The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

Ready to explore? Tune in to 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, hosted by host Rob Lee and accompanied by today's guest Raasin McIntosh, a dynamic figure in the world of arts, sports, and community empowerment. As the Director of Parks & Placemaking for Downtown Austin Alliance and an accomplished Olympic hurdler, Raasin's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From her time as a University of Texas Track Star and Olympian to her transformative experience competing before thousands of fans in West Africa, Raasin's passion shines through. With a commitment to creative placemaking, she founded Raasin and Sun, a visionary endeavor that blends arts, community initiatives, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Hailing from Houston, Texas, Raasin's journey has led her to Austin, where she champions the use of creative placemaking as a powerful tool for community development and empowerment.ABOUT RAASIN IN THE SUNRaasin in the Sun is an Austin based Nonprofit organization who's work focuses on cultivating resilience through art and environmental initiativesWithin this segment, we dig into:The world of creative placemaking as we explore how underutilized spaces can be transformed into vibrant canvases that foster collaboration, address challenges, and forge connections among people.Join us in this enlightening episode as we unravel the complexities of creative placemaking. Discover how the challenge lies in conveying its worth to others and securing essential funding and policies that pave the way for impactful transformations.Embark on a journey that unveils the omnipresence of art and its role as a catalyst for change. Delve into how art, in all its forms, holds the potential to transcend barriers, serving as a potent vehicle for self-expression and societal transformation.In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the importance of recognizing and addressing trauma within the creative industry. Discover how this awareness shapes impactful experiences, fostering healing and meaningful connections through artistic expression.Join us as we take you through the fascinating voyage of creative projects. Uncover how the process from inception to completion is where true impact and community engagement thrive, igniting discussions, connections, and lasting transformations.Don't miss this impactful conversation with Raasin as she discusses her career path and the importance of creative placemaking in community development. Raasin shares her background growing up in Houston, Texas, and how her father's influence as an artist sparked her interest in the arts. She also talks about her journey as a track and field Olympian and how it led her to Austin, where she shifted her focus to arts and community initiatives. Raasin explains the concept of creative placemaking and the challenges she faces in explaining its value to others. She emphasizes the need for funding and supportive policies to make this work easier. Raasin also discusses the impact of art on people's lives and the importance of understanding and addressing trauma within the creative industry.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

The Truth in This Art Beyond is a spin-off of The Truth In This Art. Where the original series focused primarily on Baltimore, this series extends outside of Charm City to engage in artistic and cultural conversation and share rich stories from our favorite cities. As always, creativity matters here!🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

It's a pleasure to have you on 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, helmed by your host, Rob Lee. Be ready for an insightful conversation with Samantha Iaconi, a Baltimore-born artist and curator, who graduated with a BFA in Painting from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2017. Her artistic journey is intricately woven with surrealism and an exploration of American class culture. Employing traditional mediums, she crafts poignant surreal narratives of daily life, while delving into iconic American imagery to reveal the interplay between historical and contemporary American culture. Her portfolio has graced prestigious venues like Hamilton Art Gallery, Baltimore Sound Stage, Studio 87, Maryland Art Place, and more, underscoring her significant presence in the art world.In the following discussion:Uncover the artistic fusion in Sam Iaconi's work as we delve into her unique blend of surrealism and realism. This episode delves into how her artistic lens brings to life the intricacies of American class culture and historical imagery, creating thought-provoking narratives that invite exploration and reflection.Join us on a captivating exploration as we delve into Sam Iaconi's transformative journey. Discover how she embraces her "white trash" background and ingeniously integrates it into her art, defying conventional perceptions of value and representation, thereby reshaping the art world's narrative.Tune in to an enlightening conversation as we explore Sam Iaconi's artistic mission. In this episode, we delve into how her work transcends the canvas, aiming to amplify the value of everyday individuals in society and kindle dialogues about the American Dream's essence.Embark on a journey through Sam Iaconi's creative process in this episode. Uncover how she masterfully transforms everyday experiences and conversations into vibrant and engaging paintings, offering a glimpse into the profound source of her artistic inspiration.Explore the core of Sam Iaconi's artistic principles as we unravel her steadfast commitment to traditional painting methods. Discover how this non-negotiable stance shapes her craft, drawing a distinct line between authentic artistry and computer-generated creations. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Sam Iaconi. Inspired by her own experiences growing up in a working-class family, Sam's work aims to represent the value of everyday people in society. She embraces her "white trash" background and incorporates it into her art, challenging traditional notions of what is considered valuable or worthy of representation. Sam's work often combines realism and surrealism, creating thought-provoking and visually striking pieces that invite viewers to question the American Dream and their own place in society.Mentioned in this episode:Samantha Iaconi 🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Embrace the journey with 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, hosted by none other than Rob Lee. Today our guest is Chanan Delivuk, an accomplished intermedia artist and UI/UX designer with a strong commitment to inclusive design. With a rich background that spans education and artistry, she excels as an educator, merging her experiences as a scholar and a determined individual who grew up in challenging circumstances. As a devoted advocate for equitable design, Chanan imparts her expertise while teaching time-based media at Anne Arundel Community College. With degrees in fine arts, and art history, and a second MFA from UMBC, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her multifaceted roles.In this edition:Delve into the significance of creativity with Chanan Delivuk. Explore how creativity serves as a gateway to a distinct form of expression and thinking, allowing individuals to embark on transformative journeys of self-discovery.Join us as we embark on a captivating exploration of intermedia art. Discover the intricate world where artists skillfully employ diverse mediums to communicate their ideas and narratives, offering a unique lens to perceive their stories.Tune in to uncover the essence of time-based media in this episode. Explore the captivating realm of art forms that unfold over time, such as audio and video pieces, as we delve into how they captivate and engage the senses.Dive into the realm of arts and design education as Chanan Delivuk shares insights on its transformative impact. Discover how arts education equips students with indispensable skills and nurtures the ability to think critically and creatively, fostering versatile and empowered individuals.Explore the unique facet of Chanan's role as she reveals her ongoing journey of learning. In this episode, delve into how continuous learning serves as the cornerstone of her profession, offering her a dynamic avenue for perpetual growth and evolution.Tune in and be amazed as Chanan discusses her journey into art and design. She shares her experiences as a first-generation college student and how she explored different fields before settling on art as her major. Chanan also talks about her love for teaching and the importance of creativity in everyone's lives. She explains the concepts of intermedia art and time-based media and how they allow artists to use different mediums to communicate their ideas. Chanan also highlights the benefits of arts and design education and how it can help students develop valuable skills for the real world. She shares her unique perspective as an artist and educator and how she applies her knowledge and experience to her work. Chanan also discusses her current role as a UI/UX designer and the importance of user experience in design. She emphasizes the value of continuous learning and how it keeps her engaged and motivated in her work.Mentioned in this episodeChanan's Website🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome aboard 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, under the guidance of your host, Rob Lee. On today’s episode, we have Ryan Dorsey, the dedicated City Councilman representing Baltimore's 3rd District, committed to enhancing communities' accessibility, safety, and inclusivity. Since his election in 2016, Councilman Dorsey has championed transformational policies, including a groundbreaking Complete Streets ordinance, the eradication of income discrimination in city housing, and the establishment of an independent Office of the Inspector. His approach centers on dismantling structural racism and inequality, utilizing Baltimore's urban advantages for density and transit. A product of the 3rd District, Dorsey's background spans the arts, with violin studies at prestigious institutions. His advocacy for artists, transparency, and equitable housing resonates throughout his work.In this podcast:Join us in this episode as we delve into the origins and impact of Ryan Dorsey's Artist District grant program. Uncover how this innovative initiative provides direct funding to artists in his district, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape and supporting the arts community in unique ways.Explore the visionary perspective of Ryan Dorsey as he discusses the critical need for the decommodification of housing and the dismantling of exclusionary zoning in Baltimore. Delve into the transformative potential of these ideas and their implications for the city's future.Join us as we unravel the importance of government accountability and transparency in building a strong bond of trust with the community. In this episode, we explore Ryan Dorsey's views on fostering open communication and cultivating a transparent governance framework.Dive into a thought-provoking conversation as Ryan Dorsey outlines a holistic strategy for addressing Baltimore's crime and violence issues. Discover how he underscores the significance of tackling root problems, including housing inequity and dysfunctional transportation, as pivotal steps toward building a safer and stronger city.This is an episode you don't want to miss! Ryan discusses his background in the arts and his decision to run for office. He highlights the importance of supporting artists and the need for direct funding for the arts. Ryan also shares his initiatives to improve government accountability and transparency, including the establishment of an independent inspector general's office and improvements to ethics and financial disclosure laws. He emphasizes the need to address root problems such as housing inequity and dysfunctional transportation in order to address crime and violence in Baltimore.