The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

Welcome to 'The Truth in This Art'! I'm your host, Rob Lee, and today's episode is all about the mesmerizing world of experimental R&B and indie pop. Join us as we talk with Xavier Gibson, a singer, producer, and queer artist known for his unique blend of experimental R&B and indie pop. He started his music career in 2016 and has since grown as an artist, finding his voice and creating music that resonates with his audience. Xavier is passionate about creating music that speaks to the experiences of the queer and non-binary community, while also being relatable to a wider audience.In this episode, we explore:Xavier's captivating world of music, where experimental R&B intertwines with indie pop, creating soulful melodies that speak directly to the hearts of the queer and non-binary community.Embracing Resilience in Creativity: Discover the power of overcoming rejection as Xavier shares valuable insights on how artists can navigate the inevitable challenges of the creative journey without losing sight of their passion.Musical Muses and Inspirations: Explore the diverse range of influences that shape Xavier's distinct sound, from iconic artists like the 1975, Blood Orange, and Sade, as he reveals how their brilliance ignites his own musical genius.Join us in this enlightening episode as Xavier Gibson discusses his journey in the music industry and his unique blend of experimental R&B and indie pop. He shares how music has always been a transformative force in his life and how he found his voice as an artist. Xavier also talks about his recent release, "Frontline," and the importance of creating music that connects with his audience. He emphasizes the role of rejection in the creative process and how it can be a driving force for growth. Xavier concludes by sharing his favorite artists and the impact they have had on his own music.🎧🌟 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 a delectable episode of "The Truth in This Art"! I'm your host, Rob Lee, and today, we're diving deep into the world of food with the talented Antonio Baines of Jerk Werks. He is a chef and jerk aficionado based in Baltimore. He developed a passion for jerk chicken during a trip to Jamaica in 1990 and has been perfecting his jerk recipe ever since. Antonio is known as "The General" when it comes to Jerk Werk, and he takes pride in his authentic and flavorful jerk chicken. He also has a background in karate and has practiced for seven years, reaching the San-Kyu Rank (3rd – Brown belt).Today's episode uncovers:The secret behind achieving true authenticity in jerk chicken by highlighting the significance of fire and smoke in the cooking process.Explore the need for increased inclusivity and support from the local community to enhance and uplift Baltimore's vibrant and diverse food culture.Get ready to delve into Chef Antonio's kitchen journey as he opens up about his Achilles heel in baking and how he overcomes the culinary obstacle. Explore the profound impact of practicing martial arts with Chef Antonio, as he shares how discipline and mental calmness are cultivated through this ancient art form.Join Chef Antonio on a nostalgic trip as he recounts his most cherished childhood meal in Baltimore - savoring delectable crabs that left a lasting impression on his culinary journey.Calling all food lovers! Join us as we uncover the secrets of Jerk Werk chicken with chef Antonio Baines. From the traditional techniques to the mouthwatering flavors, this dish is a true testament to the art of cooking.🎧🌟 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 a captivating episode of "The Truth in This Art"! Join host Rob Lee as he engages in a meaningful conversation with event director Vinny Green of Taharka Brothers.Taharka Bros is more than just the best ice cream in Baltimore, the company also focuses on enriching its employees and serving the Baltimore community. Organizational guiding pillars like cultural understanding, economic empowerment and ​ community engagement drive Taharka Bros. Their values are deeper than creating interesting and great ice cream flavors.More than 100 local restaurants and stores sell Taharka Bros' small-batch all-natural ice cream, and the company recently opened a scoop shop in the newly renovated Broadway Market. Coming up, a deep dive into:The deeper purpose behind Taharka Brothers—an ice cream business that goes beyond frozen treats to champion cultural understanding, economic empowerment, and community engagement.Discover how Taharka Brothers actively supports local businesses, fosters employee education and growth, and ensures fair profit-sharing among all team members, making a real impact in their community.Join us as we unravel the collaborative spirit of Taharka Brothers, teaming up with like-minded local brands to create an array of unique ice cream flavors, while still preserving the essence of traditional favorites.Savor the flavors favored by Vinny Green himself, as he shares his top three delightful picks: HoneyGram, Roasted Strawberry, and Chocolate Love—each a taste sensation in its own right.Gain insights into Vinny's inspiring journey as he embraces his role as a community leader and mentor, setting a positive example for others and leaving a lasting mark on the lives he touches. Expect an enriching and engaging episode celebrating the passion and purpose behind Taharka Brothers and its visionary leader, Vinny Green.Don't miss this episode as Vinny discusses the values and mission of the company. Taharka Brothers is more than just an ice cream business; it is focused on cultural understanding, economic empowerment, and community engagement. The company supports local businesses, encourages employee education and development, and shares profits with all employees. Taharka Brothers collaborate with like-minded local brands and create unique ice cream flavors while still offering traditional favorites. Vinny shares his top three favorite flavors and emphasizes the importance of being a leader and mentor in his community.