Raising A Ruckus
The Raising a Ruckus Podcast is a program all about rule breakers, change makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, and big decisions along their journey. After years of producing award-winning programs, DC Lucchesi and Yash Mistry are (finally) together on this side of the mic, talking $#!+ with artists, makers, entrepreneurs, and other troublemakers on this irreverent, clever, and completely unscripted program. A creative's life is full of soul-sucking rejection, vertiginous highs, WTF moments … and ghost stories, too? Yep. They’re dropping all kinds of crazy-@$$ tales, on the Raising a Ruckus Podcast!
info_outline
Godfather of good times in Charlotte – Mr. Larry Farber
05/09/2025
Godfather of good times in Charlotte – Mr. Larry Farber
Alright, ruckus-raisers, buckle up, because today we're talking to a guy who's basically the Godfather of good times in Charlotte – Mr. Larry Farber! This dude started playing gigs when most of us were still trying to figure out how to tie our shoes. Fast forward a few years, and he's not only booking the big bands, but he's also throwing the biggest bashes around. A mentor told him he’d make a name not AS a musician, but working IN the music biz. He took that advice and the rest, as they say, is local music history. You may know him as the man behind Music with Friends, or Charlotte’s first-in-a-long-time jazz club, Middle C Jazz. But Larry's not just about the music; he's also a legit do-gooder who really hasn’t settled down; he's still rock 'n' roll (and jazz!) at heart. So settle in, and prepare for some seriously unfiltered stories from a guy who's seen it all, and done it all in the local music scene. He probably has the T-shirt to prove it, too. Let's get this party started with Larry Farber!
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/36506085
info_outline
The Luminous World of Meredith Connelly
03/07/2025
The Luminous World of Meredith Connelly
Hey there, ruckus raisers! We’re BACK and ready to blow your minds with another episode of Charlotte’s most irreverent programs. We diving headfirst into the luminous world of Meredith Connelly, the queen of glow-in-the-dark mushrooms and fairy rings. This isn't your average paint-by-numbers artist, folks. Meredith's been turning forests into psychedelic wonderlands and making nature trip balls with her mind-bending light installations. She's like Mother Nature's cooler, more rebellious sister who decided to throw a rave in the woods. (It’s not a phase, Mom!) But wait, there's more! When she's not busy making trees look like they're on acid, Meredith's fighting the good fight for bodily autonomy. She's curated a show called "Sovereign" that's all about telling the powers that be to keep their grubby mitts off our bodies. It's like a middle finger to the man, but with way more style and presumably a lot less jail time. So buckle up, buttercups! We're about to get weird, wild, and wonderfully illuminated with the one, the only, Meredith Connelly. Let's raise some mind-altering, thought-provoking, body-positive conversation here on the Raising a Ruckus Podcast! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/35581495
info_outline
Dr. Sharon Jones a.k.a. DJ Sharky Sharon
01/07/2025
Dr. Sharon Jones a.k.a. DJ Sharky Sharon
Alright, buckle up, folks! It's time for another wild ride on the Raising a Ruckus Podcast, and boy, do we have a treat for you today. We're about to get a little – no make that a LOT smarter -- with Dr. Sharon Jones, the tech education rockstar you want to know. Here’s the short version: a former teacher who decided the classroom wasn't enough and went on to found the Dottie Rose Foundation. Why? Because she's on a mission to kick the gender gap's butt in technology. Dr. Jones is the rebel we need, empowering young girls to dive headfirst into the crazy world of STEM. But wait, there's more! She's a globe-trotting speaker and author, dropping knowledge on data analytics, educational practices, and tech like it's her job. Wait… it is. Her book, "A Recipe for Success Using SAS University: How to Plan Your First Analytics Project," is so good it's being used in curriculums across the country. And when she’s not busy teaching and writing, she’s out collecting awards for all her hard work. We’ll get into all of that, and answer the two burning questions you’re probably asking yourself right now: why would someone so smart agree to be on this program, and what career path almost lured her away from computers. Listen and find out! Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/34315880
info_outline
Who You Calling Crazy? feat. Juliet Kuehnle // Sun Counseling and Wellness
12/06/2024
Who You Calling Crazy? feat. Juliet Kuehnle // Sun Counseling and Wellness
