim—longtime friends and collaborators—share their intertwined stories of creativity, survival, and unwavering support. Hilary guides a conversation that touches on chosen family, enduring artistic expression, and how connection can sustain us through life’s biggest transitions.

Episode 2: Sam Oaks – Service, Leadership, and a New Kind of VolunteerismHilary sits down with Sam Oaks, founder of Atova International, a nonprofit reshaping global service through empowerment and education. From military life to jungle conservation in Indonesia, Sam shares his deeply personal journey, insights on leadership, and how love in action guides both his work and relationships.