No Pix After Dark Podcast

Join host Aaron Dante and a panel of GBMC experts—Dr. Dominique Allen OB-GYN at Capital Women's Care, Dr. Joan Blomquist, Chair of Gynecology at GBMC HealthCare and Dr. Elissa Trieu, Gynecologist and Surgeon at GBMC HealthCare—as they explain perimenopause and menopause, common symptoms (hot flashes, irregular bleeding, sleep disruption, mood and cognitive changes), when to see a doctor, and how hormone therapy guidance has evolved since the WHI study. The conversation covers individualized treatment choices (transdermal vs oral hormones, vaginal estrogen, nonhormonal options), minimally invasive technologies for fibroids and bleeding, health disparities in Maryland, and practical advice for patients and partners seeking reliable care and resources.

On "Feed the Feed," host Aaron Dante sits down with Baltimore food influencers Samantha (Baltimore Food Scene), Simone (Charm City Table), and Chris (Eat More, Be More) for a live panel at the Enoch Pratt Library discussing how they started, grew their platforms, and balance paid partnerships with authenticity. The episode highlights local favorites (Koco’s, Frank’s, Peter’s Inn), hidden gems, behind‑the‑scenes content tips, food trends, and the role creators play in boosting Baltimore’s culinary reputation.

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.

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What an unforgettable evening at the @prattlibrary alongside three of Baltimore’s James Beard Nominated Chefs: Cindy Wolf(@foremanwolf ), Steve Chu (@ekibenbaltimore ), and Carlos Raba (@bar_clavel, @nana_baltimore ). The event showcased the rich diversity of Baltimore’s culinary landscape and honored the vibrant spirit of the city. 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.

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!    

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.

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. 

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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: [email protected] Website: Www.Outcallsband.com Instagram: @outcallsband Facebook: @outcallsband  

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.

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.

Walter has been involved in education for almost 30 years. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, where he competed on the Men's basketball team. He later earned a Master of Arts from Bowie State University. He is currently engaged in doctoral research emphasizing educational leadership to improve secondary literacy outcomes. Walter has served as an educator at all levels and college. He has worked with students of all levels and abilities as well as led high schools on the eastern shore of Maryland, Annapolis, and Hyattsville, served as a Teacher and Math Specialist, and his work improving learning outcomes, he subsequently received the Nancy Grasmick Minority Achievement Award. Walter facilitated the transition as the first International Baccalaureate Primary Year's Programme in Anne Arundel County. As a result of his transformative work, he was awarded the Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leader Award. Before arriving at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, he was the founding principal of a school in Prince George's County, Maryland. He is a member of civic and professional organizations. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, where he serves as a mentor and is dedicated to community outreach. As a Secondary Commissioner for the Middle States Association, he works with distinguished school leaders to accredit early childhood through post-secondary, non-degree granting public, private, and faith-based educational institutions, including special purpose schools and learning services providers. Walter believes that the answers to the complex challenges in schools require highly focused attention and care to deepen our relationships and co-create service ministries. He believes in a collaborative school culture where partnerships ensure cura personalis is woven into daily interactions with faculty, staff, and students. His calling to serve at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School is grounded in the belief that we are called to live out the authentic desires to swell up within us. We use each day and each opportunity to become better versions of ourselves, and in this spiritual growth, we find ways to use our gifts in service and support of one another.

Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing Beth Anne Dorman, CEO of For All Seasons, the only non-profit behavioral health clinic and rape crisis center serving Maryland's Mid-Shore. We touched on some critical issues such as community, access, and crisis management, with the added bonus of recording live at a sold-out Girlfriends Weekend Retreat in St. Michael, Maryland. One of the most significant takeaways was their commitment to providing immediate care without wait times. It was an honor to have such a meaningful conversation and share it with all of you.   For All Seasons provides outpatient mental health, psychiatric, education, and rape crisis services to English and Spanish speaking communities regardless of one’s ability to pay. Trauma-certified therapists and psychiatrists provide a variety of treatment approaches and individualized care for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

