Social Studies Show

Germany Lancaster is an Art Director, creative strategist, and all-around idea machine. She's worked with some of the biggest brands—Toyota, Lululemon, Microsoft—bringing bold visuals and culture-forward storytelling to life. From ad campaigns to passion projects like Black Girl Beach Day, Germany's all about making creative work that actually means something. She's also big on mentorship, helping the next wave of creatives break into the industry without losing themselves in the process. Expect real talk, a little sass, and a whole lot of insight.

Welcome to The Social Studies Show, where we dive deep into the intersection of advertising, culture, and creative careers. Today's guest is Jason Brown—a visionary marketing executive, cultural curator, and champion for the next generation. With over two decades of experience at the crossroads of sports, media, entertainment, and technology, Jason has become an expert of innovation and cultural relevance. From leading marketing for iconic brands like Foot Locker, PepsiCo, and NTWRK, to guiding creators and legacy companies through his consultancy, JBRC Strategic, Jason's influence is undeniable. Recognized as a Visionary Marketer that Matters by The Wall Street Journal and named to the Forbes Entrepreneurial CMO list, he's a true trailblazer, community advocate, and driving force for progress. Join us as we explore Jason's remarkable journey and uncover his insights on how advertising shapes culture and inspires the future.

On this episode of the Social Studies Show! Today, we're thrilled to introduce David Mesfin - a visionary Creative Director at Innocean, specializing in automotive campaigns for Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia.  With over 15 years of expertise, he has orchestrated award-winning campaigns for major events like the Super Bowl, FIFA, and the NFL, launched global brands, and directed the acclaimed documentary Wade in the Water, a powerful exploration of Black surf culture that has earned worldwide recognition and distribution deals with Amazon, PBS and Comcast generating 163 million media impressions. From leading dynamic teams to collaborating with C-suite executives, David's career exemplifies innovation across digital, social, and experiential platforms."

This episode of the Social Studies Show offers a behind-the-scenes look with Photographer / Director - Stan Evans stanevansphoto.com and the real-world challenges of executing high-stakes billboard campaigns and video productions. In a field crowded with photo coaching programs and online resources, the show stands out by focusing on practical lessons and personal stories relatable to creative professionals. The episode covers key aspects like pre-production, where careful preparation and balancing brand guidelines with creativity are essential. It explores the sacrifices often required to meet tight deadlines, along with the importance of time management to efficiently collaborate with clients and bring their vision—and products—to life. Viewers also gain insights into building a capable crew, a crucial element in executing complex shoots, and learn about the post-production process that adds the final polish to the campaign. Ideal for both aspiring and established creatives. Keeping it real and relatable, the show provides valuable lessons on producing impactful visuals while navigating the challenges of a fast-paced and competitive industry.

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Social Studies show! Today, we are thrilled to introduce our special guest, Fred Sands IV, an exceptionally talented Art Director and Graphic Designer hailing from the vibrant city of New York. Fred Sands, IV has an impressive background, having served as the Design & Production Coordinator at PAPER Magazine, where he honed his creative skills to perfection. But Fred's creative journey doesn't stop there. His personal work is deeply rooted in nostalgia and culture, and his primary objective is to craft designs that seamlessly blend innovation with a sense of familiarity. With a remarkable decade of experience in the fields of freelance artistry and graphic design within the production and media industry, Fred boasts an impressive clientele that includes big names like Netflix, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Allyson Felix, MTV, Issa Rae Productions, SKYY® Vodka, and many more. His work isn't just about aesthetics; it's about pushing boundaries, revolutionizing digital storytelling, and forging partnerships with brands that aim to establish a groundbreaking voice through design. Fred Sands, IV's creative prowess has not gone unnoticed. He's a recipient of the Muse Creative Awards in 2021, winning the prestigious Best Magazine Cover Series in Advertising for his outstanding work. Additionally, he clinched the Platinum Winner title for his exceptional art direction and design in PAPER's Black History Month Covers, featuring prominent figures like Lena Waithe and the casts of Boomerang and Twenties on BET. So, get ready to dive deep into the world of art, design, and creativity as we explore the innovative and inspiring journey of Fred Sands, IV, on today's episode of the Social Studies show. WWW.SOCIALSTUDIESSHOW.COM SEE FRED'S WORK AT - http://ivourth.com/home

