Welcome to episode 19 of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo? Today I’ll be chatting it up with Eleanor Maralit.

Eleanor is not your ordinary architect. With her incredible talent and passion for design, she has taken the art of architecture to a whole new level. Graduating from Bear Creek High School and obtaining her undergraduate degree in Architecture from the University of Colorado Boulder, Eleanor has honed her skills and transformed her love for creativity into a successful venture.

Eleanor is the creative force behind Designs by Elle, a brand that specializes in handcrafting exquisite leather goods. She is a master of her craft, meticulously creating each piece with care and precision right here in Colorado. What sets Designs by Elle apart is Eleanor's commitment to using high-quality, vegetable-tanned leather that is processed without the use of harsh chemicals. This ensures that every item ages beautifully and will last a lifetime.

Join us as we delve into Eleanor's journey, explore her creative process, the inspiration behind her designs, and the immense satisfaction that comes from creating something truly unique.

Website: https://designsbyellegoods.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designsbyelle01/

*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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Welcome to the 18th episode of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo? 

In today's episode, I will be speaking to a local school district hero.  She is the McKinney Vento Liaison for the Cherry Creek School District. In these challenging times, we need people like her more than ever!  Leslie Navarro-Walker has been at the forefront of providing support to students, parents, and families facing various trials such as food insecurity, domestic violence, and homelessness. Thanks to generous donations to the Cherry Creek Schools Emergency Relief Fund, Leslie and the CCSD staff have been able to bring essential items like shelter, food, and cleaning supplies to those in need. Leslie’s dedication to the community has not gone unnoticed. Recently awarded the Cherry Creek Heroes Award, Leslie's tireless efforts have made a significant impact. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the district's families, she works tirelessly to ensure that everyone's needs are met. From delivering food and essential supplies to securing funding for families, Leslie's selflessness and kindness shine through. As we navigate the fallout of the COVID crisis, Leslie continues to be a beacon of support for those in need. Let us stand together as a community and support Leslie in her mission to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors. 

*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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Welcome to the 17th episode of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo?  In today's episode, we have a very special guest who has not only been a dear friend but also a source of inspiration. Shane is a remarkable individual whose journey in life has been filled with adventure, growth, and a unique perspective on relationships.

From our college days, where we bonded while playing soccer for Grinnell, to living in the same city after graduation, Shane has always been a constant presence in my life. They dedicated themselves to making a difference as a teacher in the Minneapolis school district, leaving an indelible impact on the lives of their students.

Years later they find themselves working in higher education, using their knowledge and experiences to make life better for all who come their way.

But that's not all. Shane has embarked on a personal journey, delving into the world of polyamory. Through their own experiences, they  gained a profound understanding of love, relationships, and the complexities that come with it. their story is not only insightful but also thought-provoking, challenging societal norms and offering a fresh perspective on the dynamics of love.

Join us as we dive deep into Shane’s incredible journey, discussing the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way. Get ready to be inspired and enlightened as we explore the world of polyamory through the eyes of one of my besties and someone I admire and consider an extraordinary individual.

*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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Welcome to another episode of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo? Join us in today’s 16th episode. Get ready to be mesmerized by the extraordinary Joseph Lee! Hailing from the enchanting state of Colorado and calling the captivating city of Denver his home, Joseph has crafted a life that is nothing short of remarkable. With a thriving career spanning over two decades as a visionary hairdresser, he has established a renowned salon in the heart of the DU area, leaving a trail of stunning metamorphoses in his wake.

But Joseph's talents extend far beyond the realm of scissors and combs. This dynamic individual thrives on the invigorating energy of connecting with a diverse range of people, making him not just a hairdresser, but a confidant and friend. His innate ability to understand and enhance the unique beauty of each individual is truly awe-inspiring.

While Joseph's passion for his craft is undeniable, his zeal for life transcends the salon walls. When he's not busy crafting breathtaking hairstyles, you can find him immersing himself in the transformative practice of Bikram's Yoga, pushing his body and mind to new boundaries. His love for travel takes him on exhilarating adventures to far-flung destinations, where he revels in the splendor of different cultures and landscapes.

But it doesn't stop there! Joseph's commitment to holistic well-being shines through his dedication to a plant-based nutrition lifestyle, nourishing his body with the goodness of nature. And when he yearns for a breath of fresh air, he seeks solace in the great outdoors, embracing the rejuvenating power of nature's bounty.

So, dear listeners, prepare to embark on a captivating journey as Joseph Lee graces our podcast. With his magnetic charm, boundless creativity, and a heart that beats for the sheer joy of life, he’s an inspiration to us all. Buckle up and get ready to be swept away by his extraordinary story and infectious passion.

*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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Michael Diaz Rivera is a remarkable individual who embodies resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment. From the halls of the Denver public schools, where he dedicated himself to shaping young minds as a passionate teacher, to his current role as an entrepreneur in the cannabis delivery service, his journey is one that resonates deeply and leaves us all inspired. Tune in as we delve into Michael's incredible story, exploring the challenges he faced, the values that drive him, and the initiatives he's championing to make a lasting impact on his community. 

What sets Michael apart is not just his entrepreneurial spirit—it's the incredible story that led him to create Better Days Delivery, a beacon of hope and a testament of growth. His path was paved with challenges that would have deterred most, as he found himself incarcerated for cannabis possession. In the face of adversity, Michael refused to let this define his future.

Instead, he harnessed the power of his experience, transforming it into a powerful driving force for change, not only for himself but for his community as well. Upon his release, Michael embarked on a mission: to build a business within the very industry that once contributed to his hardest times. And thus, Better Days Delivery was born.

