Behind the Brand

Behind the Brand

By David ChmielewskiSociety & Culture
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Behind the Brand episodes

  • BEHIND THE BRAND EP 36 MICK LOUIS BAND

    In this episode of Behind the Brand, Dave talks with the members of the Mick Louis Band

    1. The podcast features a conversation with Mick Lewis Band members discussing their music, careers, and upcoming shows. Here are some of the highlights:
    2. **Band Formation and Journey**: Mick Lewis talks about forming the band, meeting fellow guitarist Jason at a family Christmas party, and connecting with other members through various channels like auditions. They describe the band's evolution over three years.
    3. **Live Shows and Booking**: The band talks about their upcoming performances and the process of getting gigs. Initially, they reached out to venues themselves, but now, they are fortunate to have people calling them to book shows. They share favorite venues like Softtail and Docs and discuss the vibrant live music scene.
    4. **Creative Process**: Mick explains how he mostly writes the band's songs but allows the other members creative freedom when performing. He values their input, which helps keep the performances fresh and different from studio recordings.
    5. **Audience Engagement**: The band members highlight how important their fans are. Mick recounts moments when audience members shared emotional reactions to their music. They emphasize that their performances are energized by the audience's response, making every show unique.
    6. **Collaborative and Improvised Music**: While Mick writes the core songs, there is room for improvisation during live performances. They sometimes extend solos or change arrangements to keep things dynamic, feeding off each other’s energy on stage.
    7. **Future Plans**: The band is working on releasing an EP with about five songs. They discuss the importance of platforms like YouTube and Facebook for fan interaction, noting that social media plays a big role in building their audience.
    8. **Challenges in the Music Industry**: They mention the difficulty of getting recognized by traditional record labels today, with a greater focus now on building an online following rather than waiting for a big break from a label.
    This episode provides an insightful look into the band's camaraderie, creative process, and commitment to growing their fan base through live performances.
    For more information check out the Mick Louis Band website. https://www.themicklouisband.com/

    1 hr 14 min
  • BEHIND THE BRAND EP 36 MICK LOUIS BAND

    In this episode of Behind the Brand, Dave talks with the members of the Mick Louis Band

    1. The podcast features a conversation with Mick Lewis Band members discussing their music, careers, and upcoming shows. Here are some of the highlights:
    2. **Band Formation and Journey**: Mick Lewis talks about forming the band, meeting fellow guitarist Jason at a family Christmas party, and connecting with other members through various channels like auditions. They describe the band's evolution over three years.
    3. **Live Shows and Booking**: The band talks about their upcoming performances and the process of getting gigs. Initially, they reached out to venues themselves, but now, they are fortunate to have people calling them to book shows. They share favorite venues like Softtail and Docs and discuss the vibrant live music scene.
    4. **Creative Process**: Mick explains how he mostly writes the band's songs but allows the other members creative freedom when performing. He values their input, which helps keep the performances fresh and different from studio recordings.
    5. **Audience Engagement**: The band members highlight how important their fans are. Mick recounts moments when audience members shared emotional reactions to their music. They emphasize that their performances are energized by the audience's response, making every show unique.
    6. **Collaborative and Improvised Music**: While Mick writes the core songs, there is room for improvisation during live performances. They sometimes extend solos or change arrangements to keep things dynamic, feeding off each other’s energy on stage.
    7. **Future Plans**: The band is working on releasing an EP with about five songs. They discuss the importance of platforms like YouTube and Facebook for fan interaction, noting that social media plays a big role in building their audience.
    8. **Challenges in the Music Industry**: They mention the difficulty of getting recognized by traditional record labels today, with a greater focus now on building an online following rather than waiting for a big break from a label.
    This episode provides an insightful look into the band's camaraderie, creative process, and commitment to growing their fan base through live performances.
    For more information check out the Mick Louis Band website. https://www.themicklouisband.com/

    1 hr 14 min
  • BEHIND THE BRAND EP 35 JASON JAKUBOWSKI

    In this episode of Behind the Brand Jason Jakubowski discusses Connecticut Foodshare's mission, the ongoing need for food assistance, and upcoming fundraising events to combat hunger.

