Episodes
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Monday Feb 03, 2025
A Taste of Success: Dr. Lance London's Culinary Journey
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Join host Aaron Dante on the No Pix After Dark Podcast as he sits down with Dr. Lance London, the visionary behind the Carolina Kitchen. This episode delves into the inspiring story of a black-owned business making waves in Owens Mills with its new plant-based offerings.
Dr. London shares his journey from aspiring dentist to successful restaurateur, driven by his father's entrepreneurial spirit. He recounts overcoming personal and professional challenges, including a devastating fire that led to a triumphant comeback, opening the doors to a new restaurant in Largo, Maryland.
In this engaging conversation, discover how Dr. London combines his marketing prowess with culinary innovation to cater to diverse tastes, including the growing demand for plant-based options. Learn about the exciting expansion plans for Carolina Kitchen and the upcoming launch of Ma Pearls Louisiana Kitchen and Grill.
Dr. London also offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, focus, and a strong work ethic. Don't miss this episode filled with insights, inspiration, and a passion for food that promises to tantalize your taste buds.

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
In this episode of the No Pix After Dark Podcast, host Aaron Dante sits down with Cynthia Cifuentes, Vice President of Brand, Communications, and Community Engagement at Kaiser Permanente. Broadcasting from Washington, D.C., they explore Cynthia's fascinating journey from a Hollywood publicist to a pivotal community figure.
Cynthia shares her passion for community work, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region, discussing impactful initiatives like building community resource centers and creating opportunities for youth in Baltimore. She provides insights on addressing social factors of health and fostering collaborations for community betterment.
The conversation delves into the importance of mental health frameworks in schools, empowering youth through educational programs, and promoting diverse small business growth. Cynthia emphasizes the significance of building alongside communities to ensure sustainable growth and development.
Don't miss this engaging discussion on how Kaiser Permanente is making strides in transforming lives and healthcare in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Monday Dec 23, 2024
"Baltimore's Culinary Stars: Behind the Scenes with Top Chefs"
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
.Explore the fascinating journeys of top chefs in Baltimore as they share their culinary inspirations and experiences. From humble beginnings to becoming culinary icons, these chefs reveal the challenges and triumphs of running successful restaurants in Baltimore. Discover the passion and dedication that drives them to create memorable dishes and uplift Baltimore's vibrant food scene. Enjoy exclusive insights into their culinary collaborations, community impact, and hopes for the future. Join us for an engaging and enlightening exploration of Baltimore's diverse culinary landscape.

Monday Dec 16, 2024
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Explore the latest episode of the No Pix After Dark Podcast, where host Aaron Dante sits down with Israel Rocha, the Regional President for Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States. Discover how Kaiser Permanente is revolutionizing healthcare in the Mid-Atlantic with its groundbreaking integrated model, offering a seamless patient experience and unique healthcare solutions.
Dive into the story of Rocha's inspiring journey in healthcare and his transformative initiatives in patient care, and learn how Kaiser Permanente's focus on prevention and accessibility is making waves across the region
Ready to learn how the future of healthcare is unfolding right here in the Mid-Atlantic? Hit play on this must-listen episode of No Pix After Dark!

Tuesday Nov 26, 2024
Revolutionizing Healthcare: Inside Kaiser Permanente's Integrated Approach
Tuesday Nov 26, 2024
Tuesday Nov 26, 2024
Join us in this enlightening episode of the No Pix After Dark Podcast, hosted by Aaron Dante, as we delve into the transformative world of Kaiser Permanente's healthcare model. In conversation with Dr. Tinisha J Cheatham and Dr. Jacqueline C. Shepard-Lewis, we uncover the groundbreaking strategies that Kaiser Permanente employs to extend the lifespan of their patients in the Mid-Atlantic by focusing heavily on quality and prevention.
Recorded live at the state-of-the-art Kaiser Permanente Lutherville Timonium Medical Center, we explore their integrated healthcare system, characterized by collaborative medical records and cutting-edge technology, providing a seamless experience for patients. Discover how remote health monitoring, telemedicine, and preventative care programs stand at the forefront of Kaiser Permanente's mission to keep patients not only living longer but enjoying healthier lives.

Monday Oct 21, 2024
Crafting Connections: The Story of Wisher Vodka
Monday Oct 21, 2024
Monday Oct 21, 2024
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.

Monday Oct 07, 2024
Monday Oct 07, 2024
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!

Monday Sep 30, 2024
Monday Sep 30, 2024
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.

Monday Sep 16, 2024
A Night at MACO: Conversations with Maryland's Leaders
Monday Sep 16, 2024
Monday Sep 16, 2024
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.
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Thursday Sep 05, 2024
Thursday Sep 05, 2024
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.

Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
A Deep Dive into Community Partnerships and Mental Health at MACO 2024
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Tuesday Sep 03, 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.