In this episode, we're thrilled to introduce you to Reggie Casagrande, an integrated marketing powerhouse whose expertise in brand development, strategy, and digital communications is nothing short of awe-inspiring. With over a decade of experience under her belt, Reggie has carved a unique path in the industry, leaving an indelible mark on culture, entertainment, and sports marketing. What sets Reggie apart is her incredible ability to breathe life into brands, effortlessly connecting them to the very essence of society. Her journey was sparked by a peripatetic childhood, growing up as a third culture kid in different corners of the world. This upbringing ignited her passion for cultural marketing, and she's been on a relentless mission ever since. Step into the early 2000s streets of NYC, where Reggie's professional odyssey began as a streetwear photographer and art director. Her lens captured the pulse of youth culture, and her collaborations with athletes and hip-hop artists laid the foundation for her exceptional journey. This pivotal experience nurtured her affinity for blending the dynamic worlds of youth culture, sports, and street style, creating a harmonious symphony that resonates with millions. But that's not all – Reggie's trailblazing efforts extend beyond the realm of imagination. She's been the driving force behind groundbreaking marketing programs, activating athletes and perfecting the digital activation model. Her portfolio boasts an impressive roster of industry giants, including Oakley, Nike, Adidas, Converse, Pepsi, McDonald's, Reebok, Blue Bottle, Electronic Arts, and Maserati. Prepare to be inspired as Reggie Casagrande takes us on a journey through her exceptional career, unveiling the secrets behind her unparalleled success in bridging brands and culture. From her roots as a streetwear maven to her current role as a cultural marketing luminary, Reggie's story is one of relentless determination, innovation, and a deep-rooted connection to the heartbeat of society. Stay tuned for an episode filled with insights, anecdotes, and a masterclass in integrated marketing wizardry. Join us on The Social Studies Show as we celebrate Reggie Casagrande's extraordinary contributions and delve into the dynamic world of cult ure, strategy, and brand brilliance.   Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell to catch all the latest episodes of The Social Studies Show!

The second part of Amy V. Cooper's Social Studies Show dives into the details of the  photography business. She gives a window to the perspective of creatives looking to get their work out to brands as well as working through the ethics of finding the right clients and partners. Amy brings over 25 years of experience in the photography industry to the show. She presents compelling insights in an effort to share her knowledge as well as invigorate thought on how the creative industry can improve.   She has worked as a photographer agent, advertising agency art buyer, and entertainment & magazine photo editor. Amy has hired photographers to shoot campaigns for companies like UPS, Microsoft, and Coca-Cola. She's represented and created winning bids for artists with brands like Mary Kay, Netflix and Disney. She specializes in supporting artists to develop portfolios, branding, client lists, marketing and mindset strategies that honor their authentic creative journeys. In addition she is a contributor to the A Photo Editor blog and Ask Stern Rep.

On this episode of the Social Studies Show we have AMY V. Cooper. Amy is a photography consultant, creative business mentor, marketing strategist, thought partner, and mindset coach with over 25 years of experience in the photography industry. She has worked as a photographer agent, advertising agency art buyer, and entertainment & magazine photo editor. Amy has hired photographers to shoot campaigns for companies like UPS, Microsoft, and Coca-Cola. She's represented and created winning bids for artists with brands like Mary Kay, Netflix and Disney. She specializes in supporting artists to develop portfolios, branding, client lists, marketing and mindset strategies that honor their authentic creative journey. Amy is also certified in hypnosis and EFT tapping. She is a top rated teacher on Udemy and the InsightTimer app, and a contributor to the A Photo Editor blog and Ask Stern Rep.