Juliet Kuehnle is one of the coolest (and most colorful) people we know. But that’s not the only reason you’ll want to listen in to this episode of the Raising a Ruckus Podcast. She’s cool because she’s on a mission to destigmatize mental health and get the treatment they need. And she’s crushing it. Juliet is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor and founder of Sun Counseling and Wellness; a practice that's as warm and welcoming as its name suggests. See what we did there? With a team of superstar providers by her side, they’re tackling everything from trauma and grief to eating disorders and anxiety. In this episode, Juliet talks modern therapy, where authenticity meets evidence-based techniques. Her practice is all about treating the WHOLE person, and she's not afraid to get creative in her approach to helping clients achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. We also talk hair, clothes, sports, podcasts, family and books. Prepare to take notes. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/34320405
info_outline
How do we NOT know each other?? feat. Divakar Shukla // Radio Personality & Publisher
11/26/2024
How do we NOT know each other?? feat. Divakar Shukla // Radio Personality & Publisher
OG Charlotte folks may recognize the name and the voice Divakar Shukla. He was a longtime staple of Charlotte's radio and media scene. Actually, he still is. As a former radio host on 106.5 The End, Divakar brought local music to the forefront with his iconic shows like "90 Minutes" and "The New Music & Indie Label Show," where he showcased emerging talent and indie sounds that defined Charlotte's airwaves. But Divakar's influence doesn't stop there. He's also the publisher of Saathee Magazine, a legit print publication serving the Indian community here in Charlotte. Through Saathee, Divakar connects cultures, shares stories, and provides a platform for dialogue and celebration within the Indian diaspora. (How’s that for an SAT word, y’all?) In this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast, Divakar talks radio, rock and roll, publishing pages, and the importance of community representation in the media. But seriously, why are we just now getting in the same booth with this guy? Cheers! ----- ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/34155495
info_outline
Makayla Binter // Artist & Creator: Making CLT Creativer
11/22/2024
Makayla Binter // Artist & Creator: Making CLT Creativer
Makayla Binter isn't just another artist on the program. She’s part of the TEAM at Charlotte is Creative. We’re big fans, of course. Along with helping transform the city into a canvas for artistic expression and community engagement, she’s also a creative in her own right. In this episode of the Raising a Ruckus Podcast, Makayla explains how the outdoors in upstate NY were her early inspiration, making the move to CLT, and her personal journey as a multidisciplinary artist. Have y’all seen her website yet?? Google that after you listen in, of course. Yes, she’s as cool as she seems on social media. And yes, she’s a smart, fun, and gracious guest. Makayla shares her experiences of balancing commercial work with personal projects, and how she uses her art to spark conversations about social issues. From large-scale murals to intimate illustrations, she's proving that art can be both beautiful and powerful. Stick around, party people. We’re getting into it (in the best way possible) with Makayla Binter to prove once again that Charlotte is indeed Creative. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/34114526
info_outline
Spencer Lueders // 24 Foundation : 24 and Counting
11/20/2024
Spencer Lueders // 24 Foundation : 24 and Counting
As the founder of the 24 Foundation, Spencer Lueders is on a mission to transform lives through the power of community engagement right here in Charlotte. But that’s just part of Spencer’s story. With a passion for philanthropy and an entrepreneurial spirit, Spencer has turned his love for cycling into a force for good. For those who aren’t in the loop, The 24 Foundation is not just about bikes; it’s about creating opportunities for individuals and families affected by cancer. Through innovative events like the 24 Hours of Booty, Bourbon for Booty, and Dam to Dam, Spencer and the 24 Foundation have raised millions to support cancer survivorship programs. Again, that’s just part of Spencer’s story. In the 20-plus years we’ve known him, we’ve seen him and his family do amazing things. And he’s not coasting on us yet. In this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast, we’ll talk innovation, inspiration, and legacy. Let’s goooooooo! Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/34040001
info_outline
Lauren Ansley // Ansley Entertainment: Employee of the Month
11/12/2024
Lauren Ansley // Ansley Entertainment: Employee of the Month
We're about to raise a ruckus with THE Employee of the Month, the queen of corporate entertainment herself, Lauren Ansley! She’s also the Founder and CEO of Ansley Entertainment, in case you’re trying to catch up. Her superpowers? Captivating crowds, inspiring teams, and polishing presentations like a pro. In this episode, Lauren spills the beans on how she built her empire in Charlotte and beyond, working with awesome organizations and leaving a trail of engaged audiences in her wake. She's seriously funny, and this episode is loaded with laughs. But it ain’t all fun and games, people. So, whether you're looking to polish your own presentation skills, want to learn how to work a room like a pro, or just find out how to host a meeting or event that doesn’t suck -- buckle up! Lauren Ansley is about to take us on a wild ride through the world of corporate entertainment and training. Trust us, after this episode, you'll wonder why you haven’t called her yet. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/33905032
