In this episode, artist and writer Bethel Biru—better known as Bad Injera—joins the podcast for a deep conversation on creativity, culture, identity, and the challenges of making art in today’s world.We explore what it means to be a Black and immigrant woman breaking expectations, how culture shapes the process of becoming, and the role of art as both self-expression and community. Bethel also reflects on shadow work, creative blocks, the rise of AI in art, and the tensions between fear, judgment, and authenticity.Whether you’re an artist, writer, or simply someone navigating your own creative journey, this conversation offers insights on self-discovery, resilience, and the search for meaning through art.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 Intro
02:30 Breaking expectations: Black & immigrant women
03:40 Becoming within cultures
06:40 Creativity as cultural expression
08:13 Cringe culture & suppression
12:00 Shadow work through art
12:30 Being vs becoming in art
15:00 Expressing yourself creatively
19:00 Art as community & connection
22:00 On melancholia
25:54 Finding your outlet
30:05 Beating creative blocks
34:50 AI in art
37:54 The enchantment of AI
40:55 AI: Struggle or convenience
43:55 Fear of being judged
46:00 “Clanker” – slur or something more?
52:58 Humanity’s urge for the human

Find Bethel on Instagram at: @ mitupls @ badinjera

Instagram / Tik Tok: @ Conversationsfortheend

Title Music: Vines