On this episode of the Social Studies Show we have Samira Jackson - Account Executive at Art Machine in Hollywood, - Samira has made her way through the ranks working on award winning campaigns Like BlackKKKLansman with Gravillis and taking insights from Spike Lee.  On her rise in the entertainment industry she navigated the career path at Leroy and Rose, Cold Open and Ignition. Positivity and culture are prominent themes of her personality whether she is traveling abroad or mentoring the next generation.  Samira's episode is a deep dive of her navigation of the entertainment industry as a successful Black woman.  She moves with intent to create dynamic work, fostering meaningful relationships while constantly examining her non linear path to career growth in hopes of making the journey easier for those who follow in her footsteps. 

On this episode of the Social Studies Show we have Toby Kaufmann - The Creative Director of the Facebook App. She is also the Creative Director of Pur·suit, a digital archive and deck of playing cards re-imagining Catherine Opie's seminal work from the 90's, in collaboration with artist Naima Green. In 2020, she curated a show of Naima's work at Fotografiska in NYC. Before she moved west for Facebook, Toby was the Executive Director of Photography for Refinery29 where she led the brand's photographic vision and expanded video storytelling. She also served as Vice President of The Society of Publication Designers, and co-chaired SPD Gala 53. She consults for Parsons The New School for Design and her work has been recognized by The Webby Awards, American Photography, Photo District News, American Society of Magazine Editors, and SPD. Toby has a BFA in Photography from Parsons.   http://www.tobykaufmann.com/

Keith Hodges' journey to fitness was an unusual one . He got his start by experimenting on himself and transitioned to working with weight loss clients. In this episode of the Social Studies Show he talks about the effects of advertising health within diverse communities and bringing that process to action through procedure in unique training methods. A graduate of Indiana University's School of Kinesiology. Specializing in Functional Strength and Conditioning, Loaded Movement Training, Hypertrophy, Nutrition, Corrective Exercise and Pre/Postnatal Fitness. As his love for fitness increased he began studying human movement which created an avenue for him to work with athletes as well. By combining those aspects, he not only helps individuals achieve their weight loss goals but helps them move better as well. He has worked with athletes on all levels including numerous NBA, NFL, MMA, and Pro Boxing athletes. Hodges has also worked with the Special Olympics, training athletes in advance of their respective competitions. As an advocate of healthy living, Hodges believes in creating healthier habits to achieve long-term health and wellness. He services individuals through education along with utilizing multiple aspects of fitness in order to reach the desired goal. This varied approach shocks the body, creating muscle confusion. He believes it's what helps keep his workouts both fun and challenging. https://www.mindinmusclecoaching.com  

SANJA KOMLJENOVIC Founder & CEO of ONA CREATIVE began her career in digital marketing with the Los Angeles Clippers and was recruited by Nike.The day after leaving Nike, they hired her as a contractor. This “accidentally” led to more collaborative work and the launch of her creative agency, ONA, developed with a focus on initiatives that move the world forward in women's rights, sports, culture, and social good. Fast forward 7 years, and ONA has worked on purpose-driven campaigns with household names like NIKE, NWSL, Olympics, Clif Bar, Foot Locker, Nordstrom, Facebook/Meta, and the New York Marathon – as well as women-driven startups including Willow, Bev, Lettuce Grow, Black Girl Ventures and Milk Stork.  As an Bosnian immigrant that embraced all things in American culture, she provides a unique and nuanced perspective on global advertising and marketing. She now drives trends with thoughtfulness, empathy and a healthy dose of flair so hearing her insights on this episode of the Social Studies Show is must. 

