Blackout Podcast

As a producer, composer, and mentor, Stak wears different hats in the music Industry.He co-founded Million Vibes with aRENYe to unite diverse communities through music. He guides three artists in music composition and activities, fostering talent and artistic growth.Through Million Vibes and its SNAXX platform, Stak is creating a comprehensive hub for underground artists to thrive, positively impacting the growing music scene in Canada, especially on the East Coast, and expanding into a broader platform for artistic expression and community building.Stak's mission is to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem where creativity, collaboration, and community come together to shape the future of music and entertainmentCheck him out @stak_01

Ashley is the owner of Happily Hitched Halifax, an all-inclusive wedding chapel in Downtown Halifax specializing in elopements and minimonies. She is also a full-time Event Specialist at the Halifax Chamber of Commerce.Her event planning journey began in theatre with stage management and production in Toronto.Following her family's roots in Cape Breton, Ashley moved to beautiful Nova Scotia with her partner Jay Fisher (Capture It Photography) in 2020, and is thrilled to be building a life here! Find out more @happilyhitchedhfx

Queensley Chidera is a customer service expert, experienced administrative assistant and Certified Scrum master. She is originally from eastern Nigeria and currently resides in Halifax Novascotia with her husband. Queensley has over 8 years banking experience in Nigeria and 2 years of administrative experience in Canada. Queensley has a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and a master’s degree in food Microbiology from the Federal University of Technology Minna and the University of Nigeria Nsukka respectively. She is an advocate for inclusivity and equality in the workplace and has volunteered in programs that promote these. Outside of her career, Queensley loves trying new foods, loves cooking, hiking and hanging out with friends. Find out more @ajibo_queensley

Coming up in the Open Mic & Karaoke Community, Deves Matwawana has a strong love for pop music which shines through with his catchy hooks and his deceptively heartfelt lyrics. A Dartmouth Native and self-professed comic book geek, he’s the lead singer of the ANSMA Award Nominated, Halifax pop-rock band, CASUAL CRIES FOR HELP.Deves wants to use his platform to show a different side of black masculinity and black mental health through his art and the way he carries himself.Described as a mix between Michael Jackson and BareNaked Ladies, Casual Cries For HELP is a fun and vibrant pop-rock band with songs about anxiety, toxic relationships, intruding thoughts and nostalgia.Check him out @devesinprogress

Dwayne Marcial, a dynamic serial entrepreneur, thrives at the intersection of business and the arts.As an accomplished artist manager in the Canadian music industry, he navigates the complexities of the entertainment world with finesse. Dwayne's entrepreneurial spirit led him to be a founder of a groundbreaking music streaming app, revolutionizing the way audiences engage with indie music artists. Beyond his commercial ventures, Dwayne is dedicated to fostering a global appreciation for Canadian music.As the owner of a nonprofit organization, he champions initiatives that export the rich diversity of Canadian musical talent on the world stage. He is a respected client of the Trade Commission of Canada. Dwayne's influence reaches international heights, having actively participated in numerous export missions with Heritage Canada and working with music festivals in Singapore, Australia, and France, a testament to his invaluable contributions to both the artistic and economic landscapes.Find out more @realdjslim

Trevor Murphy contains multitudes. Whether as the founder of the boutique record label Acadian Embassy, the leader of bands such as Sluice and Quiet Parade, an award-winning publicist, a radio host, or a respected behind-the-scenes player throughout Nova Scotia's culture sector, he acts as a consistent champion for the outsider. Leaning on almost 20 years of experience in the music industry, Murphy strives to promote artists (particularly those from the East Coast) with a dedicated DIY attitude and a staunch alternative spirit. Check him out @hfxisburning

Blanche Israël is the CEO of the East Coast Music Association. A multilingual Moroccan-French Canadian cultural strategist and accomplished professional cellist, she has called Dartmouth, Nova Scotia her home since 2019. Before joining ECMA, Blanche was the founder and lead consultant at proScenium Services, a consulting firm excelling in transformative strategy which helped secure over $10 million in grants and funding for arts organizations.As a versatile cellist, Blanche collaborates with Indigenous artist Jeremy Dutcher, and in recent years her talents have graced over 60 Canadian stages and have been showcased in a Tiny Desk Concert and at the JUNO Awards. Her advocacy efforts span various arts service organizations, demonstrating her commitment to cultural storytelling and representation.Blanche has presented at esteemed conferences and platforms including Folk Alliance International, Music Nova Scotia, and the PHI Centre's Digital Literacy Incubator. With a polymathic range, a rich background in arts management, an impressive funding track record, and a profound artistic presence, Blanche Israël is poised to lead the East Coast Music Association towards a future characterized by innovation, inclusivity, and unparalleled cultural impact.