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us on 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, where your host, Rob Lee, leads the way. Our Today’s guest Irena Stein is a multifaceted figure encompassing roles as a photographer, restaurateur, and advocate for sustainability and humanitarian causes. As the Co-Proprietor of Alma Cocina Latina alongside her husband Mark Demshak and Executive Chef David Zamudio, Irena's journey traverses through Caracas, Paris, and San Francisco before she settled in Baltimore in 1998. Embracing a vibrant culinary career since 2002, she established Cafe Azafrán and Alkimia, pioneering sustainability at Johns Hopkins. Her dream of sharing her cultural background culminated in Alma Cocina Latina, a Venezuelan restaurant in Station North, Baltimore, serving as a canvas for the rich heritage and culture of Venezuela through its delectable dishes.About Alma Cocina LatinaAlma is a Venezuelan restaurant that focuses on sharing the gastronomic culture of the Caribbean region. The menu — crafted by executive chef David Zumadio— combines Venezuelan culinary roots with contemporary techniques, spanning from antojos to arepas, crudos and ceviches, and Plato's principles.In this installment, we:Delve into Irena Stein's captivating journey, as we explore how her transition from the arts to the food industry was driven by the powerful motivation to not just survive, but also to support her family. Discover the pivotal moments that shaped her trajectory and the resilience that defined her pursuit.Embark on a flavorful journey as we dive into the intricate world of Venezuelan cuisine. In this episode, we unravel the rich tapestry of Spanish and North African influences, mingling to create the distinctive blend of savory and sweet elements that characterize Venezuelan flavors.Join us on a culinary expedition as we unravel the fascinating story of the arepa, the cherished staple of Venezuelan cuisine. Explore how this humble dish has transcended borders to become a global ambassador, reflecting the heart and soul of Venezuelan food culture.Step into the world of sustainability with Alma Cocina Latina. In this episode, we delve into Irena's commitment to creating a connection between her restaurant and the rainforest through unique ingredients. Uncover how her culinary journey goes beyond the plate to foster a deeper connection with nature.Uncover the reality behind the scenes in the restaurant industry. In this episode, we explore the dynamic challenges faced by restaurateurs like Irena Stein. Delve into the perseverance, courage, and indomitable spirit required to navigate obstacles while maintaining a resolutely positive outlook.Get ready to be inspired as Irena discusses her journey as a photographer, restaurateur, and advocate for sustainability and humanitarian causes. Irena shares how she transitioned from the arts to the food industry, opening cafes and catering in Baltimore before opening Alma Cocina Latina. She explains the cultural influences in Venezuelan cuisine and the importance of the arepa as a symbol of Venezuelan food culture. Irena also discusses the challenges of running a restaurant, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of treating staff with respect and creating a welcoming environment for all guests.This episode is brought to you by a partnership with Station North Art's District, a proud program of the Central Baltimore Partnership.Mentioned in this episodeAlma Cocina LatinaPhoto by Martin Demshak🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Step right into 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, guided by your host, Rob Lee. In today’s conversation, I talk with William Herman, a multi-talented musician, engineer, and producer, who leads Station North Sound, a dynamic recording studio. William's artistic journey is rooted in capturing the profound essence of music, whether he's engineering or producing, his focus is on translating artists' intentions into reality. Based in Baltimore, Maryland, he pioneers Station North Sound, a haven for local independent artists to thrive. With a lifelong involvement in audio recording and a dedication to authentic artistic expression, William shapes an environment where creativity flourishes.In this episode, we explore:The heart of Station North Sound, where William Herman extends a warm invitation to artists in Baltimore. Uncover the magic of an affordable recording studio equipped with high-quality gear, a space where creativity is nurtured, and artistic visions come to life.Dive into the world of authenticity and genuine expression with William Herman, a renowned producer and engineer. In this episode, we delve into his unique approach to music production, discussing how his commitment to artistic integrity shapes the sonic landscape of his work.Explore the vibrant Baltimore art community's distinctive ethos in this episode. We uncover how artists and musicians in the city adopt a DIY approach, crafting music that is a true reflection of their individuality, rather than conforming to industry norms.In this captivating episode, we delve into the interplay between physical spaces and creativity. Unravel how dedicated environments like recording