Portraits of Raleigh

It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below you’ll find inspiring interviews from in and around Raleigh.

Shira Adler

For decades plus, I’ve been drawn to all things spiritual, metaphysical, and natural. In 2011, as a single mom with two then young kids, I founded my company, originally named Diva Mama. D.I.V.A.—the name of my first workshop series—stood for Divinely Inspired Vigorous Attunement. The products, originally, were meant as a “back of the room” series of aromatherapy Synergy Sprays™—inspired by my work in spiritual care, including having been a Certified Past Life Regressionist and former full-time Clergy member (Jewish Cantor, and then a non-denominational interfaith minister). Read More>>

Tara Cool

I grew up in a loving two-parent home with three sisters. I grew up moving a lot. Approximately every 1 to 2 years my dad was transferred for his work, so we lived in New York, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, Texas, and Connecticut. This started my love of meeting new people because I was blessed to get to know all different kinds of people in our travels. I came to North Carolina for my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education at Appalachian State University. Shortly after I moved to Boone, NC, my parents relocated to the Winston-Salem area. Read More>>

Mackenzie Spence

As much as I worked at Kenna Kunijo full-time, I also fell into a manager’s role. While working the few days at the front, I began to notice that there were things that Lauren Kunijo and Kenna did not have: a proper inventory system, scheduling for the front desk, or someone to take control of things when they were unreachable. I began implementing systems here and there, hiring and training people. After six months of being a “front desk receptionist”, they started calling me the salon manager. Six years later, I am head of operations in the salon. I cannot believe that something that started off part-time has evolved into a full-time career, but I would not change how I got here at all. Read More>>

Britt Handler

My journey to where I am today with Wild Feminine Collective truly began in 2017. Although I had been exploring holistic well-being for many years leading to that, that year specifically opened so many doors for me and took my passion for well-being to an entire different level. That was the year I began to unlock my personal inner work—which set the tone for how I lead and hold space for others today. At the time, I had turned to acupuncture to address persistent hip pain. What I didn’t expect was to uncover the deeper cause: this physical discomfort was a manifestation of unprocessed grief from the loss of my father when I was a young child. For 20 years, I had buried that grief so deeply that I didn’t even believe it existed anymore. Yet there it was—loud, clear, and crying for my attention. Read more>>

Gay Davis

I’ve always enjoyed making things, and I’ve done it in many forms, including sewing, crafting, gardening, and now jewelry making. I started making jewelry before the pandemic and continued to work on my craft during the pandemic. About two years ago, I decided to try my hand at creating an online shop using Shopify. My goal was to support my love of creating jewelry through on line sales. At the same time, I realized I needed to gain a social presence and began my journey of learning about and creating a presence on social media. In the past four months, I’ve begun participating in local vendor markets to increase my social presence and get to know other local artists. My goal is to create affordable and well-made jewelry for everyday people like me. Read more>>

Crystal Bright

Beyond interior design, I am passionate about sustainable materials. My company, MyGlo, specializes in mushroom mycelium lighting, and our pieces are being considered for an exhibit at the Mint Museum in Charlotte. This is a significant honor for me, as it’s thrilling to influence the design industry with sustainable materials like mycelium, aligning with my commitment to eco-friendly practices. Read More>>

Kiesa Kay

Writing vibrated as the throughline across all this time. I’ve written thousands of articles and poems, and my plays have been presented in six states. Thunder is the Mountain’s Voice was chosen for a city celebration in Estes Park, and Love Makes A Home became a convocation for Berea College. One of my works became part of a production at La Mama Theater in New York City for Storytellers for Collective Healing. I elevate others’ voices, through book coaching of ten authors and through the creation of the first Blue Ridge Storytelling Summit. Read More>>

Christine Schiavone

I have been a lover of all things Disney for as long as I can remember. I was fortunate enough to visit a few times as a child and have the fondest memories and feelings for Disney World. Walking into Magic Kingdom has and always will feel magical. In college, I took my first trip to Disney World as an adult without my immediate family and knew that it was still for me. I even made Disney World the topic for my Public Speaking class. Read More>>

Darris Cue

Unprecedented times. So with public gatherings reduced to a minimum, there was a market for me to tap into. I always wanted to get back into the culinary field so this was the perfect opportunity for me. My good friend/fellow chef, Alexis Riddick, reached out to me to help her with a private booking over 4 years ago and I haven’t looked back since. Read More>>

