35: Back of the Closet | Unpacking Emotional Baggage and Generational Trauma

In our longest and most raw episode yet, "Where I Come From | Milwaukee Insights" takes a courageous dive into the emotional baggage we keep locked in the "Back of the closet." This is a deeply personal and explicit conversation about the hidden struggles, past mistakes, and generational trauma that impact our mental health and well-being, especially within the Milwaukee community.

We discuss the immense cost of secrecy and the incredible power of vulnerability—especially for men. Whether you are dealing with a personal secret, emotional burden, or feeling isolated, this episode offers a path toward healing and transparency.

⚠️ Listener discretion is advised. If this topic is difficult for you, please reach out to the resources below.

— Episode Chapter Markers —

• 15:00 The Core Confession: Defining What's in the Closet
• 38:20 The Milwaukee Context: Community Pressure and Silence
• 55:00 Strategies for Seeking Help: Finding a Safe Support System
• 1:10:00 Actionable Steps: Moving Forward with Transparency

— Critical Resources & Support —

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (available 24/7)
• Local Milwaukee Mental Health Resources: [Link to a specific local MKE mental health resource/clinic]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

034: Shoe Game On Point: The Culture of Sneakers and Entrepreneurship w/ ShoeCrazyyy

In this exciting episode of "Where I Come From | Milwaukee Insights," we dive headfirst into the world of sneaker culture with the one and only ShoeCrazyyy! This is a must-listen for every Milwaukee Sneakerhead and anyone interested in turning a personal passion into a successful brand.

We discuss the history and evolution of the "shoe game," how to spot the best Air Jordan and Yeezy releases, and the vital role of authenticity in the sneaker resale market. ShoeCrazyyy shares insights into building their brand, the hottest current trends, and the vibrant local Milwaukee sneaker scene. Whether you’re looking to invest, style, or just appreciate the artistry of footwear, this conversation is for you.

— Episode Chapter Markers —

• 05:00 Guest Introduction & The Origin of ShoeCrazyyy
• 12:15 Sneaker Resale: Market Trends and Authenticity Checks
• 18:30 Milwaukee Sneaker Scene: Local Stores and Meetups
• 27:40 The Art of Styling Your Kicks: Must-Have Silhouettes

— Connect & Support —
Follow ShoeCrazyyy (See the Shoes!): [@ShoeCrazyyy on Instagram/TikTok]
Shop ShoeCrazyyy’s Inventory: [Link to Guest’s Shop/E-commerce Platform]
Recommended Sneaker Care: [Link to a high-quality sneaker cleaning kit]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

Welcome to a powerful edition of "Where I Come From | Milwaukee Insights." In this episode, we sit down with leaders from the Riverwest Food Pantry, a vital community center dedicated to ending hunger, isolation, and poverty in Milwaukee.

We discuss the organization’s mission to nourish health, belonging, and economic opportunity, and how this Hunger Task Force Network partner serves key Milwaukee zip codes (53202, 53203, 53211, 53212, and 53217). The host shares a personal, heartfelt account of how food pantries have impacted his own life.

Learn about their essential services, including food distribution, and how their Urban Farm initiative connects residents to fresh, healthy produce. This conversation is an essential guide for anyone in Milwaukee looking to receive help, donate resources, or find meaningful volunteer opportunities.

— Episode Chapter Markers —

• 08:45 The Riverwest Mission: Ending Isolation and Poverty
• 15:00 Who the Pantry Serves: Zip Codes and How to Get Help (Call 211)
• 20:15 How to Help: Volunteering and Donation Needs
• 27:30 The Future of the Pantry and the Urban Farm Initiative

— Connect, Volunteer, & Support —Riverwest Food Pantry Website:

 https://www.riverwestfoodpantry.org/
Location: 2610 N Doctor M.L.K. Jr Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Looking to Volunteer? Email: [email protected]
Need Assistance Outside These Zips? Call 211 for the nearest pantry.

Pantry Volunteer Times:
•Evening Food Distribution: Tuesday 2:30-6 PM
•Food Sort: Friday 8:30-11 AM
•Morning Food Distribution: Saturday 7:45-11 AM

Urban Farm Volunteer Times:
•Plant, Harvest, etc.: Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays - 8:30am-noon
Groups of three or more, please email us at [email protected]

https://www.riverwestfoodpantry.org/
Location: 2610 N Doctor M.L.K. Jr Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53212

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

032: A Vegan Masterpiece: How Chef Buddah Fly is Changing Milwaukee’s Plant-Based Scene

In this absolutely awesome episode of "Where I Come From | Milwaukee Insights," we sit down with the incredible Buddah Fly, a truly up-and-coming Vegan Chef in Milwaukee. She is a visionary who masterfully shows that you don't have to choose between great food and a healthy lifestyle.