NoPixAfterDark Live conversation series event at Baltimore Peninsula's ROOST continued on Thursday, March 7th. The  host Aaron Dante was joined by Award-Winning Chefs Catina Smith, Keyia Yalcin, and Amber Croom in celebration of Women's History Month. There was a food tasting provided by the Chefs before the show. We discussed an array of topics such as why did you get into the industry. What are some of your proudest achievements. How they overcame adversity in the culinary field being a woman. This is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Dr. Danielle McCamey is an acute care nurse practitioner, visionary leader and trailblazer in the nursing profession. She is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion. Her scholarly pursuits and fervent dedication are centered around propelling diversity and development within the nursing workforce. As the Assistant Dean for Strategic Partnerships at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Dr. McCamey leads initiatives to build and strengthen relationships with key leaders, including healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and community partners. She is also the founder and CEO of DNPs of Color, a national nonprofit organization that provides community, mentorship, and advocacy for nurses of color pursuing and holding doctoral degrees.

Amber is an Associate Principal at Ayers Saint Gross and leads the firm's practice in community and campus edge design. Trained as both an architect and planner, she works on projects that bridge across disciplines and scopes from feasibility studies for the Smithsonian Institution to campus master plans for Purdue University to neighborhood vision plans for East Baltimore. While she enjoys working on a wide variety of project types, Amber has a particular passion for creating thoughtful and sensitive planning and design solutions for communities in need. By sharing her knowledge, she works to elevate client and community voices in crafting the future of their neighborhoods. Amber is particularly proud of her work designing revitalization plans for East Baltimore and the Harlem Park neighborhood, some of the most historically disinvested neighborhoods in Baltimore. Her engagement and master planning efforts in Baltimore and Washington, D.C. have been awarded the Greater Baltimore Committee's Mayors Business Recognition Award and the American Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter's Award for Outstanding Regional or Comprehensive Plan. Amber leads the firm's People and Culture committee and is passionate about promoting gender and racial equity in the field of architecture. Outside the firm, she serves on the board of the Neighborhood Design Center, the board of the Baltimore Tree Trust, as a member of the Greater Baltimore Committee Economic Development Committee, and as a mentor with the Baltimore Design School. In 2021, Amber was included on the Daily Record's list of "Maryland's Top Women" for her professional achievements, community leadership, and service to others 

With a start in the Baltimore school system, most notably the historic Western Senior High School, Jada M. McCray, LCSW-C, began a lifelong dedication to education and growth. After receiving a Bachelor's Degree from Coppin State University, Jada moved on to the University of Maryland School of Social Work, where she received a Master's Degree of Social Work with Honors. After graduation, Jada launched her career as a Social Worker in the Child Protective Services Unit at The Baltimore County Department of Social Services. This eventually led to an active leadership role, introducing and implementing innovative programs such as Family Team Decision Making Meetings, which continue to help at risk families, social workers, and other community stakeholders find common ground. It was in this capacity that Jada discovered a passion for helping people to find mutual understanding and amiability within relationships. She further developed her clinical skills to begin training as a psychotherapist. Jada continued advancing her career and became a Licensed Certified Social Worker Clinical, a Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners Approved Supervisor, and a Certified Trauma Trained Therapist. With a continually growing love for mental health, Jada fully immersed herself into providing individual and family therapy, continuing her work and eventually becoming Director of Program Development at an area community mental health clinic, helping to grow the company from a small organization with 15 therapists to a major mental health provider with nearly 100 employees and 3 locations. Though having already succeeded greatly, Jada felt the call to forge new paths in the mental health field. In recent years, ada has become an entrepreneur. Presently, Jada M. McCray, LCSW-C, is the Co Owner and COO of Cornerstone Health Management, the founder and CEO of The Inspire Institute for Professional Development and Continuing Education, Founder of Joshua Homes, as well as the Co-Owner and COO for BTST Services Outpatient Mental Health Clinic, a mental health provider in Baltimore City, Prince George's County, Frederick County, Washington County. She wholeheartedly agrees with the agency's mission "to become the leader and trailblazer of both the health and social work fields..." In this capacity, Jada is a member of Baltimore County Schools Mental Health Committee, an Advisory Board Member of the Cecil County CSA, a Board Member of the Children's Guild and a member of the Charles Village Business Association. Most recently, Jada was honored as one of the "Women Who Move Maryland" given by the Baltimore Magazine.