Paul Hurley

My career started when my marriage ended. After 6 months of adjusting to being alone I decided I wanted a change of scenery. I wanted more of what life had to offer. So one night I just started adding people on social media that were living a life I wanted to live. One of these new friends by chance was a film producer and invited me to a film premiere of her newest film. I thought to myself how cool right.. So I went out, bought a new suit and went! I met some very talented film makers and actors and exchanged social network sites etc. Read More>>

Isaiah Ellsberry

She explained that the poem should reflect something that we are fearful of or holds us back. I chose to write about how growing up without a mother made me feel as though I had a monster of resentment inside of me. After I finished reciting my poem majority of the entire class was in tears including my teacher. This moment was authentic but also surreal. My teacher approached me acknowledging how talented I was, but also instructed me never to stop writing. Over the years, I would perform in numerous states, and across countless platforms developing my writing style to be a vehicle of self-expression for childhood trauma, emotional intelligence, and mental health awareness. Read More>>

Jerry Grimes

My journey steadily moved me westward from my native Mount Olive to Goldsboro to Winston-Salem and then from Richmond, Virginia, to Los Angeles, with time in Chicago. I have always had a love of comics and filmmaking. My earliest studies were in theater and film at Saint Augustine’s College and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. I was mentored by filmmakers Marco Williams, Steven L. Jones, Ron Stacker Thompson, and Leander T. Sales. This journey ultimately led me to a dual journey of studying theology and entering academia. Read More>>

Kteeeezy

I eventually started freestyling off beats which led to me taking music seriously in 2019.” He would apply the songs to his real life and eventually used it as an outlet for his troubled reality. While he is able to make some serious songs, he finds himself releasing mostly turn up songs. When it comes to motivation, he uses his son and family to keep him going and his passion to inspire others. Kteeeezy is inspired by rap stars Gucci Mane and Future and sees himself leaving the same influence they’ve had on the culture. Read More>>

Milton Gore, Jr.

I am the CEO of MG Visual Studios, LLC, established in 2018. In this capacity, I specialize in creating customized designs tailored to clients’ specific needs, including marketing campaigns, branding, website design, and more. I also manage branding and marketing strategies for businesses, foster business development, and continually enhance my graphic design skills. Additionally, I serve as the Assistant Director of the Upperman African American Cultural Center at the University of North Carolina Wilmington since January 2023. Read More>>

Carlos González

Based in the vibrant North Carolina Triangle region, I am a Mosaic Artist and Educator with over 25 of experience in creating intricate and engaging mosaic artworks. My background includes a significant three-year study of mosaic art from a prestigious international mosaic school in Italy from 2001 to 2004, which greatly influenced my practice in several prosperous mosaic studios that allowed me to contribute to notable projects around the world. Read More>>

Marquette Walker

Growing up, I dreamed of a fairy-tale romance, a perfect marriage, and a happily ever after. But as we all know, life doesn’t always go according to plan. I found myself divorced not once, but multiple times, each breakup leaving a scar on my heart and a question mark on my future. I turned to my faith for guidance and inspiration, drawing on the story of the woman at the well who found redemption and purpose in her encounter with Jesus. Read More>>

Kristin Disanto

I’m early 2012 I stumbled upon clay at a popular craft store and used my hard-earned money from my part-time job to buy a kit that included several colors of clay and some tools. My very first creation was a loaf of bread – you read that right. I then started making other fun shapes like cupcakes, spiders, frogs, even a little yeti. It was such a fun outlet for me. Read More>>

Amanda Henderson

We take immense pride in our unwavering standards and exceptional work. Our team, composed of highly skilled professionals with years of experience, is our greatest asset. What truly sets us apart is our dedication to continual improvement—staying ahead of trends, pursuing ongoing education, and fostering team growth. Read More>>

Jean Marie Dillon

On March 10, 2000, I worked in human resources for a nonprofit hospital. This time was also known for the dot.com bust–when the tech stocks plummeted, and fortunes disappeared in a day. After this tragic event, a nurse working at the hospital came into my office crying. She told me she couldn’t retire because she lost almost 75% of her retirement account in the dot.com bust. Fifty-seven years old and only a few years from retirement, she invested all her 401(K) in a tech fund. Read More>>

Monica Bowens

Therefore, I obtained a Master degree in social work and became a professional life coach. I am currently a licensed therapist in North Carolina and a professional Christian life coach (PCLC). Additionally, I absolutely love to travel, and I frequently encourage others to go out and explore this world. My affinity for travel is what led me to become a self-published author when I created a travel planning journal; further, I started a travel consultant business known as A Key to Travel. One day, I would like to combine my love of travel with my passion for helping others. Read More>>

