A culture & community podcast created by Aaron Dante to record the fascinating life stories of his friends, family and people that have stories that need to be told! Come along on this journey with Human Interest Stories
Episodes
Thursday Dec 14, 2023
Thursday Dec 14, 2023
Aaron interviewed artist Emma Childs one of the upcoming artists on the scene. Emma discusses her childhood and how she always loved art. She talked about how in college she overheard a conversation among her professors saying she will be a great artistans has that it factor. She sells her art all across the world and if you work at the new Amazon Headquarters in Virginia her work will be on the walls.
Emma Childs is an American-born painter. The Baltimore native uses eloquent shapes and thoughtful pops of color to create objects that physically interact with their environment Through her minimalist approach, Childs transforms experiences and emotions into simplified forms, color, and geometric edges. The results are eye-catching compositions, which tell complicated and interconnected narratives in an accessible way. Childs’s paintings are layered depictions of existence in the worlds we build around ourselves.
Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
aron interviewed Matthew Lengel Chair of the Pratt Contemporaries and Chris Lewis Individual and Corporate Giving Manager of the Enoch Pratt library. The Pratt Contemporaries are a diverse group of cosmopolitans who seek to raise awareness of the Enoch Pratt Free Library as a vital part of Baltimore’s identity. Matthew, Chris and I talked about one of their premier events that the Pratt Contemporaries have ever year and it’s called the Black & White Party. The Black & White Party is January 27th at the Central Library . The Pratt Contemporaries announced this year's theme is New Orleans, Mon Amour.
The money raised all goes to Children and Teen programming at the Pratt Library. This helps with literacy with Baltimore youth. Listen in on how you can join the Pratt Contemporaries and why joining has so many amazing benefits.
Some key dates for the Black & White Party. December 3rd for certain membership levels tickets are available now. On January 8th, all Pratt Contemporaries members can purchase their tickets during the presale. The general public sale will be January 11th. https://www.prattlibrary.org/support-... https://www.instagram.com/prattcontem...
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Joining the 'NoPixAfterDark' podcast is a mastermind in the digital marketing arena, a 15-year military veteran and former strategic intelligence officer with deep-seated expertise in cyber and tech. Katheryne Womack is the Principal Consultant for WSI, one of the oldest and largest digital marketing companies in the world. There is more to the world of digital marketing than social media and advertising. Through data-driven and comprehensive strategies, she creates a level playing field for local businesses, ensuring they are discovered by the people who need them. As a consultant, she guides business owners and marketing execs alike through the complex web of digital marketing. Renowned for her strategic mindset, Katheryne excels at pinpointing growth opportunities and leveraging data to sculpt marketing strategies that deliver measurable results. Beyond her professional prowess, she also brings a few fun facts: she speaks Korean fluently and has successfully negotiated and orchestrated a 5 jet flyover for a NASCAR race, a testament to her dynamic background and ability to deliver the extraordinary. Katheryne can be found everywhere- but be sure to connect with her on Instagram @WSIWorld_DMV
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Aaron interviewed Lauren from Harry Homeowner Instagram Page. Lauren and her mom were Real Estate agents and they wanted help teach new homeowners how to take care of their homes after the purchase on IG. The IG page shifted into DIY projects building bars and other things around the house. The audience grew and Lauren started sharing personal style and everyday items that people might need and more for the home. Thank you Lauren for being a guest.
Bio
Hi! I’m Lauren aka Harryhomeowner. I’m a Baltimore native, busy mom of 3, and lover of DIY projects and home design. After having my first child I left my 12 year career in teaching to be a stay at home mom. I quickly learned that I needed creative fulfillment outside of motherhood and slowly began teaching myself DIY projects to update our home. I realized that if I could transform a space, anyone could, and I began sharing my projects with others. My instagram page, @harryhomeowner is devoted to giving you the confidence and inspiration to create a functional and beautiful home on a budget! Simple woodwork, peel and stick wallpaper, and a LOT of paint have helped me to transform my 1960s house into a relaxing and beautiful home for our family.
Tuesday Nov 21, 2023
Tuesday Nov 21, 2023
Aaron interviewed Kelly Schuit Owner, Managing Partner and Associate Broker The W Home Group of Next Step Realty in this episode. We spoke about how she got into the real estate game. She talked about how she learned marketing, advertising & sales strategies while working for a media company. She transferred those skills into the Real Estate game. You can see her companies signage in gyms, highways and all over social media. The W Group is one of the top producers in the state of Maryland. Kelly drops and lot of jewels and gems in this interview.