Fatu Kaba is an award-winning human rights activist, high-fashion model, and the founder and CEO of HEARTS, a platform dedicated to building an epistemic community where every individual has a platform to learn, share their story, and access tools to create a positive social impact.She is also a novelist with both published and unpublished manuscripts, including "Fiona Sallami" and "Harder Choices," and has contributed articles to platforms such as Manchester University Peace Studies, UNICEF Voices of Youth, and Sleepless in Monrovia. Fatu is currently working on turning some of her manuscripts into screenplays, including "Crippled Affection," "Unholy Deal," and "Echoes of the Guardians."Originally from Liberia, Fatu survived the civil war before moving to the USA to pursue her Bachelor's in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from Manchester University. She then relocated to Canada in 2022 to pursue a Master's in Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation at SMU.Find out more @fatumkaba

 Hilary MacCormick (she/her) is an obstetric anesthesiologist practising in Kjipuktuk/Halifax. Her academic research focuses on improving perioperative care for LGBTQIA+ communities. She is a volunteer with @CASIEF, which takes her to Rwanda every couple of years to help teach the anaesthesia residents at the University of Rwanda. Hilary began pole dancing 15 years ago for exercise but quickly fell in love with the community and mental health benefits. She has competed regionally and internationally, winning gold at the Pole Sport Organization Northeast L3 Senior Championship (Boston, 2019) and Halifax Theatrix (2020). In addition to pole dance, she also trains partner acrobatics (Halifax Circus) and lollipop lyra. Hilary began performing burlesque as Lola Pop in 2021 and is incredibly grateful to the supportive burlesque community for welcoming her with open arms. As a self-titled “collector of hobbies”, she also rides horses and has started learning West Coast swing dance. Hilary loves marvelling at the capabilities of the human body and creating meaningful connections with people - whether that is through relieving someone’s pain and anxiety during labour, collaborating with colleagues providing care in low resource settings, or cheering someone on when they nail a new skill in pole or circus. Learn more @hilarykate

Jay Fisher is the Headshot Photographer for people who hate having their photo taken.He's been fortunate enough to work with many different people from different parts of the arts world. As a former actor and performer, Jay has spent a lot of time on both sides of the camera and uses that insight and experience to make personality come alive in his clients' images. He has garnered the trust of HRM's Business Community and is the go-to headshot photographers for some of the regions best known companies and business leaders.Jay's photo philosophy is simple: The person in the photo needs to be the person walking in the room. And so he wholeheartedly celebrates the people he has the pleasure of working with! Jay strives to create a fun and empowering environment, and welcomes people of all age, sex, gender identity, orientation, physical ability, ethnicity and body type.When he's not working in the studio, Jay enjoys music, movies, cooking, and other geeky pursuits. And yes, still enjoys photography as a hobby, as a medium for creating art and storytelling.Jay lives in Dartmouth with his partner Ashley and their dog Bleu.Check his work out @captureit.photog

Oliver Twisted is a theatrical neo-boylesquer with a passion for the absurd, creative costume design and fully immersive theatre.He has been active in the Halifax burlesque scene for almost 4 years and is thrilled to contribute to the further development of our community. He is on the board of the Atlantic Burlesque Co-operative, and he’s the producer and co-founder of Atlantic Boylesque.Oliver is profoundly appreciative to have the opportunity to live and work in Mi’kma’ki because of its beautiful coastal environments, wild interiors, rich artistic culture and supportive community vibes.Check him out @atlanticboylesque

Tiffani Young is the CEO of Natural Butter Bar, a multi-award-winning company based in Dartmouth, N.S. that launched in December 2020.Natural Butter Bar offers 100% plant-based products that help different types of hair and skin look their best. Their diverse product line includes Butters, Oils, Essential Oils, Gel, Soap, Shampoos, Conditioners and Accessories. Their products help with a variety of challenges such as eczema, psoriasis, dryness, breakage and itchy scalp to name a few.Tiffani started Butter Bar because she wanted to offer high-quality all-natural products that are inclusive and accessible. She offers products that focus on black hair and skin care needs but are still universal and also offers Braille labels upon request.The aim is to help people, regardless of their texture or complexion, to fall more in love with the skin they’re in and the kink of their hair.Learn more @naturalbutterbar

Veronica Post is an award-winning graphic novelist based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Author ofLangosh and Peppi: Fugitive Days, and Langosh, Peppi and Yeva: Hot to Trot. Following a brief and disillusioning attempt at university for Philosophy and Fine Arts, respectively, Veronica moved to Montreal where she completed a diploma in fine cabinetry, which suited her much better. She played drums in punk bands, ate poutine, worked in factories and joined a local zine distro that encouraged her to self-publish and distribute her mini-comics. This encouragement turned a lifelong love for comic books into a passion for creating auto-biographical work in graphic novel form. She left Montreal for the allure of Eastern Europe, where she created the characters Langosh and Peppi and began working on what would become “Fugitive Days”, published by Conundrum Press and awarded with the Doug Wright “Nipper” award in 2020. She continues to create work based on these characters and looks forward to creating more work exploring their world, and her own. Check out her work @veronica.post.comics

Janice Landry has won three national awards for her books and mental health advocacy work. Janice is a proud Haligonian and is currently working on her seventh non-fiction title which will be published by Pottersfield Press in spring 2025. Her most recent book, Eye of the Ocean, (2022), was a bestseller. Janice’s biggest inspiration is her family; husband, Rob, and daughter, Laura. She also honours her late parents, Baz and Theresa, with her books, and began writing long form to tell the gripping story of her father’s National Medal of Bravery for rescuing an infant from a harrowing house fire. Check her out @jthecanadian

Canadian by birth, Ethiopian by ethnicity, traveller by choice.Dinah is from Halifax, Nova Scotia. She grew up travelling back home to Ethiopia quite often as a kid and it has continued to stay with her till this day. She has a huge passion for travelling and doing things outside of her comfort zone as she feels like you learn so much about yourself and the world.Dinah is mostly into budget travelling and backpacking, her favourite part of travelling is meeting and making new friends from all over the world during her travels. Travelling has given her such a unique outlook on the world and she cannot wait to travel to many more countries that are misinterpreted by the media and the Western world.Find out more @dinah_ejigu

