Bridging Worlds: Cinema, Community and The Power of VR with Athena Demos and Doug Jacobson
Athena Demos and Doug Jacobson have harnessed their cinematic expertise and deep ties to the Burning Man community to revolutionize how people experience art, storytelling, and communal connection. By developing an immersive virtual platform, they have broadened access to the spirit and creativity of Burning Man, breaking down barriers imposed by location, cost, and physical ability. Their approach integrates documentary filmmaking with interactive 3D environments, allowing participants to engage with art, stories, and each other in powerful new ways.
Guided by the core principles of inclusivity, participation, and decommodification, their mission is to foster genuine community while ensuring that immersive experiences remain accessible to all. Their dedication is seen in their commitment to accessibility, their innovative use of technology, and their broader vision of connecting global communities and educational institutions through transformative storytelling platforms. Every decision they make—from supporting the gift economy to prioritizing accessibility features—reflects a belief that the magic of meaningful human connection should be available to everyone.
To become a part of this vibrant movement, join the BurnerSphere community where you can connect, create, and explore immersive experiences rooted in creativity and inclusion. Whether you're seeking inspiration or eager to collaborate and bring your organization's story to life through innovative virtual storytelling, visit their website to participate and make your mark.
For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Championing Accessibility: Drew Ann Long’s Mission to Empower Differently-Abled Families
Drew Ann Long’s journey also underscores the complex realities faced by female entrepreneurs and mothers as they navigate the challenging waters of corporate America, especially within traditionally male-dominated spheres. Confronted by skepticism and bias, Drew Ann relied on a blend of strategic preparation and personal conviction, ensuring her rights and her invention’s mission remained protected at every step. Her resilience and ability to balance the demands of business leadership and caregiving highlight the multifaceted nature of her success, demonstrating that enduring perseverance and emotional intelligence are as critical as any business skill.
Her work with Caroline’s Cart marks more than business accomplishment—it represents a larger cultural transformation toward recognizing and valuing the differently-abled community and their families. Through persistent advocacy and an unwavering mission for inclusion, Drew Ann has compelled major retailers to address a demographic previously overlooked in both product development and customer service. Additionally, with the founding of Caroline’s Cause, she extends her impact even further, supporting not just those with special needs but the siblings whose contributions are often quietly heroic.
Motivated by her remarkable story and commitment, Drew Ann Long encourages you to be part of the movement for greater accessibility, inclusion, and resilience. To learn more about her journey, speaking engagements, and ongoing advocacy, visit her website here.
For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Action Over Perfection: Breaking Paralysis and Accelerating Success with Lamar Tyler
Lamar Tyler’s entrepreneurial approach is distinguished by a focus on authentic community-building and impactful growth within the African American business landscape. By leveraging his own journey from humble beginnings to leading a nationally recognized ecosystem, he demonstrates that serving a specific audience with understanding and genuine representation creates lasting value and opens opportunities for broader impact. Through Traffic, Sales and Profit, he empowers business owners to break through barriers by embracing their niche, fostering safe spaces, and sharing resources that catalyze both individual and collective advancement.
Adaptability and execution are vital themes in Lamar’s insights. In a world where economic and technological disruption is accelerating, he stresses the importance of moving quickly—prioritizing action over perfection—and continuously optimizing strategies. His guidance urges entrepreneurs to focus on real-world results, build strong teams, and overcome the comfort zones that can hinder further progress. He also highlights that creating employment and wealth within the community serves a purpose beyond just personal success, driving generational change and meaningful legacy.
To begin leveraging these insights and strategies, visit their website and claim your free copy of Traffic Sales & Profit. To become part of a movement dedicated to uplifting, strengthening, and supporting the African American community by fostering stronger families and businesses, visit Tyler New Media here.
For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Building Healthy Minds: John Miles on the Power of Mattering and Children’s Emotional Wellbeing
John Miles’ journey reflects a powerful evolution from traditional corporate and military achievements toward a mission centered on personal meaning and human connection. His early experiences navigating the pressures of leadership roles revealed a critical insight: true fulfillment arises when individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered, not just when they reach external milestones. Recognizing how the epidemic of invisibility and disconnection affects people of all ages, he developed a leadership style that prioritized making both employees and community members feel that they matter—a lesson that has broad relevance in today’s fast-paced, often impersonal world.
Drawing from personal adversity and vulnerability, John has committed to addressing these challenges at their root, especially in childhood. He understands that a sense of belonging and self-worth needs to be cultivated early, before negative patterns take hold. This conviction drives his latest initiatives for children, including the creation of You Matter, Luma, a vibrant children’s book that teaches kids about inherent worth, and the Pass the Ripple app, which turns small acts of kindness into a movement that can be tracked and celebrated. Both projects aim to break cycles of invisibility by giving kids practical tools—and the confidence—to see their own significance and the positive ripples they can create.
For parents, educators, and advocates seeking to nurture confidence and well-being in children, John’s work is both a guide and an invitation to action. To discover more about his mission and resources—and to get your copy of the new children’s book You Matter, Luma—visit his website here.
For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Breaking the Cycle of Veteran Struggles: Matt Maples’ Mission of Hope and Healing
Matt Maples emphasizes the critical role that community support plays in transforming the lives of veterans facing urgent crises. By addressing fundamental needs such as housing and transportation, organizations like USA Cares create the stability necessary for veterans and their families to recover, heal, and reintegrate successfully into civilian life. Matt highlights how the intervention of emergency grants at pivotal moments can prevent homelessness, family separation, and even suicide, making a tangible difference where it matters most.
He underscores the importance of both compassion and accountability in creating lasting change, explaining that USA Cares ensures every donation is maximized for direct impact, with 89 cents of every dollar going straight to veteran support. Through transparent operations and strong partnerships, the organization builds trust and sustains its powerful mission to serve those who have served. Matt’s message is clear. When communities rally together, combining resources and empathy, they can rewrite the stories of countless military families struggling to regain stability.
In light of the ongoing need and the urgent realities so many veterans face, Matt calls on supporters to make a meaningful difference by giving a year-end gift of $22 per month. This recurring contribution can offer life-changing assistance to veterans in need. To take action and join the mission, he invites everyone to visit their website to make a donation and help support those who have sacrificed so much.
For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Welcome to Your Brand Amplified® – the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of successful businesses, exploring the minds of entrepreneurs, business leaders, marketers and sales experts. I'm thrilled to be your host, Anika Jackson, and I'm on a mission to uncover the stories, strategies, and secrets that have propelled these individuals to success.
Tune in to hear the captivating journeys of our guests. From humble beginnings to industry titans, each episode unravels the unique narrative of how these remarkable individuals navigated the world of entrepreneurship, small business, and marketing.
Gain exclusive insights into the strategies that drive success in the business world. Our guests share their tested and proven methods, offering you a wealth of knowledge to implement in your own entrepreneurial endeavors.
Delve into the world of marketing with our expert guests. Whether it's digital, content, or influencer marketing, we cover it all. Stay ahead of the curve and learn the latest trends and techniques to elevate your brand.
Public relations is a key component of any successful business. Learn from seasoned professionals about building and maintaining a positive public image, navigating crises, and leveraging PR to amplify your brand's voice.
Craft Your Business strategy is the backbone of sustainable growth. Our guests share their strategic insights, providing you with the tools and knowledge to formulate and execute effective business plans.
Elevate your business acumen, amplify your brand, and be inspired by the stories of those who have turned their visions into reality.
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