studios, led by visionaries like William Herman, foster an atmosphere where artistic ideas flourish, and the nuances of physical spaces shape the way art is communicated.Join us for a deeply personal conversation with William Herman as he opens up about his own life's challenges and how music served as his beacon of self-expression during difficult times. Explore how this transformative experience has molded his creative sensibility and influenced his work at Station North Sound.You won't want to skip this one! William discusses his work in the Baltimore music scene, his philosophy on production and engineering, and his role in offering a space for artists to express themselves. They also explore the concept of DIY in the Baltimore art community and the influence of physical space on creativity. William shares his personal experience with music as a form of self-expression and communication, and how it has shaped his creative sensibility.The Station North Arts & Entertainment Interview Series is supported by the Station North Art's District & Central Baltimore Partnership.Mentioned in this episodeStation North Sound🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Greetings to 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, presented by your host, Rob Lee. Today I chatted with Kris Hoellen, an accomplished entrepreneur and trusted senior executive with over 25 years of experience in non-profit and for-profit management. Currently serving as the Executive Director of the B&O Railroad Museum, Kris has demonstrated her expertise in leading large complex organizations with fiduciary responsibility and managing multi-million dollar budgets. With a background in transportation and non-profit work, she brings her collaborative, results-oriented leadership style to her role. Kris's profound passion lies in preserving the rich history of American railroading and promoting public education about its societal impact through her work at the B&O Railroad Museum, known as the birthplace of American railroading.About The B&O Railroad Museum The B&O Railroad Museum is known as the birthplace of American railroading, and for good reason. It was here where the first stone of the railroad was laid, where the nation’s first mile of commercial railroad was constructed, and where the Mt. Clare Shops made innumerable contributions to the development of the rail industry.In this episode, we delve into:A historical voyage in this episode, as we explore the iconic B&O Railroad Museum, the very birthplace of American railroading. Discover how the museum uniquely weaves the tale of America's development, viewing the nation's growth through the transformative lens of the railroad.Join us for an exclusive tour of the B&O Railroad Museum's remarkable collection of artifacts and exhibits. Delve into the stories behind notable pieces like the William Mason locomotive and the captivating Bank of America model train gallery. Uncover the secrets these items hold, narrating the evolution of railroading and its profound impact on American history.In this episode, we unravel the forthcoming plans of the B&O Railroad Museum for a permanent exhibit that sheds light on the often overlooked connection between the physical railroad and the Underground Railroad. Uncover the narratives that intertwine these two significant chapters of history and explore how they shape our understanding of the past.Delve into the B&O Railroad Museum's commitment to community impact through its innovative workforce development program. Join us as we uncover how the museum fosters skills and opportunities, nurturing local talent and leaving a lasting positive imprint on the community it serves.In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with seasoned leaders to discuss the transformative power of embracing failure and taking risks. Hear firsthand accounts and expert insights into how these essential elements drive growth and innovation, illuminating the paths to success for leaders across various fields.Join us for a captivating episode as Kris discusses the museum's mission to preserve the legacy of American railroading and educate the public about its impact. Kris shares his professional journey and how he came to be the executive director of the museum. They also talk about the museum's exhibits and displays, including its designation as a National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Site. Kris highlights the importance of embracing failure and taking risks as a leader. He also discusses the museum's plans for the future, including a permanent exhibit on the role of the physical railroad in the Underground Railroad and a workforce development program.Mentioned in this episodeThe B&O Railroad Museum 🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, hosted by Rob Lee, engage in this meaningful conversation with Ana Rodney, a seasoned Doula with 15 years of experience, who serves as the Executive Director and Founder of MOMCares in Baltimore City. She is a skilled yoga instructor, energy healer, and wellness practitioner. Ana's dedication to maternal health led her to establish MOMCares, an organization that offers comprehensive prenatal and postpartum doula care, encompassing transportation, advocacy, self-care, and nourishing meals for under-supported mothers with NICU experiences. Ana's impactful work has garnered recognition, including awards and grants such as the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women Impact Grant. With a background in education and a commitment to addressing maternal health disparities, Ana's contributions extend to her roles as a Perinatal Mental Health Consultant, Board Member, historian for BCIITY Alliance, and Baltimore City Maternal Mortality Review Board Chair.About MOMCaresMOMCares serves under-supported