Terence Lester is a storyteller, public scholar, speaker, community activist, and author who is the founder and Executive Director at Love Beyond Walls a nonprofit organization focused on raising poverty and homelessness awareness and community mobilization. He's known for nationwide campaigns that bring awareness to homelessness, poverty, and economic inequality. His awareness campaigns have been featured on MLK50, CNN, Good Morning America, CNN, Essence Magazine, TEDx, TVONE, Creative Mornings, USA Today, NBC, Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) National Magazine, and NBCNews, as well as AJC, Black Enterprise, Rolling Out, and Upworthy. These campaigns have been viewed by millions of people worldwide. Three ideals drive Terence: (1) anyone can make a difference, (2) we don't live forever, (3) and it's worth dedicating one's life to making sure no one feels invisible. In 2016, Terence led the March against Poverty 2016, where he walked from Atlanta, GA, (the SCLC Headquarters) to the White House (over 800 miles) to bring attention to homelessness in the U.S. Terence led the 2018 March against Poverty as he walked from Atlanta to Memphis (386 miles). He finished the march and spoke at the historic Lorraine Motel for the 50th anniversary of MLK's assassination. In 2019, Terence opened Dignity Museum, the first museum in the U.S. to represent the homeless—out of a shipping container. Terence has delivered countless sermons and speeches at conferences, churches, schools, corporate settings, classrooms, and several unique spaces, including the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial in Washington, DC, the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, Center for Civil and Human Rights, CCDA, Radio One's Praise in the Park, Morehouse College, Alabama University, and Paine College. He has spoken on the same platform as many other civil rights activists, such as Dr. Bernice King, Roland Martin, Gina Belafonte, Dr. Vonnetta West, Carlos Rodriguez, Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, and Tamika D. Mallory. Terence's personal approach combines storytelling and digital media to help illustrate social justice issues with practical strategies to solving these ailments. He holds an associate degree in Media Production (2005), a B.A. in Pastoral Leadership (2008), a Master of Education in Counseling (2010), a Master of Arts in Theological Studies (2012). He is currently a Ph.D. Candidate at Union Institute and University with a concentration in Public Policy and Social Change. He has served on several ministerial staffs and has authored seven books and three traditionally published works including: I See You: How Love Opens Our Eyes to Invisible People, When We Stand: The Power of Seeking Justice Together, and his forthcoming book, All God's Children: How Confronting Buried History Can Build Racial Solidarity, all with InterVarsity Press. He also has a children's book coming out with IVP Kids that he co-authored with his fourteen-year- old daughter, Zion Lester, which deals with homelessness, belonging, inclusion, and encouraging children to serve others with empathy and compassion. Terence has also received numerous awards for his community activism, including: being named one of Atlanta's top 500 leaders by Atlanta Magazine, being named one of Coca-Cola's History Shakers, receiving the National Urban League Humanitarian Award, Brawny Giant' Award, the American Express NextGen Award, the SCLC Social Advocacy Award, Atlanta Voice's 50 under 50, the True to Atlanta Award presented by the Atlanta Hawks, Fulton County Schools Service Award, and Plywood People's Innovator Award. Terence happily married to his best friend, Cecilia Lester, and they have two amazing children, Zion Joy and Terence II.

As Winter approaches we have an appropriate guest to discuss winter fashion  and diversity in the marketplace. For this episode of the Social Studies Show we have Eric Tung CEO of Fera Ski Brand.  A minority owned, female founded, LGBTQ+ led apparel company that is extremely rare in the outdoor space.   Sharing a love of fashion and winter sports Eric and I developed a friendship as we are both on Snowsport Industry of America's Board of Directors. Working through DEI and profitability Eric often finds himself in the drivers' seat —   ushering in change not just in his company but in his community. Today we  will discuss How a southern california company, with Asian roots from  Hong Kong manifests passion with intention to help usher in a more diverse outdoor industry.    Eric goes in depth about the power of the Asian market and the value of diverse athletes like Eileen Gu on commerce. We discussed how he is implementing DEI practices not only at work but at home and how his peers in the finance world taught him the value of his network in the creative field.  

Val Harvey shares her journey into the entertainment industry as a Hair and Makeup Artist working in Hollywood. Her clients are a who's who of the studios - Disney, ABC, FOX TV and HBO have her on speed dial. Her career in makeup ten years ago starting out at Neiman Marcus in Beverly Hills. Early on, Val has been sought out by celebrities, photographers and studios because of the high quality images produced through their collaboration. Along this journey she has witnessed advertising not recognizing the value of diversity and challenged the status quo. As the sole Black person in many of these situations, I was often called upon to address issues of diversity and inclusion long before it became an in-demand subject for DEI. In light of the tragic deaths of George Floyd,Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, a few names on a long list, and the reinvigoration of the BLM Movement, Val took her passion for diversity and cosmetics to the next level, hoping to affect change on a larger scale. She recently completed a Diversity, Inclusion and Equity certification program at Cornell University and is committed to creating a safe space to learn and be able to have the difficult conversations about the perceptual, institutional and psychological processes that impact the ways we interact with one another. She's welcome asset on advertising sets because of her skill, education and experience. She's not just talking the talk though - she conceptualizes projects that focus on black beauty and helps cosmetic brands develop products for different skin tones and hair textures. She creates unforgettable looks for her clients, which accounts for her loyal following! And yes... she has met Oprah!