🎧🌟 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 a captivating episode of "The Truth in This Art"! Join host Rob Lee as he engages in a meaningful conversation with Butch Dawson, a versatile underground artist from West Baltimore, MD. Butch is a rapper, producer, and visionary. He is known for his unique musical style and visionary approach to his work. With a background in both street rap and experimental music, Butch combines various influences to create a distinct sound and aesthetic. He is also involved in the fashion world, often incorporating his personal style into his music and performances.  Check out his latest projects and 'Flood It Out'.Today's episode uncovers:A fusion of street rap and experimental music, crafting a truly distinct sound and aesthetic.An immersive musical journey that he considers a work of art, promising an extraordinary experience for the audience.Embracing feedback, both positive and negative, to stir emotions and spark meaningful dialogues through his art.Draw inspiration from his family, channeling the desire to care for them, while safeguarding his energy and mental well-being.Witness a dedicated artist from Baltimore, setting an example and representing his city with pride wherever he ventures.Join us in this enlightening episode as Butch shares how he combines his background in street rap and experimental music to create a unique sound and aesthetic. He sees himself as more than just a rapper, considering his music to be a form of art. Butch is known for his immersive projects and attention to detail, creating a world around his music. He values the feedback, both positive and negative, that he receives from his audience and believes it is important for artists to create a dialogue and evoke emotions through their work. Butch is inspired by his family and the desire to take care of them, as well as the need to protect his energy and mental health. As an artist from Baltimore, he feels a sense of responsibility to set an example and represent his city wherever he goes.🎧🌟 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 a captivating episode of "The Truth in This Art"! Join host Rob Lee as he engages in a meaningful conversation with Chef Jasmine Norton the executive chef & owner of The Urban Oyster . The company is both the first female and black-owned oyster bar in Maryland.Jasmine pursued a career in the restaurant industry and began shucking and grilling oysters under the Urban Oyster name at the Fells Point farmers market in 2017. She is known for her innovative approach to oysters and her mission to make oysters more accessible to the black community. Chef Norton has been recognized for her culinary skills and was a contestant on Guy's Grocery Games.Tune in as we explore:Chef Jasmine's mission to increase oyster accessibility within Baltimore's black community.Discover the rich history of oysters in Baltimore, often overshadowed by the craze for crabs.Chef Norton's belief in accessibility as the remedy to break the stigma around oysters is something to anticipate.Witness the determination of Chef Norton as she faces challenges as a black woman in the culinary industry, striving to create a meaningful impact.Stay tuned for Chef Norton's innovative business model restructuring post-COVID-19, with a strong focus on nurturing young entrepreneurs in the days to come.Chef Jasmine Norton, the executive chef, and owner of the Urban Oyster, joins host Rob Lee to discuss her mission to make oysters more accessible to the black community in Baltimore. Chef Norton explains that she was inspired to focus on oysters because she noticed a lack of interest in the black community for this particular cuisine. She wanted to challenge this perception and expose her friends and others to the world of oysters. Chef Norton also discusses the history of oysters in Baltimore and the challenges she has faced as a black woman in the male-dominated culinary industry. She shares her plans to restructure her business model in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and her desire to mentor young entrepreneurs in the future.🎧🌟 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." I'm your host, Rob Lee. In this captivating episode, join me as I delve into an enchanting conversation with Kondwani Fidel, a talented writer, spoken word artist, and speaker.Fidel's passion and poetry have taken him on a global journey, addressing education reform, civil rights, and the experiences of growing up in an underserved community. His powerful presence has captivated audiences at conferences, literary events, and universities. Featured in prestigious publications like The Washington Post and The Atlantic, Fidel's lyrical poetry resonates deeply.Join us as we explore:Discovering Fidel's impactful storytelling and the power of his words.Uncovering the transformative journey of his career and the evolution of his artistic voice.Gaining insights into Fidel's creative process and his strategies for overcoming challenges as an artist.Don't miss this thought-provoking and inspiring episode as Kondwani Fidel shares his powerful stories, creative journey, and unwavering commitment to empowerment through art.