Inside The Pulse Podcast by Ralph Perez

In this episode of Inside The Pulse, we sit down with Jason Kehdi, the visionary force behind Argonaut Studio, to explore his creative evolution from pre-engineering student to studio furniture designer. Raised in a working-class immigrant household, Jason’s story is rooted in Detroit's rich industrial and architectural history, which continues to inspire his work. His approach to art challenges traditional definitions by blending functionality, storytelling, and raw materials found throughout the city. Whether it’s wood, metal, glass, or concrete, Jason treats each element as an opportunity to elevate the overlooked and transform the discarded into meaningful, timeless pieces.

We also dive deep into the emotional core of design—how found objects hold history, how environments affect mental health, and why design should make us feel something. Jason opens up about his cultural background, the lessons passed down by his family, and his mission to bridge art, craft, and design through Argonaut Studio. His work doesn’t just exist in galleries or private spaces, but also as public installations and custom builds across Detroit. From teaching furniture and millwork at Lawrence Technological University to helping fellow innovators at Newlab, Jason’s presence is shaping the future of Detroit’s design identity in both soulful and sustainable ways.

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In this powerful episode of Inside The Pulse, we sit down with Connaé Pisani, Founder and CEO of National Real Estate Management Group, a Detroit-based leader in turnkey property management, construction, and real estate brokerage. With her background in engineering and construction, Connaé brings a highly analytical, problem-solving mindset to real estate investment. She shares exactly how new and seasoned investors can approach Detroit real estate with $20,000, revealing actionable strategies, common mistakes to avoid, and how to build a long-term portfolio in one of the most undervalued markets in America.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a national investor looking for Detroit cash flow properties, or someone trying to scale a rental portfolio, this episode is packed with game-changing insights. From real estate systems, to working with vetted contractors, to understanding Detroit’s zoning, renovation, and property value cycles — Connaé breaks it all down. This is your guide to smart real estate investing in Detroit.

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👥 Connect with Connaé Pisani & NREMG: 🔗 Website: https://www.nremg.com
📸 Instagram: @realnremg
📘 Facebook: National Real Estate Management Group
🐦 Twitter: @realNREMG

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Jordan Smith is the founder of Nxt Level Fitness in Detroit, Michigan, where he leads as an experienced personal trainer and registered yoga teacher. Specializing in strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), Jordan’s journey into fitness was deeply personal—motivated by the passing of his grandmother to breast cancer just before his 16th birthday. That life-changing moment ignited a passion for wellness that would shape his mission. With over 10,000 hours dedicated to his craft, he’s led large-scale bootcamps, trained Big Ten Division I athletes at Michigan State University, and competed in the National Physique Committee (NPC) as a bodybuilder.

At Nxt Level Fitness, Jordan’s vision is clear: to meet each client where they are and guide them toward the next level of their health journey. The space is more than just a gym—it’s a hub of consistency, transformation, and personal growth. Every session reflects his commitment to operational excellence and an individualized approach to fitness. Through both in-person and online training, Jordan continues to impact lives by fostering discipline, building strength, and encouraging a lifestyle rooted in movement and mindful living.

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On this episode of Inside the Pulse, host Ralph Hector Perez sits down with one of Detroit’s most trusted voices in real estate — Elizabeth “Liz” Tintinalli, founder of Liz in Detroit. With a brand rooted in authenticity, community, and market expertise, Liz shares her journey into real estate and opens up about what it takes to succeed in a city as complex and opportunity-filled as Detroit.

From navigating Detroit’s evolving housing market to working with first-time buyers, seasoned investors, and growing her own team, Liz drops powerful insight into what’s really happening behind the scenes in Detroit real estate. Whether you're considering buying a home, building your real estate brand, or looking for the next city to invest in, this episode is packed with the real-world knowledge you need.

Tune in as Ralph and Liz discuss the misconceptions, opportunities, and overlooked truths about Detroit’s real estate landscape. It’s a must-listen for anyone curious about the city's growth, the future of real estate, and how professionals like Liz are shaping the movement with both strategy and heart.

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What makes a live brand experience truly unforgettable? How do you transform an empty space into an immersive environment that engages, inspires, and connects with audiences on a deeper level? In this episode of Inside The Pulse Podcast, host Ralph Perez (@iamralphperez) sits down with Niko Solomos (@nikoinreallife), Director of Business Development at Display Group (@displaygroup), to unpack the art and strategy behind experiential marketing, brand activations, and workplace culture. From crafting visually stunning environments to fostering creativity within a team, Niko shares insider insights on what it takes to design and execute high-impact events that leave lasting impressions.

Whether you’re a marketer, designer, event producer, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with game-changing knowledge on storytelling through experience. Learn how Display Group has helped brands build immersive activations that go beyond aesthetics—events that create real emotional connections with attendees. Plus, Niko dives into the importance of company culture in driving innovation and execution, the rising influence of Detroit in the experiential marketing space, and how collaboration fuels creativity at every stage of event production.

