In Episode 7 of Coffee, Matcha & Soul, Saro Varjabedian sits down with Chris Perna, former Worldwide Studios Director of Art at Epic Games, whose work helped shape iconic titles like Gears of War, Unreal Tournament, and Fortnite.

Chris reflects on his creative journey—how following his natural curiosity, instincts, and love of experimentation led to an “epic” career in games. The conversation explores his artistic process, his identity as a lifelong tinkerer, and how embracing technology has always been central to his work.

The episode also marks the beginning of Chris’s second creative chapter as he steps into filmmaking, discussing how he thoughtfully incorporates AI as a tool for exploration rather than replacement.

A grounded, inspiring conversation about trusting your nature, evolving creatively, and staying curious across disciplines.

In Episode 6 of Season 2 of Coffee, Matcha & Soul, Saro Varjabedian and Zair Montes are joined by John Kammer, founder of Guardian AIngels, an AI-powered journaling app designed to help people navigate the grieving process.Together, they explore the deeply human intersection of grief, technology, and ethics—examining how AI can be used as a compassionate tool for reflection and healing, while also confronting the moral responsibilities that come with building such systems in a world driven by capitalistic interests.The conversation touches on the potential benefits and risks of AI in emotionally vulnerable spaces, questions of trust and intention, and how creators can design technology that prioritizes care, dignity, and humanity over exploitation or profit.This episode offers a nuanced discussion on responsible innovation, emotional support, and the challenge of preserving human values as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly woven into our most intimate experiences.A reflective, necessary conversation about technology’s role in healing and the ethics that must guide it.

In Episode 5 of Season 2 of Coffee, Matcha & Soul, Saro Varjabedian, Zair Montes, and Victoria Negri come together for an open, honest conversation about toxic masculinity and the evolving meaning of manhood in today’s world.

The discussion explores how cultural expectations around masculinity—such as emotional suppression, dominance, and rigid definitions of strength—can become harmful, not only to others but to men themselves. Rather than rejecting masculinity, the hosts examine how it can be redefined through self-awareness, vulnerability, responsibility, and emotional honesty.

This episode invites reflection and nuance, encouraging listeners to move beyond stereotypes and extremes toward a healthier, more conscious understanding of what it means to be a man.

A thoughtful, grounded conversation at the intersection of identity, culture, and personal growth.