info_outline
Jania Massey // Stiletto Boss
11/05/2024
Jania Massey // Stiletto Boss
Get ready to strut your stuff and break some glass ceilings, because we're about to raise a ruckus with the one and only Jania Massey, the mastermind behind Stiletto Boss! This fierce entrepreneur is proving that you can conquer the business world in high heels and still kick ass. Jania's journey from ambitious dreamer to badass boss lady is filled with more twists and turns than a pair of stilettos on a cobblestone street. That’s gotta leave a mark. She's faced down doubters, shattered stereotypes, and built an empire that's as fabulous as it is formidable. And she’s paying it forward. That’s the whole point, right?? In this episode, Jania spills the tea on the blood, sweat, and broken heels behind her success. From late-night hustles to boardroom battles, she's seen it all and come out on top, looking fierce AF[2]. So, strap on your power pumps, if that’s your thing, and get ready for some real talk about what it takes to be a Stiletto Boss in a world that often tries to keep women down. Trust us, after this episode, you'll be ready to stomp all over your own limitations and reach for the stars – in style, of course. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/33791957
info_outline
Seriously dynamic duo feat. Sydney Duarte & Osiris Rain
10/17/2024
Seriously dynamic duo feat. Sydney Duarte & Osiris Rain
Here we go! It’s The Raising a Ruckus Podcast … the joint all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Sydney Duarte and Osiris Rain may be some of the biggest names in the CLT art scene. Responsible for some of the most recognizable and Instagramable works around these parts, they’ve installed big, award-winning art all over the world, too. But it’s a smaller, startup project called the TAOH Outdoor Gallery that’s got these two heavy-hitters paired with the Piece for Peace Movement, the City of Charlotte, Proffitt Dixon Partners, Art Walks CLT, and other artists. And it’s all about paying it forward. They’re pooling resources, sharing space, and providing opportunities for up-and-coming creators to collaborate with established artists in a low-stakes environment. They’re literally working to build the proving ground they wished they’d had. If that sounds hippy-dippy, kumbaya AF, that’s because it kinda is. And we love it. Let’s get into it on this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/33474102
info_outline
Hold My Beer feat. Adam Bratton
10/03/2024
Hold My Beer feat. Adam Bratton
Adam Bratton is the kind of guy Roosevelt and Hemmingway would want to take lessons from. A courageous soul and an adventurous dude, for sure; Adam has taken some pretty epic journeys – many of them his own creations. If you’ve every DIY’d your own getaway, then you have a pretty good idea of some of the stories he’s got in his back pocket. But Adam wasn’t content with a pocketful of stories. Nope, he wanted to make a mess of everyone else’s weekends, too. In the best possible way, of course. Human Powered Movement becomes a thing. The “movement” then inspires actual, factual events. Naturally, the events require beers. Modern Renaissance Man that he is, Adam would not be content with just any beer. He had to make a mess of his own garage, too. And that’s just part of our story. Tap into this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast as we get into all of that with our guest Adam Bratton. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/33313397
info_outline
Rock Star and then some feat. Krystle Baller
09/24/2024
Rock Star and then some feat. Krystle Baller
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Music has a way of bringing folks together, doesn’t it? No matter what you look like, feel like, love like, or think like; most all of us can get together around music. Music is a safe place for lots of folks, too; a platform to express ourselves, be who we are – or who we want to be – and put it all out there. Through the programs at We Rock Charlotte, Krystle Baller is creating a space where people of all ages, identities, and levels of experience can create something through their camps, lessons, and workshops. Parallel to that creative mission is providing a safe space for gender and cultural diversity. Krystle Baller has a gift for this kind of work. Tune into this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… (see what we did there?) Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/33186777
info_outline
The Empire Strikes Back feat. Vijay Bhojwani
09/06/2024
The Empire Strikes Back feat. Vijay Bhojwani
