Sarah Spencer is an artist, educator, and CHIRP DJ currently based in Chicago. As Io the Alien (@iothealien), Sarah creates weird art quilts and mixed-media textile compositions inspired by street art, contemporary music, and the spirit of nonconformity. Her work has been featured in print and in galleries across the US.

Sarah is originally from Vancouver, Canada, where she spent her time as a corporate drone by day, and a comedian and dancer by night. A shapeshifter, Sarah is uncomfortable describing herself with nouns, as they rarely fit for long.

The First Time is a live lit and music series recorded at Martyrs in Chicago's North Center neighborhood. Each reader tells a true first tale, followed by any cover of the storyteller's choosing, performed by our house band, The First Time Three.

The First Time is hosted by Jenn Sodini. Produced by Bobby Evers, Andy Vasoyan, and Julie Mueller. Podcast produced by Andy Vasoyan. Recorded by Tony Baker.