Welcome to another impactful episode of the With Purpose Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with the multi-talented DJ Riel (Gabriel Lozano)—an inspiring MC, DJ, and energy creator for some of the biggest names in sports and events. Together, we dive into the transformative power of music, the journey to aligning career with purpose, and the delicate balance between staying true to your values and thriving in the entertainment industry. From personal stories of faith and growth to a deep conversation about the responsibility of being a cultural influencer, this episode is filled with real talk, positivity, and purpose. Don’t miss it!

On this episode of the With Purpose Podcast, we sit down with Ricky Casas, better known as Mista Ricksta, to explore his journey into the world of DJing. From hosting house parties during the pandemic to performing at festivals, Ricky has quickly made a name for himself in the Chicago DJ scene and beyond. We dive into his early inspirations, his father’s influence as a DJ, the importance of staying prepared for the unexpected, and how the global DJ community continues to shape his sound. Ricky also talks about what it's like to travel and perform in cities like New York, D.C., and L.A. Tune in to hear his story, and stick around for an exclusive set recorded live in the studio for Sought Out Sounds.

In this episode of the With Purpose Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Steven Dunning, better known as DJ Vellii, a Chicago native and open-format DJ whose passion for music pulses through the Windy City's vibrant nightlife. Journey through Vellii's sonic evolution, from his early inspirations in the world of hip-hop to his dynamic embrace of global beats and rare remixes that keep dance floors alive. Discover the unforgettable moments behind the decks with legendary DJs and how a simple name change from DJ Infamous to Vellii marked a new chapter in his career. Whether it’s crafting the perfect set list or exploring the depths of music genres, DJ Vellii's approach is all about making each gig a memorable experience. Dive into the stories of a DJ who not only lives his dream behind the turntables but does so with a purpose that resonates on and off the stage. For anyone who loves the thrill of live music and the art of DJing, this episode sheds light on what it takes to stand out and truly move people With Purpose.

In this episode of the With Purpose Podcast, we sit down with Joe Lottino, the visionary behind Crooked Arm Vinyl & Tap, J & B Music, and BDA Dance. Dive into Joe's journey of blending passions and creating spaces where music and community thrive together. From the eclectic crowds at Crooked Arm to the familial support that shaped his ventures, Joe shares how embracing diversity in music and being open to the unexpected can lead to profound connections and a fulfilling life. Discover the story of a man who turned his love for records, craft beer, and education into pillars of community and culture. Whether you're a fan of speed metal or Lionel Richie, this episode is a testament to the power of staying open-minded and pursuing what you love With Purpose.

This week, we welcome Marcus Elston, better known as M-Dok, to the podcast. Marcus is a DJ, Producer, Multimedia Creative, Artist, and Festival Talent Director from Chicago. He has established himself as a true collaborator in the city, coordinating events such as My House, Michelada Fest, Windy City Harvest, and Mas Flow. He runs a party called Tribe and describes it as a universal language of body and soul expressed by music and dance culture. We discuss the importance of embracing difference, eliminating competition, and opening channels for yourself and your team to grow and contribute. Make sure to keep up with M-DOK and all he's continuously producing for the culture.

M-DOK on social:
https://linktr.ee/mdok312
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With Purpose: https://solo.to/withpmedia.com
SABBY: https://solo.to/sabby

In this episode of The With Purpose Podcast, we invite the Puerto Rico native recording artist Aksel to the table. He is a performer and entrepreneur based in Chicago, growing his name amongst the Latino music community and a professional barber within the city. He took a stride into music during the pandemic and since then has dropped singles such as “La Llamada,” “Vino Prohibido,” and “Veo,” which have accumulated over 1,000,000 views just on youtube. Aksel’s purpose is to create unity in his music and everyday life. He is a rising artist, but even more than that, he is humbled and appreciative of his journey so far.

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For more from Aksel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1in8t4tONCgkWnEkHg-dpA
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With Purpose: https://solo.to/withpmedia.com
SABBY: https://solo.to/sabby

In this episode of The With Purpose Podcast, we welcome Chicago native Joey Torres from the Torres Omar Jewelers to the show. Joey is the marketing director of his family's business located in Logan Square. He speaks about the origins of the Torres business, growing up within an entrepreneurial family, and his efforts to strengthen the company with new approaches in marketing. Joey lets us know that there's more to jewelry than what people see in the display cases and believes you are making a difference in the world with the work that you do even if others don't see it yet.
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For more on Joey Torres and Omar Torres Jewelers:

Joey Torres on IG: https://www.instagram.com/joey.torres731/

Omar Torres Jewelers on IG: https://www.instagram.com/torresomarjewelers/
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With Purpose: https://solo.to/withpmedia.com
SABBY: https://solo.to/sabby

In this episode, we have Alex Wolf in the studio sharing his beginnings in DJing, where he's built a reputable name and brand for himself within the Chicago Nightlife industry. Alex is an open format DJ, marketer, and content creator and can be found at your favorite spots throughout the city!

For more from Alex Wolf:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexwolfthedj/
DJ Mixes: https://www.mixcloud.com/alexwolfthedj/alexwolfthedj-the-wolf-pack-volume-1/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alexwolfthedj?fromUrl=%2Falexwolfthedj&lang=en
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With Purpose: https://solo.to/withpmedia.com
SABBY: https://solo.to/sabby
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Sponsored by
3 Eights: https://www.facebook.com/3Eightshair/

In this episode of the With Purpose Podcast, Sabby sits down with Andre De Castro during his trip covering Miami Music Week, where he ran into Andre during an outing. Andre is a tech executive software technologist who majored in computer science, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI). In 2014 he envisioned implementing second layer technology coupled with the global Bitcoin blockchain to advance its capabilities for industrial applications. Andre’s early grasp of the once unrealized potential of blockchain technology led him to found Blockchain of Things, Inc., and drive the development of their premier product Catenis®. Catenis allows developers and corporations of all sizes to easily integrate with or build applications using the Bitcoin blockchain, leading to reduced costs, complexity, and time to market, while adding military-grade security. Today Catenis provides evolutionary low-code drag-and-drop tools, paving the way for blockchain-enabled application adoption. 

As an advocate for the crypto industry, Mr. De Castro has worked with the Federal Government’s FinCEN division in creating more clarity on cryptocurrency policies. Today, he is solely credited for the Jan 30th, 2014 administrative ruling on software development and investment activities. Thus, opening up greater avenues for well-established corporations and startups to conduct cryptocurrency business in the United States.

For More from Andre De Castro:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andretechexec/
Facebook: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andretechexec/

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With Purpose: https://solo.to/withpmedia.com
SABBY: https://solo.to/sabby
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Sponsored by
3 Eights: https://www.facebook.com/3Eightshair/

In this episode of the With Purpose Podcast, we sit down with Chicago dj & producer Gio Sandz. Gio has been making a name for himself for over 15 years in the scene, releasing hard hitting singles and remixes, traveling the country spinning records in some of the biggest venues and festivals, coordinating events and building his brand known as Tengo Funk. In this conversation Gio shares light on how he's been able to successfully move through his career, how he's staying relevant on social platforms, and the changes he's made that have helped improve his overall growth.
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For more from Gio Sandz & Tengo Funk:
Gio Sandz on IG: https://www.instagram.com/giosandz/?hl=en
Tengo Funk IG: https://www.instagram.com/tengofunk/?hl=en
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With Purpose: https://solo.to/withpmedia.com
SABBY: https://solo.to/sabby
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Sponsored by
3 Eights: https://www.facebook.com/3Eightshair/