We dive deep into the world of plant-based eating, exploring why people choose to go vegan—from preventing the exploitation of animals to gaining profound health and nutritional benefits. Buddah Fly shares her story, her cooking philosophy, and essential tips for anyone looking to learn more about vegan nutrition and transform their diet. This is a must-listen for anyone in the Milwaukee area looking for healthy, vibrant, and delicious food!

— Episode Chapter Markers —

• 10:00 Meet Buddah Fly: The Vegan Journey Begins
• 22:30 Debunking Myths: Nutrition, Protein, and Going "Sexy"
• 35:00 The Taste Test: What is a Vegan Masterpiece?
• 47:00 Practical Tips: How to Start a Plant-Based Diet Today

— Connect & Support —
Connect with Chef Buddah Fly (See her Food!): [Buddah Luv]

Milwaukee Vegan Resources: [Link to a local Milwaukee market or community group]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

Can you imagine going from working out six days a week to being told you’ll be bedridden for life?

In this powerful episode of Cut The Check, Mr. Tone Deff sits down with the incredibly resilient Serita Valmond. After a life-altering car accident left her spiraling into a world of chronic pain, depression, and a staggering 15-medication regimen, Serita decided to take her healing into her own hands.

Discover how she transitioned to a medication-free life using holistic strategies, from deep-diving into anti-inflammatory nutrition to mastering the art of Reiki. Serita isn't just a survivor; she’s a coach dedicated to helping others—especially people of color—navigate the often-unseen struggles of chronic illness.

Tune in to learn:

• The real definition of chronic pain and why the "three-month rule" matters.
• The physical and mental impact of invisible illnesses.
• How to manage inflammation and "the pus inside your body" naturally.
• Practical tips for reclaiming your life after a major health setback.

Don't miss this raw and inspiring look at what it means to truly come back.

Chapter Timestamps

• 0:00 – Intro and Sushi-making Segment
• 6:36 – Introduction of Guest Serita Valmond
• 7:43 – Defining Chronic Pain and the Three-Month Mark
• 9:15 – The Accident: Life Before and After
• 12:12 – Navigating the Mental Toll and Grief
• 14:38 – The Turning Point: Moving Toward Holistic Research
• 17:35 – Understanding the "Five-Fold" Diagnosis
• 19:40 – The Science of Inflammation and Pain
• 21:32 – How Serita Coaches Others Through Their Journey
• 24:12 – The Power of Reiki and Energy Healing
• 27:55 – Upcoming Book and Virtual Events

Links & Resources

• Instagram: @iamchronicallyresilient
• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook Group: Chronic Pain Support for People of Color
• Book: The Comeback Anthology (Section: "I Am Chronically Resilient")
• Business Inquiries: 262-207-4067

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

In this critical episode of "Where I Come From | Milwaukee Insights," we sit down with Aisha Carr, former Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) School Board Director and dedicated community advocate. Aisha brings her unique perspective as both an MPS parent and a former educator to address the most urgent issues facing our city's youth.

We delve into the crucial fight for Educational Equity, discussing the recruitment and retention of Black and Brown educators and the disproportionate challenges facing Black students. Aisha shares her experience pushing for systemic change, from implementing initiatives like the Restorative Practice program to advocating for fiscal responsibility and essential policy decisions—like securing funding for HVAC systems—that directly impact student well-being.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of Milwaukee's children and the dedicated teachers who serve them.

— Episode Chapter Markers —

• 0:00 Introduction & Aisha Carr’s Journey
• 18:30 Policy Deep Dive: Fiscal Responsibility & MPS Budgeting
• 35:00 The Teacher Crisis & Retention of Black/Brown Educators
• 48:15 The Power of Parent & Community Advocacy

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

In a unique and highly anticipated episode, Where I Come From | Milwaukee Insights steps away from its usual format for a special discussion: WPAM: TDR Undressed. This is your exclusive, behind-the-scenes pass to the inner workings and personalities that drive the TDR Podcasting Network and the Where I Come From show.

The hosts strip away the scripts and reveal the candid realities of creating engaging content, managing a podcast network, and the specific dynamics of their collaboration with WPAM. We dive into the origin story of the network, the challenges and lessons learned in independent podcast production, and share personal insights from the people who bring you the show every week. If you've ever wondered how the gears turn, what motivates the hosts, or where the TDR Network is headed next, this unscripted conversation is a must-listen.