mothers with NICU experiences in Baltimore City by providing prenatal and postpartum doula care including transportation, advocacy, self-care opportunities, and nutritious meals to mothers and their families. Please consider making a donation to support our work by visiting momcares.org/donate.In this episode, we uncover:The inspiring work of MOMCares, an organization supporting Black women in Baltimore City through high-risk pregnancies and traumatic births. Hear firsthand accounts of women who have benefited from MOMCares' services, shedding light on the importance of emotional and practical support during challenging times.Uncover how MOMCares tackles maternal health disparities by addressing social determinants through workshops, training, and healing circles. Explore how these holistic approaches create community connections and empower women to navigate their health journeys with resilience.Delve into the significance of empathy in transforming maternal health outcomes. Experts from MOMCares share insights on humanizing the experiences of Black women, highlighting the potential for positive change through compassionate, human-centered care.Join us as we listen to Ana Rodney's personal journey, including her high-risk pregnancy and the loss of her sister, that ignited her advocacy for maternal health equity. Explore how Ana's story intertwines with the mission of MOMCares and her determination to drive meaningful change.Dive into the world of healing arts and their impact on maternal wellness. Learn how practices like Reiki and yoga are integral to MOMCares' approach in supporting expectant and new mothers, promoting emotional and physical well-being during the transformative stages of pregnancy and postpartum.Don't miss this incredible episode as Ana discusses her organization's mission to support Black women in Baltimore City who are navigating high-risk pregnancies and traumatic birth outcomes. She shares her personal experience of going through a high-risk pregnancy and the challenges she faced within the medical system. Ana explains how MOMCares provides support through workshops, trainings, and healing circles, focusing on the social determinants of health to ensure the safety of both mothers and babies. She emphasizes the need for empathy and humanizing the experiences of Black women in the healthcare system. Ana also highlights the impact of her work and the importance of storytelling and the healing arts in her approach.This interview is brought to you in part by the support of Innovation Works Baltimore.Innovation Works Baltimore is an innovative, collaborative resource network that connects neighborhoods, entrepreneurs, social innovation assets, and investors to build sustainable neighborhood economies in Baltimore.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Step right into 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, guided by your host, Rob Lee. In today’s conversation, I talk with Dante Swinton, a dedicated advocate for environmental justice and sustainable urban development, who holds a BA in Environmental Studies from Winthrop University and an MS in Nonprofit Management and Social Entrepreneurship from the University of Baltimore. Championing the cause of zero waste and moving away from detrimental trash incineration in Baltimore since 2015, Dante's commitment to bettering the city's quality of life led him to run for mayor from 2019 to 2020. Through his innovative endeavors, including the development of the Glass Recovery and Sustainable Systems (GRASS) Baltimore cooperative, he endeavors to foster a transition towards a zero-waste economy. With a profound background in environmental justice, Dante's determination to reshape cities and communities into more sustainable, equitable entities is palpable, further echoed through his active participation in political activism.Within this segment, we dig into:Explore the concept of zero waste with Dante Swinton as he delves into the mission of eliminating waste disposal methods and maximizing recycling, reuse, and composting efforts, ushering in a more sustainable future.Uncover the challenges Baltimore faces in waste management, as Dante Swinton discusses the city's lack of investment in education and infrastructure, resulting in low recycling rates and a concerning dependence on trash incineration.Dive into the innovative realm of Grass (Glass Recovery and Sustainable Systems) with Dante Swinton, as he shares his vision of creating a zero-waste economy by transforming recovered glass into captivating artworks and functional glassware.Join the conversation about Grass's impact on artistic entrepreneurship and community support, as Dante Swinton sheds light on how the initiative nurtures entrepreneurial artists and provides accessible spaces for showcasing their creations.Delve into Dante Swinton's mayoral campaign journey, exploring how he aimed to challenge the status quo of policing, and advocate for meaningful job creation, poverty alleviation, and community betterment, reflecting his unwavering commitment to positive change.Get ready to be inspired as Dante discusses the concept of zero waste and the importance of transitioning to a zero-waste economy. He highlights the need for policy changes and investment in waste management to maximize recycling and composting efforts. Dante also shares his experience running for mayor and his vision for a more sustainable and equitable Baltimore.This interview is brought to you in part by the support of Innovation Works Baltimore.Innovation Works Baltimore is an innovative, collaborative resource network that connects neighborhoods, entrepreneurs, social innovation assets, and investors to build sustainable neighborhood economies in Baltimore.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★