Ok, so it’s not exactly a story about striking back, but Vijay and his family sure figured out how to build an empire in local real estate. For Vijay’s part, experience really was the best teacher. Vijay is not just your typical real estate developer; he’s a visionary with a knack for turning ideas into incredible spaces. With over 20 years of experience, he’s been shaking things up in Charlotte for a minute. He knows how to leverage relationships, party like a rock star, and still find time for family. Does this dude ever sleep? But Vijay wasn’t born into a real estate empire. Far from it actually, and getting started wasn’t easy. In this coffee-soaked episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast, we get into it with Vijay Bhojwani, what keeps him up all night, and why he’d rather be working than doing anything else. Try and keep pace, y’all. Vijay is always in “go mode!” Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/32942307
info_outline
Marketing Royalty in the House feat. Blair Primis
08/30/2024
Marketing Royalty in the House feat. Blair Primis
If you follow the marketing biz in Charlotte at all, you know today’s guest. Or at least you know his work. Blair Primis is Chief Marketing Officer at Flagship Specialty Partners, but before that, he made a ton of noise marketing for one of CLT’s major players in the healthcare space. Blair’s had the unique opportunity to make local healthcare marketing more accessible and engaging, all while keeping things refreshingly real. Along the way, he helped connect doers, innovators, and creators with cash money; investing in people and their day-to-day instead of naming rights to buildings and stadiums. He continues to lead, mentor, and shake it up in the marketing and healthcare consumerism space. So what’s the deal, and WTH is “healthcare consumerism” anyway? We’ll get into all that in this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast, where we’re cutting up with our man Blair Primis over a couple of Friday show beers. Buckle up, party people. This one’s more than worth a listen! Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/32807207
info_outline
Cashing In feat. Chris Gere; Risk Taker, Rapper, Teacher
08/23/2024
Cashing In feat. Chris Gere; Risk Taker, Rapper, Teacher
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule- breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! There’s probably not a one of us who hasn’t thought about taking a leap, doing something completely different, or getting a second chance altogether. No matter how good you’ve got it, there’s always that, “what if,” feeling that lingers somewhere. Like an itch that needs a scratch. The older we get, the tougher it gets to reach that itchy part, too. Chris Gere is one of those folks who scratched that itch like a dog with fleas. With a wife and kids, a mortgage, and a grown-up job that paid the bills, Chris up and quit his “real” job to pursue a calling to create music. But not without a plan, y’all. He did the money math and figured he’d could afford a year to make it work. We caught up with him pretty close to the end of that year. So, how’d it go? Chris Gere cuts it real on this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… Cheers!
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/32710392
info_outline
Playing in the street with Brian Mister, Around the Crown 10k
08/09/2024
Playing in the street with Brian Mister, Around the Crown 10k
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Whether you’re running around Charlotte or not, you’ve probably caught wind the Around the Crown 10k. This once-a-year opportunity to run on the 277 loop is enough to attract thousands of folks to the start line. Equally as cool, this event has been a local leader in sustainability and creating an equitable and accessible product. For those who’ve yet to Around the Crown, that may not seem so “wow.” So let’s frame it like this: Brian Mister managed to convince local and state decision-making types to close down a portion of 277 to run a 10k race. Since then, he’s worked to make it as clean and green an event as possible, AND make damned near everybody feel like they belong. We can dig it. All of it, actually. Those are just some of the reasons we wanted to have him here with us on The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/32512912
info_outline
The Oprah of CLT Art feat. Wendy Hickey, Art Pop Street Gallery
07/19/2024
The Oprah of CLT Art feat. Wendy Hickey, Art Pop Street Gallery
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! You may not know the name Wendy Hickey, but you’ve probably seen her work. She’s the name and the force behind the billboard and other out-of-home media that’s NOT hawking beer, booze, or land-banking realty companies… but local artists. In just 10 years, Art Pop Street Gallery has grown from a one-woman side hustle, to a full-time nonprofit that leverages more than $8 million in public ad space, AND has paid out nearly three quarters of a million bucks DIRECTLY TO local artists since 2020. For Wendy, it’s all about making art accessible and approachable. And that seemingly simple approach has created some real magic for the featured artists. We called her the, “Oprah of Charlotte art.” And quite frankly, it really didn’t resonate with her. Until the next day. We believe she’s far too modest. You be the judge, after you tuck into this serving of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/32206847