Aaron recently had the pleasure of interviewing D. Watkins, a New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, writer, and 2024 Gordon Parks Fellow from Baltimore. During their conversation, they delved into Watkins' passion for reading and how he's committed to helping other creatives. Watkins also shared insights into his journey to becoming a bestselling author and TV writer for some of HBO's most popular shows “Slow Hustle” and . Check out the interview to learn from this accomplished writer and gain inspiration for your own creative journey. #DWatkins #NYTimes #BestsellingAuthor #HBO #GordonParksFellow #Baltimore #Creatives #WritingCommunity 

McNair is a Baltimore native who began his career as a recording artist and producer in his early teenage years. He landed a multi-million-dollar music contract with his mother help at Motown Records. This opportunity led his music group to work with Grammy-awarded music producers. They landed a feature in Jamie Foxx soundtrack for the action-comedy film Bait and made T.V. appearances on Soul Train, MTV2, and BET&106th & Park with hosts A.J. and Free. The group gained recognition in Vibe, Billboard, Sister 2 Sister magazine, and the media mogul radio show Wendy Williams. The group also performed in Tokyo, Japan, for the U.S. troops. After McNair music career, his ability to stay current with entertainment industry trends led him to the reality television space. He coordinated and co-produced the first fashion runway presentation for Coco &; Lucious Apparel&; during season three of &; Ice Loves Coco on E! at N.Y. Fashion Week in 2012. Shortly after, he worked closely with some of VH1 top reality stars to create content and enhance their careers. His expertise helped him broker successful brand deals and secure bookings for the BET Awards. McNair passion for music navigated his path to work with music executives like Brooklyn Johnny, known for kickstarting the career of Grammy award-winning artist Cardi B. McNair worked as the brand strategist to Pinky Cole, CEO of Slutty Vegan, a company valued at 100 million dollars. Today, he works as Pinky Cole Manager on her personal management team. He recently closed one of the most significant partnership deals of this decade, solidifying Slutty Vegan founder and CEO Pinky Cole as a development partner in Rye Street Market, a five billion-dollar development project on the Baltimore Peninsula led by MAG Partners and MacFarlane Partners. The deal also includes investments from Under Armour founder Kevin Plank plus his Sagamore Ventures Investment Firm and Goldman Sachs Asset Management Urban Investment Group. In November 2019, McNair released his first book, Give It One More Try to shed light on the importance of mental fitness. He shares the depths of his early traumatic experiences and how he found ways to push for the life he has now. During his Give It One More Try campaign, he received honorary awards, and his book was rated number one on Amazon for men health. He appeared on T.V. One Sister Circle Show, FOX, and radio outlets. His second book Blessings in Uncertain Times featured a foreword by Cora Jakes, daughter of world-renowned Bishop T.D. Jakes and Serita Jakes. The book offered a new perspective in times of uncertainty. McNair recently sat with White House Correspondent Gerren Keith Gaynor to share how his book, “Give It One More Try,” has inspired thousands across the globe to persevere in the face of adversity and never stop striving for their goals. McNair is grateful for his knowledge and experience as a strategist and problem solver. His life skills and career coaching have inspired many lives. He received multiple recognitions and awards for his community outreach. In October 2023, he was honored by the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, for his distinguished community service and leadership. Today, he advocates for programs that help the youth; get ready for obstacles in the world. These programs are especially significant to him because the organization focuses on mental health and positively impacts minorities. McNair's experiences have led him to become a problem solver and strategist. He is grateful for the opportunities that have allowed him to help others through community outreach and advocating for programs focusing on mental health and minorities.