KEY INSIGHTS & TOPICS (SEO Focused):

• Network Transparency: Revealing the behind-the-scenes process of TDR.
• WPAM Collaboration: The nature and goals of the partnership between WPAM and TDR.
• Podcasting Challenges: Practical discussion on production, growth, and industry hurdles.
• Future Vision: The upcoming plans and goals for the Where I Come From MKE podcast.

Episode Timestamps:

• 0:10:00 | The TDR Blueprint: Network Origins and Behind-the-Scenes Challenges
• 0:20:00 | WPAM Connection: The Nature of the Collaboration and Its Value

🔗 Connect with the TDR Network:

• Connect with the TDR Podcasting Network: [Link to TDR Network website]
• Follow CoachTony Luck (Mrtonedef): [Link to Mrtonedef Instagram]

Get the unscripted truth from the creators—Press Play!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

🔥 EPISODE 027: Artist Spotlight: Return of the Oshi – The Comeback Story


Milwaukee’s own Oshi is back, and he’s not holding anything back! In this exclusive Artist Spotlight on the Where I Come From MKE Podcast, we dive deep into the mind of one of the city’s most resilient and innovative creators.From the early days of finding his sound to navigating the complexities of the local music industry, Oshi shares the raw truth about what it takes to stay inspired. Whether you're an aspiring artist, a music lover, or a proud Milwaukeean, this episode is packed with gems on motivation, the creative process, and the power of staying true to your roots.

Inside this episode:

• The evolution of Oshi’s unique sound.
• Behind-the-scenes stories from the Milwaukee scene.
• What does the "Return" mean for her future projects?
• Advice for creators looking to make their mark in MKE.

Press play and join the conversation as we celebrate the heartbeat of Milwaukee creativity!



Chapter Timestamps (Estimated)

• 00:00 – Episode Intro & Host Welcome
• 05:15 – Who is Oshi? The Origin Story
• 12:30 – Navigating the Milwaukee Music Industry
• 22:45 – The Creative Process & New Music Inspiration
• 31:20 – The "Return": What’s Next for Oshi?
• 38:10 – Advice for Emerging MKE Artists
• 40:54 – Closing Remarks & Where to Find Oshi

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)

💎 EPISODE 026: Artist Spotlight: Emerald Monet – The Multi-Talented Creative Force

In this energetic Artist Spotlight on Where I Come From | Milwaukee Insights, we chat with the phenomenal Emerald Monet, a true "Jill of All Trades" from Milwaukee, WI. Her career spans multiple demanding creative industries, and she shares the secrets to her success!

Listen as we unpack her incredibly diverse portfolio. Emerald Monet details her journey as an internationally published model (working in Milwaukee and Chicago), her rapid growth as a YouTube lifestyle content creator (already 50+ self-directed videos!), and her successful brand collaborations with major beauty companies like Maybelline, Revlon, and Juvia’s Place. She shares her insights on self-promotion, the challenges of creative directing and editing all her own content, and her recent ventures into acting and media personality roles. This episode is packed with inspiration for anyone looking to build a multi-hyphenate career in the arts and digital space.

KEY INSIGHTS & TOPICS:

• YouTube Success: Strategies for rapid growth and lifestyle content creation.
• Brand Deals: How to land collaborations with major beauty brands as a blogger/influencer.
• Modeling & Acting: Her experience as an internationally published model and landing acting roles.
• Creative Directing: The process of shooting and editing all her own digital content.

Episode Timestamps:

• 0:10:00 | The Digital Grind: Creating Lifestyle Content and YouTube Production
• 0:20:00 | Under the Lens: Modeling Career, Publications, and Brand Ambassadorship

🔗 Connect with Emerald Monet:

• Subscribe to Emerald Monet’s YouTube Channel: [Link to YouTube Channel]
• Follow Emerald Monet’s Beauty Blog/Instagram: [Link to Beauty Instagram/Blog]

Get inspired by a true creative force—Press Play!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/where-i-come-from-milwaukee-insights--4182610/support.

The podcast is recorded and published by TDR Podcasting Network and is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Instagram: Mrtonedef
Facebook: CoachTony Luck 
Email: [email protected]
Connect with the Network: [TDR Podcasting Network]
Book a Coaching Session: [S&A Coaching]
Where I Come From MKE (Spotify/Apple)