info_outline
If you know, you know… feat. Maddy Ebbert, artist & muralist
07/09/2024
If you know, you know… feat. Maddy Ebbert, artist & muralist
Here we go! It’s The Raising a Ruckus Podcast … the joint all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! When you’re just starting out, the prevailing and conventional wisdom is that you can do just about anything for a year. You know, paying your dues, learning the ropes, and all that jazz. But that kind of advice isn’t exactly for the unconventional types, now is it? Sometimes, it’s more like, “when you know, you know… “ That’s pretty much how Maddy Ebbert saw it. After college, she bagged on a new job just a few weeks into it. Yeah, her parents were thrilled. (We probably should have asked if she’d even found the bathroom or the printer in such a short time.) Anyways, Maddy sold most of her stuff, and set out to be really creative. And find a way to get paid to do it. So, how’s all that working out? Maddy Ebbert gets into it with us on this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/32056542
info_outline
Get on the bus with Shannon Binns
06/21/2024
Get on the bus with Shannon Binns
Here we go! It’s The Raising a Ruckus Podcast … the joint all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Even since this recording, more has changed around Charlotte— and more decisions have been made about what CLT is gonna look like going forward. From how and where we live, and how we get around; today’s decisions are going to shape Charlotte for decades. When Shannon Binns move here, he knew he wanted to help this place grow in the right direction, not just “up.” So he started a thing. And turns out, other people were into the idea that this city could grow, and find ways to do it equitably and sustainably. Sustain Charlotte is that thing Shannon started. And it’s picked up friends, sponsors, and momentum ever since. More importantly, it’s helped spark conversation and change in what our hometown’s future. Shannon Binns talks about that, and pushes a few buttons, on this episode of the Raising a Ruckus Podcast! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/31837447
info_outline
Lillian Richards – it’s not a pig, it’s a bear
06/14/2024
Lillian Richards – it’s not a pig, it’s a bear
Here we go! It’s The Raising a Ruckus Podcast … the joint all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Let’s get this out of the way from the jump: Lillian Richards is one of the kindest, loveliest souls you’re ever gonna meet. And, she’s one heck of a creative cat, too. Although, we’re pretty sure she’s more of a “dog person,” though. Regardless, Lillian is a creator, a Creative Mornings regular, and an artist that describes her style as, “cattywampus.” Quite frankly, we’re not exactly sure what that means – but we totally dig it. She sees what she sees, and she lets the work speak to her in its own time. It’s a level of creative patience we’re totally unfamiliar with. And talk about making the lemonade out of the lemons. Lillian drops a little backstory on us that’s helped provide her with the time to explore her art even further. You go, lady! We’d love for you to meet our friend, Lillian Richards, on this episode of the Raising a Ruckus Podcast! Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/31749087
info_outline
This just in… feat. Tony Mecia & Cristina Bolling, Charlotte Ledger
06/08/2024
This just in… feat. Tony Mecia & Cristina Bolling, Charlotte Ledger
You’re about to push “play” on another episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Strap in, party people! "Our citizens may be deceived for a while, and have been deceived; but as long as the presses can be protected, we may trust to them for light." Preach on, Thomas Jefferson. Don’t know about you, but we’d be down with a Lin-Manuel Miranda joint about the importance and the power of the media in American history. There’s a reason dictators want a grip on the press. The pen is arguably mightier than the sword, as the saying goes, in changing the way we think and act. And for ensuring those who are elected to act on our behalf are doing just that. But with fewer folks willing to take on the responsibility, absorb the criticism -- and collect the far-from-lucrative salaries that come with the trade, it’s no wonder we’re so generally less-informed. Were there only 57 channels, Mr. Knopfler. Then we’d at least have a shot at keeping up… But there’s hope in the form of true believers and scrappy publishers, like the folks at The Charlotte Ledger. And hell yeah, we wanted them on this program. Tony Mecia and Cristina Bolling are building a solid foundation – and an audience – in an arguably crumbling media landscape. You owe it to yourself to check out what they’re doing and why. So stop reading this, and push “play” already! Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/31661617
