No Pix After Dark Podcast

Lena Waithe on Risk, Vulnerability, and Bringing “trinity” to Baltimore Centerstage

On this episode of No Pix After Dark, host Aaron Dante braves a Baltimore blizzard to sit down with Lena Waithe at Baltimore Center Stage to discuss the new play she wrote "trinity". They talk about the leap from big screen to stage, the emotional vulnerability of live theater, and why Baltimore was the right place to launch the production.

Waithe reflects on rehearsals, the play’s focus on shared humanity rather than identity labels, and how the city’s energy shaped the work. Trinity runs Feb 12–Mar 8, 2026, at Baltimore Center Stage — a conversation about risk, art, and community.

S7 E3: Leading with Care: GBMC Healthcare New CEO and President Dr. Paari Gopalakrishnan, MD, MBA

Host Aaron Dante interviewed GBMC’s Healthcare new CEO and President, Dr. Paari Gopalakrishnan, about his journey from hospitalist to health system leader. Why GBMC’s community focus and Baldrige-winning culture drew him to Maryland, and how the pandemic shaped his approach to communication and leadership.

They discuss GBMC’s strengths—from maternity care to hospice services—Dr. G’s people-first priorities (safety and workforce support) and practical changes, such as tailored communication strategies and telehealth adoption, to better serve diverse community needs.

S7: E2: Vaccines Save Lives: GBMC Pediatric Chair Debunks the Myths

Host Aaron Dante sits down with Dr. Nguyen, Chair of Pediatrics at GBMC, to confront common myths about vaccines and medications, explain why vaccines remain essential, and clear up recent claims linking acetaminophen and vaccines to autism.

They discuss how parents can evaluate health information online, the importance of trusting evidence-based pediatric guidance, GBMC's vaccine policies, and resources for reliable parenting and vaccine information.

Theresa T.H. Nguyen, MD, MS, FAAP

Dr. Theresa Nguyen has devoted more than 25 years to the care and well-being of pediatric patients and families at GBMC, where she serves as the first female Chair of the Department of Pediatrics. A pioneering clinician, educator, and advocate, she is known for her visionary leadership, holistic approach to care, and steadfast dedication to children’s health and physician wellness.

Dr. Nguyen earned her degree in biomedical engineering from Johns Hopkins University, followed by her medical degree and master’s in health policy from New York University. She completed her pediatric residency and a Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholars fellowship at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, then pursued a two-year fellowship at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, grounding her practice in the principles of mind-body-spirit well-being.

At GBMC, Dr. Nguyen has served as Assistant Chair of Pediatrics, lead provider of the GBMC Pediatric Group, and Site Director for the Johns Hopkins Pediatric Core Clerkship. She is also an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins and an active leader in the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) at both state and national levels.

Under her leadership, the Department of Pediatrics has expanded its clinical reach and strengthened community partnerships. She restructured GBMC’s Child Maltreatment Program with the Baltimore County Child Advocacy Center, improving provider and community education. She also guided collaboration across the Pediatric ED and Inpatient Unit through the 2022 respiratory tripledemic and partnered to develop a multipronged strategy for the administration of RSV immune globulin to the highest-risk infants, efforts that now include maternal RSV immunization and expanded access through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. She also collaborated with the Health Services Cost Review Commission (HSCRC) to ensure accurate statewide vaccine modeling and funding to enable immune globulin administration for all newborn infants for the 2025 RSV season.

A passionate advocate for mental health, Dr. Nguyen co-chairs the Maryland AAP Mental Health Committee, serves as Ambassador for Youth Suicide Prevention and Trauma Informed Care, and co-hosted both the Youth Suicide Prevention and Trauma Informed Care symposia in 2024–2025. She also leads physician wellness initiatives, co-founding GBMC’s Medical Staff Wellness Committee and introducing impactful programs such as the Wellness Oasis Room and CARES peer crisis support.

Her career exemplifies compassionate, forward-thinking leadership that uplifts families, empowers physicians, and shapes the future of child health.

 

S7 E1: From Basement Chats to the Boardroom: Aaron Dante’s Podcast Journey

In this season premiere of No Pix After Dark, guest host Liz Cornish interviews Aaron Dante as they explore how his podcast grew from casual basement conversations into a full-fledged business. They discuss how the show opened doors to regional opportunities, the importance of doing your homework for interviews, valuing your work as a creator, and staying authentic while expanding into new markets.

This episode reflects on personal growth, community engagement in Baltimore, and lessons for creators looking to turn passion projects into sustainable businesses.

Dine United: Celebrating United Way’s 100th at True Chesapeake

Join host Aaron Dante at True Chesapeake for a lively discussion about Dine United, United Way Central Maryland’s restaurant-driven campaign celebrating the organization’s 100th year. Panelists Julie Felderman, Simone Phillips and Chef Zach Mills explain how participating restaurants support ALICE (asset-limited, income-constrained, employed) workers and spotlight community-minded dining options.

Learn how local eateries are giving back, discover featured cocktails and menu pairings, and find participating restaurants at UWCM.org/dineunited — the initiative runs through October 18.