Luke Cooper is the General Partner and Founder of Latimer Ventures. A JD/MBA from Syracuse and Babson, he is a multi-exited founder and M&A specialist. Early in his career he achieved more than a quarter of a billion dollars of transactions as a corporate attorney at DLA Piper and in-house counsel with State Farm. He went on to build 2 VC backed enterprise software companies, exiting both for 8 figure all cash deals to Fortune 300 buyers, the most recent one occurring in late 2020. Mr. Cooper is a product of abject poverty growing up in Bridgeport Connecticut with a father in prison. He knows firsthand the importance of wealth creation and how to achieve it for the diverse unicorns he interacts with daily. One of Mr. Coopers core values can be summed up in the Latin phrase... Esse Quam Videri... which means ‘to be, rather than to seem”

Live podcast recording of the NoPixAfterDark conversation series at the Baltimore Peninsula!  Aaron Dante, host of the award-winning Baltimore-based podcast, is joined by Kory Bailey CEO of UpSurge Baltimore, Jeff Cherry Independent Board Director, CEO, Business Executive, Venture Investor and Dr. Tammira Lucas CEO of The Cube Cowork,Speaker, Professor, and Expert Business Consultant Recognized as one of Baltimore's Top 40 under 40 Kory Bailey: CEO of UpSurge Baltimore With over a decade of leadership in both early-stage startups and big tech, Kory Bailey has emerged as a thought leader on equitable economic growth and the biggest advocate for the tech community in Baltimore. A 2022 Technical.ly RealLIST Connectors Award winner and 2023 RealLIST Tech Community Leader of the Year nominee, Kory is the CEO of UpSurge Baltimore, an ecosystem building organization with a vision for Baltimore to be recognized as the first Equitech city in the world. A new model for American innovation. UpSurge's mission is to mobilize the tech ecosystem around startups by strengthening its culture and connectivity, with an intentional focus on strategies that produce better outcomes for Black, women, and other underestimated founders and leaders. Jeff Cherry: Independent Board Director, CEO, Business Executive, Venture Investor Jeff Cherry is a seasoned CEO, entrepreneur, corporate executive, startup advisor, venture and wall street investor, speaker and writer with a track record of strategic execution and innovation. Over the last 35 years he has built award winning companies in engineering, design, strategic consulting and investment management. He has been a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 executives, government agencies and startups, with a focus on helping teams understand customers and build dynamic, high-performing organizational cultures. Dr. Tammira Lucas: Author, Speaker, Professor, and Expert Business Consultant Recognized as one of Baltimore's Top 40 under 40, Dr. Tammira Lucas is a thought leader who has quickly emerged as a trailblazer among millennial professionals and a powerful voice for communities locally, nationally, and internationally  

In this episode, Aaron interviews Kory Baily, CEO of Upsurge Baltimore, about his journey from a football scholarship at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill to becoming the new CEO of Upsurge Baltimore. Kory shares his vision for the company's future and discusses Baltimore's potential to become the next tech hub. Tune in to hear more about Kory's story and insights on the tech industry. #UpsurgeBaltimore #TechHub #Leadership #Entrepreneurship  With over a decade of leadership in both early-stage startups and big tech, Kory Bailey has emerged as a thought leader on equitable economic growth and the biggest advocate for the tech community in Baltimore. A 2022 Technical.ly RealLIST Connectors Award winner and 2023 RealLIST Tech Community Leader of the Year nominee, Kory is the CEO of UpSurge Baltimore, an ecosystem building organization with a vision for Baltimore to be recognized as the first Equitech city in the world. A new model for American innovation. UpSurge's mission is to mobilize the tech ecosystem around startups by strengthening its culture and connectivity, with an intentional focus on strategies that produce better outcomes for Black, women, and other underestimated founders and leaders.

