Shows
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast Ep. 38 - Haifa Barbari (Dating/Relationship advisor, founder of the BeWhatMatters self-coaching app)On today’s episode, we take inspiration from the February Hallmark holiday that is Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, you’ll find the next guest and our conversation interesting. Haifa Barbari is a dating + relationship advisor who started a self-coaching app called ‘BeWhatMatters’ which offers personalized advice to attract the love that everyone deserves. She did the heavy lifting in terms of research, so you can relax and learn. We speak about her journey in advertising, her “Butterfly Effect” moment, and her love of karaoke. I also sourced three questions from anonym...2022-02-2437 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast Ep. 37 - Bernice Chao (Creative Director, Author, Co-Founder of non-profit 'Asians in Advertising')Welcome back as we commence Season 2 of the Creative Flex podcast. I’m proud to present the first guest of S2, Bernice Chao (Head of Integrated Creative at Zambezi).Whether it’s contributing to two art books, teaching, organizing TED events, or being in leadership positions in top organizations, she’s the quintessential creative. On this episode, we speak about her journey in the advertising world, the origins of the non-profit ‘Asians in Advertising’ that she co-founded, reasons Asians are rarely in the C-Suite of Fortune 500 companies, and other interesting topics.Please enjoy this bitesiz...2022-02-1125 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 36 - Crazy Legs Conti (Competitive Eater, Writer, Actor)For me, the 4th of July represents sacrifice, pride, and the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. The latest guest on The Flex is on the Mt. Rushmore of all-time competitive eaters. Crazy Legs Conti, currently #27 in the Major League Eating rankings, holds world records in Buffet Food (5.5 lbs in 12 mins) and French Cut Green Beans (2.71 lbs in 6 mins). We discuss the polarizing force that is Takeru Kobayashi, and the age-old question “what happens to you physiologically after eating 60 hotdogs?”He’s a writer, actor, former strip club beverage manager, and gastronomic historian. His takes on food, and f...2021-06-2249 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 35 - Stewart Cohen (Photographer, Director, Owner SuperStock Images)On today's episode of the Flex, I have the pleasure of speaking with photographer, director, and sole owner of SuperStock Images, Stewart Cohen. Born in Montreal, Canada he made his way to Dallas, TX where he not only makes it his home, he enthusiastically raves about the logistical and fiscal reasons for producing projects in the Lone Star State.We discuss some interesting stories about his life such as being born in an elevator during a snow storm, and having a mother who was an actress where the family would play out scenes at the dinner table. 2021-06-0129 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 34 - Jeremy Swillinger (Real Estate Agent)On EP 34 of the Flex, fellow Ohio State University Alum and powerhouse real estate agent Jeremy Swillinger sits down with us to talk about his journey, and the state of the Business.As more and more people get vaccinated, and with the reopening of life in the city, folks are moving back into the Big Apple (and other cities). We discuss the market in general, the significance of Zillow/Streeteasy, and we even touch upon how the show Million Dollar Listing New York has affected the industry.If you’re interested in real estate, or if...2021-05-1336 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 33 - Gregg LeFevre (Sculptor, Photographer, Storyteller, Public Artist)On today’s episode of the Flex, I speak with modern Renaissance man Gregg LeFevre. He’s a sculptor, photographer, storyteller, and public artist with projects all over the world. His 3D experimental photography has been shown in museum shows in Beijing and Berlin. He also started a podcast called The Compulsive Storyteller which features short non-fiction stories from his life, based on the premise that the truth can be stranger than fiction.He created the largest public art project in Manhattan at 5th and 41st st called the Library Walk. It’s showcased in the first episode o...2021-04-0647 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 32 - Adrian Mueller (Photographer, Director)On today’s episode of the Flex, the preeminent still-life photographer Adrian Mueller joins us for an insightful conversation. We talk a bit of shop (eg covid “friendly” shoots, best practices), and we delve into his youth as an aspiring footballer. He describes the stunning project he worked on using Costa Del Mar sunglasses to create several different types of fish. You can see the images and BTS footage here: https://www.fabrik-studios.com/stills-+-liquids/costa/thumbsAs an artist that became an “overnight success” after years of hard