    Here are a few highlights or our discussion
    - 🎉 Connecticut Foodshare's role in combating hunger in Connecticut.
    - 🏃‍♂️ Fifth Annual Chamber Wellness Challenge to raise funds for food assistance.
    - 📈 The increase in food insecurity post-pandemic.
    - 🥦 Emphasis on nutritious food distribution to maintain dignity.
    - 🚚 Mobile food distribution efforts across the state.
    - 🤝 Collaboration with local grocery stores for food donations.
    - 💰 Majority of funding comes from individual contributions.
    Key Takeaways
    - 📊 Food insecurity in Connecticut remains significant, with 470,000 individuals affected, highlighting the ongoing challenge despite the state's wealth.
    - 🥗 There's a growing focus on nutritional value in food assistance, moving away from merely providing any edible food to ensuring dignity and health.
    - 🚧 The merger of Connecticut Foodbank and Foodshare has streamlined operations, enhancing service delivery across the state.
    - 💪 Community-driven events like the Chamber Wellness Challenge play a crucial role in raising awareness and funds for hunger relief.
    - 🏥 Partnerships with health organizations showcase a holistic approach, recognizing food as essential to health and well-being.
    - 📆 Seasonal fluctuations in need, particularly during summer when children are out of school, necessitate targeted efforts.
    - 🔄 The importance of local pantries in the network illustrates the need for community engagement in addressing hunger effectively.
    For more information on CT Foodshare visit their website at www.ctfoodshare.org.

    1 hr 9 min
  • BEHIND THE BRAND_EP 34_BENJAMIN LEE

    In this episode we had the opportunity to interview Benjamin Lee, the CEO of a nonprofit organization focused on solar energy development. Benjamin shared his background as a retired Air Force bomb squad technician and his journey towards creating a nonprofit dedicated to energy independence in America. He discussed the inefficiencies in the current solar development strategy and highlighted the importance of clear, actionable strategies for transitioning to renewable energy.

    Benjamin explained the unique approach of his nonprofit, which aims to provide free energy to disadvantaged communities through solar power generation. He emphasized the use of government subsidies and crowdfunding to fund the projects and the potential for self-sufficiency in the long term. The conversation also delved into the future potential of hydrogen as a fuel source and its role in energy generation and transportation.

    Overall, the episode explored the innovative and forward-thinking approach of Benjamin's nonprofit in addressing energy challenges and promoting sustainability through solar power and potential hydrogen technologies.

    solarsecuritynet.com

    @solarsecuritynet

    1 hr 14 min
  • BEHIND THE BRAND EP 33 LEON COLLINS

    In this episode of "Behind the Brand," David speaks with Leon Collins about various topics and events related to his work and community engagements.

    The episode begins with an introduction and a warm welcome to the guest, Leon Collins, who is thanked for joining the show in Brantford, Connecticut.

    David mentions Eric Feeney, a teacher from West Hartford, who runs a nonprofit organization called "Friends of Feeney." Eric recently had the opportunity to introduce and interview the Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona, with the help of interns from Branford High and Liberty University.

    These interns are part of an internship program at Branford Community Television, which Leon is managing.

    David recounts how Eric Feeney reached out to him months ago to plan a trip, initially intended to be conducted in person but later switched to a Zoom meeting due to logistical reasons.

    Despite the shift to a virtual format, the interview with Miguel Cardona went smoothly, with Cardona being very gracious and the conversation lasting about 15 minutes.

    The interns were present as the studio audience during the podcast recording, learning about the video production world.

    Their involvement provided them with practical experience and insight into the industry, which they seemed to enjoy, as indicated by their smiles.

    Leon shares a bit about his career journey, mentioning his time at Channel 3, starting around 2000 and leaving in 2013.

    The episode highlights the collaborative efforts in the community, the importance of internship programs in providing real-world experience to students, and the seamless adaptation to virtual meetings to continue meaningful engagements.

    1 hr 30 min
  • BEHIND THE BRAND EP 32 with MICK LOUIS

    "Behind the Brand" Episode 32 features Mick Louis discussing his musical journey, inspirations, and the realities of being a musician. Mick reflects on his performances, mentioning various venues and upcoming shows. He emphasizes the importance of consistency in his practice and live performances, and the balance required between the artistic and business aspects of his career. Mick also shares his transition from punk rock to country and southern rock, attributing it to his evolving musical preferences and the physical demands of different genres. He highlights his admiration for influential musicians like Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers, and notes how specific records, such as Dierks Bentley's bluegrass album, inspire him. Additionally, Mick talks about his goals for the future, focusing on creating feel-good music and maintaining happiness while making a living through his passion. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes about family, with Mick and the host exchanging stories about their parents and upbringing. Overall, the episode provides an insightful look into the life and mindset of a dedicated musician balancing passion and profession.


    51 min
  • BEHIND THE BRAND_EP 31_RON FOLEY FOUNDATION

    Behind the Brand went on the road!

    The Ron Foley Foundation raises funds to support pancreatic cancer awareness, revolutionary medical research, and provide financial assistance to those in need.


    The ron foley foundation (00:00:00)

    Discussion about the foundation's history, growth, and impact on pancreatic cancer research and support.


