Why do some stories remain hidden, and who decides which stories are told?

A nuanced discussion with Ezra Claytan Daniels about dealing with racism, privilege, and struggling with identity in Mama Came Callin'.

About guest

Ezra Claytan Daniels is a mixed-race (Black/white) American multidisciplinary artist. Creator of the award-winning graphic novels Upgrade Soul (Oni Press) and BTTM FDRS (Fantagraphics Books), his work has been featured on the Criterion Channel, at Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art, SXSW, and is in the permanent collection of the Whitney Museum. Ezra's short story, "Pressure", was included in Jordan Peele's NYT Bestselling horror anthology, Out There Screaming, published by Random House. Ezra currently resides in Los Angeles, where he writes for film and television, including Doom Patrol for HBO Max, Severance for Apple TV+, and the upcoming remake of Wes Craven's The People Under the Stairs for Monkeypaw Productions. His upcoming graphic novel, Mama Came Callin', with illustrator Camilla Sucre, will be released in 2026 from HarperCollins Books.

Topics discussed

Content warning: This episode contains strong language and mature themes. Listener discretion is advised.

During the show, we discuss:

• Uncovering unsettling truths about racial violence
• Using privilege for good
• Uplifting new voices
• Chosen family and community as tool for liberation

Connect with Ezra

Instagram

Buy his books

• Mama Came Callin'
• Out There Screaming
• Upgrade Soul

Support the podcast

• Contribute to the Ko-Fi
• Send a message

Disclaimer: Shownotes may contain affiliate links which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting a Black-woman- creator!