info_outline
Not faking it, but actually making it… feat. Natalie Robinson
05/31/2024
Not faking it, but actually making it… feat. Natalie Robinson
Here we go! It’s The Raising a Ruckus Podcast … the joint all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! There’s a big difference between bulls#itting your way through life versus having the moxie to say, “yes!” to new challenges – and having the courage to figure out how to get it done. It’s not a fake-it-til-you-make-it thing, but more of a raw, unbridled confidence that anything is possible and that failure is just another word for learning. We dig the hell out of that kinda attitude. Natalie Robinson is a Charlotte artist and muralist who operates with that kind of outlook on work and life. And that doesn’t make everyone happy. FWIW, we dig that, too. While the paint was still wet on yet ANOTHER of her big projects, she jumped off the ladder and into the studio with us before hopping a plane to South America for another adventure. Unapologetically honest and enthusiastic, this is one local artist you’ll want to keep up with. If you can… Welcome to the episode where even Yash felt old and tired. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/31543632
info_outline
Hanging out in the backyard feat. Carla Nathan, Crane Seven
05/24/2024
Hanging out in the backyard feat. Carla Nathan, Crane Seven
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Inspiration can come from just about anywhere, any place, and any time. Whether it’s music, art, conversation, a good book, a good nap, or maybe just taking a look at what’s going on around us. It’s everywhere, if we slow down long enough to take it in. Carla Nathan recognized the creative energy radiating from her own backyard, and used it to fuel her young, artistic self. She still leans on the natural world around to inspire her work in mixed media and graphic design. As she puts it, “to birth ideas into physicality through your own unique sound and expression.” We can dig it. And we think you’ll dig meeting Carla on this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/31454657
info_outline
Damn, that’s a lot of bacon… feat. Mattie King, Mattie’s Diner & The Wafflery
05/17/2024
Damn, that’s a lot of bacon… feat. Mattie King, Mattie’s Diner & The Wafflery
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Full disclosure here: Mattie’s Diner is the second home for the Raising a Ruckus team. We love everything about the place; from the building’s backstory, the menu full of non-meated options, the always delightful staff – and Mattie himself. In fact, we fully committed to producing this program in some kind of carbohydrate or pie-related stupor. Now you know who to blame. We knew Mattie just had to be on our guest list. This guy is all hustle all the time. He’s the kind of guy who gives New Jersey a good name, and he knows from Taylor Ham, too. The timing couldn’t be more perfect to drop this week’s episode, since Mattie’s newest venture, The Wafflery, just opened. Yeah, we got the sneak peek invite, and you should be jealous. This place is fantastic, too, with a focus on the Mattie’s breakfast menu and then some. We’ll talk bacon, waffles, pie, and moving a diner – like the actual building – all the way from Jersey to Carolina – and why folks have all the feels about this kind of food. Put on your fat pants for this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/31346367
info_outline
On books and broke businesses feat. Alyssa Pressler
05/10/2024
On books and broke businesses feat. Alyssa Pressler
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Shakespeare wrote, “some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them.” That doesn’t exactly translate to business, but it’s a rather appropriate setup for our friend and guest, Alyssa Pressler. We actually go waaaayy back with Alyssa; well before she launched not one but TWO successful small business, and a podcast. All that from someone who never really expected to take the entrepreneurial ride. She’s got a passion for words and books, you might say. (Haha!) And turning them into a business hasn’t curbed her enthusiasm, either. Let’s get into it on this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/31230152
info_outline
On looking the part and then some Feat. Shefalee Patel
05/03/2024
On looking the part and then some Feat. Shefalee Patel
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! In his book Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative, Austin Kleon wrote, “You have to dress for the job you want, not the job you have, and you have to start doing the work you want to be doing.” Well… we’re stealing that line as the perfect setup for our guest, Shefalee Patel. Shefalee is an artist, dancer, creative, and a community connector. Even more so, she recognizes her role as an ambassador to her Indian culture. Her art, her dance, and yes – even the way she dresses – are starting points for folks to learn more. Y’all, she is wide open, and we love that about her. Once we stop cutting-up in the booth; we get into her Charlotte story and how she went from a job in government to creative entrepreneurship. DC has a helluva time getting a word in on this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/31097968
