No Pix After Dark Podcast

Crafting Connections: The Story of Wisher Vodka

Join host Aaron Dante on the No Pix After Dark podcast as he sits down with Kimberly LaRose and Emily Gillis-Terry, the inspiring women behind Wisher Vodka. Discover how a chance encounter at a gym blossomed into a flourishing business partnership, leading to the creation of a unique, gluten-free vodka brand.

In this episode, explore the journey of launching Wisher Vodka amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn about the innovative use of sugar beets as the base ingredient, driven by a personal connection to dietary restrictions, and how this choice sets their vodka apart in the industry.

Get insights into the dynamic Maryland and D.C. markets, the power of community engagement, and the exciting future plans for expansion into new territories. Whether you're a vodka enthusiast or intrigued by entrepreneurial stories, this episode offers a blend of inspiration and information.

Don't miss the lively conversation, complete with a taste of Wisher's signature cocktails and a speed round of fun questions. Tune in to discover what makes Wisher Vodka a standout choice for both flavor and philosophy.

Thank you Paid in full garage show for the connection. 

Unveiling the Future of Integrated Healthcare with Gracelyn McDermott VP Marketing, Sales & Business Development at Kaiser Permanente

Join Aaron Dante of No Pix After Dark live from MACO 2024 as he dives into an insightful conversation with Gracelyn McDermott VP Marketing,Sales & Business Development at Kaiser Permanente
In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking initiatives and successes of Kaiser Permanente, known for its top-quality, integrated healthcare services.

Discover the advantages of Kaiser Permanente’s five-star rated care, their innovative health app, and how they are leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes. Learn about the unique integrated care model that allows members to live longer and healthier lives, and get a sneak peek into the future developments planned for the upcoming year.

Don’t miss this engaging discussion on how Kaiser Permanente is transforming healthcare delivery and making a difference in the lives of its members. Tune in for part one of this enlightening series!

Pinky Cole's Homecoming Interview with No Pix After Dark Live at the Baltimore Peninsula

Join Aaron Dante for an inspiring No Pix After Dark  Live episode as  he interviews Pinky Cole who shares her journey from humble beginnings in Baltimore, Maryland to creating a $100 million brand. Learn how resilience, alignment, and a relentless work ethic propelled her to success, despite numerous setbacks and challenges.

Delve into Pinky's inspiring story of resilience, from overcoming personal and professional challenges to becoming a development partner at Baltimore Peninsula. Hear about her plans to transform the community with her innovative concepts and her unwavering commitment to her roots.

Witness a touching homecoming as Pinky discusses her vision for Slutty Vegan and Bar Vegan at Baltimore Peninsula, and her aspirations to make Baltimore a destination for all. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and big dreams.

Don't miss this special conversation filled with laughter, inspiration, and a celebration of success against all odds.

A Night at MACO: Conversations with Maryland's Leaders

Join Aaron Dante, host of the NoPixAfterDark podcast, as he brings you live coverage from the Bellamy Genn reception at MACO. In this special episode, Aaron sits down with key figures in Maryland's government, including Lieutenant Governor Aruba Miller and Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, to discuss the significance of MACO, the importance of partnerships, and the future of transportation and economic development in Maryland.

Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller shares her excitement about the Red Line project, emphasizing its potential to boost economic activity and promote equity in transportation. She also reflects on the collaborative efforts that helped manage the Key Bridge crisis and highlights the crucial role of lobbyists in shaping policy.

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball talks about his experiences at MACO, the importance of collaboration between jurisdictions, and the innovative youth engagement programs in Howard County. He also shares his thoughts on the upcoming DNC and the potential impact of Maryland's participation in national politics.

Throughout the episode, enjoy lively discussions, personal anecdotes, and insights into the workings of Maryland's government and community initiatives. Tune in for a night of engaging conversations and a glimpse into the dynamic world of Maryland's leaders.

MACO 2024 EPISODE 2 FT Franklyn Baker President CEO of United Way of Central Maryland and Baltimore County Executive and MACO President John "Johnny O" Olszewski Jr.

In our latest episode, my co-host Beth Anne Dorman and I had the privilege of sitting down with Franklyn Baker, the President and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland, to discuss the organization's upcoming centennial celebration. Since 1925, United Way of Central Maryland has shown remarkable resilience and innovation, adapting to meet the community's changing needs, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Franklyn emphasized the importance of agility and flexibility in nonprofit work, highlighting the crucial role of mental health in overall community well-being. He stressed the collaborative efforts needed to address economic, social, and health disparities effectively.

Join us as we delve into how United Way's programs, such as the ALICE initiative and mental health services, are actively making a positive impact in Central Maryland. Discover the insights into the triumphs and challenges of sustaining a nonprofit for a century and the vision for thriving communities in the future.

During the conversation, we also had the opportunity to discuss mental health with Baltimore County Executive John “Johnny O” Olszewski Jr. and MACO President, where he shed light on the vital initiatives taking place in Baltimore County and underscored the significance of mental health for all individuals.

