Miami Creators

On this episode we speak with Meg Daly. A 30-year sales and marketing veteran who is currently CEO/President of Friends of The Underline (@theunderlinemia) - A project transforming the land below Miami’s Metrorail into a 10‑mile linear park, urban trail, and public art destination. Today, you will hear Meg and I discuss the story of how the idea for The Underline came about, the hurdles she has faced along the way including but not limited to COVID, making sure the community was on-board with the project’s vision and last but not least…. Having to raise the $140+ million dollars needed to complete the project.

Today, we speak with Myk Likhov – an entrepreneur, widely recognized expert in the wellness industry and founder of Modern ŌM, Miami’s one-stop soul shop for mindful living. On today’s episode we learn about Myk’s unlikely path to where he is today, balancing between the dueling forces one encounters while running a successful business in the spiritual/mindfulness field and we go deep into what spirituality is and is not… the biggest misconceptions he encounters around his field and so much more.

On this episode we speak with Camilo Rojas, internationally acclaimed creative whose work can be found at different locations all over Miami. Today, we not only get a sneak peek behind his creative process, but also hear about the moments that have most shaped who he today. From washing cars for money to funny anecdotes of his early school years making his first few bucks off his creativity, this is one episode you do not want to miss.

On this episode, we put 2020 behind us and I share some exciting news for the show in 2021. Please enjoy this special episode of Miami creators.

On this episode we are joined by the man behind some of the most talked about spots in past episodes as well as himself also being mentioned countless times by other Miami Creators as someone who is doing great things for our community. Matt Kuscher – AKA “Kush” along with the rest of the Kush Hospitality team are responsible for truly one-of-a-kind concepts like Kush Wynwood, Lokal, Vicky’s House, La Cocina, and Stephen’s Deli. Today you’ll hear Matt share some of the many lessons learned along the way, unforgettable memories from his first location opening, the creative process behind his concepts and so much more.

On this episode we are joined by Alvaro Nunez – Co-Founder of Super Luxury Group. A leading luxury hospitality business committed to bringing their client unique and exclusive experiences around the world. In this episode Alvaro and I discuss the inspiration for the business, common misconceptions he often encounters around his industry and of course, we talk about the impact COVID19 has had on his business in addition to the opportunities Alvaro sees coming down the road in a post-COVID19 travel industry.

On this episode, we are joined by JennyLee Molina. The force behind JLPR, 305 Cafecito, 305 Day, The Leah Arts District and much, much more. On this episode you’ll hear jenny talk about how 305 Cafecito and 305 Day came to be, how Jenny’s mom helped develop her go-getter attitude at an early age and of course, the challenges and opportunities she sees in the horizon for Miami in a post-COVID19 world. Jenny’s impact in our community is undeniable and her ability to execute and develop ideas that bring positive impact for our city makes her a true force to be reckoned with.

On this episode we are joined by Marc Megna, a former professional athlete in the NFL, CFL and more, Marc is now Co-Owner of Anatomy - One of the best fitness studios in all of Miami, beloved by athletes, celebrities and more. On today’s episode we get an inside look into what drives Marc and discuss the path that led him to where he is today. And trust me, if you enjoy listening to this episode and find his life story inspiring, then you HAVE to check out his documentary “Just A Kid From Fall River”.

Today we are joined by entrepreneur, celebrity stylist and founder of the AWOM (Angel Watching Over Me) brand, Sarah Akiba and cover Sarah’s wide-ranging initiatives and the inspiration for each. From her non-profit assisting those who have suffered loss, to her middle-school-aged girls mentoring program, her female-first creative agency as well as her Women’s Dinner series where she hosts 20+ influential women each month to connect and share ideas. But best of all, in this episode we get a personal, up-close view into her upbringing and the struggles she had to overcome to become the person she is today.

Today we are joined by Valerie Lopez – Co-Founder and CEO of Shoot My Travel - A global travel photographer marketplace that connects users and local professional photographers on-demand or as they describe it – “The easiest way to find and hire local professional photographers in 500+ cities worldwide.” On today’s episode Valerie and I discuss her background in photography, the moment she got the idea for the business, the process of growing her company and so much more (including the incredibly touching story of how her dad who passed away months before she was born sowed the seed of what would ultimately become Shoot My Travel)

On this episode we are joined by the one and only Laurie Jennings - a 6-time Emmy Award-winning TV news reporter and anchor whose career spans 30 years. Laurie is also a mentor and motivational speaker who has emceed hundreds of charity events, while anchoring thousands of hours of live local AND national TV programs. Today you’ll hear Laurie and I discuss the keys to her successful career, the launch of her new business Laurie Jennings LIVE, the importance of public speaking and media training and much, much more.

This week we are joined by Luis Brignoni, Founder of Wynwood Brewing Company. Miami’s first craft production brewery in Miami since the 60s and the official craft beer of the Miami Heat. Today you’ll hear Luis and I talk about his journey into brewing, we discuss the benefits and challenges of being the first on the scene, lessons learned along the way and even the process behind the beer names “La Rubia”, “Pop’s Porter” and so much more.