Kelly prides herself on not only being an active agent in the Maryland real estate market, but also on being able to share her insights, experience, and advice with agents looking to grow their own real estate careers With years of experience in Maryland's dynamic real estate industry, Kelly has built a reputation for putting her client's needs first, which she believes is at the heart of her success. As a native Marylander, she knows the ins and outs of the many unique neighborhoods and cities Maryland has to offer and is adept at navigating her clients to the ideal neighborhood and home for their family.
Kelly has a reputation for putting her client’s needs first, which she believes is at the heart of her success. As a native Marylander, she has experience in many unique neighborhoods and cities Maryland offers. She is adept at navigating her clients to the ideal neighborhood and home for their family. Kelly’s strong background in advertising translates to solid negotiation abilities, attention to detail, and marketing expertise. Kelly prides herself on her responsiveness, exceptional customer service, and follow-through.
Tuesday Nov 14, 2023
Tuesday Nov 14, 2023
Aaron interviewed Sonja Thorsvik, CEO and Host of Gigging for Gold. Sonja Thorsvik, is an entrepreneur and podcast host with a dynamic blend of expertise as a marketer, writer, and seasoned traveler. We discussed her journey as entrepenuer and working all across the world. Gigging For Gold podcast is crafted with a singular vision: to provide actionable insights, real-world wisdom, and practical strategies
At Gigging For Gold, our mission transcends the typical business advisory platform. We are dedicated to being the catalyst that propels self-employed entrepreneurs not just to meet but to exceed their aspirations, specifically in achieving that coveted first six-figure year. Our approach is holistic, understanding that success in the freelance world is not just about hard skills, but also about the nuanced interplay of finance, innovative tools, and, crucially, the right mindset
Ultimately, Gigging For Gold isn't just a podcast; it's a community and a movement. We are committed to empowering self-employed entrepreneurs, helping them unlock their full potential, and guiding them towards a future where financial independence isn't just a dream, but a well-earned reality. Sonja Thorsvik stands at the forefront of innovative marketing and entrepreneurial coaching. With her dynamic blend of expertise as a marketer, podcast host, writer, and seasoned traveler, Sonja is a true purveyor of fabulous lives. Her professional journey is marked by a dedication to excellence and a passion for empowering others to achieve their full potential.
As the visionary founder of Monkey Fist Co., Sonja has established herself as a leading figure in the marketing world, particularly in the luxury sector. Beyond her marketing prowess, she is the spirited host of Gigging For Gold, a podcast that has become a beacon of inspiration and practical guidance for self-employed entrepreneurs. Drawing from her impressive 11-year journey of working remotely, she offers invaluable insights into scaling income and achieving financial independence. Her podcast and articles go beyond mere tips, providing a holistic view of entrepreneurship that encompasses finance, the right tools, and a mindset geared towards growth and abundance.
Sonja’s ability to connect her experiences as a world traveler with her professional endeavors by bringing global insights and diverse perspectives to her work makes her a relatable and inspiring figure for her audience and clients.
WSI Marylandhttps://www.wsiworld.com/katheryne-womack?utm_campaign=gmb
Baltimore Peninsula
https://baltimorepeninsula.com/
Transcript
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Aaron Dante interviewed Angela Schaffer - Executive Director, The Fund for Education Abroad. We discussed how she went abroad during High School and college (she was the first person from her family to travel overseas). Going on those trips shaped who she is now and as the Executive Director, The Fund for Education Abroad she helps raise funds for college kids to see the world.
Angela (Angie) Schaffer is an international educator, grants professional, and entrepreneur. Angie grew up in Baltimore City and was a first-generation college graduate. At Goucher College, where Angie earned a B.A. in International Relations, she served as Director of Sponsored Research and Corporate & Foundation Relations and Assistant Director of International Studies. Between her positions with Goucher, Angie served as Senior Director of Program Development at Cultural Vistas. Angie also served as ARO and Program Officer with TPG Cultural Exchange, a J-1 Teacher Visitor sponsor. She started her career in education abroad at the University of Maryland, and holds a Master of Arts degree in International Education Policy.