In the latest episode of Nopixafterdark podcast, Aaron had the pleasure of interviewing Gary Coichy, the CEO & Founder of Pod Digital Media. They discussed a variety of topics, including the origin story of Pod Digital Media and how it's helping Brown and Black podcasters with advertising deals. Gary also shared insights from his best-selling book and his successful investments in real estate. Thank you, Gary, for taking the time to chat with us. It was a pleasure to film this episode on location in Miami. #Podcasting #AdvertisingDeals #RealEstateInvestments    Gary the CEO and Founder of Pod Digital Media. Pod Digital Media is the first and largest Multi-Cultural Podcast Network in the World. “ Pod Digital Media has established partnerships with prominent companies such as P&G, AMEX, AT&T, New York Times, Walmart, Visa, HBO, Toyota, Showtime, Walgreens, Universal Studios, Paramount Pictures, and many others. In January 2022, PDM secured a groundbreaking multi-year, multi-million-dollar deal with McDonald’s “ Website pod digital media

In the latest episode of NoPixAfterDark Podcast, Aaron sits down with Brian D. Pieninck  CEO of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. The conversation touches on a variety of topics, including the importance of community and transportation, as well as CareFirst's role as an anchor in the Baltimore-Washington region. Did you also know that Brian was a DJ back in the day, spinning tracks at roller skate rinks in Philadelphia? Check out this fascinating episode, available now on YouTube, Apple, and Spotify. Don't miss out!  https://lnkd.in/evfqUsGy Brian D. Pieninck is the President and CEO of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield multi-line, not-for-profit healthcare company. Brian embodies CareFirst's mission leading over 8,000 individuals dedicated to transforming the healthcare system to make it more equitable, affordable, and accessible to the 3.5 million individuals we serve across Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia.  Brian's community involvement centers on equitably advancing opportunities at the intersection of health and economic wellbeing throughout the mid-Atlantic region, a personal investment and expertise that closely aligns with CareFirst's mission. He is the Chair of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Board of Directors and chairman of the Boar Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare (CAQH).  Additionally, he is an active member of several boards, including the Federal Employee Program Board of Managers, Baltimore Committee, Baltimore's Promise, BCS Financial Corporation, Greater Washington Partnership, Synergie Medication Collective, the Greater Washington Board of Trade, the United Way of the National Capital Area, and a member Morgan State University Board of Regents. Brian holds a B.S. in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University and is a graduate of Leadership Maryland's Class of 2016. A native of Southeastern Pennsylvania his family currently resides in Baltimore County, Maryland    

In the latest episode of Nopixafterdark, Aaron had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Babar Sultan, a renowned facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Sultan's impressive educational background includes attending Harvard University, graduating from Princeton Medical School, and completing his residency at John Hopkins Hospital. During the interview, we learned that Dr. Sultan's passion for medicine began at an early age and he truly values getting to know his patients to provide them with the best care possible. Dr. Sultan's success is thanks in part to the support of his wife, as we discovered in the episode. He has become one of the top plastic surgeons in the area and provides a wide range of services, from face and chin lifts to botox and filler injections. Tune in to this episode of Nopixafterdark to learn more about Dr. Sultan's journey and how he has become an expert in the field of facial plastic surgery. *Dr. Babar Sultan is a highly trained and experienced facial plastic surgeon dedicated to providing natural, long-lasting results to his patients. He is double board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Sultan’s practice is exclusively dedicated to cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the face and neck. Dr. Sultan’s approach is based on his tremendous training and experience to provide natural, long-lasting results guided by his patients’ goals and desires. He believes in building a special patient-doctor relationship that drew him to medicine and is now the cornerstone of his practice. Your journey to rejuvenation and self-confidence begins with a single step. We invite you to get in touch to learn more about the exceptional services offered by Dr. Sultan, a leading figure in cosmetic surgery in Baltimore, and how they can bring a renewed sense of beauty and confidence into your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take that vital step towards your transformation. *bio from his website