info_outline
A case for Scooby and the Gang feat Ted Rosenau from Petty Thieves Brewing
04/26/2024
A case for Scooby and the Gang feat Ted Rosenau from Petty Thieves Brewing
Here we go! It’s time for The Raising a Ruckus Podcast; the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! One of the things we love most about this format is that conversations really get a chance to breathe and develop over the time in the studio. And, of course, that means some stuff’s gonna be said that no one ever saw coming. Case in point: this episode with our man, Ted Rosenau. We actually met Ted long before he cracked the seal on Petty Thieves Brewing. And that long, winding road to opening day was not the surprise in this conversation. At least not until he dropped a casual mention of some supernatural goings-on during the process. Full stop and rewind for us, y’all. Spoiler alert: not Ted’s first go-round with the spectral. We get into all that, plus the otherworldly inspiration behind the brewery’s curious beer names and eclectic, comfortable tap room. Get the Mystery Machine fired-up for this episode of The Raising a Ruckus Podcast… Cheers! PS: Congrats to Ted and the gang at Petty Thieves and their Charlotte Magazine “Best Of” award for “Best Brewery Interior.” Who knew there was a category for that! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/30994148
info_outline
Frank Expression in the first episode where DC cried…
04/19/2024
Frank Expression in the first episode where DC cried…
The Raising a Ruckus Podcast is the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! We’re always impressed with folks who make it work from a right brain AND left brain perspective. Frank Expression is one of those cats on our list. We know him first and foremost for his performance chops. He’s a brass man and a spoken word poet, and he puts them both together in a way that literally goes deep. Like deep enough to really get ya in the feels. Everyone’s life experience is different, but Frank manages to pull from his, and quite literally express it in a way that’s very special. If you’re open to it, you’ll feel it. And that’s just the Frank we knew when we started this recording… ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/30895233
info_outline
A Beautiful Mess with Tim Edwards
04/12/2024
A Beautiful Mess with Tim Edwards
The Raising a Ruckus Podcast is the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! We’re pretty sure everyone, at some point, did some painting when they were younger. Watercolors, fingerpaints… whatever. We sure did. Craft paper decorated with big, fat brush strokes in the shape of stick figures and stuff that looked like animals (or trees?) practically covered the refrigerator at our house. We couldn’t have been more proud if our work was hanging in the Smithsonian. But at some point, we get self-conscious of our creations. It’s not “real” enough, or artsy enough, or cool enough? Maybe that “C” in art class wasn’t a reflection of our real potential. Who knows. Then we just stop creating altogether. Tim Edwards believes we’re all still harboring that inner artist. He’s created a judgement-free zone in Splatter Charlotte where anyone – and we mean anyone – can create something all their own. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/30792223
info_outline
It’s a good thing you’re so pretty with Brian Lafontaine
04/05/2024
It’s a good thing you’re so pretty with Brian Lafontaine
The Raising a Ruckus Podcast is the show all about rule-breakers, change-makers, and risk-takers — and the leaps of faith, sleepless nights, disasters, and big decisions they made along the way. Welcome to the show! Not gonna lie here; Brian Lafontaine is a really good-looking fella. Approachably handsome, with the manner and personality to match. He’s the kinda guy you’d be happy to introduce to your mom. But then every time you’d call home she’d ask, “how’s that friend of yours, Brian? He was so nice!” (He’s fine, Mom… ) Over the years, Brian has managed to parlay those looks – and a natural talent plus a whole lot of hard work – into a successful career as an actor. Like a legit, making a living, as-seen-on-TV and in the movies actor. You might have seen him in Ozark, The Hate U Give, Stranger Things, and a ton of other films and shows. Or maybe you even saw him at the Harris Teeter. Yep; he’s managed to be a movie star without giving up the freedom that’s lost to big time fame. Pretty cool. On this episode of the Raising a Ruckus podcast, Brian Lafontaine talks about making it in the movies, keeping it real in the 704, and his next role as an entrepreneur. Cheers! ----- -----
/episode/index/show/e9845784-5040-4721-b750-80357d497965/id/30693093