Schuyler Vromans is a partner aerial circus artist, osteopath, massage therapist, and acupuncturist.His life revolves around elevating others' health and wellness and pushing the boundaries of physical artistry. In his free time, he's either defying gravity with dynamic aerial routines or finding new ways to blend movement and healing.Every performance, every treatment, is a step towards a holistic approach to well-being, and exploring the limits of human potential together.Find out more @schuylervromans

Jasmin Jasko Razic is the dynamic President and owner of True North Events, a company renowned for revolutionizing the DJ & Event services landscape on the East Coast. Born from a legacy established in 2013, True North Events, originally known as True North DJ Services, quickly became a cornerstone in the entertainment industry, renowned for its top-notch DJ services. Jasko's entrepreneurial spirit and vision led him to acquire True North amidst the challenging times of COVID-19 in December 2021, a bold move that marked the beginning of a new era for the company.With a diverse background that intriguingly blends music and law enforcement, Jasko's journey is anything but ordinary. Before his venture into the business world, he served as a dedicated police officer for a decade, a career that honed his sense of community and service. However, his heart always beat for music, a passion deeply rooted in his childhood years in Bosnia, where he played piano and drums before immigrating to Canada at the age of 10. Settling in Halifax at a young age, Jasko's transition into a new culture was marked by his unwavering love for music, which remained a constant as he navigated through high school and beyond.Jasko's transition from law enforcement to full-time entrepreneurship was fueled by his entrepreneurial spirit and an innate drive to innovate within the entertainment industry. Under his leadership, True North Events has experienced exponential growth, expanding its team from seven to twenty-two DJs and broadening its services to include photo booths and the highly sought-after 360 video booth, a first of its kind on the East Coast. His pragmatic approach to business, combined with a deep understanding of market needs, has positioned True North Events as a leading entertainment provider, renowned for its quality, innovation, and comprehensive service offerings.Jasko's story is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and adaptability. From the war-torn streets of Bosnia to the bustling business landscape of Canada, his journey reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep commitment to enriching the entertainment experience. As True North Events continues to thrive under his stewardship, Jasko remains a beacon of innovation, continuously seeking new ways to elevate the event experience and leave a lasting impact on the industry.Check him out @truenorthevents.hfx

Mariah has supported small to large businesses locally and internationally for almost a decade. Her expertise is in the overlap of embodying branding with the natural evolution of business. Her support ranges vastly from grounding the strategy, messaging, and visual components of a business; to understanding micro-movements for sustainable success.She is currently the Executive Director of Mariah International Business & Vitality Inc., owner of Embodied Clothing, as well as Co-Founder/ Chief Brand Director of a new international project called Weev (app).Mariah is also fluent in other creative pursuits, as a recognized Poet, Sound Therapist, Fashion Designer & Event Coordinator.She has worked with Businesses/ Nonprofits/ Corporate Structures such as Youth Art Connection, Place-Making 4G, The Bus Stop Theatre, Halifax Chambers of Commerce, Black Business Initiative, Common Good Solutions, Delmore Buddy Day Learning Institute, Cluster, FlexTime & others.As a business owner who has previously benefited from the support of INOVA, Mariah can be a voice and a bridge for other BIPOC businesses to regain trust in the banking institutions.With her wealth of knowledge and natural intuitive understanding of business, she has been asked to consult for government programs, the creation of new building developments for minority groups as well as create programming for the youth in business.

Hailie Tattrie (she/her) is a sociologist, a white settler,  a communist, and a lifelong learner. She is currently working towards finishing her PhD in educational studies at Mount Saint Vincent University. She works as a part-time professor at Saint Mary's University & is hoping to become a full-time professor at one of Halifax's universities when she is done with her schooling. Hailie grew up in rural Nova Scotia, after graduating high school she went to Mount Allison University where she fell in love with sociology and academia. After her undergrad she travelled Europe and the UK and was a nanny in Scotland, she then went to Dalhousie University where she completed her Masters in Sociology in 2020. When not in school Hailie likes to volunteer her time to worthy causes like Justice for Workers or going to local rallies and protests. She lives in Halifax (K'jipuktuk) with her partner Jacob and their two kitties- Michael and Dexter. Learn more @hailiemtattrie

Anita Kirkbride UNDERcomplicates social media marketing for smart, successful small businesses.She encourages her clients to ditch perfectionism, embrace authenticity and #BeFlawsome in their social media.She started Twirp Communications Inc., a boutique social media consulting business, in 2011 and the Social Media Day Halifax conference in 2018. She has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs leverage social media through her consulting, BeFlawsome podcast, educational blog, and a variety of webinars and online courses.The anti-hero Spicy Anita arrived in 2023 and is known for her red leather jacket, busting myths about the online marketing industry and encouraging her followers to #UnleashTheAntiHero.Check her out @twirpcommunications