Tom is an experienced attorney and lobbyist with a specific focus on housing and community development. Tom's expertise in real estate and housing matters has been featured in numerous publications, including The Baltimore Sun, Money Magazine, Maryland Matters, and Greater Greater Washington. In 2021, Tom was recognized by The Daily Record as a "VIP: Successful by 40" honoree. His practice involves engagement with the leadership of state and local agencies, county government, and the Maryland General Assembly. Tom received a Juris Doctor from the Georgetown University Law Center and a Bachelor of Arts from Lycoming College. Tom serves on the Board of Trustees for the Maryland Science Center and the Board of Directors for the Baltimore Regional Housing Partnership.

🎙️🎧 In our first live show at the Baltimore Peninsula  Aaron interviewed Harry J. Martin, CEO & Founder of Roller Wave. Martin's life story is one of resilience, showing how roller skating helped him navigate his depression and become the hottest skating pop-up in NYC & LA. Now, he's brought the hottest pop-up to Baltimore with Rollerwave Baltimore, the perfect spot to hang out and skate. 🛼     The episode was taped in front of a sold-out audience in the Penthouse Suite at the Baltimore Peninsula. Rollerwave Baltimore has become the go-to spot for skaters, attracting visitors from Washington DC to New York. Listen to Harry and Aaron talk about Martin's journey and the thriving roller skating community. 🎉     Tune in to our show to hear Martin's inspiring story and learn more about Rollerwave Baltimore. 🎧  We would like to thank Lobos1707 @canecollective @unioncraftbrewing United Way of Central Maryland MAG Partners LP DigitalEmpire Studios  The Roller Wave” provides a traveling pop-up roller skating experience, founded by Harry Martin, 33. He rediscovered his lost love of roller skating after unexpectedly having the time of his life at a company party held at LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park. The Roller Wave has held numerous sold-out events at The House of Yes and has expanded to The Ludlow House in the Lower East Side, Alpha Space in Crown Heights, Gantry Loft in Long Island City, Soho House in the Meatpacking District, Tao Restaurant for Alicia Key’s birthday party, and most recently The Williamsburg Hotel with Everyday People. The Roller Wave holds seasonal pop-ups across NYC, Miami, Atlanta, and LA. Harry attributes the success of his events to his genuine passion for the culture and respect for the history of Roller Disco alongside the desire to introduce a lost art to a new generation

Aaron interviewed Pamela Wood Maryland Political reporter from the Baltimore Banner. We discussed The Baltimore Banner state of news coverage in Baltimore and Annapolis. We learned about how she always wanted to write for the newspaper. Today is the first day of 2024 Maryland General Assembly session we discussed what will be on the docket. Pamela Wood covers Maryland politics and government, focusing on how powerful people make decisions that affect daily life for people living and working in and around Baltimore. She previously reported for The Baltimore Sun, The Capital and other Maryland newspapers on topics as varied as politics, local government, the environment, healthcare and breaking news. Though not a Maryland native, she's spent most of her life here, graduating from Howard High School and earning a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland, College Park. She now calls Anne Arundal County home. https://www.thebaltimorebanner.com/author/pamela-wood

With over 30 years of experience, founder and managing partner Lorenzo Bellamy has built a track record of running successful issue advocacy and budget campaigns at the local, state, and federal levels. Lorenzo has advocated for the passage of common sense gun safety legislation, including the ban on ghost guns, strengthening wear and carry permitting of firearms, and advocating for criminal justice reform. Before founding the Bellamy Genn Group, Lorenzo was Director and Legislative Counsel at a well-known legislative practice of a Maryland law firm. While there, Lorenzo secured several millions of dollars in bond financing for clients in Baltimore and throughout Maryland. Throughout Lorenzo’s career, he has advocated for the passage of legislation benefiting clients in the energy, environment, health, housing, non-profit, manufacturing, and transportation industries. A veteran in the Annapolis lobbying world, Lorenzo has built a team with the vision to identify the path to victory for clients and build the toolbox needed to turn conversations into concrete wins for their clients. To learn more about the Bellamy Genn Group, LLC, go to www.BellamyGennGroup.com