On today’s episode we are joined by Erica Groussman, Co-Founder and CEO of TRUWOMEN - A line of plant-based protein bars for women that are dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free of sugar alcohols. On this episode, you’ll hear Erica share stories and insights gathered from her journey launching and growing he brand as well as what it is like to see women all over (including celebrities like Halle Berry and Megan Fox) rave about TRUWOMEN’s product line.

On this episode we are joined by Paula Celestino – Co-Founder & VP at Crea7ive Interactive Advertising. An award-winning branding and creative agency whose clients include Fortune 500 brands like Wendy’s, Zumba, Kraft, Disney and more. Today, Paula and I cover the different aspects of their successful business model, the hurdles the Miami’s startup scene faces and even go back in time to hear the truly incredibly touching story of how a family health scare led to the creation of Crea7ive.

On this episode we are joined by Alex Vidal – President of Related ISG and Host of The Closer Club. Alex has been in the real estate industry for over 20 years. After taking the helm at Related ISG International Realty in 2014, he has spearheaded the explosive growth from just two offices and 50 realtors to now 6 office and about 500 realtors and over 3 BILLION dollars in sales. Today you’ll hear Alex and I talk about his philosophy to business and leadership; discuss how he approaches team building and we even talk about one of his worst triathlon races and the lessons he learned from it for life and business.

On this episode we are joined by the one and only, Lucy Lopez from Power 96. Since joining Power 96 in 2001, she has become one of the most recognizable and accomplished names in Miami radio, having interviewed everyone from Kanye West, to Pitbull, to Iggy Azalea, and many others. And that is just the tip of the iceberg with Lucy. As you’ll soon see, Lucy is truly a force to be reckoned with and her influence spreads far beyond just radio. On today’s episode you’ll hear the surprising story of how calling to confront previous power 96 hosts on air to defend Hialeah girls led to her working at Power 96, what her first day on air was like and all the ways she has evolved since then plus SO much more.

On this episode we are joined by Barry Stamos, the Co-Founder of 1heart, a superconscious human accelerator and mastermind for top founders, executives and heart-led leaders deeply committed to changing the world from the inside out. Barry is a serial entrepreneur with 3 exits worth over 1 billion dollars under his belt, who now uses business as a force of good as angel investor and advisor to conscious companies like Tuft & Needle and Thrive Market. On today’s episode Barry and I go deep into his incredible background, lessons learned both from his successes as well as his failures, we discuss what it means to be a heart-led leader and get an inside look into the journey that led him to launch companies like Miami Made and eventually 1 Heart.

Today we are joined by Hector Antunez (aka Mr. Ventures). Hector is a serial entrepreneur, owner of D.O.G Hotels franchise, part owner of Baru Urbano, Pincho Factory, Brickell Living in addition to playing a part in many other businesses. On today’s episode you’ll hear Hector and I talk about what he looks for in businesses to be a part of, dealing with failures in business, adapting and changing with the times and more.

Carlos Ramirez is the Founder and CEO or Powerful Foods. A Miami Beach Based business that was born out of commitment to create delicious high protein products to fuel an active lifestyle. The powerful product line can be found online and in nearly 10,000 grocery and specialty stores in the U.S., Ireland and across the world. On today’s episode we talk to Carlos about the idea for the business, the disruptive (and very polarizing) marketing strategy used to launch the product , being featured on the Today Show, Conan Obrien, Jay Leno, Esquire Magazine and much more.

Jaclyn Baumgarten is the CEO & Co-Founder of Boatsetter. The leader in the boat sharing industry connecting boat owners, renters and US coast guard licensed boat captains with one simple goal. To create incredible experiences on the water for anyone, anywhere. Jaclyn’s impressive track record, drive and determination are undeniable so it is not surprising that she was recently named one of Inc Magazines top 100 women building america’s most innovative and ambitious businesses.

@Lifestyle_Miami is hands down one of the most influential pages for our community. With over 700K followers, they are Miami’s one stop shop for funny, crazy things caught on video around Miami, news, events and much more. On today’s episode we speak with the mastermind couple behind it all and you’ll hear some truly unbelievable stories of the things they are exposed to as admins of the page as well as all the ways Miguel and Daniela are utilizing their platform to make Miami a better place.

Frankie Ruiz, Co-Founder of the Miami Marathon and a name synonymous with running in Miami joins us on today’s episode to discuss his experience launching the Miami marathon, growing it for 17+ years into the destination race it has become with more than 20 thousands participants each year. Tune in to hear the impact run clubs like Brickell run club are having on the community, the incredibly inspiring stories coming out of those events and hear the unlikely story of how hurricane Andrew was THE defining moment that put Frankie on the path of he is in today.

Che Scott is on a mission to influence make the world around him. As an author, NBA chaplain and founder of The Honor Movement, Che leverages every opportunity he can to influence a generation of boys and girls to honor and respect each other in thoughts, words and actions.