 Vaishali Sachdeva aka V is an international student from a country rich in culture and diversity, India. She created history by being crowned as the first Miss South Asian Gem Nova Scotia 2023 and is dedicated to achieving more milestones in the future as well. Since childhood Acting has been her passion and she started her journey as a professional Actor with the Newcomer’s Project last year for which she toured across schools in Nova Scotia to amplify the voices of immigrants and refugees in Canada and was a performer in the Halifax Fringe festival as well for the show called "The Object at Trash Beach". She made her screen debut in January 2024 with a Punjabi song titled "Ik Chehra" which got over 306K views. She has also been a background Actor in award-winning films like "The Queen of My Dreams" and has worked as a catalogue model for Ela Stories. From Acting, dancing, pageant, and modelling to being a pitch presenter for Enactus or being involved with Entrepreneurship, sales, and Psychology, she is a multifaceted individual driven by a relentless pursuit of diverse passions. She believes in creating impact through her art and likes to give back to the community. She has participated as a speaker at events organized by the World University Service of Canada(WUSC) and United Way Canada(UWC) to raise awareness about student refugees, poverty, social issues and international development. Additionally, she did a show in Halifax on her birthday in collaboration with an NGO called Adsum for Women for charity which was a great success. V is like an unstoppable force passionate about whatever she does. She will achieve all her dreams through her strong will to never give up and hard work and she wants to become a renowned name in the world, especially in the Entertainment industry. Find out more @vaishali__sachdeva

Iyiola AKA Gafar, a shortened form of the name "Abdulgafar" which means “Servant of the All Forgiving”.He is an artist, Architecture student, and general creative. He has always loved design and aesthetics, and visual art is his preferred way of expressing himself. Born in Canada but lived most of his life in Lagos, Nigeria, Iyiola believes Lagos is a wonderful place, and it has influenced his art and his identity greatly.He moved to Halifax in 2019 for school, and he has learned to appreciate what he used to think was a boring city.He believes there is a lot to discover in Halifax, and he hopes to explore more of its art scene and connect with other creatives like him.Check him out @gafar_the_great

Josh Creighton is a lifelong resident of Nova Scotia.He works for the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, as the Corporate Partnership Specialist. He also sits on CBC's African Nova Scotian community advisory board.Josh enjoys exploring various entrepreneur efforts, reading, cooking, hiking, and practising martial arts in his spare time.Check him out @joshcreighton2

Tanya McHarg is a registered social worker, coach and facilitator with over 20 years of experience in the field. She is the owner and operator of Healing on Purpose Therapeutic Services, currently offering coaching services, facilitation and individual therapy under the mentorship of a clinical social worker. She uses an intersectional, anti-oppressive and holistic lens to support the health and healing for people of African descent. She completed her Sociology Degree at St. Thomas University with a research focus on systemic anti-Black racism within law enforcement. She completed her Social Work degree at the University of Calgary and her Master's of Social Work at Dalhousie University (graduation spring 2024). Tanya began her career within the non-profit sector supporting people experiencing homelessness, addiction and mental health issues. She spent 17 years with the Government of Alberta in areas such as child intervention investigations, training, and facilitation, and worked as Team Lead of the PSECA Team (Protection of Sexually Exploited Children's Act) to address child sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Tanya is passionate about mindfulness, self-compassion and somatic bodywork as ways toward healing and thriving not just surviving. Originally from New Brunswick, Tanya’s paternal grandmother (Peters) was an African Nova Scotian from Annapolis Royal.In 2022, Tanya resigned from the Government of Alberta and followed her dreams to move back to the East Coast making Nova Scotia her forever home. Find out more @blkexcellencehealing

A small red Sepal on a Peduncle attached to the deep roots of the flower in a garden full of colorful flowers feeling the scent of nature could be: Basam Murtaza Tahoor. He feeds from the sprinkles of nature, inhales the fragrance of the air, and lives under the rays of the luminous sun.Basam Murtaza Tahoor is the Founder and Managing Director of iClick Agency, a full-service marketing agency. A results-driven professional with 9 years of diverse experience and adept in Digital Marketing, WordPress Development, Graphic Design, Translation, Content Writing, Branding, and Business Writing. I hold a bachelor in English Language and Literature and a vocational degree in Civil EngineeringHe is obsessed with nature, literature, philosophy, beauty and humanity.The short stories and poems he writes are some of the seeds he planted in nature and he is elated to have them.Find out more on his LinkedIn Profile

Noémie (pronounced No-Emmy) is a Québecer of Haitian ancestry who has resided, worked and lived in Mi'kma'ki (Nova Scotia) since 2016. She received an undergraduate degree (honours) in Psychology from Mount Saint Vincent University in 2021 and is set to receive a graduate degree in Clinical Psychology from Acadia University in 2024.Noémie has a passion for Health Equity research, and for sharing scientific knowledge in ways that can be understood and accessed by everyone.She is particularly sensitive to issues of Black mental health and the lack of services for folks of African ancestry. Noémie embraces opportunities to educate the public on mental health topics, and to advocate for the cultural diversification of mental health care practitioners and scholars.Find out more @almost_a_shrink