 Kortel Autrey is a Hollywood Stuntman that is on the rise! You've seen his work in Straight out of Compton, Bad Boys for Life, Gemini Man, Charm City Kings, Fast and Furious - Hobbies and Shaw, commercials, awards shows and music videos.  This all comes from humble beginnings and the desire to create a better life.  In this episode we discuss his journey originating in the inner-city of Los Angeles; South Central/Watts to working on feature films.  He was exposed to bikes when he was 4 years old by his father. At the time,He thought bikes were just recreational fun. He didn't realize my father used bikes as a motivational tool to keep him on a righteous path..  As an adult, he now understands the detrimental effects of the crack epidemic. His father, mother and grandmother were all instrumental in him becoming the man I am today. The phrase, “It takes a village to raise a child” is an understatement in the “hood”.  As a youth, he developed a passion for peddle bikes, BMX bikes, motorcycles, dirt bikes riding moto and stunting in the streets. Growing up in the inner-city riding dirt bikes was not as tangible to his community at the time. Due to the lack of resources, people of color are not exposed to the same opportunities as others.  Also in the episode Kortel discusses the role of community and how through the love of  bike culture he helped create their own. Taking to the streets he and his friends developed stunt riding on another level. He was able to master the skill which helped him develop respect and relationships with different neighborhoods and gangs. At a young age he was very aware that the ability to stunt ride could be something truly awesome; something his community needs to help mend its brokenness. He began to teach his peers how to ride and stunt ride hosting  street rides to help unify gangs in our neighborhoods. That's where the concept “Bikes Over Bang'n” was developed and his non profit was born. Kortel lost many close friends and family members from senseless gang violence so he created a different path for himself and a desire to share that road to success to the youth. Once  he began to see opportunities within the industry, he was able to capitalize on them. Carrying out his vision of unifying the Black community. He  began to coordinate music videos which brought income into the homes of the inner city. In his spare time also builds custom bikes for celebrities  in the industry. Usher and London on da  Track are just a few of his esteemed clientele.  Accolades include being nominated for a Taurus World Stunt Award for his stunt work in  “Gemini Man” and “Fast and Furious Hobbies and Shaw”.  He  is  currently mentored by Jalil “Jay” Lynch who is not only an amazing Stunt-Driver but a dynamic individual. His wife Quanda and son Kortel II are very important aspects of his success. 

Karin Kildow has spent her career focused on helping professional athletes and mission-based brands leverage their social platforms to change the world and impact the causes they care about. Over the last 10 years, she has created social strategies for brands including Beyond Meat, UNINTERRUPTED/The Springhill Company,  More Than A Vote,  HBO's The Shop, NFL, and Red Bull.    Additionally, she consults personally with DeAndre Hopkins, Lindsey Vonn, PK Subban, and more to help them drive impact, representation, and inclusion across their large networks. Karin is a proven leader in the digital sports industry receiving numerous Webby and Shorty nominations including Best Diversity and Inclusion Campaign, Best Social Activism Campaign, and Best Social Presence in Sports. In this episode we discuss the HYPOCRISY OF CRITICISM FOR FEMALE ATHLETES in Olympics and how the Simone Biles was judged as well as how Sha'Carri Richardson might have fared if she'd had the opportunity to run. MENTAL HEALTH the argument of how times have changed and whether athletes should Toughen up and through or be given a safe space.  ENDORSEMENT DEALS  and the changing power dynamics of athlete social branding. You don't want to miss this one.