Hi everyone! As we put 2019 behind us and look towards 2020, I thought we’d switch things up a bit and do a very special (and VERY different) episode of Miami Creators. - Corrado Amenta

Juan Marcos Rancano is the man behind @brickell_living @sweetcarolinebar @miamibarcrawls and other ventures. And on today’s episode, he shares his unlikely journey into entrepreneurship, past business failures, the lessons he learned from those experiences and also speaks about the importance of getting comfortable with the uncomfortable in order to achieve anything meaningful in life.

In what is hands down one of the most raw and inspiring episodes to date, Life Coach Nicole Bloom takes us on a heart-rending ride through difficult periods of her life, the unlikely heroes that gave her the strength to keep going and the defining moment that ultimately helped her be able to turn all that darkness into the light she now uses to guide others towards their true purpose in life.

On this episode, Katy Coffield, Founder of Foodie Tribe held nothing back and shared invaluable tips on how restaurants and other food/beverage businesses can up their social media game, leverage foodie influencers and tap into their local community to grow their businesses. But that is just the beginning. We also discussed Katy’s backstory, growing Foodie Tribe to represent over 2000 foodie influencers and more. But BE WARNED… today's rapid fire segment is jam packed with delicious food spot recommendations that will add a few extra inches around your waist… so consider yourself warned!

Isabella along with the entire Prism Creative Group team are at the center of Miami’s cultural evolution making Miami less about flashy lifestyles and clubbing scenes. This is no easy task of course, bringing plenty of challenges and setbacks along the way. Tune in to hear about Support Local FL, Culture Crusaders and all the ways Isabella and her team are changing Miami, what drives Isabella and the defining moments that give her the strength and resolve she needs to continue working towards her ultimate vision for Miami’s culture.

Ines Hegedus-Garcia’s wears many hats but above all, she is an agent of change for her industry. Through local and national leadership roles, Ines is bringing much-needed changes to the real estate industry and on today’s episode Ines shares what it has been like to launch and write 3-5 articles per week for 14 years for her blog Miamism.com and the impact that has had on her business, her experience transitioning back into a professional role after being a stay-at-home mom for several years and much more.

John Morales is the longest tenured broadcast meteorologist in South Florida, serving as a reassuring television presence for nearly three decades. Having served as Chief Meteorologist for Univision, Telemundo and now NBC 6, his tropical weather acumen and steadfast character guided South Florida viewers through hurricanes Andrew, Irene, Katrina, Wilma, and most recently Hurricane Irma. Tune in to hear John's incredible story, the pivotal moments that shaped his career and personal life, lessons learned along the way and so much more.

From street photographer to graphic designer, influential creator Cynthia Lagos understands the art of visual language. On this episode of Miami Creators, Cyn Lagos shares her inspiring journey through the Adobe Creative Residency program, working with top brands and her passion project and teaching creative artists visual language. Cyn understands how visual art transects many disciplines and she is excited to share her vision with the world. You’ll want to hear her speak about the passion she has for all visual art forms and you’ll even learn from her first-hand experience about an amazing artist residency program that anyone can apply.

Alain Martinez is not just a successful high-end luxury wedding photographer, he is an amazing father who is raising 2 boys with strong family values. In this interview, you’ll hear how he began his business in luxury wedding photography, how raising his boys continually inspires him, and what lessons he’s learned in life and business. By the end of this episode, you’ll be inspired to lead the life you want to live. So grab your headphones as we jump into this stirring interview with Alain Martinez.

We all love a good comeback story. Everyone wants to cheer for the guy that is down on his luck and Max Borges was that guy. On January 1, 2001 after being fired from his job, he finally hit rock bottom. But true to form, he did what no one else would do. He put all his belongings in storage, took his savings and booked a round-the-world plane ticket in hopes of finding himself. You don’t often hear a podcast begin in such a dreary way but not to worry... this comeback story does not disappoint!

Brenda Schamy from DiSchino and Schamy law firm joins Miami Creators to discuss the "boring side" of being a creative entrepreneur. DiSchino and Schamy has a wide array of clients whose industries span from fashion, art, entertainment, and hospitality to technology, influencers, and more. Brenda shares legal advice for business owners and the evolution, opportunities, and challenges for social media influencers in today’s environment.

I believe that a creative business can serve as the fuel for a life that fulfills your dreams. My guest today takes that belief to a whole new level. Steve Lawson is not only a long-time friend of mine he’s also one of the most courageous and daring people I know. His willingness to live life now instead of allowing himself to make excuses is inspiring. Please - take the time to listen to this conversation. You’ll quickly understand why Steve and his family have been pursued by 7 Reality TV shows - and why they turned them all down.

Welcome to Miami Creators. A show about Miami's most influential businesses, individuals, entrepreneurs and more. The show launches on November 1st, 2019. Be sure to subscribe to be notified as soon as the first episode is released. In the meantime, tune in to hear the story of how this show came about and the struggles to actually launch it. About the host: Corrado Amenta is a photographer out of Miami FL where he lives with his wife Nathy and two daughters Emi and Gia. He is fascinated with exploring new perspectives, unlocking untapped potential in himself and his surroundings, but most of all, he loves learning, growing and pushing himself outside his comfort zone. Corrado believes life is best when you are surrounded by those you love and admire most. God, his wife of 13+ years and two daughters are the most important thing in his life.