Meet Kevin Robert, a young real estate investor and mortgage broker. Throughout his time at Saint Mary's University, Kevin was working towards his goal of financial freedom through real estate investing. With self-education, frugal saving, and being surrounded by inspiring investors alike, he was able to start building his portfolio upon graduating from university. Kevin purchased his first duplex in Truro, in November 2022 by using money that he saved while working throughout university. He describes how buying a duplex significantly decreased the cost of living via a tenant renting his other unit. A year later, he purchased his second duplex but this time, with none of his own money. By teaming up with an investor, he is able to continue growing his portfolio while simultaneously creating passive income for his partner. As Kevin grows, he is dedicated to sharing his journey in hopes of helping and inspiring new investors looking to achieve financial freedom. He also recently became an Associate Mortgage Broker, in which he helps first-time home buyers and investors navigate the complex world of mortgages. He asks that anyone looking to chat real estate or mortgages message him on Instagram@kevinrobertmortgages

Nahom is an illustrator, graphic designer, and writer, who specializes in visual and written storytelling. Originally from Ethiopia, he infuses his work with a mix of traditional and modern aesthetics, drawing inspiration from animation movies and ancient stories/myths from around the world.With over five years of self-taught and hands-on experience, Nahom's diverse skill set includes digital art, sketching, photography, and creative writing. His artistic achievements have gained recognition, such as winning the Mi'kmaq Cultural Awareness Creative Competition in 2022 and contributing a design to the Halifax Public Libraries for the 40th anniversary of African Heritage Month.Currently pursuing a business administration diploma at NSCC, Nahom has developed expertise in marketing and graphic design. Driven to defy the 'starving artist' stereotype, he strategically applies his creativity across various projects and mediums, in the pursuit of telling a story through words and design.You can find Nahom and his works on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nahomassefaa and Instagram: @cest_nahom

Sasha Paul is a Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur who passionately navigates both the Accounting and Creative realms.As the co-founder of Mauya, The Fine Arts Tribe, Sasha actively cultivates a community that nurtures creative connections and self-expression across diverse age groups and backgrounds. Through this platform, she thoughtfully crafts experiences that resonate with and represent fellow racialized individuals in her city.Sasha aspires to leverage her skills to further develop meaningful encounters that can drive important discussions on mental health and financial well-being education through Art, within racialized communities.Find out more @mauya_theabstract@sasha_nauleen

An accordionist with a bag of pocket-sized instruments & a dedication to cultural ecology, Mary Beth Carty fuses traditional songs, instrumental tunes, & songwriting. With a live show that runs the gamut of emotions, transporting us from the heights of dance-paced ecstasy to the calm of contemplative airs, she has had the opportunity to tour in North America, Europe, and Africa. Most recently, Mary Beth has performed at the Celtic Colours International Festival, FrancoFest Halifax, and Festivals Acadiens et Créoles in Lafayette, Louisiana. “She got the crowd singing along. It was something else!” - Bill Roach, CBC.Mary Beth released her second solo album, “Crossing the Causeway” in November 2022. Since then the album has made several appearances on the Earshot! College Radio Charts in Canada has reached No. 1 on Richard Gilman’s Folk Radio DJ Chart, and No. 3 on the Folk Alliance International radio play chart. It has also been nominated for two 2024 Canadian Folk Music Awards.Mary Beth’s debut solo album, 2017’s Les biens-nommés, earned nominations at the Nova Scotia Music Awards and the ECMA’s. It features original, accordion-fueled songs in French and English, with Donald MacLennan on violin and the Melchin brothers on double bass and percussion.As a member of the former duo Bette & Wallet, Mary Beth was nominated Traditional Singer of the Year at the 2009 Canadian Folk Music Awards. The duo toured extensively and released two albums, Voici… and Électrique. Their most popular song, “Squeegees,” transforms a public domain French-Canadian song into a humorous, bilingual anthem about urban winter hardships.In addition to her work as a solo artist, Mary Beth is in demand as a guitar accompanist for Celtic fiddlers and has performed with many of the best, including Cape Breton’s Ashley MacIsaac, Colin Grant, and Chrissy Crowley. She is known for her distinct, rhythmic style, keen ear, and mastery of the unusual DADGAD tuning. Mary Beth is also a square dance caller and dance instructor and has done extensive research on dances from communities all over Eastern Canada.Learn more @stompinmary

Teo founded TEO CREATIVE STUDIOS as a brand expert and entrepreneur with 11+ years of professional experience in marketing within the automobile and film industries while currently serving as the Program Coordinator for the Halifax Partnership.He holds a bachelor's degree in marketing and broadcasting and also possesses a degree in graphic design.Inspired by his positive experiences since relocating to Halifax, Teo is passionate about sharing the vibrant diversity and positive energy he has discovered in Halifax with others.Check him out @studioteo.ca

Over the past 25 years, Vanessa has had a rewarding career in both the social impact and for-profit sectors and has held positions in special events, fundraising, communications, marketing and B2B sales.Through educating, mentoring, researching and writing, Vanessa now provides a One Stop Grant Shop.A proud member of the Grant Professionals Association, Vanessa aims to deliver a higher standard of practice within the grant writing space. When not wearing her consulting hat, Vanessa is a passionate rock and ice climber as well as the President of Climb Nova Scotia.She is a mother to two daughters and dog mom to Arthur, the Border Collie.Her life motto is by Marie Forleo “Everything is Figureoutable”.Find out more @vanessaburnsconsulting