A Deep Dive into Community Partnerships and Mental Health at MACO 2024

Join us for an insightful episode recorded live at MACO 2024 in Ocean City, where we explore the dynamic energy and impactful conversations happening over a few incredible days. My co-hosts Beth Ann Dorman, CEO of For All Seasons, and  guest Lester Davis, VP and Chief of Staff to the CEO at CareFirst, kick off the day with a deep discussion on innovative community partnerships and their critical role in mental health support.

We delve into the importance of immediate access to mental health services. The conversation highlights real-life examples of how these partnerships are addressing urgent needs and fostering community resilience.

Later, we welcome Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman and Secretary Jake Day from the Department of Housing and Community Development to discuss the intersection of mental health, housing, and community development. They share insights on innovative solutions, such as telehealth and broadband expansion, to ensure mental health services are accessible to all, including rural and underserved communities.

Don't miss this engaging episode that brings to light the collaborative efforts and innovative strategies making a real difference in mental health and community support.

Nopixafterdark at MACO 2024 ft For All Seasons CEO Beth Anne Dorman & Maryland Governor Wes Moore

You may have seen Maryland Governor Wes Moore speaking at the DNC. Last week, the CEO of For All Season Inc  Beth Anne Dorman  and Aaron Dante the host of  NoPixAfterDark podcast had the opportunity to sit down with him at MACo to discuss the critical importance of mental health.

In our conversation, Governor Moore shared, "Being able to deal with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is so important because oftentimes we're talking about people who are suffering the consequence of something that they're not responsible [for]. As a kid who came up with a multitude of ACEs that came up against me, if there were not people and systems in place that allowed me to understand that the world was bigger than what was just directly in front of me, or the circumstances I was born into, or the circumstances that happened to me after I was born, then I would not be here right now, and definitely not as a 63rd governor of the state of Maryland." Catch the full episode to hear more of his insights and why mental health matters for all of us.

 

#MentalHealthMatters #ForAllSeasons #NoPixAfterDark #ACEs #WesMoore #Maryland #MACo

NoPixAfterDark Exclusive Fleet Week Interview with Three Star Lieutenant General Brian W. Cavanaugh

Join us for an engaging conversation with Lieutenant General Brian W. Cavanaugh, a proud Baltimore native and one of the highest-ranking African Americans in the Marines. We explore his remarkable journey from growing up in Northwood, Baltimore, to attending Baltimore Polytech and the Naval Academy, and ultimately serving 39 years in the military. Kavanaugh shares his unexpected path to the Naval Academy, his extensive service including a combat tour in Iraq, and his reflections on living in places like Okinawa, Japan. This episode is rich with insights into his life, career, and the profound impact his experiences have had on his family.

We also celebrate Lieutenant General Brian W. Cavanaugh's impressive career and contributions to the community, emphasizing his role as a hometown hero and a role model for young people in Baltimore. As we look forward to his upcoming retirement, we discuss plans for a relaxed and meaningful crab cake outing in Northeast Baltimore, reflecting on his inspiring journey and the positive impact he has had on the community. Don't miss this heartfelt tribute to a distinguished military leader who has made significant strides and remains deeply connected to his Baltimore roots.

Bio:

Lieutenant General Brian W. Cavanaugh assumed the duties as Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic; Commander, Marine Forces Command; and Commander, Marine Forces Northern Command on 30 August 2022.

A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Lieutenant General Cavanaugh earned his commission through the United States Naval Academy in 1990 and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1992. He served with HMH-462, HMH-362, and HMX-1. He commanded HMH-362 in Iraq during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and MAG-36 during multiple disaster relief efforts in Asia.

As a General Officer, he served as Deputy Commander, U.S. Marine Forces Pacific; Deputy Director for Operations, Joint Staff J-3; Assistant Deputy Commandant, Programs, Headquarters Marine Corps, Programs and Resources Department; and as Commanding General, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Lieutenant General Cavanaugh’s other staff assignments include instructor at Officer Candidates School; Aide-de-Camp to the Chief of Naval Operations; Joint Doctrine Branch Chief, Joint Staff; Executive Assistant, Vice Director Joint Staff; Director of the Commandant of the Marine Corps’ Safety Division; and Marine Military Assistant to the 75th Secretary of the Navy.

Lieutenant General Cavanaugh’s education includes a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the United States Naval Academy, an MBA from Webster University and a Master of Science in National Resource Strategy from the National Defense University’s Industrial College of the Armed Forces.

He is also an MIT Seminar XXI Fellow. Lieutenant General Cavanaugh has accumulated over 3,000 flight hours, primarily in the CH-53D/E.

NoPixAfterDark 271: OUTCALLS BAND ft Britt Olsen-Ecker & Melissa Wimbish

In the latest episodes of Nopixafterdark, Aaron interviews the OUTCALLS BAND ft Britt Olsen-Ecker & Melissa Wimbish. They discussed what it takes to be a professional in the music industry and in life, and how long it can take to consider oneself a professional. The conversation also touches on the role of sexism in denying women the professional title, and how they have to push back against tired tropes. All this, plus insights on their music and new single! #Nopixafterdark #OUTCALLSBAND #womeninmusic

Bio Award-winning operatic pop duo Outcalls creates genre-defying music, and is one of the most in demand musical acts in Baltimore. Led by graduates of the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University, Britt Olsen-Ecker and Melissa Wimbish have released three studio albums, including the most recent Greatest Hits, Vol.

