RIANOUTLOUD!

After a few months away, Rian-Louis is back with a very brief but honest episode of RIANOUTLOUD! catching listeners up on where he’s been and what life has looked like beyond the mic.In this quick check-in, Rian-Louis opens up about navigating burnout, personal loss, family transitions, and the emotional weight of being a Black queer creative in Pittsburgh. He reflects on the importance of stepping back, prioritizing mental health, and realizing that real growth sometimes happens during the pause.Rian also shares gratitude for his recent Pittsburgh 40 Under 40 nomination, while reminding listeners that success means nothing if you’re not taking care of yourself. This episode is a simple but powerful reminder that slowing down, setting boundaries, and reflecting can help you move forward with even more purpose.A short episode. An honest moment. And the beginning of Rian getting back to the mic. 🎙️

From Chicago’s South Side to your playlists — @itsdaveyon is stepping into the LOUD room on a brand-new episode of RIANOUTLOUD!Rapper. Producer. Songwriter. Designer. Visionary.ItsDaveyon is the kind of artist who builds worlds — gritty, honest, and full of texture — and tomorrow, we’re tapping ALL the way into it.We talk artistry, roots, growth, creative freedom, and the stories that shaped VOL 1 & the Complete Edition.If you love Black queer creativity, raw talent, and good vibes? This one is FOR YOU.

Couldn’t make it to the show? No worries — now you can hear the magic for yourself.Recorded live at TLC Libations in Pittsburgh, RIANOUTLOUD!: The Live Experience captures the heart, joy, and unapologetic brilliance of Black LGBTQ+ creativity, community, and storytelling — all in one unforgettable night.Hosted by Rian-Louis McNeil, this special episode brings the audience into the room with powerful conversations, laughter, vulnerability, and celebration featuring three phenomenal guests:✨ CC Calhoun – Educator, creative, and community shifter✨ Miracle Jones – Advocate, organizer, and cultural truth-teller✨ Manny Dibiachi – Rapper, curator, and sonic visionaryThis live experience marks a milestone moment — 5 years of amplifying Black LGBTQ+ voices and stories. Whether you’re a longtime OUTLOUDER or stepping into this space for the first time, this episode is an invitation to feel seen, held, and inspired.Press play and relive the energy, the gems, and the legacy in motion.Season — a new era of RIANOUTLOUD! — begins November 4th, but until then, enjoy this bonus episode and witness history being made.

In this bonus episode of RIANOUTLOUD!, I’m giving you an exclusive first listen to the story that’s been six years in the making—my debut novel, Flawsome. I’m reading the first two chapters of this deeply personal and powerful journey following Carter Johnson, a DJ navigating grief, love, and purpose back in his hometown of Pittsburgh.Whether you’ve followed my creative journey from the jump or you're just tuning in, this moment is for all the dreamers, the overthinkers, the heart-healers—and those finding the courage to be flawsome in a world that expects perfection.So get cozy, press play, and welcome to Flawsome.

In this brief heartfelt solo opener, host Rian-Louis reflects on how far we’ve come, why it’s time to let go, and what it means to transform out loud. This isn’t just an ending—it’s a celebration, a reckoning, and a thank you.

In this episode of RIANOUTLOUD! , R&B artist Jordan Kalé shares his 16-year journey as an independent musician. He opens up about his debut solo project, Out of My System, a deeply personal album about healing from a toxic relationship and embracing new beginnings. Jordan reflects on transitioning from groups to a solo career, his influences like Omarion and Luther Vandross, and how music fuels his growth. Plus, he teases future collaborations and what’s next. Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, reinvention, and R&B storytelling.

In this episode of RIANOUTLOUD!, host Rian-Louis sits down with rising star Jaïr Faria, a 20-year-old artist from the Netherlands. They discuss Jaïr’s journey as a Black queer artist, the personal nature of his music, and the influences that shape his sound. Jaïr shares the story behind his viral TikTok success, navigating the music industry, and staying true to himself. They also dive into his debut EP Just As Ï Remember, exploring the special meaning behind the title. The conversation touches on his songwriting process, advice for emerging artists, and his future goals, including potential collaborations and a move to the U.S.

In Part 1 of this engaging conversation, RIANOUTLOUD! welcomes Huny XO, a multifaceted artist and DJ, to discuss her journey, the importance of community in nightlife, and the vibrant culture of Pittsburgh. They explore Huny's experiences in creating safe spaces for Black queer individuals, her innovative approach to DJing, and the significance of representation in the music industry. The discussion also touches on Huny's signature drinks, her plans for the future, and the legacy she is building..

In this engaging conversation, Rian-Louis reconnects with the talented artist Shah after two years. They discuss Shah's new single 'Action', the evolution of his sound, and the personal growth he has experienced during his time away. Shah shares insights into his creative process, the importance of authenticity, and his experiences in creative directing. The conversation also touches on his performance at Moby Fest, his partnership with GLAAD, and the impact he hopes to have on the creative industry. Shah reflects on his journey, offering advice to his younger self and emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself.

In this episode of the RIANOUTLOUD! podcast, host Rian-Louis interviews SaikoKastelliano, a multi-talented artist from Pittsburgh. They discuss SaikoKastelliano's journey in music, the influences that shaped his sound, and the importance of representing Pittsburgh in the evolving hip-hop scene. SaikoKastelliano shares insights into his creative process, the significance of collaboration, and the impact of his new album, Disturbing the Peace. The conversation touches on themes of self-acceptance, pushing boundaries in hip-hop culture, and the importance of community support for independent artists.

In this engaging conversation, Rian-Louis interviews Jalenography, a choreographer and creative director, about his journey in the dance world and the significance of representation for LGBTQ+ voices, particularly within the black community. They discuss the launch of Jalenography's project, INCLUSIPHY VOL 1 , which features a collaboration of black queer artists and aims to create a platform for their voices. The conversation highlights the importance of community, collaboration, and the creative process behind the project, as well as Jalenography's aspirations for the future and advice for the younger generation.

In this special Friendsgiving episode of RIANOUTLOUD!, host Rian-Louis reunites with his friends—author Donnie Love and creator/podcaster Derikas—to discuss various themes, including the recent election, JoJo's musical journey and personal liberation, mental health advocacy during the holidays, and the importance of celebrating small wins. They share personal experiences with seasonal depression, the power of friendship, and the significance of gratitude and support in their lives. The conversation highlights the importance of self-care, reflection, and the joy of reconnecting with loved ones during the holiday season.