work, he speaks about the importance of...2021-03-0442 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 31 - Aaron Zimmerman (Vice President of Programming and Marketing at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio)There have been so many terrible outcomes from this pandemic; hundreds of thousands of deaths, long term illness, financial ruin. As social/herd beings, humans need to be able to enjoy music, entertainment, and each other to thrive. Live concerts, theater, and festivals have mostly been lost since March 2020. There is no group of people that has a better grasp of the current situation than the promoters. Today, my longtime friend, and the Vice President of Programming and Marketing at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio Aaron Zimmerman joins the Flex to walk us t...2021-02-0435 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 30 - Payton Wardlow (Entrepreneur, Founder - Birdie Bundle, Owner - Complete Nutrition BG)A huge percentage of Americans are fans of golf, and nutrition. My next guest on the Flex has you covered on both fronts. Payton Wardlow virtually sits down with me to discuss Birdie Bundle, his subscription box service that delivers premium golf apparel, and merchandise. We also talk about his other business, Complete Nutrition-Bowling Green, KY which is a brick-and-mortar fitness/supplement store.Using his experience, Payton provides some sage advice to those budding entrepreneurs that may be hesitant to make the next move. “It takes hustle, it takes drive…we have so much at our fingertips. We have s...2021-01-2924 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 29 - Karen Strauss (Psychotherapist, Former photography producer)On today’s episode of The Flex, we get to merge the world of mental health therapy and photography/art seamlessly. Former producer and current psychotherapist Karen Strauss joins the show to speak about her journey from the high stress world of photography to the steady-paced field of social work. She discusses the benefits of hypnotherapy, RTT (Rapid Transformative Therapy), and other proven methods of analysis. It’s crucial to approach all theories with an open-mind. Karen also shares a very personal story about suicide which led to her to become dedicated to assisting people to over...2021-01-1528 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 28 - James Porto (Photographer, Artist)On today’s episode of the Flex, a pioneer in the world of art and photography, James Porto takes us through his journey which includes his childhood growing up in a desert community of the Aramco Oil Company in the current Saudi Arabia to partying in the 80’s NYC with people like Andy Warhol. His experience with the darkroom/in-camera processes, to the inception of Photoshop, to current 3D modeling/CGI is discussed. We also take a shallow dive into the landmark legal case FPG vs. Newsday where the courts established that it is copyright infrin...2021-01-0529 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 27 - Talia Litman (Marriage & Family Therapist, Author)On today’s episode of the Flex, Marriage and Family Therapist/writer Talia Litman sits down with me to discuss her journey from the UK to NYC, and also her transition from the corporate world to couples + family therapy.One may ask why an episode on relationship therapy is apropos for the holiday season, and New Years. Well, I want to eliminate the stigma that currently exists on seeking counseling in general, and I believe with the high percentage of divorce in this country, couples who believe in their relationship enough to want to make it work is...2020-12-2838 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 26 - Libby DeLana (Co-founder MechanicaUSA, Creative Director, author, activist))In my humble opinion, Dos Equis should replace their “Most Interesting Person in the World” commercial character with my next guest. Libby DeLana is the Co-Founder of branding/strategy firm Mechanica, former Design Director at MullenLowe, aspiring pilot, culinary school graduate, sky diver, “free range parent,” author, activist, and morning walker. Her work won several industry awards, and has been featured in publications such as Communication Arts, Graphic Design & Logo, and Fast Company. She was also profiled by the BBC for a program called “The Chain” which individuals name the person who inspired their accomplishments. One of the topic...2020-12-0927 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 25 - Darren Prince (celebrity agent, entrepreneur, author/speaker)On today’s episode of the Flex, celebrity agent, entrepreneur, and author/speaker Darren Prince virtually sits down with us to go through his fascinating journey that includes being a seminal figure in the sports card business, fighting for his life with opioid addiction, and founding a prominent celebrity marketing agency.Raised in Livingston, NJ “The Prince of Cards” was a motivated businessman at an early