Megan Zwerlein

We are sicker than ever, and I perceive this to be an unfortunate downfall of society since the industrial revolution, with capitalism running rampant. I hope it is not as intentional as some say it to be, yet I do believe we have to go back to what historically worked. By following the wisdom of ancient sages with respect for our Mother Earth, her resources and our effect on them, we can put health over wealth, people above profit. Read More>>

Shanti

Raising a boy solo came with immense challenges too (tho many more gifts). As a single mother life told me that I had to be both the masculine support and the feminine nurturer for our family. I have now reclaimed my feminine goddess vibes after years of feeling like I had to be the Man. Read More>>

Ava Vann

I choose to value the opportunity in such high regard that even the challenges I encounter are seen as privileges. I believe in the mindset that I don’t have to face these challenges, I get to. Of course, there have been endless challenges and uncertainties along the way. The largest struggle I have faced is removing myself from taking appointments and allowing others to step in. This transition has been crucial for the growth of the business but has also been one of the most difficult aspects to manage. Read More>>

Amari Alexander

During my time in college, I began writing and producing original music and working on developing my own sound and voice as an artist. During that time I also started recording my music & performing my original music live for the first time. In November of 2023, I released the first batch of songs I wrote & recorded on my first EP titled “The Intro To Love”. Currently, I am recording, writing, and producing new music, working on my debut album, preparing to do more live performances, and writing, and producing music for other artists. Read More>>

Jessica Singerman

In college and graduate school, I focused on art so I painted and drew all the time. After grad school I had a hard time figuring out what to do and I painted sporadically. Two months into motherhood, I realized I was losing my sense of self, and the most obvious way for me to regain it was to make work every single day. I started making little drawings and paintings, small projects that I could finish in one sitting. We lived in Australia at the time, and I had very few materials with me. I kept a small box of watercolors and drawing materials on the dining room table, and would pull them out to work as soon as my son would go down for a nap. Read More>>

Vernita Edwards

I started my business during a time when I had an opportunity to to help people in need,. This was during a time of uncertainty and unfamiliar territories. By the grace of God I was able to make surgical bonnets for the local hospital here, as well as masks for the homeless. While exploring these gifts and talents a business was born. Read More>>

Tara Lafon Gooch

Growing up in a small town with big dreams, I was always drawn to stories of resilience and triumph. These stories fueled my belief that I could overcome obstacles and achieve great things. However, my path wasn’t straightforward. I faced numerous setbacks, adversities, and many moments of self-doubt along the way, but it was during these tough times that I discovered the true power of self-belief. Confidence isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about trusting yourself and your abilities, even when the path ahead is unclear. Confidence is about believing in yourself and loving yourself at the same time. Read More>>

Resharia Keller

I sought out ways to get involved at every turn, and through that involvement came the creation of relationships that sustained me throughout matriculation. Oddly enough, it was not until after I graduated that I realized that I could create a career helping students have positive collegiate experiences while advocating for them to have equitable interactions and opportunities, which I hope will ultimately strengthen the holistic student experience and increase the value of higher education. Read More>>

Jonatta Harmon

From a young age, I’ve always had an innate desire to build authentic connections and strong relationships. Little did I know that this calling would eventually lead me to founding and leading an innovative branding agency. My entrepreneurial gifts were first evident in mid-childhood to my teenage years, where I used to do hair, nails, and sell what I believed were “gourmet” cake slices. I even partnered with a high school friend to create a mobile store selling cakes, snacks, and more — essentially, we were ahead of our time with an on-foot food truck! Read More>>

Megan Larkins

My journey in digital marketing began with a solid foundation in management, supported by a bachelor’s degree in merchandising and marketing. Alongside this, I’ve earned several certifications, including basic SEO and advanced SEO strategy, and have partnered with respected industry tools. Initially, I launched my own clothing boutique right after college, managing its website and marketing myself. This venture, while a short-term goal, provided invaluable experience. My long-term aspiration was to grow and expand my digital marketing business into a prominent agency in my local metropolitan area, while also serving clients nationally. Read More>>

Sammie Cassell

I had learned a little about the maintenance side of it there but it did not prepare for the 25+ years that I spent in that industry. 6 years ago, we figured out that there’s more money to be made if I owned the business so my wife and I struck out on our own. Now I own 4 businesses and work for 3 others. At 53, I’m the busiest I’ve ever been and loving every minute of it. At 42, after years of coaching softball and raising kids, I took up acting as a hobby. It’s become more than that and has led to some fun and interesting times. Then, during the pandemic, I took up improv comedy and fell in love with it. I guess you could say I’m a gluten for punishment. Read More>>

