Unmasking Black Joy: Navigating Cosplay, Community, and Representation

We’re back with the second half of my conversation with my brother, friend, and the creator of the On The Way To School theme music, Adrian Perryman.

In this episode, we dive deeper into identity, creativity, and the freedom to pursue joy outside of our job titles. Adrian opens up about being a Black nerd in cosplay and Comic-Con culture, navigating representation, and finding community in spaces built “for us, by us.”

We talk about privilege, vulnerability, the pressure students feel to curate themselves, and why adults often forget they’re allowed to be whole, creative, curious people too.

If you’ve ever felt boxed in by expectations or wondered how to show up more authentically in your work and life, this conversation will speak to you.

Take a listen. This one goes deeper. 🎧