Meet Taylor Milne, the multi-talented Annapolis Valley educator, entrepreneur, and actor extraordinaire. By day, she's shaping the minds of the future generation in an elementary school, ensuring an inclusive learning environment where barriers are broken, and dreams are built.Beyond the classroom, Taylor takes on the role of the Director of Maritime Model & Talent Management, representing a diverse range of talent across the Maritimes. Her vision is to create an inclusive and supportive community, celebrating the uniqueness of each individual and fostering feelings of acceptance and empowerment. Breaking barriers and building dreams is not just a slogan for Taylor; it's a way of life.But that's not all – Taylor is also the mastermind behind "The Thirsty Smuggler," a Mobile Bar Business that she runs alongside her family. Whether it's weddings, birthdays, festivals, or backyard BBQs, Taylor can craft a customized package tailored to your vision and budget. She brings the same dedication and individualized approach to bartending as she does to teaching and talent management.A graduate of Acadia with a B.Sc in Psychology, Taylor initially planned to delve into counselling or psychiatry. However, life took her on a different path, one where she wears many hats and thrives on the excitement of meeting people, learning, and overcoming challenges.Join Taylor on this episode as she shares insights into how she effortlessly juggles her three full-time roles while still managing to maintain a social life, spend quality time with her husband, family, and furry companion, and continues to film another season as a host on the documentary series, "Ocean Playground".Tune in to discover the secrets behind Taylor's success in managing diverse careers and breaking barriers to build dreams.Find out more @mmtmanagement

Real life. Storytelling. Melodies. The B. brings an afro-futuristic vibe with every rhyme. Check her out @bibi.wav

Kuraaku is a Music Producer/mixing engineer, graphic designer, video editor and creative director born and raised on the island of Barbados (Caribbean) also home to the queen herself Rhianna.Now residing in Halifax, Ns, Canada, Kuraaku aims to push boundaries through his production helping to shape modern sound with his unique way of fusing genres with his background knowledge of dancehall, reggae, hip hop, trap and also through Afro beats and the amapiano world which has now become a huge influence in his music venture.He is set to release his debut album titled « Big Man le boss » which is a project with a collective of artists from back in his country along with some new artists here in Canada showcasing versatility through genre-bending.Kuraaku is also releasing an EP titled « Shesh »  in the spring with the collaboration of some talented artist friends here in the city of Halifax.Kuraaku aims to become an emperor of sound in making an indelible imprint with his future productions/recordings with new and upcoming talented artists.Check him out @kuraaku_

 As the founder and CEO of Diaspora Servus Immigration, Duntan understands the complexities of Canadian immigration like the back of her hand. Her dual expertise – a Bachelor's in Computer Science from the University of Lagos and a Diploma in Immigration Laws and Policies from the University of British Columbia – ensures a meticulous approach to every case. With many years of experience, coupled with her membership in the Immigration Consultants of Canadian Regulatory Council (ICCRC) and the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC), Duntan guarantees you not just an authorized practitioner, but a dedicated advocate. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or a family reuniting, your Canadian dream deserves expert guidance and unwavering support. Duntan is your trusted partner, paving the way for a successful journey from your aspirations to Canadian residency. Find out more @diasporaservusimmigration

 Sarah McCann is a Halifax, NS-based elementary school teacher by day, content creator and budding entrepreneur by night. She has been teaching for over a decade, with a special interest in early literacy that stems from her own life-long love of reading and writing. Looking for a creative outlet beyond her daily life as a teacher and mother, she turned to writing and combined it with another childhood passion, fashion, to begin creating style and beauty content as @starrysky_style. Sarah quickly realized how much she enjoyed not only content creation but also engaging with and supporting others.  She has a particular interest in supporting small or sustainable fashion and beauty brands that make a difference to the planet or to women by encouraging them to feel good about themselves.  She firmly believes in the adage that when you feel good, you look good, and vice versa. Her deep appreciation for all things beautiful, for female entrepreneurs, and for those who engage in lifelong personal growth has led her to the next step in her growth process:  a venture into the beauty business.  She and her sister will be opening @starrysky.aesthetics in early 2024, with the hope of helping others feel their most beautiful so that they have the confidence to reach their goals. Learn more @starrysky_style

 Michaela Jessome is a 27-year-old makeup artist from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia with over a decade of experience under her brush belt. From the early age of 16, Michaela began working on brides across the island and servicing clients in a photography studio before their shoots.  Once she had finished high school, she headed for one of Canada’s top makeup schools, John Casablanca’s Institute of Vancouver. While living in Vancouver, BC, she fell in love with the city life. Missing her family, she knew she wanted to move back and settled for a city closer to home. Michaela now calls Halifax, NS, home. Michaela’s style or “niche” in the makeup scene is now rooted within the music industry. Taking a step back from everyday makeup bookings and bridal, working on music videos and looks for performances is her forte. Check out her work @micjessome

Hawa Swaray transcends the role of an esthetician, championing self-care and empowerment. A proud alumna of Saint Mary’s University and HDC Hair & Esthetics - School of Cosmetology, her journey of self-discovery began after welcoming her son, Christopher, in 2020. Recognizing a gap in beauty services, she noticed a scarcity of skilled estheticians knowledgeable about diverse skin types, particularly those of a darker complexion. Hawa's commitment to lifelong learning propels her to fill this void by continuously expanding her expertise in the esthetic realm. This dedication ensures her clients receive unparalleled, personalized care tailored to their unique needs, setting her apart as a provider of the highest quality esthetic services. Find out more @keitabeautycare