Andrew Alexander King is an African American Explorer but beyond climbing, surfing and diving he is investigating culture, business and philosophy in a unique way through his Between Worlds project. Fresh off his climb to Denali and our first in person interview for The Social Studies Show since the pandemic hit, Andrew shares his perspective of what the outdoors brings him (secret hint - joy, meditation and the occasional poem) and how nature can be more beneficial to people of color. He explains how he is working with business and partnerships to tell stories authentically, inspiring the next generation and how to secure the bag which really means - creating your own lane. Andrew describes how his conviction of purpose and finding his northstar led to the building blocks of mental and physical success. It's a worthwhile watch and outdoor brands focused on DEI should be watching this young man's articulate rise with a microscope.  

Jeff Staple is the latest guest on the Social Studies Show.  A creative visionary with work encompassing creative direction, fashion design, footwear design, and brand marketing. He has been a driving force in defining what streetwear is. If you aren't aware of his podcast The Business of Hype you should be, it's one of the best marketing assets on the internet today. In this episode we will discuss the crossover between hip hop music and winter sports. The push of street style into performance wear. We also discuss how Jeff is getting people to think differently in marketing. How perspective applies to the value of diversity dollars and how credibility is key in multicultural marketing.

Big mountain skiing icon Angel Collinson talks to our host Stan Evans about redefining boundaries and finding serenity in unexpected places. Her journey into the unknown goes beyond exploring remote slopes and venturing into being a catalyst, changing how women in winter sports are perceived and marketed. To round out all the excitement and adventure Angel dives into her depth of culture and character - talking loss, self realization and meditation. All the things that keep her whole and thriving. It's a conversation you won't want to miss and it will leave you inspired .

This session will examine the importance of creating content that reflects and connects with diverse communities and how to build stronger connections through content. Moderator: Stan Evans, Stan Evans Photography and Social Studies Show Evans is a portrait photographer that has a deep passion for lifestyle, athletic and motorized imagery. He also directs and shoots video to tell a complete story. He hosts a podcast called Social Studies Show that explores the relationship between advertising and activism, and also learns how people are going about marketing with accountability, multiculturalism, and environmentalism in mind. Evans’ insights and experience will be invaluable in bringing more diversity to the winter outdoor community and building a bigger table for everyone – Women, Black, Latino, Asian, LGBTQ+, Adaptive, Transgender – together we hope to open the door a little wider for everyone and share the joy. Panelists: Virgil Abloh, Founder and Creative Director, Off-White Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2018. He is known for bridging the worlds of hip hop and high fashion with his inter-disciplinary practice. Virgil is an American designer, entrepreneur, and DJ who has been the artistic director of Louis Vuitton's menswear collection since March 2018. Abloh is also the founder and Creative Director of the Milan-based label Off-White, Jason Brown - VP Marketing, Foot Locker, Kid’s Foot Locker, Foot Locker Women A thought-leader, mentor and innovator in the sports and entertainment marketing space, Jason Brown currently serves as Vice President of Marketing for Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Lady Foot Locker. Having first joined Foot Locker, Inc. in February 2018, his focus is on directing and guiding all marketing efforts for the divisions and upholding the Company’s mission to inspire and empower youth culture. He began his career over 15 years ago, during which he led in various roles at Fox Sports, NBC Sports and PepsiCo, where he earned the Charles ‘Professor X’ Xavier Collaboration award in 2017. Reflected through all of his work, he is passionate about serving and uplifting young people to help ensure future generations are on a path of least resistance forward. Karin Kildow - Head of Social Media at Beyond Meat/Uninterrupted & Founder of Content Capital Karin has spent her career focused on helping professional athletes and mission-based brands leverage their social platforms to change the world and impact the causes they care about. Over the last 10 years, she has created social strategies for brands including Beyond Meat, UNINTERRUPTED/ The Springhill Company, More Than A Vote, HBO's The Shop, NFL, and Red Bull. Additionally, she consults personally with DeAndre Hopkins, Lindsey Vonn, PK Subban, and more to help them drive impact, representation, and inclusion across their large networks. She is a proven leader in the digital sports industry receiving numerous Webby and Shorty nominations including Best Diversity and Inclusion Campaign, Best Social Activism Campaign, and Best Social Presence in Sports.  