🎧🌟 Please Rate & Review this Podcast to Support the Best! 🌟🎧 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." I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to introduce our next guest: Thomas James, curator, arts facilitator, critic, and Visual Arts Director for Creative Alliance. We discuss his new exhibition BRIGHT. Thomas is a curator with extensive experience in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area, joined Creative Alliance in 2018. His background includes crafting exhibitions with prominent organizations such as The Phillips Collection and The Jerusalem Fund. In his latest endeavor, the BRIGHT exhibition, he brings together ten Black American artists to showcase their stunning works in Creative Alliance's main gallery. This collection challenges mainstream portrayals of Black bodies, offering an authentic and vibrant depiction of Black life that encourages viewers to see Blackness in a new light.Join us as we discuss:Exploring the groundbreaking "Bright" exhibition curated by Thomas James, aimed at shedding light on underrepresented histories and narratives through the powerful lens of black artists. Expect to encounter captivating works that challenge conventional perspectives.Get ready to meet Thomas James, an arts facilitator, and curator dedicated to supporting and promoting black artists. Expect to learn about his mission to bring representation and equity to the forefront of the art world, breaking free from historical marginalization.Discover the path to becoming a curator as we uncover the essential steps: attending art shows, forging connections with artists and fellow curators, and developing your own unique vision for thought-provoking exhibitions. Expect to be inspired to take your first steps into this creative realm.Explore the concept of equitable support for artists, where specialized assistance and artist development take center stage. Expect insights into how nurturing and prioritizing artists' growth can foster a thriving artistic community.Be inspired by Thomas James' commitment to cultivating inclusive art spaces that embrace diversity and create opportunities for all artists to shine. Expect to witness the transformative impact of representation and equity in the art world.EXHIBITION ARTISTS:AmbroseMarie Charlotte AmegahDestiny BelgraveMichael A. BookerSchroeder CherryAndrew GrayDavid IbataJabari C. JeffersonMegan Lewis (cover photo)Arin MitchellJoin us as we explore the world of exhibition art with Thomas James as he discusses his role as an arts facilitator and curator, emphasizing the importance of being a cultural protector and ensuring equitable representation for black artists. He shares insights into his upcoming exhibition, "Bright," which features the work of ten black artists from the DC and Baltimore areas. Thomas also provides advice for aspiring curators and art enthusiasts on how to appreciate and critique art.🎧🌟 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 ★

In this episode of the podcast, join host Rob Lee as he engages in a fascinating conversation with Dr. Joanne Martin, the co-founder and president of The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, America's first wax museum of African American history in Baltimore, Maryland. Featuring over 150 life-size and lifelike black wax figures, the museum portrays 5,000 years of African American history, representing scenes from ancient Africa to the present, aiming to promote African American history, inspire youth, challenge racial stereotypes, and uplift the community. Since its inception in 1983 as a traveling show, the museum has grown significantly, receiving over 200,000 visitors annually. Dr. Martin, a holder of a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, has been a driving force behind the museum's expansion efforts, with plans to open a new $60 million facility in the coming years to further enrich the community in East Baltimore's low-income Oliver Community.Join us as we discuss:Uncover the compelling story behind the founding of the National Blacks in Wax Museum, driven by a mission to rectify the lack of representation and distorted portrayals of African American history in mainstream museums. Expect to explore how this museum serves as a beacon of truth and empowerment.An awe-inspiring encounter with the wax figures in the museum, providing a tangible and up-close experience of black history. Discover the rich diversity and unwavering resilience of the black community, immortalized in lifelike depictions that breathe life into the past.Learn about the meticulous efforts taken to maintain the wax figures with accuracy, preserving the legacies of the remarkable individuals they portray. Expect to gain insights into the crucial role these representations play in keeping history alive.Celebrating the profound cultural significance of the black extended family and the often underappreciated contributions of black women. Expect thought-provoking discussions that shed light on their pivotal roles in shaping history and society.Discover the forward-looking vision of the museum, as it aims to expand its reach and create more opportunities for tourism and economic growth in the surrounding community. Expect to explore the potential impact of this endeavor on both visitors and locals alike.Join us for an engaging episode as Dr. Joanne Martin shares the mission and work of the museum. The museum was founded by her husband, Elmer, in response to the lack of representation and distorted depictions of African American history in mainstream museums. The wax figures in the museum provide a tangible and up-close experience of black history, showcasing the diversity and resilience of the black community. Dr. Martin discusses the challenges of maintaining the wax figures and the importance of accurately representing the individuals they portray. She also highlights the need for more discussion and recognition of various aspects of black culture, such as the black extended family and the contributions of black women. The museum aims to expand and create more opportunities for tourism and economic growth in the surrounding community.