Daniel Gingras

It was at this time that I was gifted a massage. During that session I had a shift. I walked out feeling not only physically better, but emotionally supported. I had a feeling of my very existence being affirmed. It was very profound. Over the course of the next week I continued to integrate my session, and I realized that Massage is able to convey deep messages. Things beyond language. Things like care, respect, and peace. Read More>>

Ashleigh Henry

My journey has seen me collaborate with illustrious brands including BMW, Harley Davidson, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Ducati, employing a deep understanding of human and sales psychology to seamlessly close deals. Beyond the realm of automotive, I have adeptly managed multi-million dollar budgets for a global clientele, spearheaded events, and led hospitality initiatives for the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law. Furthermore, my expertise has been pivotal in managing a significant retail operation, overseeing a 10,000-square-foot space and a team of 30. Read More>>

Michael Sims

Upon retirement from the Marines I went to work for Pepsi working as Territory Sale manger,Marketing manager, and Senior Account executive.. After 13 years with them I left there and went to Walmart for four years working as a Co Manager for 16 months then a Store manger. Upon leaving there I help start a Digital media marketing company called T&T Creative group. I am currently vice president of video. Read More>>

Kimberly Guess

My mission is to inspire and empower individuals to embrace change, foster self-awareness, and achieve their goals. Through coaching, workshops, and resources, I help individuals unlock their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. We embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and growth, I guide those who are committed to working together to achieve their personal and professional goals, one step at a time.” Read More>>

Elizabeth Pippin Nelson

As someone who deeply believed in the product and wanted to continue helping other moms on their breastfeeding journeys, I bought the company! I’ve since worked to maintain the quality and integrity of the cookies, ensuring they remain preservative-free and filled with ingredients that truly support lactation. Running Milkin’ Cookie has allowed me to combine my passions for motherhood, community, and baking—something I learned from my Italian grandmother growing up. Now, I get to support other moms during one of the most rewarding yet challenging times of their lives, and that brings me so much joy. Read More>>

Chris Diorio

I’ve worn several hats in my life, as they like to say. Air Force Veteran, Firefighter, Chef, Ordained Minister, Dog Dad, Standup Comedian, and best of all, Kelly’s Husband. Shortly after moving to Charlotte, North Carolina I got involved as a volunteer with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The CF Foundation is an incredible organization that works towards finding a cure for the deadly disease, Cystic Fibrosis. After participating in one of their incredible yearly fundraisers, “Guys and Dolls”, I was asked if I would be interested in participating in an event known as “LOL4CFF”.  Read More>>

Allie Gallardo

I started out as Allie Rose MUA back in high school around 2011, teaching myself the ropes of makeup artistry. Not long after, I got into SFX makeup, face painting, and body painting—I was doing it all! But when the pandemic hit in 2020, work came to a halt for about two years. During that time, I had a chance to rethink what I really wanted to focus on, so I shifted away from makeup and started specializing in face and body painting, adding airbrush and glitter tattoos as extras. I’ve come a long way since those early days, and now, in my 30s, so much has changed. Read More>>

Courtney Lundin

My journey began with 1492 Chocolates in Colorado, where we specialized in our award-winning gourmet truffles and bars. Inspired by my extensive travels and fascination with how communities express unity through food, the idea of crafting chocolates that represent each State’s unique flavors was born. After graduating with the highest honors from Le Cordon Bleu Culinary College, and with the support of family and community, I founded 1492 Chocolates in 2013- bringing my vision to life with handcrafted confections that celebrated tradition and culture. Read More>>

Kelyne Noel

When we moved to Raleigh-Durham, we noticed the gap in cultural representation for African experiences. So, we founded PULSE as a platform to change that. Today, we bring people together for feel-good events whether through a dance party or unique themed experiences like Bolé & Party, Brunch & Banter, Afro-Karaoke & Game Nights. Read More>>

Matt Laird

I grew up in Durham, NC in a house constantly surrounded by music and instruments. My dad is a high school orchestra conductor and violinist, and my mom is a preschool music teacher. I started studying violin with my dad at about five years old, but was always encouraged to play other instruments around the house. At ten, I began playing bass guitar and quickly found inspiration in funk and groove music through mentors and YouTube videos. Read More>>

Lindsey Wicker

Many kids dream of growing up to be a fireman, a doctor or teacher, but my childhood dream was to work in the country music industry. Though I lack musical talent, I discovered that there are non-performance roles within the music industry. Despite working at a Fortune 500 company after college, I felt unfulfilled as I wasn’t pursuing my dream. So, I started working with music events in my free time and eventually landed a job as a personal assistant for a well-known artist in Nashville.  Read More>>