When you look up OG of climbing Conrad Anker’s picture is the dictionary. He’s been to the mountaintop as many times as MLK’s speech has been repeated.  His accolades are fascinating and people really should Google them all, he was the team leader of The North Face climbing team for 26 years until 2018. In 1999, he located George Mallory's body on Everest as a member of a search team. He’s numerous articles for the American Alpine Journal and endured the arduous filming of Meru which went on to win a documentary film award at Sundance in 2015.     His climbs are impressive but out talk is about the journey within. I'm curious about his current shift in philosophy  - instead of exploring high peaks he is exploring humanity.   In this episode we talk about our love of Bozeman and our pasts grounded in Montana, mentorship in the outdoors, exploring insights into the dark past of John Muir’s discriminatory legacy in contrast to the BUFFALO SOLDIERS and climate change on a cultural scale.    Tune in as we have a conversation about his growth and  perspective as a professional athlete and mine as a professional photographer. How we are reevaluating the landscape of outdoor culture and our hopes of painting a brighter future.

After the cover portrait session with Russell Winfield,  the First Black Professional Snowboarder,  I sat down to have a frank discussion on the origins of my photo career and what it took to become the First Black Professional Snowboard Photographer. Some stories take place behind the lens and while I have spent so much of my time documenting winter athletes,  it was finally time to shed a little light on my experiences in snow sports and photography.  The editor for Snowboarder magazine Stan Leveille prepared some great questions and my answers are unfiltered. There would be no edits. What you see is raw, real and honest; in one take.  I hope this discussion sheds light on the challenges I faced in the outdoor industry and inspires others to pursue their dreams in creative fields and in nature.

In this episode we have Peter Stark, Executive Creative Director of A/V PRINT, the new print division at A/V SQUAD. Beneath the laid back exterior of one of my favorite spiritual gurus and a great mentor lies the heart of a creative powerhouse. Peter’s vision has driven print campaigns for movies and shows such as Game of Thrones, Joker, Wonder Woman, 13th, Spiderman, Jumanji and SAW to name a few. He’s worked with the biggest stars in the biz like Denzel Washington and Will Smith but always finds the time to return all the emails, offer a bit of advice, attend blind portfolio reviews hoping to discover new talent and do it all in a kind and humble manner. He’s one of my favorite people to run into in LA and today I’m happy to introduce him to our viewers. His keen insight and distinct tips help reveal the path to a successful and fulfilling career path within the entertainment industry.

In this episode we talk with Brendon Ayanbadejo, Super Bowl Champ, 3 time Pro Bowler and former Baltimore Raven. As an NFL player, Brendon wasted no time in establishing himself as a leader in the locker room, through his role as Team Captain and NFL Players Union representative yet his tenacity off the field possibly eclipses his goals on the gridiron.  On the SOCIAL STUDIES SHOW we discuss the NFL and NBA restarts in times of COVID. How he is working towards creating generational wealth for his family and his employees after life on the field. Sharing examples of how capitalism can have a conscience.  We discuss his childhood and how being part of an interracial family was a catalyst for working in civil rights.  How his path of growth led to fighting for equality from the steps of the Supreme Court to being a part of President Obama’s advisory team on LGBTQ issues.   

Over the past week I’ve had more phone calls, emails, texts, and DMs from friends, acquaintances and colleagues, than ever before in my life….  The overwhelming theme of these conversations was the difficulty of white America to understand the depth and severity of Racism.  This is nothing new to me, as I have dealt with it my whole life. However, for certain people it’s as if the curtain has been pulled back to reveal a monster they never knew was there, or were simply willing to ignore.  This week on the Social Studies Show I had actually planned to interview Lesley Murphy, a travel blogger in the health and wellness field, to discuss influencer marketing and her life after “The Bachelor”.  But in the light of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor’s deaths,  we realized we had more important things to discuss in this pivotal moment.  Together we had an opportunity to reach a larger audience and share some of my experiences as a black man in AmericaRoles were reversed and Lesley asked me the questions.  The answers are my own personal views…