🎧🌟 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." I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to introduce our next guests: Emmanuel and Nick, the founders of Slum Paradise, a multidisciplinary art and design collective based in Baltimore. They are passionate about creating a platform that allows them to explore various creative avenues, including art, fashion, music, and more. Slum Paradise is a reflection of their vision to create a space where the good and the bad coexist, representing the beauty and complexity of the world. The monicker represents a metaphor for the world as we experience it in one simple phrase. In this episode, we delve into:A journey through Slum Paradise, a symbolic world that mirrors our own, showcasing the delicate balance between the good and the bad. Expect to uncover the profound meanings behind this metaphorical universe.The heart of Slum Paradise's collective, a dynamic force inspiring others to fearlessly pursue their passions and unleash their creativity without limits. Expect to be motivated by their dedication to creative expression.Explore the significance of collaboration and community building in Slum Paradise's thriving world. Expect to learn how collective efforts contribute to an environment that fosters growth and inspiration.Witness Slum Paradise's resilience as they navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 era. Expect to see how they adapted by revamping their website and expanding their online presence, ensuring their creative spirit continues to shine brightly.Join us for an engaging conversation as Emmanuel and Nick discuss their creative journey and the concept behind their brand. Slum Paradise is a metaphor for the world, representing the good and the bad that coexist. They aim to inspire others to pursue their passions and create without boundaries. The collective focuses on various creative outlets, including art, fashion, music, and more. They emphasize the importance of collaboration and building a community of like-minded individuals. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Slum Paradise has adapted by revamping their website and expanding their online presence.Mentioned in this episodeSlum Paradise🎧🌟 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." I'm your host, Rob Lee. In today's episode, we have a captivating conversation with Pat Illes of Mount Royal Soap Co. Mount Royal Soaps offers luxurious soaps, baths, and skincare products that are handcrafted in small batches.  Pat and their team started making soap as a hobby and it eventually grew into a successful business. They are known for their unique formula that uses natural vegetable oils and excludes palm oil and animal fats. Pat is passionate about raising awareness about the destructive nature of palm oil farming and providing alternative options for consumers. We discuss the soap business, autobiography titles, and what it's been like to work in what has become an essential business.In our talk, Pat shared:The eco-conscious ethos of Mount Royal Soaps as they use natural vegetable oils, leaving out palm oil and animal fats. Expect to learn how they raise awareness about the environmental impact of palm oil farming through their thoughtful choices.Be inspired by the captivating tale of Mount Royal Soaps, a personal care product line that started as a mere hobby and blossomed into a thriving business. Discover the passion and dedication behind their handmade soaps and their commitment to environmental consciousness.Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, witness how Mount Royal Soaps adapted with purpose, venturing into producing hand sanitizers. Learn about the support they received from the Made in Baltimore program, and how their commitment to their community never wavered.Discover the heartwarming expressions of gratitude from Pat, the driving force behind Mount Royal Soaps, as they reflect on their ability to sustain their business during difficult times. Expect to hear about Pat's admiration for Baltimore's resilient spirit in the face of the pandemic's challenges.Join us for an engaging episode as Pat Illes, co-founder of Mount Royal Soaps, joins host Rob Lee to discuss their personal care product line business. Pat shares how they got started in soap making as a creative outlet during their recovery from addiction and mental health issues. They talk about the unique formula of their soaps that exclude palm oil and animal fats, and the importance of raising awareness about the environmental impact of palm oil farming. Pat also discusses their experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they pivoted to producing hand sanitizers and received support from the Made in Baltimore program. They express their gratitude for being able to sustain their business during these challenging times and their admiration for Baltimore's response to the pandemic.Mentioned in this episodeMount Royal Soaps🎧🌟 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 ★