Throughout her studies and career, Angela has focused on underrepresented students and issues that affect people in or from primarily urban areas. She has convinced many friends and colleagues to support efforts to establish scholarships and funding for young people to study abroad. She has written several articles about the value of experiential learning and exchange, and has led education abroad programs and workshops in Japan, India, and South Africa. In Summer 2019, Angie co-led a Fulbright-Hays Group Project Abroad for Baltimore-area educators to Rwanda and Mauritius. Bio from website Fund for Education Abroad
Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
Aaron interviewed Kari Dern the CEO of Become Spellbound. We talked about her journey from corporate America to entrepreneur selling jewelry! She worked in the beverage industry and was one of top reps but decided she needed a change. Kari was making jewelry as a hobby living in Manhattan and she decided to start to sell some of her jewelry on instagram. From there the demand went up and and she has not looked back! She now resides in Baltimore
Kari has been featured in magazines from Los Angeles to Baltimore. You don’t want to miss this episode!
Sponsors of the Show
United Way of Central Maryland
Zekes Coffee
For All Seasons Inc.
WSI Marylandhttps://www.wsiworld.com/katheryne-womack?utm_campaign=gmb
Baltimore Peninsula
https://baltimorepeninsula.com/
Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
Aaron interviewed Aaron C. Jones CEO of Bushelers of Baltimore a custom alteration shop. In this interview we learn about Aaron’s journey from an athlete to Savannah College of Art And Design. He talked about how he has worked with people all across the US. You learn about his business and how he takes care of his customers like family. You don’t want to miss this episode!
Busheler (Bushelman) A person who alters or repairs garments. (not to be confused with a 'tailor'; who specializes in the making, mending, and altering of clothes, especially suits)
https://www.bushelersofbmore.com
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Aaron and Jaz sat down for a spirited conversation about her journey in the art world!Her murals are all around Baltimore. She talked about Brush-Mural festival that will be happening this week! We also discussed doing Murals at the Enoch Pratt Library and how her work was highlighted in Artscape 2023! You don’t want to miss this episode!
BRUSH Mural Fest is Baltimore's hyper-local mural festival created for artists, by artists. BRUSH is proud to present five of Baltimore’s most talented female and non-binary teams made up of nine Pro muralists and four Rising Stars (emerging artists mentored by the Pros) joining together to paint, educate, and inspire through five murals installed across the city. BRUSH Mural Fest culminates in a day of outdoor festivities at Lexington Market Plaza on Saturday, October 21st from 11 am to 5pm.
AfroLatina artist, Jaz Erenberg painted her first mural in 2017 and immediately knew that if she could find a way to engage the community around her, the mural could be that much more impactful! Over the last 6 years, her practice has grown through collaboration with communities to build creative ways to make them feel seen and heard throughout the process. Using workshops and events, communities have become an integral part of how she creates public artwork. When a community is involved in how their space can be transformed, their sense of ownership and pride is reignited and they become a stronger, more connected community. “I love working in public, my favorite thing to do is pull people off the street and put a brush in their hand. Some are hesitant, but once that mural is finished, there is such a sense of pride and renewed ownership within that community. People who walk past it every day get to say, I did that!” From her website.
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Aaron interviewed Sonjie DeCaires the CEO of Sonjè Productions. Her production company has produced for AFRAM, Congressional Black Congress, CIAA to Star Island South Beach Miami. She has a successful business that has been around for 17 years! We discuss how she wanted to be a entertainment lawyer but had a passion for production and event planning. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Sonjie DeCaires, CEO of Sonjé Productions. I started my career in Television and Radio before making the transition to entrepreneurship. My first client was the Simmons Lathan Group, which was launching a new channel called "Hip Hop on Demand" , on this new technology called "on demand" with Comcast, and they needed content for their channel. Because I worked in radio, we had access to artists' interviews, so we were able to form a partnership. After working as the on air talent and morning show producer for the #1 morning show in Baltimore, I ventured out on my own and never looked back.
My company, Sonjé Productions, is a full service events, promotions, and marketing company. 15+ years in business and it keeps getting better. www.sonjieproductions.com
Sponsors of the Show
United Way of Central Maryland
Zekes Coffee
For All Seasons Inc.
WSI Maryland
https://www.wsiworld.com/katheryne-womack?
Baltimore Peninsula
https://baltimorepeninsula.com/