Join me for the last episode of the 2023 interview series where I sat down with Chris Simon, Founder and CEO of BTST and Co-Owner of Blk Swan. We discuss his journey as an entrepreneur, his love for golf, and the importance of going to grad school for his development as a leader. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation. In 2008 Chris Simon started BTST Mentoring Services. His enthusiasm for service was palpable. It was not long before he was awarded his first contract with a level 5 school, Florence Bertell, now known as New Visions Academy. BTST continued to grow beyond Baltimore City and began providing services to several counties throughout the state of Maryland. Now called BTST Services, the company has expanded to include 5 facilities in several different counties in Maryland including Baltimore City, PG County, Frederick County, Washington County, and Cecil County providing services such as outpatient mental health clinics, psychiatric rehabilitation programs, and substance abuse. In recent years, Chris has continued to grow as an entrepreneur. Presently, Chris Simon is CEO of Simon Enterprises, which encompasses several companies such as Xtra-Ordinary Creative Consulting Company, Simon Development, Cornerstone Health Management, and Lorraine’s Cleaning. He has received numerous awards such as the Small Business Administration Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and KEYS Development Award for being a leader in the field of mental health and most notably was recently awarded and recognized at the Light Health and Wellness Gala alongside Congressman Elijah Cummings and Dr. Galo who invented the term and treatment for HIV. Chris has been featured in the Baltimore Sun, Afro Newspaper, as well as the Black Business Review and is a Mental Health Contributor for local radio shows, news networks, and vlogs. He continues to support and give back to his alma mater Morgan State University where he is the President of the National Alumni Association of the School of Social Work at Morgan State University. Continuing his philanthropic pursuits, he launched a non-profit organization, BTST Cares that has helped the community by sponsoring yearly back-to-school book bag giveaways, turkey drives, Christmas big giveback, as well as help for Haiti, and providing clean water for Flint Michigan.

Chef Carlos Raba was born and raised in the Mexican state of Sinaloa by his mother and her four sisters. He learned to make tortillas by hand in his uncle’s restaurant and picked up classic Mexican recipes like cochinita pibil and lengua from his aunts and grandmother. Raba’s mother was a journalist who was critical of Mexican politicians, so fearing for their lives, she sought asylum and moved the family to the suburbs of Washington, D.C. when Raba was 17. After he graduated from high school, Raba attended business school for a year and then began working in grocery stores. He started at the Whole Foods in Kentlands, Maryland, trying his hand at different roles—butcher, fishmonger, cheesemonger, and eventually store manager. He. then moved to Giant Foods and worked at various locations for five years. Tiring of the corporate life, his business partner Lane Harlan convinced him to use his creativity and family recipes to open Clavel in Baltimore in 2015. In a Converted American grill, Raba serves the same shrimp ceviche recipe that his familky taught him when he was 6 years old, along withother Sinaloan specialties in a relaxed, communal setting. In 2017, Raba was named “Best Chef. in Baltimore” by City Paper, in 2018 Carlos Raba was name also name “Rising star chef” by Star chef publications and on 2022 Carlos Raba was a “James Beard” semifinalist. Carlos Raba also a practitioner of Brazilian jiujitsu, hold a black belt first degree under Vicente Jr team and his passion for jiujitsu lead him to Co-found Guardian Baltimore a 501(c)3 nonprofit martial arts gym in Remington, Baltimore that offer classes in Brazilian jiu jitsu. The gym is free for kids ages 6 – 18, and offers affordable sliding-scale memberships for adults. the space was founded on the belief that almost everyone wants to be a part of a tribe, and they work daily to serve as a vital space for their community.  

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.