    Pancreatic cancer awareness and funding (00:01:13)


    Understanding pancreatic cancer (00:03:02)


    Function and treatment of the pancreas (00:05:51)

    Explanation of the vital functions of the pancreas and the complexities of surgical removal and replacement of its functions.


    Current treatment options and advancements (00:07:26)

    Discussion on surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and potential immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer.


    Advancements in pancreatic cancer treatment (00:10:28)


    The legacy of the Ron Foley Foundation (00:15:21)


    The power of purple and community support (00:17:54)


    Guest's experience at the event (00:19:34)


    Reaching Out to the Community (00:20:09)


    Pancreatic Cancer Prevention for People of Color (00:22:33)

    Zendaya explains the initiative to address pancreatic cancer prevention for people of color and the need for education and trust within these communities.


    Challenges in Discussing Pancreatic Cancer (00:23:41)

    Zendaya highlights the challenges in discussing pancreatic cancer within the black community, including the lack of open communication and understanding of the disease.


    Breaking Generational Stigmas (00:29:18)

    Zendaya discusses the cultural and generational stigmas surrounding discussions of health issues and trauma within the black and Hispanic communities.


    Raising Awareness and Support (00:33:31)

    Zendaya expresses her admiration for the work of the Ron Foley Foundation and emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and support for their initiatives.


    Support and Future Initiatives (00:34:36)

    Zendaya discusses the foundation's current resources and the importance of continuing their work, highlighting the need for support and community involvement.


    Community Initiatives (00:37:52)

    Zendaya shares information about her organization's community initiatives, including back-to-school and holiday events for children and adults with disabilities.


    Closing Remarks (00:39:13)

    Zendaya concludes the conversation, expressing gratitude and interest in staying connected with the host and the foundation.


    Food Insecurity and Community Partnerships (00:39:26)

    Sabrina Hardy discusses Angel of Edgewood's efforts to address food insecurity and their partnerships with community organizations.


    Pancreatic Cancer Awareness and Risk Factors (00:41:17)

    Sabrina Hardy emphasizes the importance of the partnership with the Ron Foley Foundation in raising awareness about pancreatic cancer and its prevalence in communities of color.


    Stigma and Communication in Health Awareness (00:43:02)

    The conversation highlights the stigma around discussing health issues in African American communities and the importance of open communication for better health outcomes.


    History and Purpose of "Ron's Run for the Roses" (00:46:33)

    A speaker provides a brief history of the event, its origins in memory of Ron Foley, and its focus on raising funds for pancreatic cancer research and patient support.


    Event Logistics and Fundraising Efforts (00:48:03)

    The discussion covers the unique aspects of the event, such as the venue, fundraising goals for research, public education, and financial assistance for patients battling pancreatic cancer.


    Podcast Collaboration and Gratitude (00:50:38)

    The conversation touches on the collaboration for the podcast, expressing gratitude for support, and the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences related to pancreatic cancer.


    DirectLine Media is a full-service video and media production company based in CT. From custom video content to innovative solutions like made-for-you podcasts - we’re changing the way businesses communicate.

    52 min
  • BEHIND THE BRAND EP 30 VINCENT SANTILLI

    Join us for Behind the Brand with Vincent Santilli the CEO of Homes for the Brave. Homes for the Brave has provided housing, vocational training, and life skills coaching to help individuals leave homelessness behind. To date, they have worked with over 1,600 men and women, almost all of whom are Veterans.

    Get more information by visiting homesforthebrave.org

    1 hr 2 min
  • BEHIND THE BRAND_ERIC BERGENN_EP 28

    We finally sat down with Eric Bergenn and chatted about money and beer and life. Eric came to our studios in #branfordct.

    00:15 Where’d you get that shirt?
    01:45 Matt Banever Storyteller @bardsclothing4218
    02:48 New Financial Adviser @bergennfg
    04:50 Independence we put clients first
    10:10 New era of zoom calls
    12:15 Talking on the phone
    16:35 Why @bergennfg
    19:15 End of the Bergenns
    24:00 Who designed the logo?
    27:12 Why do I go to Bergenn Financial
    29:35 Rent your house
    40:00 No responsibility
    46:15 Do the third best thing
    50:40 Nerdy gold standard question
    56:20 Five years from now
    01:07:57 Investing and planning
    01:14:44 More kids?
    01:18:15 Beer time
    01:25:40 Can’t live on that side of the river
    01:33:30 Focused conversation
    01:37:51 Branding or marketing or commercials

    1 hr 45 min

About Behind the Brand

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to Behind the Brand, the podcast that brings you fresh and exciting insights into business, entertainment, and current topics.