Over the past week I’ve had more phone calls, emails, texts, and DMs from friends, acquaintances and colleagues, than ever before in my life….  The overwhelming theme of these conversations was the difficulty of white America to understand the depth and severity of Racism.  This is nothing new to me, as I have dealt with it my whole life. However, for certain people it’s as if the curtain has been pulled back to reveal a monster they never knew was there, or were simply willing to ignore.  This week on the Social Studies Show I had actually planned to interview Lesley Murphy, a travel blogger in the health and wellness field, to discuss influencer marketing and her life after “The Bachelor”.  But in the light of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor’s deaths,  we realized we had more important things to discuss in this pivotal moment.  Together we had an opportunity to reach a larger audience and share some of my experiences as a black man in AmericaRoles were reversed and Lesley asked me the questions.  The answers are my own personal views…

"In this episode of the Social Studies Show, Arturo Nunez of AIE creative returns to discuss brands and collabs that can provoke social awareness and authenticity.  Engaging with customers, lending a voice to the causes and a positive way to monetize.  He discusses why Bryan Stevenson is his hero and the humanity of his TED Talk inspired his own about working with Lebron James."

Tony has been honored as a History Shaker by Coca Cola, A Barrier Breaker by Marriott International, and received the Generation Titan Prize from Google.His work has been featured by NBC, Forbes 30 under 30, The Huffington Post, Inc. MAGAZINE, HelloBeautiful, EdSurge, and Quartz.He’s shared his message at SXSW, Columbia University, and San Diego Comic Con. Being open and vulnerable about his childhood experiences, Tony hopes to help EVERYONE find the hero inside. 

In this episode we talk with Rebecca Feaman Williams VP, Group Creative Director at Burrell Communications She has been creating award-winning, campaigns for variety of products and services for over 20 years. Her adaptive and energetic style has garnered numerous awards from the Association of National Advertisers, Ad Age as well as the Telly and Addy awards. She leads the vision and development of national campaigns for McDonald’s.   In addition Rebecca previously assisted hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons in launching Rush Media, where she created dynamic campaigns for Coca-Cola, featuring the iconic talents of L.L. Cool J, Savion Glover and Mary J. Blige.   As Creative Director at SPIKE/DDB, Rebecca helped win the McDonald’s business and worked on the Fox Sports and Soft Sheen accounts.   Her intersections of working with such brands as Afro Punk, Big Brothers and Sisters, Planned Parenthood, Ford and Revlon puts her at a unique nucleus of merging advertising and activism.

In this episode we meet with Colonel Stanley Evans –(Ret) in his current job as Assistant Dean of Students at the University of Oklahoma. As a career soldier and an educator we discuss the impact of Colin Kaepernick kneeling from a military service point of view and what ARMY as a brand means in the realm of marketing for someone who served over 30 years in the armed forces.  It’s a frank look at a young man growing up in the1960’s, navigating the civil rights movement before he had right to vote, his father’s legacy of military in WWII, finding his footing as an officer and raising a family of his own. Ultimately working with encouraging the youth and multicultural community today.  It’s a story you won’t want to miss so tune in now.  

A podcast exploring the relationship between advertising and activism.  Using both methods to influence change in culture, mindfulness, and profitability.    In this episode we explore advertising, activism and the impact of global brands with a  rare inside view from Arturo Nunez, who previously was CMO Apple Latin America and Vice President Global Marketing Nike Basketball. Arturo takes us into the process as we discuss Kapernick kneeling, phenomenons of technology such as the Iphone and its’ effect in the minority community. As well as, the  accountability to shareholders while making a statement of social change and how Steph Curry slipped from Nike to Under Armour. Arturo gets honest about triumphs and mistakes - it’s all in here and worth a listen.   Links to learn more -    Bryan Stevenson Ted Talk  https://www.ted.com/talks/bryan_stevenson_we_need_to_talk_about_an_injustice?language=en   Arturo Nunez Ted Talk   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQsmwivCId8   Stretch and Bobbito – Radio that changed Lives   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQsmwivCId8