AwareNow™: The Official Podcast for Causes

Dr. Patricia Wright has dedicated her career to ensuring individuals with autism have access to effective services and supports that lead to more joyful, meaningful lives. Passionate about education and advocacy, she’s worked tirelessly to make the world a more inclusive place for autistic individuals and the communities that support them. Through her current role as Executive Director at Proof Positive, her bold vision is being realized. This feature is published in 'The Vivid Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Dr. Patricia Wright Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Veaceslav Draganov Produced by: AwareNow Media

Join Aaron Baker as he goes 'Off Road' with a series of exclusive interviews and personal stories that he shares on his journey to transform adversity into adventure. Episode 1: 'Rise Together' Featuring: Laquita Dian Interviewed by: Aaron Baker Music by: Romeo Supported by: Artists For Trauma Produced by: AwareNow Media Published in: 'The Vivid Edition' of AwareNow Magazine

Novi Brown is a talented actress known for her role in ‘Sistas’ and a passionate advocate for black excellence both on and off the stage. In this interview at the Global Black Impact Summit presented by the Black Impact Foundation, she shares her perspective on authentic representation, her role as a director and producer, and her vision for a more inclusive entertainment industry that unites the global black community through arts and entertainment. This feature is published in 'The Vivid Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Novi Brown Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Sid Acharya Produced by: AwareNow Media

Based in New York City, Teddy Cosmo has been releasing music since 2017. Originally working under the name The Sadsaps, Teddy Cosmo has been pushing the envelope of representation for disabled musicians since high school. Born with Cerebral Palsy, playing guitar didn't come easy for the musician, but after years of practice, Teddy has developed a unique playing style that works with the tremors in his hands. Inspired by artists like The Beatles, Nirvana, and so many others, Teddy Cosmo brings a classic indie rock sound to the table with a unique twist. This feature is published in 'The Vivid Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Teddy Cosmo Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Teddy Cosmo Produced by: AwareNow Media

Marisa Hamamoto, a pioneering dancer recognized by People Magazine as one of the "Women Changing the World," and hailed by InStyle Magazine as part of the "Badass 50", is an award-winning Transformational Movement Artist, Speaker, and Changemaker. Her journey, marked by challenges such as rejection in dance due to her body, navigating identity as Japanese American, and overcoming a paralyzing stroke, culminated in founding Infinite Flow, an acclaimed nonprofit advocating for disability inclusion. Diagnosed with PTSD in 2021 and Autism in 2022, Marisa has found clarity in her life's struggles, fueling her passion to inspire inclusivity. This feature is published in 'The Vivid Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Marisa Hamamoto Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Lance Conrad Produced by: AwareNow Media

Kimberly Quinn is an actress, writer, producer and director. Beyond her captivating performances on screen, Kimberly is deeply committed to her personal wellness journey. She devotes time both in the morning and evening to nurture her well being through her personal meditation practice. A dedicated vegan, she is clear about setting intentions and prioritizes self reflection, allowing her to cultivate mindfulness and resilience in all aspects of her life. This feature is published in 'The Vivid Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Kimberly Quinn Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Yazhezkel Raz Produced by: AwareNow Media

Kam Redlawsk is a testament to the power of perseverance and the beauty of embracing one's unique journey. A wanderer by nature, she traverses the world, soaking in its diversity, and infusing its essence into her art that vividly portrays her experiences, her struggles, and her triumphs. Beneath the surface of her vibrant creations lies a poignant truth—a truth shaped by the relentless grasp of GNE Myopathy, a rare and degenerative muscle-wasting disorder that has gripped Kam's life since the age of 17. Through her art and her words, Kam seeks to transcend the limitations imposed by her condition, offering a glimpse into the depths of the human spirit and the power of expression. Where incredible artistry and commitment to accessibility meet, there you will find the incredible talent of Kam Redlawsk. This feature is published in 'The Vivid Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Kam Redlawsk Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Sid Acharya Produced by: AwareNow Media

Clarence Seedorf is a titan in the world of football and a driving force for positive change. With a career spanning multiple continents and accolades that include Champions League victories and humanitarian endeavors, Seedorf embodies the essence of excellence on and off the field. At the 2024 Global Black Impact Summit, I got to speak with Clarence about the Black Impact Foundation. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Clarence Seedorf Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Angel Salazar Produced by: AwareNow Media

Eric Rice is the visionary behind Drive Staffing Solutions, a program dedicated to empowering individuals facing homelessness with opportunities for employment and a fresh start in life. Eric's unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers and providing support beyond just job placement has transformed the lives of countless individuals. Through his compassion, determination, and collaborative spirit, Eric is not only changing lives but also challenging societal perceptions, proving that everyone deserves a chance to thrive. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Eric Rice Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Ian Post Produced by: AwareNow Media

A story of healing hinged on hope, ‘Lourdes’ is a film that takes you where you weren’t prepared to go but are glad you went, guided by the talented writer and director Jessica Hausner. A brilliant testament to the depth of the human condition as it relates to understanding our struggles with ourselves and with society, ‘Lourdes’ is a Martin Scorsese favorite… and a favorite of mine as well. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Jessica Hausner Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: The Wildcardz Produced by: AwareNow Media