Email: outcallsband@gmail.com

Website: Www.Outcallsband.com

Instagram: @outcallsband

Facebook: @outcallsband

 

NoPixAfterDark EP 270: Brittany Wisniewski Author & Co-Founder of trash cleanup organization Hands On HIIT

Brittany Wisniewski is a best selling author of “Keeping Well: An Anti-Cancer Guide to Remain in Remission”, a detoxification therapist and Co-Founder of trash cleanup organization Hands On HIIT . After losing her mother to breast cancer, she transformed her pain into a passion by studying natural health which opened her eyes to The Earth’s severe environmental issues. She started Hands On HIIT with friends during the global pandemic to provide Baltimore City citizens the opportunity to take care of themselves and give back. The event connects the community through fitness classes, cleanups and happy hours . So far, Hands On HIIT has removed over 12,000 lbs of trash and counting from cities and beaches all over the United States.

NPAD EP 269. “Stronger Together” ft Altmann R. Pannell MPA, Davion Percy & Maurice Simpson Jr.,JD

In the latest episode of Nopixafterdark, Aaron sat down with Altmann R. Pannell, MPA, Director of Government Relations over the Mid-Atlantic Region Coca-Cola Consolidated Davion Percy, Vice President of Community Relations & Public Policy with Luminis Health, and Maurice Simpson, Jr., JD Senior State Government Affairs Manager at Constellation- these three Government Relations Executives have been friends for over a decade. They shared their life stories and discussed how they became friends while working together in Prince George's County Government. Their motto is “Stronger Together”. Tune in to learn more about their journey and how they continue to make an impact in their communities and Annapolis. #Nopixafterdark #communitysupport i#governmentrelations #Friendship #Annapolis

Bios

Altmann R. Pannell is a native of Petersburg, Virginia, who began his career of service through his achievement of the Boy Scouts of America, Eagle Scout Rank during his matriculation through high school. Altmann earned a B.A. in African American Studies with a focus in Public Policy from the University of Maryland College Park in 2009 and a Master of Public Administration with a focus in Public Policy from Bowie State University in 2016. Upon graduation, Altmann began his career in the arena of politics and government relations serving under three elected officials in the State of Maryland for over 10 years. In March 2016, Altmann began working in the Non-Profit Sector of the District of Columbia for Food & Friends Inc., as the Manager of Intergovernmental Relations and Public Funding.

After a successful service career with Food & Friends, Altmann continued to strive for higher aspirations and worked for the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA) in 2019 as the Director of Government and External Affairs. During his tenure at IACLEA, Altmann directly interacted with and advocated to, members of the U.S. Congress, the Executive Administration, and federal government agencies in the public safety arena. In pursuit of enhancing best practices and striving to find solutions to problems in the policing community, Altmann worked tirelessly to bring different perspectives to difficult conversations addressing community policing in America. During his time at IACLEA, he was also tasked to lead the COVID-19 Rapid Response Task Force for the nation’s Colleges and Universities at the onset and throughout the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the early Spring of 2021, Altmann was presented with an excellent opportunity to join Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc., as the Director of Government Relations over the Mid-Atlantic Region. Coca-Cola Consolidated is the largest independent bottler of Coca-Cola in the United States. Since that time, Altmann has continued to work to raise awareness surrounding the positive economic, environmental, social, and sustainable impact that his company and The Coca-Cola brand have on the region and country as a whole.

Davion Percy is a Government Relations Executive with nearly 2 decades of experience in Government and Politics. He began his career by working in Prince George’s County Government. While with the county, he worked for 5 years. The executive branch and another 5 years in the legislative branch before taking so government relations job at Alexander & Cleaver, P.A. (A&C). He quickly rose through the ranks of A&C, becoming Vice President of Government Relations before leaving to launch his firm, Percy Public Affairs. He now serves Luminis Health as its Vice President of Community Relations & Public Policy.

 

Maurice Simpson Jr. JD has established himself as a leader in government, grassroots politics, and the private sector. As Senior Manager of State Government Affairs for Constellation, the nation's largest clean energy provider, Maurice leads the company's legislative and regulatory efforts to modernize energy policies for customers in Maryland, DC and Delaware. Prior to joining Constellation, Maurice spent over 7 years in public service as an aide to the Prince George's County Council. He was elected president of the Prince George's County Young Democrats and served as an At-Large Member of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) Youth Council. With over 60,000 votes, Maurice was elected one of the youngest Delegates to the 2016 Democratic National Convention. Maurice is native of Prince George's County, Maryland where he serves on the board of Ardmore Enterprises, a local non-profit that empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He is an active member of the Prince George's County NAACP and First Baptist Church of Glenarden.