age. As the years went by, with his hustle growing stronger, he started the Prince Marketing Group…an agency that represents Magic Johnson, Dennis Rodman, Charlie Sheen, Hulk Hogan, Pam Anderson to name...2020-12-0244 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 24 - Gillean Mcleod (model/stylist)The phrase “the riper the berry, the sweeter the juice” applies to the next guest on the Flex. Lovely human Gillean Mcleod started modeling in her 50’s. She’s been in ads for Boots the Chemist, Levi’s Jeans, Schwarzkopf hair products, Allure Magazine, and she even graced a billboard in Times Sq for Oliver Peoples. We speak about her journey growing up in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Scotland. Her eventual move to LA led her to tour with a band called The Party Boys. We discuss her passion for styling, and women’s rights along with her use of...2020-11-1826 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 23 - Scott McDermott (photographer/director)On today's episode, talented and energetic artist Scott McDermott stops by to walk us through his journey from growing up in Switzerland, to becoming a phenomenal commercial photographer/director.He details some of his amazing projects which include the highly acclaimed "Mandela Day" portrait shoot, "Scar Stories" personal piece, and a documentary film ("Danica: Driven") following Danica Patrick on the last race of her career. He also describes the day he partied with Shaq and Ja Rule after a photoshoot. Finally, he gives some advice on how and when to pivot in your ca...2020-11-1041 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 22 - Peter Mercurio (Author, Playwright)In these tough, and divisive times it's great to hear serendipitous stories of love and family. I had the pleasure of having the author of the book "Our Subway Baby" on the Flex to speak about how he and his boyfriend (at the time) discovered an infant on the ACE train, and the eventual creation of a family. Pete and I go through that fateful day, and the subsequent months and years that follow. We also touched on his experience coming out to his parents, and friends with the goal to help others in that predicament. Th...2020-10-2727 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 21 - Jordan Hollender (Director, Photographer)Wonderfully eccentric, and talented photographer Jordan Hollender joins the Flex to touch on a wide variety of topics. The range of items discussed runs the gamut from 'what's hypnotherapy, and how can it help you open up your creative flow?,' to a documentary Jordan is creating with a philosopher that is a window washer by day.We speak about his wife, and business partner Diane at length, and talk about how they keep their relationship strong working together each day. We also talk about his connection with his brother Scott Harris who helped discover Shawn Mendes. 2020-10-1732 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 20 - Tim Mitchell (Producer/Artist Rep)World renowned producer, and artist representative Tim Mitchell joins the Flex to talk shop in regards to the current and future state of image creation. His having artists based around the globe gives us a solid snapshot of the status of how creatives are working today. We speak about his journey from photography school to assisting and producing for photographers, and to finally representing them. We also talk about some of the phenomenal talent on his roster: Paul Aresu, Andric, Genevieve Caron, CJ Burton, Robert Wilson, LSD, Luminous, etc. If you're in the ad...2020-09-2534 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 19 - Martin Schoeller (Photographer/Director)Uber talented photographer Martin Schoeller joins the Flex as we walkthrough his journey that exemplifies resilience and focus.His immigrant success story is like that of countless others: take risks and stay motivated through trials and tribulations.Martin describes how his unwavering determination to assist for Annie Liebovitz made that goal to come to fruition.As a master portrait photographer, he talks about photographing President Barack Obama on three different occasions throughout his political career. We also speak about his work with legends Heath Ledger, and Kobe Bryant.Finally, he gives u...2020-09-1849 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 18 - Sean Dean Pyun (Integrated Producer, Fantasy Football "expert")The best time of year is here...football is back!! Although it's an uncertain period with the pandemic, I'm hopeful we can get a touch of normalcy this fall.For EP 18, I'm going solo. I'll go through my 5 tips for draft prep, the draft, and during the season in this bite-sized episode. I'll also provide:-Sleepers-Favorite handcuffs-Players I'm avoidingFinally, as an ode to one of the greatest shows of all time, The Jersey Shore, I make some NFL QB comps to some of the stars of the sh...2020-09-0717 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 17 - Erik Almas (Photographer, Director)On today's episode, I'm thrilled to have creative maestro Erik Almas on the Flex. We speak about his journey as a DJ in Norway, to traveling around the globe shooting epic photography. He talks about his assisting iconic photographer/director Jim Erickson, and his evolution as an artist as he jumps into the world of directing film."There's no such thing as failure, there's only giving up" is a quote Erik references as we talk about his early rise as an image taker. He also describes the moment a mystical stranger gave him unprovoked encouragement to steam forw...2020-08-2728 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 16 - Mark Friedman (Founder Confidante Creative Services, Former CCO Harrison and Star, ECD Biolumina, Creative Dr CDM)Wisdom needs to be sought out, and harvested. OG creative Mark Friedman shares some of his on this episode of the Flex. As a true New Yorker, he talks through stories of his youth in the city where he even joined the ranks of the Guardian Angels for a short stint. He discusses his perspective on the future of advertising generally and artistically. He also provides some advice for upcoming art directors, and for photographers that want to win prospective jobs with ad agencies.We get to learn about his exciting current endeavor as the lead...2020-08-2132 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 15 - Lori Cheek (Tech Entrepreneur, Founder of Dating App "Cheek'd", Shark Tank contestant)Innovative, and determined architect turned tech entrepreneur Lori Cheek joins the flex to speak about her adventures in the rough and tumble world of tech + investorship. She talks about her appearance on an episode of Shark Tank, her battle against law suits, and her advice to prospective creators. "If you have an idea...give up doubt, give up excuses, and surround yourself with positive people and bulldog forward. Bring your dream to life." - Lori Cheek. These are words to live by. She also fills us in on how her friendship with Bruce Willis blossomed. 2020-08-1425 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 14 - Randal Ford (Photographer)In today's episode, versatile and exceptionally talented photographer Randal Ford joins the Flex for a conversation about his path, including the influence of Richard Avedon on his photography. We discuss two shoots he just wrapped up and the effects of "COVID protocols" on the future of creative projects.Randal shares his motivation behind his wonderful and acclaimed book "The Animal Kingdom," and also gives us a preview of his upcoming book "Good Dog" with his timeless captures of man's best friend.This episode holds special meaning for me as it was recorded a da...2020-07-2942 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 13 - Kareem Black (Photographer)Friend of the podcast, and dope photographer Kareem Black joins the Flex to discuss his journey, his thoughts on the future of photography in the new normal, how karaoke is a metaphor for life, ways to increase opportunities for people of color in the arts, and other interesting topics. We also *try* to answer the age old question: "is Star Wars better than Star Trek?"https://www.kareemblack.com/Please subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcast. Appreciate you2020-07-2053 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 12 - Donna Grossman (Owner/Founder, Donna Grossman Casting)Talent is the backbone of most successful photo/video productions. The founder of a top casting studio in NYC, Donna Grossman, joins the Flex to talk about her origin story, the present + future of casting in the COVID world, and she provides some advice to actors on how to win auditions. She also discloses that she was a ventrioquist in a past life. http://www.donnagrossmancasting.com/Please enjoy, and subscribe where you listen to your podcasts. Appreciate you2020-07-1343 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 11 - Chris Volo (agent, Prince Marketing Group)Chris Volo (agent, Prince Marketing Group) joins the Flex to talk about how Wendy Williams helped him get his "foot in the door," his multiple trips to North Korea with friend/client Dennis Rodman, and the influence of Darren Prince on his life.We discuss current events, his upcoming book, Army Golden Knight football, Donald Trump, and hard-hitting journalistic topics such as "Did Madonna really offer Dennis Rodman $20M to impregnate her?" I hope you enjoy this episode. Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify@votorioushttps://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Chris-Volo-128612020-07-0344 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 10 - Keith McPherson (Podcast host - Jomboy Media, activist)The host of the "Talkin' Nets" podcast (Jomboy Media), and social activist Keith McPherson joins the Flex to discuss BLM, the importance of "White allyship" for any movement, his journey in media, and other powerful topics. Obviously, we couldn't let him go without touching on some sports topics such as how the Korean Baseball Organization ("KBO") became the "Michael Scott Paper Company" relative to Major League Baseball.Please subscribe2020-06-2248 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 9 - Rosebud Ben-Oni (Poet, Author)A 2019 recipient of the Alice James Award for her manuscript 'If This Is The Age We End Discovery,' talented poet and author Rosebud Ben-Oni joins the Flex to speak about her being raised in a multi-ethnic household, how she was commissioned by the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in NYC, and other interesting topics. She also graces the airwaves with an original poem supporting peace, and togetherness. https://www.rosebudbenoni.com/2020-06-1727 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 6 - Jake Hakanson (Producer)The founder of one of the top photography/film production companies in America, Jake Hakanson speaks with the Flex about how he got started in producing cutting edge projects, how COVID is affecting the ad world, and what the "secret sauce" is for a successful shoot. Please enjoyhttps://www.hakanson.com/https://www.hrw.org/topic/lgbt-rights2020-06-1729 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 8 - Geoffrey Guerrero (Founder, Katra Film Series, Filmmaker)Filmmaker Geoffrey Guerrero speaks with the Flex about why he started the first of a few film festivals, how he fell in love with movie making, and his favorite Quentin Tarantino films. Check out the Katra Film Series right now to see talented upcoming creatives, and if you're interested in submitting your own piece/short.https://boweryfilmfestival.com/2020-06-1715 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 7 - Nick Onken (Photographer, Creative Entrepreneur, Podcast host)Spiritual artist Nick Onken joins the Flex to discuss his journey from working in Seattle, to partnering with Pencils of Promise, to traveling to world shooting amazing photography. He elaborates on what "Ramen Days" mean to him, and gives us his recipe for an uplifting smoothie. "Always Be Creating" (ABC) is his motto, and it shows. If you're in the market for a dope hat, check out his IG page @onkenhat. https://nickonken.com/about/@nickonken @photosbynickonkenhttps://twitter.com/nickonkenhttps://www.facebook.com/nickonken2020-06-1738 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 4 - Glen Taylor (founder/chairman, Taylor James)Englishman and Tottenhem Hotspur F.C. fan Glen Taylor speaks with us about his journey from working on a pig farm in the UK, to starting one of the most innovative creative production studios in the world. He provides some insight for upcoming artists, and tells us how he ran into Sir Paul McCartney. Enjoy!https://www.taylorjames.com/studio2020-06-1725 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 2 - Donna Vaicels (Comedian - Donna Vee Comedy)We all need some levity in these trying times. I virtually sit down with the funny Donna Vee and we speak about her upbringing, quarantine dating in 2020, and play the "Which dating website is fake?" game. Here's one of her hilarious: clips https://youtu.be/TM0OvK_gvXE You can also find her on Facebook with the series "Storytime with Donna Vee," and "Girls Gone Green".Finally, once NJ is advanced in the Phased openings, get your hair did at Salon Gossip on 1036 Broad St in Bloomfield, NJ. 2020-06-1731 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 5 - Mallory Hagan (Politician, Advocate, Speaker, Miss America 2013)Politician, and activist Mallory Hytes Hagan joins the Flex to discuss her odyssey which includes a run for the House of Representatives, winning Miss America in 2013, and speaking up for justice. Her TED talk about Courage being Contagious is a must watch. You can keep up with her on http://itsmalloryhagan.com/ and her social media platforms (@itsmalloryhagan, twitter, facebook). War Eagle!2020-06-1732 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 3 - Vincent Dixon (photographer)World class photographer, consummate storyteller, and Tesla driver Vincent Dixon joins the Flex to talk about his journey in photography. He speaks about the origins of the iconic Absolut Vodka ads from the '90s, and gives some advise to prospective photographers wanting to build up their brand. This will be a series with episode 2 coming soonFor additional information, please reach out to Brite Productions: https://briteproductions.net/vincent-dixon2020-06-1734 min
The Creative FlexTCF Podcast EP. 1 - Adam Kahn (Chief Creative Officer, Grey Midwest)Award winning Chief Creative Officer, artist, skateboarding dad, and all-around mensch Adam Kahn, joins the Flex for a walk down memory lane. We touch on some ground breaking ad campaigns he and his team worked on (Most Undisruptive Radio Ads, P&G "When We Come Together" ad), his love for brunettes, and his advice for all creatives. We've packed in some gems in this hour long episode. I hope you enjoy it. 2020-06-1154 min