Part 2 of Preakness 150: Celebrating Tradition and Transforming Baltimore

Welcome to the No Pix After Dark Podcast, where host Aaron Dante takes you on an immersive journey into the heart of the Preakness 150 celebrations, live from the historic Pimilico Racecourse in Northwest Baltimore. In this special episode, delve into insightful conversations with business and tourism leaders as they explore the significant impact of Preakness on Baltimore's economy and community.

Join industry experts like Mac Campbell, Executive Director of the Baltimore Convention Center, Meghan McCorkell Executive Director of Live Baltimore, Terry Hasseltine Executive Director of Maryland Sports Commission  and more as they share their perspectives on how Preakness revitalizes local commerce and strengthens community bonds. From discussions on economic growth initiatives to strategies for attracting international visitors, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of Preakness’s role in shaping Baltimore's future.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Preakness Festival, featuring a diverse mix of events and activities that highlight the city's unique cultural fabric. Discover why Preakness stands as a pivotal sporting and community event that continues to drive innovation, fostering a renewed sense of pride among Baltimoreans and visitors alike.

Celebrating Preakness 150: A Landmark Year for Baltimore

Join host Aaron Dante for a special live edition of the No Pix After Dark Podcast, recorded from Preakness 150 at the historic Pellicle Racecourse in Baltimore. In this episode, Aaron talks to business and tourism leaders about the significant economic impact of the Preakness festival and its importance to the city and state.

Discover insights from key figures, including the Maryland First Lady Dawn Moore, Craig Thompson Chairman of the Maryland Stadium Authority, Maryland State Comptroller Brooke Lierman and Al Hutchinson President and CEO of Visit Baltimore , on how the Preakness Festival is shaping the future of commerce and community. Explore the spirit of the Preakness Festival through exciting events, fashion, and the vibrant culture that attracts visitors and showcases Baltimore's charm.

The episode highlights the festival's unique role in bringing people together and promoting Baltimore worldwide. Whether you're drawn by elite horse racing, community events, or the allure of historic Park Heights, you'll learn why Preakness 150 is a momentous occasion deserving global attention.

Black Excellence and Innovation in our Baltimore Hospitality community.

This episode delves into the vibrant stories of four remarkable individuals who made their way to Baltimore, carving unique paths in the hospitality and culinary industries.

The incredible panelists—Travis Bell from Black Acre Roastery, Al Hutchinson of Visit Baltimore  , Damian Mosley from Blacksauce Kitchen, and Juan Webster of Montage International. Their honest and heartfelt stories about leadership and purpose left the audience feeling inspired and motivated.

I had the honor of partnering with the Enoch Pratt Free Library & Maryland State Library Resource Center during Black History Month, as we celebrated and honored Black Excellence and Innovation in our Baltimore Hospitality community.

Discover how these leaders are driving diversity and inclusion in their fields and impacting the community with initiatives that foster connection and growth. Join us for an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and the power of building community in an iconic American city.

Baltimore's Culinary Renaissance: Celebrating Diversity and Creativity

In this vibrant episode,Jasmine Norton  from Urban Oyster, Sarah Simington from Blue Moon & Blue Moon Too, Jesse Sandlin from Dive, Bunnys, and Sally O’s, and Heather Smith from Swill by Blacksmiths shared their culinary inspirations and love for Baltimore. These m  chefs discuss their inspirations, challenges, and the unique stories behind their beloved restaurants.

Highlighting the importance of community and authenticity, they share their visions for the city's culinary future and the ways in which food can bridge cultural divides. Join us for an insightful conversation that celebrates the diversity and creativity of Baltimore's food scene.

From New York to Baltimore: A Doctor's Journey Dr. Sharon

In this episode of the No Pix After Dark Podcast, host Aaron Dante sits down with Dr. Sharon, an inspiring emergency medicine doctor from Johns Hopkins. Dr. Sharon shares her captivating journey from Long Island, New York to Baltimore, Maryland, weaving through her medical education and varied experiences across major cities.

From her pivotal decision to enter emergency medicine to her firsthand account of working on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Sharon delves into the challenges and triumphs of a healthcare professional. She offers insightful reflections on the dynamic nature of her job, the impact of technology, and the pressing issues within the healthcare system today.

In addition to medicine, Dr. Sharon opens up about her personal life, her love for running, and how she manages to balance her intense career with well-being. Join us as we explore the human side of medicine with stories from the ER (Emergency Room now known as the Emergency Department), coping strategies during uncertain times, and the unwavering commitment to helping others.

Backstage with Broadway's Best: The Inspiring Journey of Keith Bennett

Join Aaron Dante on the No Pix After Dark Podcast as he sits down with Keith  Bennett, the show director for the Lion King's national Rafiki Tour, during his return to Baltimore. In this heartfelt episode, Bennett shares the trials and triumphs of his career, from his beginnings in Baltimore to his current position at the helm of one of Broadway's most beloved productions. His journey is one of resilience, determination, and a testament to the power of discipline and community support.

Hear about Bennett's path from local theater in Maryland to taking on Broadway, facing hardships, and finding joy and purpose in guiding new talent in the theater industry. This episode is a celebration of passion, hard work, and the unwavering spirit required to succeed in the demanding world of theater. Tune in to be inspired by personal stories of overcoming challenges, embracing opportunities, and the power of returning to one's roots.