Rooted in the principles of equity, inclusivity, and social justice, Better Days Delivery is a shining example of how one individual's resilience can create positive change on a larger scale. Michael's journey serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us that adversity can be the catalyst for growth and transformation.

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-up-qu%C3%A9-rollo/id1709963786

https://open.spotify.com/show/7I0M1Hf0AAAsFxZyIh7omU

https://www.betterdaysdelivery.com/

*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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Welcome to another episode of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo?, the voice of Denver! Join us in episode 13 as I interview Natacha Gutierrez.  She hails from the Bayou state and has been in Denver for fifteen years.  She wears many hats and is entrenched in serving the community.  She balances her law practice with her realty business.  She is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University with a J.D. from Tulane.  Come listen and learn how Natacha can transform your life through home ownership or even getting your estate planning in order.

Natacha is deeply committed to the Denver Front Range community. She has served on various non-profit boards, volunteered her time in the homeless community, and worked to protect children. Currently, she sits on the board of directors for the Cherry Creek Villages Homeowners Association, ensuring homeowners receive fair and competent representation. She also provides pro-bono legal representation and serves on legislative committees.

https://colorado-justice.com/

https://natachagrealty.com/

*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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Welcome to another episode of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo?, the voice of Denver! Join us in episode 14. Step into the vibrant world of Natina Berrios, a true Nuyorican gem with over two decades of enriching Denver's community. From guiding students as a paraprofessional to leading as a Girl Scout Troop leader or as a Campus Safety Officer, Natina's impact resonates through her various roles. Join us in this episode as we uncover the essence of a beloved and trusted member of the DPS community.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2203898

 *Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound 

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Join us today on the 12th episode of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo? Get to know Vinnie Cervantes, a catalyst for change and influential leader. Vinnie is the founder and visionary behind Denver Alliance Street Health Response (DASHR), a groundbreaking organization established in 2018. Fueled by a desire to provide an alternative to policing and jail, DASHR brings together diverse groups and individuals who share a common goal of revolutionizing emergency response methods.

DASHR responds to the displacement of homeless individuals by distributing essential supplies and sustenance. DASHR's impact extends beyond immediate crisis response. They conduct workshops on community safety and host forums dedicated to transforming policing and jails. A key element in their vision for community health and safety involves expanding the role of street medics. These dedicated volunteers, also known as action medics, provide vital medical care in situations often overlooked by traditional institutions. DASHR collaborates with the Denver Action Medic Network to offer street medic training, as well as other educational programs focused on restorative practices.

At the heart of DASHR's philosophy is the belief that public safety should encompass meeting fundamental human needs, such as housing, hunger, and healthcare. By fostering community organizing and basic education, they strive to establish stronger connections and collective understanding, nurturing a sense of safety for all. Ultimately, Vinnie and the DASHR team envision a future where policing and jails are obsolete. They tirelessly work towards creating programs that will guide society towards this transformative goal.

http://dashrco.org/

https://www.coloradogives.org/story/Dashr

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*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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Join us today on the 11th episode of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo? Get to know a remarkable entrepreneur who embodies the spirit of "Colorado Proud,” Michelle Garcia, the Founder and CEO of Heirloom Catering. Hailing from Denver, Michelle's deep-rooted connection to her hometown and her upbringing on an urban farm have shaped her philosophy on food sourcing and supporting local purveyors

Michelle began her cooking career in the second grade, cooking with the matriarchs of her family. She learned to peel potatoes, chop onions, and mince garlic as her mother's prep chef. Her grandmother, Lala, from Mora, New Mexico, taught her how to make tortillas, chilies, pinto beans, and Spanish rice. Michelle soaked up her family's rich cultural history of music, arts, and food as they danced and sang in the kitchen.

Michelle developed a passion for heirloom plants, companion planting, and seed saving in greenhouses and farms. Her love of heirloom plants' brilliant colors, racing stripes, and magnificent blossoms sparked her culinary interest. Her belief was strengthened by the clear contrast between conventionally grown and homegrown tomatoes. So, she naturally moved into cooking, hence Heirloom Catering.

Heirloom Catering Colorado supports the slow food movement, which promotes local and traditional cuisine and environmentally friendly farming and ranching. Michelle and her team work with local farmers, ranchers, and artisan food makers to create bespoke menus and services utilizing fresh, local ingredients. Despite being vegetable-forward, the company offers local, pasture-raised animal protein items for bacon fans.

Get to know Michelle and Heirloom Catering, where community and exceptional cuisine come together to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

https://www.heirloomcateringcolorado.com/

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2203898/support

*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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Join us today on the 10th episode of What’s Up?/¿Qué Rollo? with Dani McAllister and their remarkable journey from Denver Public Schools to Colorado State University.

Meet Dani McAllister, a true testament to the power of perseverance and determination. Dani's journey to success is nothing short of inspiring, as they carved their way from the halls of Denver Public Schools to the inclusive excellence of Colorado State University. Through their unwavering commitment to education, coupled with their work experience as a paraprofessional and their active involvement in the community, Dani has become a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and a relentless pursuit of one's dreams.

Today, Dani stands as a beacon of hope for those who face adversity on their path to education. Their story serves as a reminder that with resilience, hard work, and a strong sense of purpose, anyone can overcome even the most daunting obstacles and achieve their dreams.

So, let us celebrate Dani McAllister, a remarkable individual who not only carved their own path to success but also continues to inspire others to defy expectations and embrace the transformative power of education. Their journey from Denver Public Schools to Colorado State College is a testament to the extraordinary potential that lies within each and every one of us.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2203898/support

*Music intro by Nico Reglio "No es un secreto (instrumental) licensed through Epidemic Sound

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