Her Excellency Manizha Bakhtari, an Afghan author and diplomat, currently holds the position of Afghan ambassador to Austria. Previously, she served as the Afghan ambassador to the Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland). Additionally, she has held roles as the Chief of Staff at the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and as a part-time lecturer at Kabul University. She earned a B.A. in journalism and an M.A. in Persian Language and Literature from Kabul University. Manizha is the daughter of the renowned Afghan poet Wasef Bakhtari. Before her diplomatic career, she contributed to the Cooperation Center for Afghanistan (CCA), a non-governmental organization. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Manizha Bakhtari Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Letra Produced by: AwareNow Media #afghanistan #taliban #humanity #genderequality #genderapartheid #apartheid

Indigenous activist, Shirley Djukurnã Krenak, is a native woman from Brazil. Since she was 13 years old, she has responded to Mother Earth's call to be a representative of indigenous rights and, above all, to fight for the preservation of the environment and ancestral spirituality. Today, at the age of 40, Shirley dedicates herself in body and soul to the struggle of indigenous women, something inherited from her traditional name, Djukurnã: a woman always willing, because she is the bearer of the spirit that never grows old. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Shirley Djukurnã Krenak Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Olivier Olsen Produced by: AwareNow Media

Dr. Ehsan Natour is an internationally recognized heart surgeon who is also the co-founder of a foundation that supports patients and their relatives through numerous activities and art projects – with the aim of initiating sustainable change in our “sick health system”. Author of ‘When Life Comes To A Standstill’, he is a surgeon who touches the hearts and lives of his patients. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Dr. Ehasan Natour Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Yehezkel Raz Produced by: AwareNow Media

Ashley Connelly is the visionary behind Lionbear Ventures. In this conversation, we explore the profound moments that shaped her journey from grant writing to rural economic development, as she reflects on pivotal instances where her passion for community building led to tangible transformations, overcoming hurdles in male-dominated industries. With sincerity and wisdom, she shares invaluable lessons learned, offering heartfelt advice to young women navigating their own paths, echoing the resilience and determination that define her entrepreneurial spirit. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Ashley Connelly Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Laurel Violet Produced by: AwareNow Media

AJ Andrews is a powerhouse both on and off the field, renowned for her fearless presence and unparalleled talent. Dubbed the 'Beyoncé of Softball' and the first female recipient of the Rawlings Gold Glove, AJ Andrews commands attention whether she's making magic happen in centerfield or captivating audiences as an MLB network personality. From her advocacy for change to her candid conversations over a glass of wine, AJ's voice is one that resonates with authenticity, resilience, and a fierce commitment to making a difference. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: AJ Andrews Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Borrtex Produced by: AwareNow Media

Mike Singletary, an iconic figure in the realm of American football, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the sport. With a storied career that saw him excel as a legendary linebacker in the NFL, Mike's insights into the evolving landscape of college sports, particularly concerning Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), carry immense weight. His unwavering commitment to the game and its athletes has now led him to become a pivotal voice in shaping the future of collegiate athletics. Today, we have the privilege of delving into Mike's perspectives on NIL, its challenges, and the transformative solutions it demands. This feature is published in 'The Loud Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Mike Singletary Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: EVOE Produced by: AwareNow Media

A vessel of creative energy overflowing with the passion to inspire, Charles ‘Chazz’ Miller is a life-long, Detroit based, community driven artist, muralist and teacher. His imagery is a passionate reflection of struggle, voice and daily life he calls Imaginary Realism. Chazz is an integral part of many neighborhood communities. In his public art works, he engages neighborhood residents with the goal to uplift and inspire community members to use their creativity, and foster their cultural pride. His process encourages them to stop looking and start seeing as they co-create a vision for their lives. This feature is published in 'The Time Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Charles 'Chazz' Miller Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: T.Bless & the Professionals Produced by: AwareNow Media

Jayden King is an extraordinary 4th grader from Coppell, TX. Born on February 21, 2013, in Dallas, Jayden is not your average kid. Despite facing challenges from being born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, a rare heart condition, he exudes boundless positivity and curiosity about the world around him. A passionate sports enthusiast, particularly for football, Jayden is the quarterback of his flag football team during the season and loves shooting hoops with his brothers. His love for the Dallas Cowboys is unmatched, and his knowledge of football and basketball stats rivals that of seasoned fans. Remarkably, Jayden's resilience shines through his three open-heart surgeries, leaving him with visible scars he proudly calls his "zipper." Despite these challenges, Jayden lives life to the fullest, embracing each day with courage and determination. This feature is published in 'The Time Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Jayden King Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Ian Post Produced by: AwareNow Media