Tune in now to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the future of brand experiences, live events, and immersive marketing. Whether you’re planning your next big activation or just want to understand how powerful spaces are built, this episode is a must-listen. Hit play and discover how top industry leaders like Niko are shaping the next generation of brand storytelling!

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In this episode of Inside the Pulse Podcast, we sit down with the exceptionally talented fine artist and body artist, Miriam Uhura, as she shares her experiences navigating the art world as a woman. Miriam offers powerful insights into the challenges female artists—especially women of color—face in securing opportunities, highlighting the disparities in how male and female creatives are treated when it comes to solo exhibitions, representation, and long-term support from galleries and institutions.

Miriam speaks candidly about the struggles of gaining visibility in a male-dominated industry, addressing the emotional and professional toll of constantly having to prove oneself in spaces that don’t always provide equal opportunities. She discusses the differences between solo and group exhibitions, the difficulty of securing recurring showcases, and the importance of resilience in the pursuit of artistic success.

This episode is essential for artists, creatives, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the systemic barriers in the art industry. Whether you are a female artist navigating similar experiences or an ally looking to support equity in the arts, Miriam’s story offers valuable perspective and inspiration. Don’t miss this honest and thought-provoking conversation.

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James Charles Morris is a multidisciplinary artist, curator, and art historian from Detroit, Michigan, known for blending collage, photography, and painting to explore themes of racial identity, spirituality, family, and community. His artistic journey began in his youth, drawing inspiration from various media and the vibrant culture of his hometown. In 2008, Morris founded Definitive Style Exclusive, an apparel brand aimed at sparking meaningful conversations through innovative designs. He has also collaborated with institutions like the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History on curatorial projects.

In 2019, Morris expanded into digital art, creating collages that incorporate his own photographs. This evolution has garnered significant interest within the art community, distinguishing his work through its authenticity and depth. His art has been showcased at venues such as the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the Detroit Historical Museum, the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and the Detroit Artists Market. Morris's creative process emphasizes allowing visions to emerge organically, using photography as a foundation to capture diverse textures and colors, which he assembles into intricate, evocative pieces.

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In this episode of Inside the Pulse, host Ralph Perez sits down with Philip Pirkovic, Director of Brand & Partnerships at Shinola, the Detroit-based lifestyle brand known for its handcrafted watches, premium leather goods, and the one-of-a-kind Shinola Hotel experience. Philip shares exclusive insights into how Shinola has mastered the art of brand storytelling, content creation, and customer experience, shaping a brand that blends heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation. From the success of Shinola’s Willard Program, which allows customers to design their own watches, to their Factory Sessions and The Movement initiatives, Philip discusses the strategies that have positioned Shinola as a symbol of American craftsmanship and authenticity—with watches even worn by President Obama and Bill Clinton.

Philip Pirkovic is a visionary in brand strategy and storytelling, leveraging his expertise to elevate Shinola’s brand identity and community engagement. Prior to Shinola, he worked in advertising as a senior media designer at Noble People in New York City and co-hosted Free Smoke, an Instagram TV series discussing business, culture, and creativity. A native of Flint, Michigan, Philip’s deep appreciation for Detroit’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit fuels his approach to content and branding. Through initiatives like The Movement, which provides a behind-the-scenes look at Shinola’s Detroit watch factory, and Factory Sessions, showcasing musical performances in Shinola’s leather workshop, Philip continues to push the boundaries of brand experience and audience connection.

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Melannie Chard is the Founder, Gallerist, and Owner of M Contemporary Art, established in early 2018 in Ferndale, Michigan. The gallery primarily represents Detroit-based artists across various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. Before founding M Contemporary Art, Chard served as the Artistic Director of Galerie Camille in Detroit, where she honed her curatorial skills and deepened her connections within the local art community.

Prior to her endeavors in Detroit, Chard spent a decade at Sotheby's, starting in the London office and later moving to New York. During her tenure, she liaised between clients and experts, gaining exposure to some of the most significant artworks in private collections. This experience provided her with a profound understanding of art valuation and the intricacies of art collecting. Returning to her roots in Michigan, Chard now focuses on promoting local artists and fostering a supportive community for both creators and collectors.

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Art is more than just expression—it’s a tool for healing, storytelling, and cultural preservation. In this powerful conversation, we dive into the world of Afrocentric surrealism, exploring how creativity can be a vehicle for self-discovery and community impact. From the rich inspiration found in Detroit’s vibrant streets to the importance of representation in the visual arts, this discussion unpacks the intersection of identity, art, and purpose. The conversation also delves into the use of unconventional materials, such as turmeric, as a symbol of visual healing, reinforcing the deep connection between artistic expression and holistic well-being.

Beyond the canvas, this discussion highlights the challenges and triumphs of navigating the art world as a Black femme creative, emphasizing the need for greater visibility and support. It explores the societal habit of comparing women in creative industries, questioning why competition is often prioritized over collaboration. Touching on themes of legacy, manifestation, and artistic evolution, this episode is an introspective look at what it means to create freely, embrace individuality, and honor the stories that shape us. Whether you're an artist, a dreamer, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is a reminder that creativity is limitless, and the impact of art extends far beyond what meets the eye.

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