Leanne Hoffman is a multi-disciplinary artist, songwriter, and producer living in Halifax, NS. She released her first solo, full-length album in May 2019 which was nominated for four Music Nova Scotia Awards, winning two, and a nomination for an East Coast Music Award. Her second album, The Text Collector, was co-produced with award-winning producer Erin Costelo and released in June 2023.The Text Collector is a multidisciplinary project that deconstructs poetry and pop music, rebuilding the pieces into a listening experience even richer than the sum of its parts. The songs use the swirling melodies and glitzed-up production of Top 40, and lyrics that address the interconnected relationship between desire and despair.The album was written from a poetry project where Hoffman wrote one poem a day for 365 days. All of those poems are now published in a book called “The Text Collector: An Anthology”. In addition to the written work and the songs, The Text Collector was accompanied by eight art pieces, handmade by Hoffman, and four music videos.By pressing light up against dark until it’s evident they’re just different parts of a multi-faceted whole, Hoffman dismantles illusions of duality on her sophomore record, clearing space to meet her feelings on their own terms instead of forcing them into a box.Check her out @hmleanne

Tori Yeomans is a Nova Scotian salon owner, passionate about inclusion within the beauty industry. With a background working in community mental health, Tori brings their expertise to the salon industry. Tori's vision is to create a salon atmosphere that clients AND beauty professionals can come to and feel free from judgement and discrimination; while advocating for other beauty businesses to turn in the direction of inclusion as well. Find out more @pridebeautylounge@toriatpride

JupiterReign, also known as Thaydra Gray, has been surrounded by music since the beginning of her life. She began singing in her father’s church choir in Montreal, Quebec, where she grew up directed by her mother, even before she could put together full sentences. She grew up the youngest of four daughters, and through her sisters she found her deep love for RnB music. Because of her exceptional vocal gifts, commitment to her craft, and charming stage presence, she also got the opportunity to sing background vocals with the legendary Roger Waters, of Pink Floyd. She was honoured to perform a special song with gospel icon, Donny McClurkin.She studied Musical Theatre training at the MSOPA (Montreal School of Performing Arts) under the guidance of some of this country’s leading actors and directors. In October of 2022, she debuted her theatrical abilities and starred as the main character, Lauren Johnson, in the premiere of “Love, Peace and Hairgrease”, written and directed by Tara Taylor.After receiving a spotlight while backing up platinum award-winning Canadian artist Jocelyn Alice, opportunities began to pop up. She debuted her first single "Don't Wanna", in the summer of 2022, which originated as a class assignment in the NSCC Music Arts program,. From there, she developed her debut EP “Intergalactic”, influenced by the sounds of Keyshia Cole, Kehlani, Summer Walker and SZA.She is the 2023 ANSMA Rising Star of the Year award winner, as well as a 3-time ANSMA nominee, including Artist of the Year and Single of the Year, and a 2023 Music Nova Scotia African Canadian Artist of the Year nominee.Rooted in the rich traditions of R&B, her music aims to evoke emotions, tell stories, and forge connections with a diverse and passionate audience. With every note, lyric, and performance, she strives to craft a unique, sonic experience that leaves a lasting impact on the souls of those who listen. She has a profound belief in the power of music to heal, uplift, unite and tell a story.Check her work out @jupiterreignmusic

Over the past couple of decades, Meghan has worked in a variety of roles in the music industry in Canada- from artist management to festival, event and venue management. She even managed a world-famous recording studio for a time, in Vancouver. Her passions include providing spaces and stages for artists of all genres to play and creating memorable experiences for audiences through the lens of live music. As President of Music Nova Scotia, Meghan (along with the entire board and staff of MNS) advocates for the MNS membership in any and all ways that could further the careers of the talented artists and industry members in Nova Scotia. She has woven refreshing elements of empathy, acceptance and inclusion in her approach to board governance, which has positively changed the landscape of the organization's operations, community involvement, and relationships. Meghan now owns Bent Ridge Winery with her husband and business partner Glenn Dodge. In addition to managing the winery and restaurant, Meghan is also the Events & Weddings Manager for their new seasonal Events Pavilion, which will soon be home to a new live music venue in the heart of the Avon Valley, NS. Find out more @bentridgewinery@musicnovascotia

Thauana Morais is a Brazilian Internationalist and Entrepreneur, devoted to cultivating a more equitable business environment in Halifax. With a diverse professional experience that encompasses experiences in Europe, South America and Asia, her work extends to various opportunities worldwide.Thauana currently coordinates an entrepreneurship program at YWCA Halifax. Before this role, she managed similar programs most notably in China and Brazil, where she co-founded SheUp and auspicious woman. Hailing from northeastern Brazil, she finds inspiration in her roots.Thauana's passions include education, music, and art.In early 2023, she co-launched a collective in Halifax, aimed at providing a secure space for community expressions through music & art.She recently has been investing in her own venture "Auspicious Woman Educational Technologies", which is an SaaS educational platform based on holistic approaches to entrepreneurial journeys.Find out more @thauana.morais

Uche is an energetic individual. Always striving to be better.In this episode, we talk about how he juggles banking, modelling and acting.Check him out @datguyjoel

JayTheKidd is a name that’s rapidly rising in the Nova Scotian hip-hop scene. With a vision to inspire the new generation and make an impact as both an artist and a person through his music, he sets his sights high. He aspires to become the face of the new era in Nova Scotia Hip-Hop, recognizing the untapped talent within his vibrant community and aiming to lead the charge.JayTheKidd’s talent has not gone unnoticed, with appearances on CTV Morning Live, where he’s been featured in multiple segments and interviewed. His music has found a home on Virgin Radio, and his story has graced the pages of prominent provincial and local press outlets, including dozens of articles on Saltwire, NG News, Pictou Advocate, 94.1 The Breeze, Elevator Magazine and Maritime EDIT; to name a few.With over half a million streams on just five songs, JayTheKidd has solidified his position as an emerging artist within the hip-hop landscape. He’s had the privilege of sharing the stage with esteemed artists like NLE Choppa, Classified, JRDN and Quake Matthews, with exciting future collaborations in the pipeline, including the latter three. Beyond his artistry, JayTheKidd has taken on the roles of producer, promoter, and manager, achieving a remarkable feat by selling out the Glasgow Square Theatre for his very first headlining show in just five days.In July, JayTheKidd made waves with the release of the lead single for his upcoming project, ‘Better Late Than Never,’ titled ‘Watch The Ride,’ complete with a captivating music video. While the project has faced unforeseen health-related delays, anticipation for its release remains high.

Yuhe Guo came to Halifax as a Chinese international student.An office lady who makes friends with clients.A model who never wears high-heels off the runway.A bartender who hates drinking.Find out more @yuhe_solimodels

Fantanesh Attomsa is the Founder of Blue Nile Massage & Wellness, which exists as a holistic health practice with a vision to create therapeutic and inclusive spaces within our communities.Her practice is on a mission to elevate the health of our communities through holistic therapies and accessible self-care education. As a compassionate leader with over 15 years combined in the health and social service field, it is her passion to empower others along their wellness journey.She aims to increase representation for black women well-preneurs by creating community wellness programming, facilitating community wellness workshops and providing mentorship to entrepreneurs.Fantanesh has been nominated for RBC's "Woman Of Influence", as well as Halifax Chamber of Commerce's "Small Business Of The Year" - and is a proud mother of 3.Check her out @fantanesh.attomsa

Amelia Cornick is a Canadian actor based out of Halifax, Nova Scotia. She has recently played a lead role in Ron Foley MacDonald's latest feature film 'Love and Doom' (winning Best Screenplay and nominated for Best Ensemble Cast at the MBTF Awards in the UK) as well as his previous feature film 'Sleepwatching' which aired last fall on Eastlink TV. She has previously played recurring characters on Bell TV show 'Real Wrestling' and Eastlink TV show 'The Motherload', as well as a police officer on the Bell TV true crime show 'Halifax Homicide', which became a number one show on their network.She has had the joy of playing in twenty-three short films over the past few years, including 'Blue Nude', a Nova Scotia College of Arts and Design production which was featured in FIN (Atlantic International) & NFFTY film festivals; and 'Flesh of my Flesh', a Goblin Den Productions short film which was a semi-finalist in the 15 Second Horror Film Challenge. She also appeared in the 48 Hour Film Project with Goblin Den Productions 'Alter Ego', which won six awards.Originally from Labrador, Amelia performed in a number of local theatre productions and attended the Royal Conservatory Music Speech Arts and Drama Youth Program. After moving to Nova Scotia to study at King's-Edgehill School with a music & theatrical arts scholarship, she furthered her training in acting with various coaches, workshops, and classes; and studied acting at Dalhousie's Fountain School of Performing Arts (earning a 4.3 GPA in both of her acting courses); alongside continuing to act and perform in local theatre productions, before choosing to pursue a career in film and television in 2020.

Stephanie Folahan is a dedicated and accomplished professional with a rich history in the field of accounting and finance. As the CEO of Premier Accounting and Tax, Stephanie has made it her life's work to provide essential financial services to both individuals and small businesses. With a true passion for helping clients manage their financial affairs, Stephanie's expertise, experience, and unwavering commitment set her apart as a leader in her industry.Stephanie brings to the table nearly two decades of professional accounting and financial experience, making her a seasoned expert in the field. Her journey in finance began with a diploma in Accounting and Payroll, obtained during her college years. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for her impressive career.Early in her career, Stephanie spent five years as a Tax Preparation Specialist at H&R Block, honing her skills in the intricate world of tax preparation. This experience allowed her to develop an intimate understanding of tax regulations, which continues to serve as a valuable asset in her work today.Following her tenure at H&R Block, Stephanie transitioned to a role as a Senior Accountant at ABK Biomedical, where she spent another five years. This role broadened her expertise and proficiency, offering exposure to advanced financial principles and practices. Her work at ABK Biomedical further solidified her understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and enabled her to master essential financial software tools like MS Excel, QuickBooks, and Sage50.Stephanie's professional journey is underpinned by her unyielding dedication to assisting individuals and small businesses with their financial needs. Whether it involves taxes, accounting, or bookkeeping, Stephanie is devoted to providing timely, efficient, and supportive solutions to her clients. Her friendly, understanding demeanor and professional approach reassure clients that Premier Accounting & Tax Inc. is the ideal place to address their financial and accounting requirements.Outside of her professional endeavors, Stephanie is a loving mother of three and a devoted wife. Her ability to balance the demands of her career with her family responsibilities demonstrates her remarkable commitment to both her loved ones and her clients. Stephanie's passion for helping individuals and small companies with their financial affairs, combined with her extensive experience, makes her a respected and trusted figure in the world of accounting and taxation.