Born with central core disease, a rare neuromuscular disorder, Lauren Pires has about 33% of the physical strength of the average person, but the strength of her spirit is 100%. Born into challenges many never face, Lauren’s story reshapes our view of resilience. From hating her scar to proudly owning her story, Lauren's narrative shifts our perspective on strength and vulnerability. It's not just about managing with 33% strength; it's about thriving with 100% heart. This feature is published in 'The Time Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Lauren Pires Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Borrtex Produced by: AwareNow Media

In this conversation, Laura Swanson, CEO of Creative Embers, and Allié McGuire, Co-CEO of AwareNow Media, discuss the transformative power of storytelling and their shared vision for societal change. Through diverse formats, they empower artists to authentically share their narratives, fostering inclusivity and unity. Their personal reflections illuminate the profound impact of storytelling in driving connection and social impact. This feature is published in 'The Time Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Laura Swanson & Allié McGuire Music by: Laurel Violet Produced by: AwareNow Media

In this exclusive interview with PJ Haggerty, rising basketball star and advocate for financial literacy, we take a look at his journey both on and off the court. From his early love for basketball to his involvement in initiatives like 'Making Cents' with TEAM NILO, PJ shares insights on his personal and professional aspirations. Through candid conversation, PJ offers invaluable advice for aspiring athletes and emphasizes the importance of financial preparedness for life's unpredictable moments. This feature is published in 'The Time Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: PJ Haggerty Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Novembers Produced by: AwareNow Media

Where passion meets purpose is where Jayden Perry finds her joy. A collegiate athlete, playing soccer at UCLA, she enjoys working hard both on the field and in the classroom. Outside of this, joy is found when painting kicks or canvases and when volunteering to bring joy to kids with cancer. A champion for change, Jayden gives her all in all she does. This feature is published in 'The Time Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Jayden Perry Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Laurel Violet Produced by: AwareNow Media #soccer #volleyball #ucla #joyjars #negu #neverevergiveup #championsforchange #teamnilo

Michael Peterman is the CEO of VeraData, a pioneering company dedicated to transforming philanthropy through data-driven strategies. VeraData's mission is to equip NGOs with the right data to revolutionize fundraising decision-making, drive donor acquisition, and enhance engagement. Under Michael Peterman's leadership, VeraData is at the forefront of adapting to a changing donor landscape, ensuring fundraising success for its clients. Now is the time to unlock the full potential of philanthropy, with the ultimate goal of building a future where NGOs can increase giving, maximize impact, and drive positive change globally. Now, that conversation begins… This feature is published in 'The Time Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Michael Peterman Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Laurel Violet Produced by: AwareNow Media

Bryan Scott is the highest drafted Division 3 Quarterback in professional football history. In this exclusive interview, Bryan shares pivotal moments from his journey, revealing the challenges faced during high school and college that shaped his resilience in pursuing his football passion. Join us as we delve into Bryan's story, exploring the influence of his grandfather, Major General James H. Patterson, his leadership experiences, the dynamics of balancing life between Los Angeles and Toronto, and his vision for inspiring and mentoring others to achieve the impossible. This feature is published in 'The Simple Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Bryan Scott Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Ella Joy Meir Produced by: AwareNow Media

In this exclusive interview, we explore Dr. Nina Cash's extraordinary transition from a distinguished career in education to the unpredictable world of modeling at the age of 57. From a memorable New Year's Eve declaration in Australia to embracing her natural gray hair and navigating societal expectations of beauty, Nina shares profound insights. With a background in human services, negotiation, and conflict resolution, she discusses leveraging these skills in her new role as a model and aims to make a lasting impact on an industry often fixated on youthfulness. In this conversation, Nina shares valuable advice for women of all ages. This feature is published in 'The Simple Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Dr. Nina Cash Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: mee Produced by: AwareNow Media

Oscar Wilde said, “Simple pleasures are the last refuge of the complex.”   How many hours a day do you spend scrolling mindlessly on social media? How long does it take for you to choose what to wear in the morning or when going out for an evening? How much time is spent on deciding what to cook? How much time do you spend worrying about what someone says or thinks of you?   Don’t get me wrong, learning or keeping up with current affairs is essential, what you put in your body is paramount to maintaining a healthy body. How you look can contribute to a healthy wellness and mindset. But all of these elements can be even more effective when they come from a place of simplicity and are chosen intentionally. This feature is published in 'The Simple Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Written & Narrated by: Elizabeth Blake-Thomas Music by: Borrtex Produced by: AwareNow Media

What happens when a successful television producer, suffering from chronic depression, finds yoga? She finds herself. For Amy Weintraub, it was yoga and writing that saved her life. After a successful career in television broadcasting, Amy found the work she did and awards she received could not alleviate her chronic depression. It wasn’t until practicing yoga daily that she was able to get off medication by getting on the mat. Finding joy in the world once again, she began writing for magazines and then writing books of her own. Today, Amy is passionate about sharing what helped her heal with others who suffer. This exclusive interview is featured in 'The Face Edition' of AwareNow Magazine: https://www.awarenowmagazine.com Featuring: Amy Weintraub Interviewed by: Allié McGuire Music by: Lauren Violet Produced by: AwareNow Media